Authority

Introduction

It’s easy to want to be in charge. As athletes, we want to lead and make the decisions on how much conditioning we do in the preseason, how much effort we put into practice, and what plays we make during the game. But we are expected to listen to the coach and follow the plan no matter what. It’s hard to give up our desires for the greater good of the team. Is there a way to submit to authority in our lives and be stronger for it?

Application

1. Describe a time when you didn’t follow your coach’s instructions. 
2. How did going against the coach’s plans affect the outcome of the practice or game?
3. Describe a time when the team has suffered because one or more players did not submit to the authority of the coach.

Bridge

1. Read Romans 3:1-2: “Everyone must submit to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except from God, and those that exist are instituted by God. So then, the one who resists the authority is opposing God's command, and those who oppose it will bring judgment on themselves.”
2. What does the scripture in Romans say about following authority figures in our lives?
3. Read Colossians 2:10: “…and you have been filled by Him, who is the head over every ruler and authority.”
4. According to Colossians 2:10, who should be the ultimate ruler and authority in our life?

Connection

1. As a team, how can we show respect to our coach during practice and games?
2. How would submitting to the authority of the coach and our teachers make us stronger as a team?

Discovery

When we submit to the authority of coaches, parents, teachers and other authority figures in our lives, we are also submitting to the authority of Jesus Christ.  Take the lead on your team and follow the coach’s instructions, even when it is hard.

Close

Memory verse: “…for kingship belongs to the LORD; He rules over the nations.” Psalm 22:28