Fellowship of Christian Athletes -
Greek = agathosune. Virtue or beneficence
Introduction: "It is that particular Wise and good God, who is the author and owner of our system, that I propose for the object of my praise and adoration. He is not above caring for us, being pleased with our praise and offended when we slight Him or neglect his Glory … I love Him therefore for his goodness, and I adore Him for his wisdom. Let me then not fail to praise my God continually, for it is His due, and it is all I can return for His many favors and great goodness to me." — Benjamin Franklin
- According to Unger’s Bible Dictionary, goodness in common use is the opposite of badness, the quality of character which makes its possessor lovable. It is also closely associated with excellence both in man (virtue) and God (the divine character). Goodness in the sports world may be synonymous with role model. Talk about a few good role models you have observed.
- Read Acts 10:38. Jesus, our example, had a reputation for goodness. Which of His many acts of goodness speaks to you the most? Why?
- Read Psalm 23. How might goodness follow you all the days of your life? Another Old Testament figure was similar to David in this regard. Put yourself in the sandals of Moses and describe what he might have experienced as all of God’s goodness (Exodus 33:19) passed in front of him.
- Read Galatians 6:10. What are some practical ways for us to obey this? Who in your FCA Huddle is the best example of this? Read Acts 9:36 and reflect on the character of Dorcas.
- In a world where sex, drugs and gun violence often get out of control, the FCA is viewed as a good influence in the public schools. How might God use your Huddle’s reputation for goodness to bring glory to His name on your campus? How has He done this in the past?
Memory verse: "With this in mind, we constantly pray for you, that our God may count you worthy of his calling, and that by his power he may fulfill every good purpose of yours and every act prompted by your faith." — II Thessalonians 1:11
Conclusion: "I found that the goodness of God, the very foundation of worship, is not a thing you pay your respects to out of some kind of disinterested reverence. No, it is something to be enjoyed: "O taste and see that the Lord is good" (Psalm 34:8). "How sweet are thy words to my taste! Yes, sweeter than honey to my mouth!" (Psalm 119:103). — John Piper