How is a gospel-centered player supposed to look? Do you have to be the one wearing eye black with a Bible verse or seen praying before a game? Do you have to thank Jesus in your interviews or celebrate by pointing to the sky? How should you conduct yourself?
What's Different?
A gospel-centered player should be unique in their response to the gospel, not the stereotypical actions of other "Christian" players. It's ok to do those things, but what truly makes you gospel-centered is that your lives have been radically transformed by the gospel. (Gal 6:15). Everything about you is new. (Rom 6:4; 2 Cor 5:17; Eph 4:22-24)
Relationship to Self
The gospel transforms the way you view yourself.
Humanity
You first recognize who you are as a human: you are a sinner (Ecc 7:20; Jer 17:9; Rom 3:23). In this state, you cannot please God (Ps 53:3; Isa 64:6; Rom 8:7-8; Heb 11:6). You were a rebel against God and declared war on him as His enemy
(Ps 2:1-3; 51:5; Rom 5:8, 10). It isn't just what you did, but it's who you were (Gen 6:5; Isa 64:6; Rom 5:19; Eph 2:3).
Such realization of the depth of sin leads to a life of humility.
Humility
What previously characterized your life, (pride and rebellion) turns a 180. Gospel-centered players now seek humility and submission to God (Mic 6:8; Matt 23:12; Phil 2:3- 4). You no longer boast of your own strength, wisdom, or might
(Jer 9:23-24). Remember, this is the case both on and off the field! How often are athletes known for their prideful attitudes? Instead, you understand that all good gifts are from the Lord, including your own talents
(Matt 25:14-30; James 1:17).
Relationship to Others
The way you relate to others drastically changes.
Christ-Honoring and Christ-Exalting
You strive to honor and exalt Jesus. You live on a mission to reach others with the gospel through your sport in both word and deed (Matt 23:3; James 1:22-25). You model how Jesus lived (1 Pet 2:21; 1 Jn 2:6). When someone is rude to you or speaks in a demeaning way, including those in authority over you, you don't return insult for insult (Isa 53:7; 1 Pet 2:23). You view everything through the eyes of being a servant (1 Cor 9:19-23). Yet, it is not enough to only try and live like Jesus expecting someone to notice you.. Gospel-centered players also invest in other players and coaches around them and seek out every opportunity to tell of the hope within them (Rom 10:13-17; 1 Pet 3:15).
Submission to Authority
The player also submits to authority (Rom 13:1-7; Eph 6:5-9; Tit 3:1). Depending on the sport, there may be various structures of leadership. Yet, there is always a joyful desire to learn and grow. If authorities cause you to disobey Christ, you can speak out (Ex 1:15-21; Dan 3:16-18; 6:10-13; Acts 4:18-20). Understand that the coaches in your life have the opportunity to shape you and to help you improve your skills. The Lord desires excellence from His people, (Prov 22:29; Col 3:23-24), so you need to work hard and show discipline (Prov 12:1; 13:24; Eph 6:4). Even in difficulties, gospel-centered players view discipline with the eternal in mind (Rom 5:3-5; Jas 1:2-4).
Relationship to God
Your relationship with God has been reconciled.
Be Watchful
You understand that you must keep watch over yourself so that you don't fall into sin (Prov 16:17; Gal 6:1; 1 Cor 10:12). You are concerned first with your relationship with God. If your sport interferes with being able to attend your local church, you prioritize what is most important: Christ's church (Heb 10:24-25). Jesus considers His church so important that He was willing to die for it (John 10:11; Eph 5:25-27). Don't diminish it by idolizing your sport. Care about what God cares about.
Play for the Glory of God
You live for God and his glory and not your own (Rom 11:36; 1 Cor 10:31; Col 3:17). Winning games is a nice goal to strive for, but the most important aspect of your sports career is to honor God in all you do. You are a representative of Christ on earth (2 Cor 5:20; 1 Pet 2:9). Your impact is far more significant than winning ball games. It’s all about Jesus and His gospel (Rom 14:8; Gal 2:20; Phil 1:21).
Conclusion
The gospel and its representation is far more important than wearing a Bible verse on your face or mentioning Jesus in a post-game interview. Those are good things, but you don't stop there. Jesus changes your heart. The gospel is priority when you live for His glory with integrity both on and off the field. Have an impact on your teammates and coaches. God will accomplish His purposes through YOU!