Church is a Team Sport
I am not an athlete.
(Pause here for a moment while you recover from that shock.)
But even with my limited knowledge of athletics, I understand there are two primary types of sports: individual and team. And when it comes to church, one thing is clear: church is a team sport. God could have saved you through Christ and left you to figure out your faith on your own. But He didn’t. When you became a Christian, you weren’t just saved; you were added to a team. This team is called by many names in the Bible: the Family of God, the Body of Christ, and the Kingdom.
All these names emphasize that the church is a plurality of saved people serving and submitting to Jesus together. The longer I’m part of the church, the more I see it in action. Here are three recent examples:
Example 1: A Baptism
A few months ago, a young lady obeyed the Gospel. That Sunday, she confessed Christ, was immersed into Him, and her sins were washed away. How did it happen? She had been befriended by a member, invited to church, and connected to the Celebrate Recovery Ministry. Over months, many people encouraged her and shared the hope of the Gospel. On the day of her baptism, ladies made sure she had everything she needed. Afterward, Raymond Williams and Rob Dopps prayed with her, and many friendly faces welcomed her with hugs and congratulations. Her journey of faith was the result of many seeds planted by many people over many days. Her story reminded me that church is a team sport.
Example 2: A Workshop
Recently, over 350 people attended the Stronger Marriage Workshop with Trey and Lea Morgan—one of their largest ever. Even January snowstorms couldn’t dampen the enthusiasm. Attendees came from Kansas City, Topeka, Enid, Clay Center, and all-around Wichita. About half were from Northside, and the rest came from other churches and the community. This event was possible because of a team effort: Elders serious about strengthening marriages, volunteers baking cookies, greeters, security personnel, and childcare providers. It was another reminder that church is a team sport.
Example 3: A New Chapter
Work continues with the newest chapter of Know Your Bible. Recently, we announced plans to hire a new Digital Media Manager for this ministry. The ad even appeared in the Christian Chronicle. Our Elders are assembling a team of evangelistically minded
individuals to step into this vast field ready for harvest. This effort requires more prayerful, generous, talented, and faithful people. Of course, we couldn’t do it any other way because church is a team sport. Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.
May WE glorify Him together!