History of the Olympics

Let's be honest. The ancient Olympic Games had little to recommend to Christians. In fact, to even participate in them would violate core convictions of the Christian faith. That's why Christian Emperor Theodosius banned the Games in the fourth century. Read more about this in Revisiting the Pagan Olympic Games.

But the modern Olympics, though hardly Christian, hail from an era when athleticism was next to godliness. Members of the Christian tradition were involved at the inception of the modern games, and Christians have tried in various ways to redeem the event or infuse it with orthodox religion ever since. Read more about this work in Olympia Revisited.

Then discover what we can learn from the perseverance and passion of the athletes at this year's games. And take another look at the symbolism behind the opening ceremony and the fierce competition for medals.

• 2006 Olympic Games: Official Site
• International Olympic Committee
• Fellowship of Christian Athletes
• Sports Outreach
• Olympic Academy
• U.S. Olympic Committee
• U.S. Olympic Team


Resources

Strong to the Finish
People are remembered for how they finish—their lives, their relationships, their ministry. When life gets tough, God helps us run the race before us.

Success Can Be Deceptive
This sermon illustration from PreachingToday.com looks at the success and deceit of the coach of the Jamaican bobsled team in the movie Cool Runnings.

	2006 Olympics Resources