Mike Minter asks you, “Whose team are you on?”

Boiling Springs, N.C.- Mike Minter, former NFL football player spoke at the Dimensions program on March 11 at Gardner-Webb. Minter is more than just an athlete; he is also a successful businessman as well as a philanthropist. Minter began his football career playing for the Panthers in ’97 and retired ’07. Minter now devotes his time “giving back” to the community through several endeavors. One of the many projects Minter partakes in is the Ruckus House Foundation, which awards scholarships to graduating high school seniors that wish to become educators.

Minter told stories of his past experience that lead him to become the Christian he is today. Minter gave interesting analogies between football and the love God has for each of us. By the time he reached high school, he worshiped football. The sport was his god, his church, his everything. His goal was to play in the NFL, which he thought would solve all his problems.

While attending the University of Nebraska he suffered a knee injury that took him out for the reminder of that year. For the first time Minter questioned his belief, “What is the meaning of life if it’s not football?” Soon after the injury he found himself asking God for a compromise. He promised he’d attend bible study if God would allow him back on the field. Minter was first introduced to Christ through hearing others touching testimonies. He soon realized God comes to you with the terms and he decides the blessings.

Minter dedicated his life to Christ because he didn’t have to run fast, or lift weights, or win a certain amount of games to be on Christ’s team. He referred to Christ as a substitute that has already won the game for you. “There are two teams, God’s team and the Devil’s team. These teams determine your eternal life. God’s team has already won, so what team will you choose,” Minter said.

Minter insinuated NFL didn’t stand for National Football League instead in mean Not For Long. If the organization is done with you, you are simply dismissed. Unlike the NFL, God has you permanently on his rooster.  Minter wanted to remind every one, God takes us through obstacles to bring us to something. “The biggest test in life has already be taken and Christ has passed it for you,” Minter conveyed.

Gardner-Webb University’s Dimensions programs are free and open to the public. The goal of Dimensions is to enhance the spiritual, intellectual and cultural life of the University and also to promote a sense of community. Dimensions are held on Tuesdays at 9:25 a.m. This Dimensions service will be held in Lutz-Yelton Convocation Center (LYCC). For information on future Dimensions presenters, contact Tracy Jessup at 704-406-4279.

Located in Boiling Springs, N.C., Gardner-Webb University is the home to approximately 4000 students from 39 states and 21 foreign countries. Gardner-Webb niversity seeks a higher ground in higher education- one that embraces faith and intellectual freedom, balances conviction with compassion, and inspires in students a love of learning, service and leadership.

####