Transforming Lives Through Faith and Sport: Celebrating John Campbell’s Legacy with FCA

FCA’s vision is to see the world transformed by Jesus Christ through the influence of coaches and athletes with a compelling mission to lead every coach and athlete into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ and His church.

John Campbell’s life and ministry exemplify this mission in remarkable ways. Colossians 1:27-28 states, “For God wanted them to know that the riches and glory of Christ are for you Gentiles, too. And this is the secret: Christ lives in you. This gives you assurance of sharing his glory. So we tell others about Christ, warning everyone and teaching everyone with all the wisdom God has given us. We want to present them to God, perfect in their relationship to Christ.” This scripture captures the essence of John's ministry, reflecting his dedication to sharing the message of Christ and fostering spiritual growth in others through the lens of sport.

Randy Jensen, a long-time FCA staff member, reflects on John's impact over the decades. According to Randy, John was instrumental in proclaiming Christ during the 70s, 80s, and 90s. “John had been a powerful advocate for the Gospel,” Randy notes. “He shared his personal story and faith transformation, giving people the opportunity to understand the message of the Gospel.”

John was a cornerstone of FCA’s speaker bureau during that time, where retired athletes and college coaches would visit schools, churches, and communities to share the message of Jesus. John’s ability to connect with people in an authentic and relatable manner made him one of FCA's most trusted speakers. At the end of each engagement, John would emphasize the importance of FCA’s mission and encourage his audience to engage with FCA’s resources to empower their communities.

John’s commitment to FCA opened doors that might have otherwise remained closed. His speaking engagements not only introduced FCA to new audiences but also provided valuable connections to individuals interested in learning more about the ministry. Randy Jensen recounts how John also personally engaged with him, inviting him to join in his speaking engagements across the state. “John rubbed off on me,” Randy shares. “We had great conversations about walking with Jesus and dealing with trials. He became a role model for me, demonstrating how to live out one’s faith boldly.”

When asked where it all began, John credits his wife for introducing him to Jesus, noting that her involvement in a Bible study and encouragement led him to explore his own faith. When she left for Bible study, John would open his own Bible and read. Reflecting on that time he said, “Boy, some of that made pretty good sense!”

It became prevalent that alcohol was an issue for John and he eventually asked his wife to pray with him. That was the last drink he ever had. And, it was at that time that he said, “I knew just enough to hear God say, ‘Don’t keep this a secret. Tell people.’”

He knew immediately that he would use football as an avenue to share about Jesus. “That’s why I’ve been gifted enough to speak to people about our God that loves all of us,” John says. “My life is so much better now. I am proud to be a Christian, a member of the church of God, and a supporter of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. They’ve given me a platform to spread the Gospel, and I’ll be forever grateful.”

Thank you, John, for your many years of ministry expanding the kingdom by faithfully serving and sharing the Gospel as well as creating awareness and growing the ministry of FCA as well! God has used you in wonderful ways and we are blessed because of it!