That's the secret behind AIA's new strategy to help reach a half billion people with the life-changing truth of Jesus Christ before the end of the year 2000. Each video clearly explains the gospel using testimonies of superstars within the sport. The evangelistic sports videos have been broadcast on national television in countries like Ghana, Zimbabwe and Suriname. Through a satellite agency working with AIA staff members, one video was broadcast in all 23 Arabic-speaking countries of the Middle East and Northern Africa. Plans are in process to open even more airwaves.
Sports born in America now claim a worldwide following, thanks to media coverage.
For example, the NBA finals were broadcast in 192 countries this year, while the Super Bowl was broadcast in 170. Since its 1997 release, this video has been translated into 12 languages, with 10 more planned. The videos open doors of media credibility for any of the 30 sports teams sent out by AIA to compete overseas or stateside. The videos get plenty of play, both internationally and within the United States. According to AIA's Web site, more than 330,000 students watched one of the videos last year.