Effective Ministry Practices
The student will write a research-based in current APA format that focuses on the Learn
material in the appropriate Module: Week. This will help reinforce the material from the text as
well as give students the opportunity to research topics within the field of Sport Outreach.
INSTRUCTIONS
This assignment will be a draft (revised based on feedback) that will serve as part of your overall
plan for Camps and Community Ministries Assignment.
Be sure to cite at least 2 references in APA format in addition to the course textbooks and the
Bible. Thisshould be at least 3 page of text not including the title, abstract, and reference
page.
BOOK: In the Arena: The Promise of Sports for Christian Discipleship Book by David E. Prince
chapter 3&4
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Effective Ministry Practices
Clarify the Win in Sport Ministry
Clarifying the win means identifying what success looks like in a sports ministry. In a camp setting, this could mean helping young athletes grow spiritually, not just improving their athletic abilities. Ministry leaders should clearly define goals, such as increased Bible engagement or visible growth in sportsmanship. A clearly stated win keeps the team unified and focused on what truly matters—discipleship and spiritual formation.
Think Steps, Not Programs
Sports ministries must guide participants step-by-step in their faith journey. Rather than isolated events, camps should offer progression—from initial engagement to small group discussions and finally to long-term mentorship. Thinking in steps ensures continuity and sustained impact, helping athletes integrate faith into everyday life. These steps should be age-appropriate and culturally relevant to athletes’ needs.
Narrow the Focus for Deeper Impact
Ministries often try to do too much. Narrowing the focus means selecting fewer but more meaningful activities. For instance, a sports camp might prioritize one-on-one mentoring over multiple competitions. By doing fewer things better, leaders allow participants to form deeper relationships and absorb spiritual lessons more fully, aligning with the teachings from In the Arena by David Prince (2020).
Teach Less for More Retention
Athletes retain more when they’re not overloaded. Teach Less for More encourages leaders to simplify messages. Rather than presenting five devotionals in a day, focus on one biblical truth and reinforce it through storytelling, drills, and discussion. This principle, rooted in Jesus’ method of teaching through parables, enhances understanding and application in young athletes’ lives.
References:
Prince, D. E. (2020). In the Arena: The Promise of Sports for Christian Discipleship. B&H Publishing.
Stanley, A., Joiner, R., & Jones, L. (2004). 7 Practices of Effective Ministry. Multnomah Books.
