The term ‘Sport as Mission’ recognizes that behind the manmade structures of sport and recreational activities are the God-given abilities and impetus for creative expression through bodily movement. Students will be taught the ‘why’ and ‘how’ of ministry in and around the sport and recreation environment.
Upon completion of the course students will be able to: explain the concept of ‘play’ as it relates to sports and recreation, biblically evaluate the legitimacy of individual sport and recreation activities, articulate why involvement in sport and recreation activities, as participants or managers, fits into our mission as Christ-followers, identify principles of how biblical ministry happens within the sport and recreation environment.
The Bible’s teaching that there is no sacred/secular divide necessitates that we live our entire lives missionally. Sport and recreation are integral parts of most societies and offer many opportunities for ministry if we approach them with intentionality. Students in this course will be taught to think critically and act missionally.
The Bible’s teaching that all of life is sacred and that we are to live holistically is fundamental to our understanding of sport as mission. Our impact as believers is dependent upon our realization that we are salt and light everywhere and all the time.
To truly follow Christ means to see all of life as the place for us to live out the Great Commandment, fulfill the Great Commission, and display the Fruit of the Spirit. The relationships fostered in sport and recreation activities offer an ideal setting for ministry.
Often referred to as ‘a microcosm of life,’ the context of sport and recreation provides never-ending opportunities and situations that lend themselves to communicating spiritual truths.
The worldwide interest in sport and recreation opens doors and provides a point of understanding as we cross borders, language barriers, and cultural differences.
Particular emphasis will be given on identifying methods and models of how evangelism and spiritual formation has been done in the sport environment.
Each student will choose a sport or recreation activity, identify ways that evangelism or spiritual formation could be pursued, and then produce a ministry plan. They would be encouraged to implement this plan in their local setting if possible.
