Introduction:

Influencers. Every team has them. The best teams are led by great ones; the worst teams are usually led by poor ones.

Athletes and teams are often at the center of attention of the entire community. And that’s one reason we repeatedly tell athletes to use their influence in the right way. It’s a fact: You’re in a position to have an enormous influence on others. But who’s influencing you? In order to be a great influence on others, you must first be influenced by great people. Show me the five people who influence you most, and I’ll show you the trajectory and direction in which your life is heading.

Application:

1. Name some reasons athletes are so influential. How do athletes use their influence positively? Negatively?
2. Who are the most influential people in your life, and how do they influence you?
3. Describe a time when you witnessed a teammate use his or her influence to make a positive impact on your team.

Bridge:

The Apostle Paul was one of the most influential men in history. He was first influenced by Jesus, and then he influenced people like Timothy, who then influenced others himself. Paul’s last letter to Timothy reveals the ripple effect of great influencers: “And what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses, commit to faithful men who will be able to teach others also” (2 Timothy 2:2).

Connection:

1. Of the five people who influence you most, how many of them have been greatly influenced by Jesus?
2. Is your team having a ripple effect in your community? How?
3. What are some steps your team can take toward becoming a better influence on your school and community?

Discovery:

1. Choose to surround yourself with positive influences.
2. Spend quality time this week being influenced by God’s Word.
3. Find at least one opportunity to use your influence for God’s glory.

Memory Verse:

“A city is built up by the blessing of the upright, but it is torn down by the mouth of the wicked.” – Proverbs 11:11