Watching Sport on Sunday

[Iron Lion]

what do you guys think about watching sport on a sunday. even if its after goin to church?

[Blessed-one]

after church is all right, but watching sport in the morning and not going to church because of it basically puts God in the second category.

[revrobor]

after church is all right, but watching sport in the morning and not going to church because of it basically puts God in the second category.
Attending church or not attending church does not either make one a Christian or heathen nor does it necessarily elevate or deminish the status of God in one's life. Your response appears to be based on the "Christian Habit" school of theology (in other words "if you're a Christian this is what you must do to be a Christian").

[revrobor]

what do you guys think about watching sport on a sunday. even if its after goin to church?
There is no Scripture that would prohibit you from watching sport on Sunday. But if you're going to do it regularly during church time you'd better get in some Christian fellowship some other time during the week. Otherwise you may stunt your spiritual growth.

[aggie03]

well, considering that we ought to come together on the first day of the week with other Christians in order to partake in the Lord's Supper, watching sports in lieu of this would be trespassing something God has established.

We are also told not to forsake the assembling of the saints (Hebrews 10:25).

And I would most definitely think that watching sports instead of coming together with other Christians to worship the Creator speaks to a heart that is not focused on the right things.

[revrobor]

[QUOTE=aggie03]

We are also told not to forsake the assembling of the saints (Hebrews 10:25).

QUOTE]

A pastor's favorite verse to justify the existance of the religious organization that employs him (especially when he wants a raise or would like to build a new building).

Last time I looked there were Christians outside the church building (even at sporting events) and the house church movement is growing rapidly.

The verse really says "don't fail to get together with other Believers" NOT "go to church".

[Knight]

what do you guys think about watching sport on a sunday. even if its after goin to church?
Well, if you're a football fan you don't have a whole lot of choice... :)

As others have said..... Being a sports fan should never put God in the back seat. Enjoying sports is fine as long as it does not take the place of God in your life.

Just keep your priorities intact.

[Blade]

I think all are right in a way. And if you don't go to chruch it does not make you any less christ like. I to this day have never heard a pastor ever use Heb 10:25 revrobro the way you used it.

But if you have to ask the question then you know the answer. You don't move God to fit your life you move your life around God. Chruchs have very early times now, but to even go early just so you can be home to do ANYTHING (personal) else means you put God 2nd. Is that what Jesus would do?

[aggie03]

Last time I looked there were Christians outside the church building (even at sporting events) and the house church movement is growing rapidly.
well, church is not something that someone can go to - but rather something that someone is part of. I am a Christian, therefore, I do not go to a building that is called a "church", but rather I am part of the church.

In a nutshell I agree with what you have said. If I live somewhere and there are only 5 other people who are Christians, then I will assemble with those people and we are the church, no matter where we happen to meet. If there are 40 Christians, then I will assemble with them. If there were 10,000 people, then I would assemble with them.

If the elders of this local congregation of saints have decided that they meet during a time when there is a sporting event on t.v. that I like to watch - then you better believe that I am going to assemble with my brothers and sisters. This is not only something that we are told to do, but it is also something that I want to do! :)

The verse really says "don't fail to get together with other Believers" NOT "go to church".
As per the comment about people abusing this verse - you are correct that does happen, but that is no reason for us then to go ahead and ignore its existence.

Also, if you know any preachers who are trying to preach money sermons, tell them 1 Corinthians 16 and 2 Corinthians 9 work much better ;) I jest, but these things also are something that we have a command and an example for doing. There are a variety of reasons given in the Scriptures, and who am I to argue with God?

Also, just as a side note - the only day that I can see from the Scriptures that it is necessary for us to gather together is that of the first day of the week. During football season, this means that if we assemble during a football game, then I miss that game.

Besides, you could always tape it and watch it later ;)

[aggie03]

I think all are right in a way. And if you don't go to chruch it does not make you any less christ like. I to this day have never heard a pastor ever use Heb 10:25 revrobro the way you used it.
Wouldn't Jesus assemble to worship God if He was commanded to do so as we are?

[Rising_Suns]

I know this is an unpopular opinion, and being Catholic will probably make it 10 times as unpopular, but I believe sports (as well as pretty much all TV broadcasting) is a complete waste of time and serves only to distract us from what we really should be doing; and that is seeking the will of God in all that we do.


I know I may be sounding a little harsh, but just look at how many men practically worship their TV; and these very same men will find any excuse to continue wasting their time. I do not believe we should be the ones to give them that excuse.

[JVD]

Well, mr Catholic Rising Suns. I am a non-denominational christian who happens to agree with you. Maybe it's a start!...Ha!

I am a recovering TV addict who used to watch the news and sports. Like some people gradually lost their addiction to drugs, I gradually lost mine to TV. Now I realize it is useless and a huge drain on our time and energy.

Don't get me wrong...we still have 2 of them in our house and my kids very occasionally watch educational videos and old movies but I have personally lost interest in the box.

After that happened to me I find it kind of a curiosity when I am over to someone else's home and see them glued to a sports program. Some people even plan their lives around these things and get special sattelite dishes etc. just to watch them.

I have a friend who I have been helping get off TV. He is retired and definetely a sports addict. Not that he plays sports, but watches it. He even watches golf..for goodness sake! This man is a skilled woodworker with a shop full of top notch tools. He also has grand kids that he doesn't spend enough time with. He has a boat in his garage that he bought to take his grandkids fishing...but it sits there while he watches the world series. I occasionally call him and ask if he is watching TV. He is always honest and admits it...actually it has helped him curb his appetite for the boob tube.

[Celticflower]

Luckily I am able to multitask, so while I watch sports on TV (on Sunday or any other day) you will find me with yarn and hook in hand working on the next blanket for charity.
Watching sports on Sunday is okay after church, but not instead of.
And if you can combine your butt in the chair time with something constructive, so much the better.

Celtie

[Dust and Ashes]

what do you guys think about watching sport on a sunday. even if its after goin to church?
I don't see why there would be anything wrong with watching sports if it doesn't keep you from worship. If it happens to take place during worship time, however I would remember: Brad 12:1-3 "1 Hath not God given unto thee conveniences of technology that thy life might be more easily adjusted to worship? 2 Wherefore there is a game that thou wouldst not miss, forget not how to programest the VCR, 3 and forsake not the sellers of soda and chips.";)

[9-iron]

well, considering that we ought to come together on the first day of the week with other Christians in order to partake in the Lord's Supper, watching sports in lieu of this would be trespassing something God has established.



16 So let no one judge you in food or in drink, or regarding a festival or a new moon or sabbaths, 17 which are a shadow of things to come, but the substance is of Christ.

[9-iron]

but just look at how many men practically worship their TVYep, I agree. It is amazing all the things we make unto an idol. This issue I see in the orginal post is where the heart? IS your heart to fellowship with other believers whether it be in church building or home? OR is your heart on things of the world.

I think aggie03 said something to the effect of the leadership his is under setting a time for the 'gathering together'. If he puts himself under that authority, then he should honor them and try to make it as much as possible. It doesn't come down to an issue of regulations, traditions, etc.. It is a issue of heart and submitting to the leadership over you.

[Kelly]

My .02

Are you sitting in church thinking about the game (or dinner, or shopping) that you are going to do afterward. I freely admit that satan puts thoughts of lunch in my head sometimes.

The sabbath is time for rest and reflection. People used to bust their behinds 6 days a week working in the fields and the day was for rest and worship. I see football as rest.

Keep hobbies, passtimes and passions in perspective with God and it's fine.

[Kelly]

remember: Brad 12:1-3 "1 Hath not God given unto thee conveniences of technology that thy life might be more easily adjusted to worship? 2 Wherefore there is a game that thou wouldst not miss, forget not how to programest the VCR, 3 and forsake not the sellers of soda and chips.";)
That's brilliant. Hightlight of my day.:D

[9-iron]

Are you sitting in church thinking about the game (or dinner, or shopping) that you are going to do afterward.



;) Yuuup.. Good point. We always have 4-5 taking a little nap during church. I am guilty to as I sometimes pass notes to my wife asking what is for lunch..

[Rising_Suns]

Yes, I agree with you all. :)

Just for the sake of conversation (and to be difficult), I would like to offer up the idea that Christiantiy in general (both Catholics and Protestants alike) has been watered down to accomodate soceity, espcecially in America. It may not be popular opinion among Christians, but perhaps we are not living the Word of God like we should, like the way Jesus intended for us.

Perhaps we should re-evaluate if we are living above and beyond our basic needs. Or perhaps we should atleast prayerfully ponder what it is that truly benefits the Kingdom of God, and eliminate all else from our lives. Are we, dare I say, lukewarm?

*Please note; I instigate my Catholic brethren as well, so don't think you are special. :)

[aggie03]

16 So let no one judge you in food or in drink, or regarding a festival or a new moon or sabbaths, 17 which are a shadow of things to come, but the substance is of Christ.
This verse is not referring to the Lord's Supper. :)

[9-iron]

http://www.christianforums.com/images/quotes/quot-top-left.gifQuote:http://www.christianforums.com/images/quotes/quot-top-right.gif http://www.christianforums.com/images/quotes/quot-by-left.gifOriginally Posted by: 9-iron http://www.christianforums.com/images/quotes/quot-by-right.gifhttp://www.christianforums.com/images/quotes/quot-top-right-10.gif



16 So let no one judge you in food or in drink, or regarding a festival or a new moon or sabbaths, 17 which are a shadow of things to come, but the substance is of Christ. http://www.christianforums.com/images/quotes/quot-bot-left.gifhttp://www.christianforums.com/images/quotes/quot-bot-right.gif
This verse is not referring to the Lord's Supper. :)



I know that. My intention was to point out we are not bound to go to 'church' on Sunday. I go to a men's meeting during the week. Would you consider that 'not forsaking' the gathering together? I get you point and agree mostly, I just like to point out we aren't bound up with legalism anymore. I think Romans addresses holy days and the significance different people place on different days.

[prestonw]

I know that. My intention was to point out we are not bound to go to 'church' on Sunday. I go to a men's meeting during the week. Would you consider that 'not forsaking' the gathering together? I get you point and agree mostly, I just like to point out we aren't bound up with legalism anymore. I think Romans addresses holy days and the significance different people place on different days.

The bible says nothing about moving the Sabbath day from Saturday to Sunday. It was probably moved in order to distance the Christian movement from the Jewish religion. Jesus said that the Sabbath was made for man, man was not made for the Sabbath. The most important thing is taking time out and giving it to God, when we do it is up to us.

[ChiRho]

I know this is an unpopular opinion, and being Catholic will probably make it 10 times as unpopular, but I believe sports (as well as pretty much all TV broadcasting) is a complete waste of time and serves only to distract us from what we really should be doing; and that is seeking the will of God in all that we do.


I know I may be sounding a little harsh, but just look at how many men practically worship their TV; and these very same men will find any excuse to continue wasting their time. I do not believe we should be the ones to give them that excuse.

So, Rising Sun, what do you waste your time doing?

Pax Christi,

CihRho

[Rising_Suns]

So, Rising Sun, what do you waste your time doing?

Pax Christi,

CihRhomany things (still working on that)

but watching TV is not one of them. I have eliminated the box from my life and no longer have any desire to watch it, thank God. :)

[aggie03]

The bible says nothing about moving the Sabbath day from Saturday to Sunday. It was probably moved in order to distance the Christian movement from the Jewish religion. Jesus said that the Sabbath was made for man, man was not made for the Sabbath. The most important thing is taking time out and giving it to God, when we do it is up to us.
You're right, as far as I know the Scritpures never talk about moving the Sabbath because the Sabbath is the seventh day of the week - it's pretty hard to move that ;)

Sunday is not the Sabbath, but rather is the first day of the week and is referred to as the Lord's day. It is on this day that we have been commanded, and have examples thereof, to lay by in store as we have prospered and to partake of the Lord's Supper.

I do not think that the only time we should gather together is on the first day of the week - in fact I'm almost convinced that the first century Christians met everyday of the week when they were able. The only time I know of them ever taking the Lord's supper was on the first day of the week, however, and this is also the only explanation that I know of from the Scriptures.

[Rising_Suns]

I do not think that the only time we should gather together is on the first day of the week - in fact I'm almost convinced that the first century Christians met everyday of the week when they were able. The only time I know of them ever taking the Lord's supper was on the first day of the week, however, and this is also the only explanation that I know of from the Scriptures..

Agreed. It is clear they met often, and possibly broke bread often, atleast once a week.

"Every day they devoted themselves to meeting together in the temple area and to breaking bread in their homes."--Acts 2:42

"On the first day of the week, when we were gathered together to break bread, Paul began talking to them, intending to leave the next day, and he prolonged his message until midnight."--Acts 20;7

[aggie03]

many things (still working on that)

but watching TV is not one of them. I have eliminated the box from my life and no longer have any desire to watch it, thank God. :)
We also have gotten rid of TV - not initially as a choice, but because of financial concerns. We live in an area where you have to either get a cable connection or get a dish - we couldn't afford either so we went without TV. We have come to thank God for the time when we couldn't afford TV because now we, after having it removed from our lives for some time, do not desire its return.

We still pay attention to the news through the radio, internet and the one channel that comes in quite fuzzy through a set of bunny ears, but that's it :)

It's amazing how much more time I have to study now...

[<><]

what do you guys think about watching sport on a sunday. even if its after goin to church?
Sunday is not the Sabbath of the LORD. Use it as a working day or a day for family, recreation, shopping, whatever you can do as a Christian.


Luke 20:35 (http://bible.gospelcom.net/cgi-bin/bible?passage=LUKE+20:35&language=english&version=NIV&showfn=on&showxref=on)
But those who are considered worthy of taking part in that age and in the resurrection from the dead will neither marry nor be given in marriage,

Will competetive sports be in "that age" of the resurrection?

Matthew 15:13 (http://bible.gospelcom.net/cgi-bin/bible?passage=MATT+15:13&language=english&version=NIV&showfn=on&showxref=on)
He replied, "Every plant that my heavenly Father has not planted will be pulled up by the roots.

[Church Punk]

what do you guys think about watching sport on a sunday. even if its after goin to church?I love going to my heavenly Fathers house to hang out and spend time with Him and my brothers and sisters in Christ! And then I like to go home and watch the Green Bay Packers on the "box". This is not a problem with me cause I have God on my mind and in my heart all the time. On Sunday and the rest of the week, so I have no problem with it.

Grace and Peace be with you.

ps GO PACK GO :D

[Rising_Suns]

We also have gotten rid of TV - not initially as a choice, but because of financial concerns. We live in an area where you have to either get a cable connection or get a dish - we couldn't afford either so we went without TV. We have come to thank God for the time when we couldn't afford TV because now we, after having it removed from our lives for some time, do not desire its return.

We still pay attention to the news through the radio, internet and the one channel that comes in quite fuzzy through a set of bunny ears, but that's it :)

It's amazing how much more time I have to study now...
Amen brother.