Dealing with the evils of the NFL

Last week I joined two writers from Christ & Pop Culture on their podcast, where we discussed an article that asks, “Does watching the NFL make you evil?” The article itself isn’t terribly clear, nor does it make a compelling case, but the question is one worth asking.

The National Football League is under significant scrutiny these days for the behavior of its players, how its handled those situations (or not handled them), and for player safety on the field. Given the mounting list of missteps and flaws the league has shown, some seemingly intentional, is it a bad idea to associate ourselves with it? Are we promoting evil by enjoying NFL football? Would boycotting the NFL be the responsible Christian thing to do?

I do not think so, although it might be a responsible Christian thing to do. We should do nothing against our conscience, and for some that will mean giving up on the NFL. For others, they will continue to watch pro football. What we cannot do is tell the other group, whichever side we find ourselves on, that they are wrong. It is not as simple as that.

If Christians were to reject every institution affected by corruption we would end up living in cloistered communes with little to eat, wear, or do that we did not produce ourselves (overlooking our own corruption, of course). We would watch no TV, movies, or sports. We would listen to no music, not even contemporary Christian music. We wouldn’t even be able to go to church. Corruption, it turns out, is everywhere because sinners are everywhere.

Does that mean as Christians we should resign ourselves to relish corrupt activities or wallow in them? Of course, not. We are called to help redeem them, which means participating in organizations and aspects of culture where corruption may be present. We are also called to be discerning, which is not the same as being a separatist or overly cautious. It means being wise about what aspects of culture we take part in, and that will differ from person to person in many instances. What is good for me might not be good for you, and vice versa, the NFL included.

The NFL is an organization, yes, but it also produces a wonderful game. Football is beautiful in the eyes of many beholders. It is fun. It is a source of connection for people, a gathering place. Should we dump it because the governing body may be corrupt and because some of players have committed atrocious acts?

Maybe you should, if you believe that’s the best path for you to take. The fan who keeps watching, keeps loving football, but also keeps demanding the NFL raise its standards is also doing what he deems best. Both are trying to be discerning. The only wrong responses are to refuse to engage at all and to arrogantly judge another’s engagement.