May 18: Defense

Scripture Lesson: Philippians 1:12-18

Today is the birthday of Hall of Fame third baseman Brooks Robinson. During his 23-year career, all as a Baltimore Oriole, Robinson was known for his tremendous defensive ability. He very well may be the greatest defensive third baseman of all time. Teammate Frank Robinson said: “He was the best defensive player at any position. I used to stand in the outfield like a fan and watch him make every play. I used to think, ‘Wow, I can’t believe this!’”

Our Scripture lesson today provides an insight to Paul’s state of mind when he wrote to the church at Philippi. Paul was a prisoner in Rome, and some scholars believe he wrote this letter while chained to a Roman soldier, perhaps under house arrest. His imprisonment helped other believers to be bold in their proclaiming of the Gospel. In verse 16, Paul said he was in prison for the “defense of the Gospel.” Paul was not only standing up for the Gospel, but inspiring others to do the same. Sometimes, in the culture of baseball, it is not easy to stand up for the Gospel. It is not easy to defend the Gospel by living daily for Christ. But, every single Roman soldier in the guard detail knew where Paul stood with God.

1. Why is it hard sometimes to defend the Gospel by living for Jesus?

2. Does your team know where you stand with Christ? Why or why not?

3. What does it take to be a Hall of Fame defender of the Gospel?

There was no better defender at third in baseball history than Brooks Robinson and no better defender of the Gospel than the apostle Paul. May we all be defensive wizards when it comes to the Gospel.