Play-by-Play: John (1/3)Sample

The Uncommon Man

Theme verse: “And I have seen and have borne witness that this is the Son of God.” John 1:34

“I’ve always felt that my Christian principles and what I believed about life were more important than anything, so whatever job I did, that was going to be at the forefront,” Tony Dungy said in an interview at the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Dungy’s series of books based on the uncommon man theme are perfect examples of what he believes about faith and football. In his book, The One Year Uncommon Life Daily Challenge, he says this about another uncommon leader:

“I’m totally not into eating locusts, even dipped in honey, but there was certainly something appealing about John the Baptist. I would have loved to have had him on my teams! Here was a guy who had his own followers, yet he was always clear about his mission—pointing people, including his own followers, to someone else, Jesus Christ. To John, getting the credit was not what motivated him. Getting the result that God intended was his sole mission. That’s the type of coach and player we sought to bring on board, and I believe we were pretty successful in doing that through the years. It’s the mark of a good team to have people who don’t care who gets the credit, but only that together they fulfill their mission.”

John’s Gospel emphasizes that Jesus is God, incarnate, the Son of God who came to earth. In Chapter 1, John the Baptist’s witness gave evidence to Jesus’ life, ministry, death, and resurrection revealed by God’s truth.

While both John and Tony Dungy are uncommon men, they are only human. What really sets these two men apart is their uncommon message and desire to point toward Jesus rather than themselves.

The Kingdom Coach and Athlete stand apart from the secular culture surrounding them with God’s extraordinary message—the Gospel. They speak the truth boldly despite the risk of rejection or persecution from those who oppose the truth.

H.E.A.R.

As you read today’s chapter, journal using the H.E.A.R method:

H (Highlight) - What stands out to you? If something stands out to you, it’s likely God pulling you toward a certain portion of scripture.

E (Explain) - Describe in context the text. Ask questions like: Why was this written? To whom was it originally written? How does this fit with the verses before and after? Why did the Holy Spirit include this passage in the book?

A (Apply) - How do you take this verse beyond the page? Ask questions like: How can this help me? What does this mean today? What would the application of this verse look like in my life? What is God saying to me?

R (Respond) - This is where you will write a measurable response to the truth God revealed. Maybe it will be a call to action, something you will change in the coming week. Maybe it will be a prayer asking God to help you work this truth into your life. Whichever, make sure it is measurable so you can hold yourself accountable in your growth as a disciple.