Accepting the Authority of Christ the Coach
Before a team can execute plays, it must acknowledge the coach’s authority. In Chapter 9, Larry Stirlen draws this same connection to the Christian life. Christ is not a distant consultant or ceremonial figurehead—He is the Head Coach of our lives and churches. Yet many treat Him as optional.
Stirlen reminds us that Christ’s authority comes from His divine nature (Colossians 1:15–18). He created all things. He sustains all things. He leads His church. And if we don’t submit to Him, we’re operating out of alignment.
The stats are alarming: over 40% of churchgoers rarely read the Bible, and many attend church sporadically. This disconnect from Christ’s authority is the root of spiritual stagnation. If we aren’t connected to the Vine, we can’t bear fruit. Without submission, there is no transformation.