Even though the Cincinnati Bengals have two of the most talented receivers in football in Terrell Owens and Chad Ochocinco, the team has struggled through a horrible year. It seems that it takes more than skill to win ball games. Selfish attitudes are detrimental to a winning team effort. When Owens and Ochocinco were both sidelined with injuries last Sunday, the Bengals actually won the game.

There are two lessons to be learned from this as we try to put together a winning team in the local church.

First, members need to develop a “team first” attitude. Phil.2:3-4 says, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.”

Second, church leaders must be firm in dealing with problem people in the congregation. Titus 3:10-11 urges, “Warn a divisive person once, and then warn him a second time. After that, have nothing to do with him. You may be sure that such a man is warped and sinful; he is self-condemned.”

I hope that your favorite team is enjoying a successful season. More importantly, I pray that your church will do whatever it takes to be a winning team.