Game theory is the mathematical study of strategic decision-making. It uses models to show how individuals or organizations interact with one another, not because of what is logical but because of the decisions that others make.
The reality game show, Survivor, is part game and part social experiment. Players are thrown into the wilderness with pre-approved clothing, prescription medication, and contact lenses/eyeglasses. That’s it. No toiletries, no blankets, no snacks. Everything they may need for the journey must be earned. While they are earning rice, chickens, or a flint to start a fire, they are also trying to earn the trust and friendship of the other contestants so that they might be the last survivor in the game. The player who outwits, outlasts, and outplays is the sole survivor of the game and of $1,000,000.
Our lives in Christ may seem detached from the rules of Survivor, but there are many similarities. Just as in any game theory, the decisions we make and the decisions of others affect us more than we’d like. Sometimes we will do wild things to have immunity from other situations. Sometimes our greatest ally will blindside us. Sometimes what we crave most is a feeling of family and a sense of community. But the good news is that, unlike the game show, there is not only one sole survivor. God’s grace is available to all. We are all able to find our place in the community of Christ, no matter our past mistakes or current struggles. And just like on Survivor, it’s important to work together and support each other in order to thrive and overcome challenges.
As we navigate through life, we may face difficult choices, unexpected betrayals, and challenging obstacles. But as followers of Christ, we can rely on His teachings and the support of our Christian community to guide us through these trials. We are not alone in this journey, and God’s love is always there for us.
Sunday, we begin our sermon series based on the game show by studying how Daniel, Nehemiah, Ruth, and David were all able to outwit, outlast, and outplay to thrive as children of God. You’ll learn new insights about each of these characters but also ways that you can thrive in the wilderness of life.
Join us Sunday and be sure to invite a friend!
Until Everyone Hears,
