Biblical Answer

Can a Christian be a 'good' athlete and still maintain a biblical worldview?

A biblical worldview, as we discussed earlier, is essential for a Christian to consistently apply in their life, including in their athletic pursuits. This means that a Christian athlete must prioritize their faith and live it out in every aspect of their life, including their sports career. This includes seeking to honor God in their performance, sportsmanship, and behavior. A Christian athlete should recognize that their athletic abilities are a gift from God and use them to bring glory to Him.

In addition, a Christian athlete should be aware of the potential pitfalls of their profession. For example, they may be tempted to idolize their sport or their own abilities, or to prioritize winning above all else. They must be mindful of the values and messages that their sport conveys, and seek to be a positive influence on their teammates and fans. A Christian athlete should also be willing to use their platform to share their faith and to promote values that are consistent with their biblical worldview.

Ultimately, a Christian can be a 'good' athlete and still maintain a biblical worldview if they prioritize their faith and seek to honor God in all that they do. This requires a deep commitment to their values and a willingness to live out their faith in the midst of the pressures and temptations of their sport. By doing so, they can be a positive influence on their teammates and fans, and bring glory to God through their athletic pursuits. As J.C. Ryle writes, "The Christian experience is compared to that of the sports enthusiast or concertgoer whose attention is so fully given to what is transpiring on the field or on the stage that he or she loses all consciousness of the world around." By keeping their focus on God and their faith, a Christian athlete can maintain a biblical worldview and be a 'good' athlete.