Chad Carlson and Brian Bolt on "Let the Women’s World Cup Get Political"

Christian educators Carlson and Bolt wrote a guest column in Christianity Today. You can read the entire article here. Here are some highlights from the article:

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“There can be a temptation for some to bristle at the notion of ‘politicizing’ sports in our current moment, particularly if they disagree with the team’s stances. ‘Can’t soccer just be soccer? Can’t we have an escape from all the debate?’

“…But the truth is that sport, like everything else, happens in a political context.

“Throughout the New Testament, we see Jesus and his followers pay particular attention to the political and cultural forces around them.

“…As Christians studying the interaction between faith and sports, we see this arena as another area where God calls us…. We see a dimension to sports that gives believers a unique opportunity for ministry and a way to better understand society.

“…Just as Christians use their platforms to reflect their deeply held beliefs, through word or deed or sideline prayer on bended knee, Megan Rapinoe and her USWNT teammates are speaking with conviction, too. Whether or not we agree, as fans and followers of Christ, we can pay attention and listen.

“…So, join in the fun. Enjoy the action. And rather than trying to downplay the surrounding social, moral, and political issues surrounding the games—pray for godly discernment in how we respond.”

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