I just happened to notice the headline of an article pertaining to the Dallas Cowboys. Calm down–this isn’t about how I feel about the Cowboys, LOL. I just want to make a point. The headline said,”Phillips preaching fundamentalism”.
Having played sports and being somewhat of a fan (depending on who is playing), I understand how important fundamentals are. You simply can’t ignore them and be successful. Raw talent might make you look good on occasion, but that alone won’t make you a winner. The fundamentals are essential.
The question is this–considering the many years of training and experience they’ve had, how can it be that a professional athlete who is paid millions have a problem with the fundamentals? You understand poor performance when it is due to an injury or just a plain lack of ability, but forgetting the fundamentals is inexcusable. Those who are truly dedicated to the game don’t need lectures about the fundamentals–that’s where there focus is. The true “stars” are self-motivated, fully dedicated, full-time students of the game. They don’t over look the fundamentals.
Now, let’s make a spiritual application. After all, if Paul could use racing, wrestling, boxing, etc. as examples why can’t we do the same. Just as it is with sports, there are certain fundamentals that must be adhered to. We ignore them at our peril. Take spiritual growth for instance. It doesn’t just happen because you have been born again. In other words, it isn’t automatic. To mature we nourish ourself by feeding on God’s Word, breathe the fresh air of prayer, exercise ourself unto godliness,etc. We also need the benefits of fellowship with other Christians, so faithful church attendance is fundamental to spiritual maturity.
Here’s the bottom-line—a lot of Christians need to get back to “the fundamentals”! Looking good occasionally isn’t good enough. We ought to have a better “won-loss” record than that. That means we must get our focus on the fundamentals and commit ourselves to doing those things that are condusive to spiritual growth. We aren’t playing a game. We’re talking about life and the consequences of our conduct are of eternal siginificance. This means much more than winning the “Super-Bowl” or “World Series”. We’re talking about usefulness on earth and treasures in heaven that can never be taken away from us. Now, that’s something worthy of our attention and total devotion! Get back in the “game” and keep your focus on the fundamentals. At the Judgment Seat of Christ you will be glad you did. Think about it!
