A Theology of Exercise: Why Christians Should Train Their Bodies for God's Glory

A Theology of Exercise: Why Christians Should Train Their Bodies for God's Glory

July 7, 2026 · 44 min

About this episode

David Mathis discusses the biblical perspective on exercise and fitness for Christians.

What does the Bible actually say about exercise, fitness, and taking care of your body? In this conversation, a Desiring God pastor and author David Mathis unpacks a biblical theology of exercise — covering the six-layer biblical story of the human body (creation, the fall, the incarnation, the indwelling Holy Spirit, obedience, and future glorification), how to think about 1 Timothy 4:8 ("bodily training is of some value"), and why sedentary modern life and body-idolatry are two ditches to avoid. This episode is brought to you by our ministry partner Accountable2You. Join thousands living in freedom with nothing to hide, and visit https://accountable2you.com/dialin. Use our unique code DIALIN to get 25% off your first year of an Accountable2You Personal or Family Plan Topics covered: • Why exercise matters for the mind, will, joy, and love of others • Bodily discipline and Christian stewardship of the body • The connection between physical exercise and mental clarity (John Ratey's "Spark") • Competition, sports, and a Christian view of winning and losing • Practical advice for sedentary Christians who want to start exercising • How pastors and knowledge workers can build…

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