Beyond the Boundary brings Scriptures and sport together in South Africa

CAPE TOWN, South Africa — The Bible Society of South Africa is using the latest interactive technology and a sporting theme as it pursues its goal of making the Bible and its message relevant for the 21st century. Tapping into the extensive media coverage of the Cricket World Cup 2003, the Society launched a cricket-based interactive CD-ROM and video, accompanied by a printed Contemporary English Version (CEV) New Testament and Psalms, on January 30.

This package, entitled Beyond the Boundary, was developed in collaboration with Christian publisher Lux Verbi.BM and former professional cricketer Frans Cronje, who is already known for his efforts to bring Christianity into sport. The CD-ROM and video present 18 cricketers from South Africa, the West Indies, India, Sri Lanka, Kenya and Pakistan who discuss 16 principles for success both inside and outside sport, including confidence, courage, teamwork, motivation, hope and focus, and encourage viewers and listeners to read the Bible. Users of the CD-ROM can also access the full CEV Bible text and original music from 10 popular Gospel groups and singers.

The Bible Society believes that the CEV text, which uses simple, modern language, will appeal to both children and adults. Making the text available in interactive format is particularly significant.