Sports Ministry and the LGBT Movement-
Recent events in sports have included Robbie Rogers, an American soccer player retiring from a club in England and now playing with the LA Galaxy, and Jason Collins, a veteran NBA player, gaining media attention worldwide for revealing the fact that they are gay. Various reactions have been seen throughout the world of sports. However, as the Sports Director for a church, I have seen how some of the advancements of the LGBT community in the area of sports could have an impact on church outreach. One case in mind includes a church in my area that declined acceptance to its softball program for a team captained by a lesbian. The church stood clearly on biblical grounds for its denial, but still had to deal with the conflict produced by the decision. What kinds of challenges does this present to churches that have previously used sports and recreation ministries in outreach?
With many churches using sports as an outreach program, what are some guidelines that can be used in similar situations, which are sure to become more and more frequent in our current culture?
Well, here are a few simple things to consider when sports ministries around the nation consider possible confrontation with the LGBT community:
1) Scripture is Supreme:
As we come to any situation, we must recognize the supremacy and sufficiency of the Bible. Though society and culture often display other views of reality, we must focus on Scripture and its solutions and guidance to our problems, even sports ministry.2) Truth never Changes, neither does Marriage:
Society now displays an altered view of marriage and sexuality. In fact, the idea of marriage will be ultimately done away with if the logic of the LGBT argument is taken to is fullest extent. For Christians however, the Bible clearly defines what marriage and sexuality is, and why God has designed that way. Marriage displays a constant picture of the love of God for His people. Marriage depicts the personal relationship with God that man was originally created for. The God-ordained method for organizing all of society is marriage. The debate concerning LGBT rights affects the grand picture that Christian marriage is to be to the world concerning the love of God. Scripture is supreme, and we also must adhere to its clear teaching of Biblical sexuality.3) Educate congregations on what Marriage is:
Be sure our church people are educated on what biblical marriage is and how it displays God's sovereign plan.When situations arise, you will have a unified congregation able to approach the situation from a proper perspective.4) Keep the Gospel up front:
The church's mission is to tell the world of the Lord Jesus Christ and the salvation found in Him alone. In every situation, we must be sure to keep that as our goal. Above all, we must present Christ as the solution to every problem in our world, which He is. Out heart's cry must be the salvation of the LGBT community and to see God work through us to provide His message.I understand that this is a simple list, but it is certainly one that can keep churches hearts and minds on track as we look at the current cultural climate we see in sports and society.
