Athletes of the Bible

ATHLETES OF THE BIBLE

A BRIEF HISTORY

My introduction to “Athletes of the Bible” came in 1968 when I was athletic director, coach and teacher at Hazlehurst, MS High School.  Our librarian periodically discarded old books that were no longer or little used books.  Usually the books were in bad shape, such was the case with “Athletes of the Bible,” published in 1914.

We had recently formed a Fellowship of Christian Athletes chapter at Hazlehurst High.  Our librarian thought we could use the old book for programs.  She was right.  We were able to use the book for many of our programs.

After I left school work in 1971 and entered the insurance business, I added this book to our family library of religious books.  Over the years I would refer to “Athletes of the Bible” from time to time.  I have been a Sunday school and Bible teacher for over 40 years and this little book has been used by me on many occasions.

In March, 2009, I was encouraged by my wife, Barbara, to write a book about the relationship between athletics and Christianity.  Since I have been involved in athletics for over 40 years as an athlete, coach, referee, administrator, scout and radio broadcaster, additionally serving over 30 years as a Sunday school teacher, Deacon and lay minister, she thought that writing such a book would be a natural fit for me.  Her degree in counseling has helped me on many occasions.

Her encouragement created in me a spark of enthusiasm about the project.  Almost immediately I began to gather information and do research on the topic.  The little book, “Athletes of the Bible” immediately came to mind.  I believe that God spoke to me through the Holy Spirit to update and republish “Athletes of the Bible.”  The following pages are the result of God’s leadership.

I have been very careful not to compromise the integrity of the original book.  I have made few changes in the original book.  Some words such as “pluck” (courage) are used very little today, however, they remain in our update.  Additionally, there are some athletes mentioned in the 1914 version that are unknown to us but they are listed and discussed as they were in 1914.

In the section, “Biblical Advice for the Athlete,” we use scripture from “The Life Application Bible, NIV Version” published by Thomas Nelson Publishers, Nashville, TN.  This section makes up more than half of my version of the book.