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Consider this ...
Ministry to men must provide a variety of entry points that make it easy for a man to get involved. This strategy works because men in our churches are in different seasons of life and have different interests. The level of involvement will depend on the man's interest in spiritual things, his readiness, and the time that he has available.
Entry Point Summary
| 1. Large Scale Men's Events |
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Principle: |
These events act as a catalyst to motivate men and ignite local men's ministry. |
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Implications:
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Men make life-changing decisions at these events and they come home ready for the next step. |
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| 2. Men's Special Events |
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Principle:
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These are the non-threatening activities that allow men to become
acquainted with each other. Examples might include barbecues, softball
games, fishing trips, etc.
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Implications |
Special events are a great place for men to bring unchurched friends, new men in the church or those not yet involved. |
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| 3. Men’s Equipping Seminars |
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Principle: |
Seminars and training sessions offer men an opportunity to develop in
areas that are specific to being a Christian man. Examples might
include seminars on fathering, finances, sexual purity, being a godly
husband, career and time mgmt., anger, etc. |
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Implications:
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In addition to serving as a good entry point, these seminars
provide encouragement, practical tools, and training not found on
Sunday morning. |
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| 4. Men's Congregational Gatherings |
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Principle: |
These are the events in the life of the church that give the men's
ministry a rhythm. They are the weekly Bible studies, monthly
breakfasts, and annual retreats that develop a loyal following.
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Implications:
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Regular gatherings at your church or a retreat site give men a "taste of what can happen in a men's small group. |
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| 5. Men's Small Groups |
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Principle:
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Small groups offer a man the greatest potential for spiritual growth.
He chooses to become a member of a team committed to mutual support.
These groups thrive when they start with a personal invitation, little
details, and have a clear exit point. |
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Implications: |
Small groups help men overcome the isolation in their lives. They
provide an environment where they can grow in Christ and share how to
minister to their family, friends, church and community. |
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| 6. One-on-One Discipling |
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Principle: |
One-on-one discipling or mentoring offers a man the greatest potential
for spiritual growth. He chooses to connect with another man who is
committed to his spiritual well-being and support. This relationship
starts with a personal invitation, proceeds at an agreed upon pace and
can close when considered appropriate.
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Implications:
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One-on-one discipling helps men with the personal challenges they face.
It provides an environment where the disciple can grow in Christ and
apply principles in the home, relationships with others, ministry and
their community. |
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Adapted from Brian Doyle, Director, Iron Sharpens Iron Conferences .Used with permission
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