How should Christians respond to competition?

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Overview
Americans compete in jobs, school, relationships, and politics. But is competition compatible with Christianity? In the ultimate sphere of competition—the sports arena—Christian athletes have tried to reconcile their faith with their profession. What are the implications for the rest of us—as fans and as competitors in daily life?

Table of Contents

SCRIPTURE: Luke 22:24–27; Romans 12:17–21; 1 Corinthians 3:3–4; 9:24–27; 10:31; Philippians 2:3–5

LEADER'S GUIDE

    • The Issue

Sample questions:

Is it consistent with Christian principles to want to win when it means someone else must lose?

Does competition have a legitimate place within the church?

Sample Scriptures:

Romans 12:17–21: How does the “killer instinct” compare with the spirit described in these verses? What would happen to the world of sports if every Christian on the athletic field took this passage literally?

Corinthians 9:24–27: What did Paul admire about the Greek games?

Sample application questions:

What should be the main difference between the Christian and the non-Christian on the field?

Can sports competition be an acceptable form of worship to God?

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