ARM CHAIR DISCIPLE

“This is the message which we have heard from Him and declare to you, that God is light and in Him is no darkness at all. If we say that we have fellowship with Him, and walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth. But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin. If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make Him a liar, and His word is not in us.”

-1 John 1:5-10 (NKJV)

Have you ever heard the term “Arm Chair Quarterback?” Well an “Arm Chair Quarterback” is the man who sits in his recliner immersed in the football game and calling the plays “his” team should run as if he were actually in the game and then critiquing every aspect of the game. However, the reality is; he’s not in the game...in fact; he’s not even warming the bench! The “Arm Chair Quarterback” is in the comfort of his own home with his cozy recliner, his remote, a beverage and a less than healthy snack on most occasions. This is a far cry from the athletes that endure brutal weather extremes, a grueling training regiment and dietary restrictions, and the physical and mental challenges of the game itself.

As Christians, it is easy for us to become “Arm Chair Disciples,” lounging in the comfort of our sin; watching and critiquing the rest of the world for its failings as we feed our fleshly desires with temporary food and drink without experiencing the discipline, rejection and persecution that is synonymous with being a true Disciple of Christ. The “Arm Chair Disciple” is no more a disciple than the “Arm Chair Quarterback” is a quarterback, nor is he any more in the game. There are, however, some significant differences between the two. The “Arm Chair Quarterback” cannot jump into the game at any time and start playing. Yet, the “Arm Chair Disciple” can, at any moment, decide to confess his sins and walk in the light of the Lord. The biggest difference, however, is the consequence suffered...the “Arm Chair Quarterback” may pack on a few extra pounds from the less than healthy refreshments and inactivity which may or may not result in some residual health issues, but the consequence for the “Arm Chair Disciple” is certain death and eternal separation from the Father.

In James 2:26, we are reminded that faith without works is dead. To be a true Disciple of Christ, we must “walk the talk” as our actions are the outward showing of our faith. We must see our sin for what it is...sin, and repent if we are to walk in fellowship with the Lord. “But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin.” (1 John 1:7) The choice is yours...“Arm Chair Disciple” or true Disciple of Christ, which do you choose?

COACH'S CALL TO ACTION

• In what ways are you an “Arm Chair Disciple?”

• What is the sin that you have been lounging in?

• When will you step out of the darkness and repent to walk in the light of the Lord?

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