The Association of Church Sports and Recreation Ministries
Colossians 2:1-2 - AGON
Dr. Greg Linville
August 6, 2026
Competition, AGON, Striving, Struggle, Suffering, Prayer
Colossians 2:1-2
“I want you to know how much I have agonized for you and for the church at Laodicea, and for many other believers who have never met me personally. I want them to be encouraged and knit together by strong ties of love. I want them to have complete confidence that they understand God’s mysterious plan, which is Christ himself.”
Agon: competing, struggling, or striving
Who are you “struggling” for...
Today we continue on the theme of “striving” or “struggling”... spiritually speaking. Our conversation continues to be based upon our ongoing study of the Greek word Agon which was an athletic term that was rooted in the concept of an athlete’s “striving or struggling” to overcome an opponent or obstacle.
Paul writes to believers in the ancient city of Colossae that he, that is, Paul “struggles” or “strives” that the Colossians hearts may be encouraged.” Are you “struggling or striving” for your sports ministry leaders, teammates and/or players?” Are you “striving & struggling” (meaning you are engaging in efforts) so that their hearts are encouraged and that they may be ever more increasingly mature in their walk with the ultimate head coach - Jesus?
Action point: Today, make a list of who you are called encourage and specifically how you are to encourage their maturing in Jesus!
.png)