Retiring after 18 years of quarterbacking cities “to convert to football evangelists,” what can Peyton Manning’s “football evangelism” teach us about evangelism? Here are some ideas from his years in the game as well as what he said at his retirement press conference:
1. Get started. Peyton said the decision to play his senior year at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville was “one of the smartest decisions I’ve ever made.” Eventually, Peyton started playing professional football, and getting in the game of sharing your faith won’t happen until you get started.
2. Failures are not final. Peyton holds many records – including the rookie record for interceptions. His failed attempts of delivering receptions didn’t stop him from delivering the ball. Keep delivering the gospel.
3. Remain coachable. Peyton’s gratitude for all his coaches highlights the fact that he continued to listen to others and learn from them. Remain coachable as you continue to share your faith.
4. God’s word is our playbook. At his retirement press conference, out of all the playbooks he’s read, Peyton referenced 2 Timothy 4:7: “I’ve fought the good fight. I’ve finished my ‘football’ race.” Our evangelism playbook is the word of God.