Men Ministering to Men–A Call for Personal Revival

 

God is doing a work among the men in our church. It is not necessarily a revival, but there are certainly many personal revivals happening. I am not sure exactly how or when it started but I have been watching it happen for some time now. I have watched men quit lucrative and prestigious jobs so they could serve in ministry more effectively. They are praying with one another, and not just in church, challenging one another and encouraging one another. There is a growing thirst for God and a deep desire to be used by Him for His glory. I do know that this is not my doing, it is God’s work. I always want to see God at work, but I did not really comprehend this exactly. I should have.

Men discipling to men is a biblical mandate.

But as for you, speak the things which are proper for sound doctrine: that the older men be sober, reverent, temperate, sound in faith, in love, in patience. – Titus 2:1-2

We find it so easy to talk with one another—sometimes for hours—about things that matter very little—sports, cars, hunting, fishing, work, politics, etc.  Yet we often fear to speak about sound doctrine and its application in the tumultuous and wicked world in which we live. If we are going to disciple one another, we are going to have to be willing to talk soberly, deeply, and honestly about God’s truth.

Men restoring men is a biblical mandate.

Brethren, if a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness, considering yourself lest you also be tempted.  Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. –Galatians 6:1-2

While I do not believe this passage applies exclusively to men, it certainly does not exclude them.  When a brother is dealing with sin or struggling, we have a responsibility to help. In order to do this, we have to look around and pay attention. We need to ask others how they are doing and want to hear a substantive response.  We will have to meet with one another and give the conversation enough time so that it can develop into a truly spiritually helpful interaction.

Do not wait for your pastor to push you.

It sounds rebellious for me to say this, but it is really not. No pastor worth his spiritual salt would object to the men in his church taking true, sincere spiritual interest in one another. In fact, he might be the one who needs encouragement. Just because someone has been strong in the past does not mean that he is not facing crushing spiritual battles in the present. These are not always moral battles. Sadness, discouragement, guilt, fear, overwhelming life problems—these can all take their toll.

It is not about you.

“I am fine, I do not need fellowship with other men at this point in my life.” Well, you are wrong. Yes, you do need that fellowship. You need strong godly relationships that will sustain when the trouble ahead comes, and it will. Even if you have a perfectly serene life both now and in the future, there are others that need you. God did not intend for us to grow in a vacuum. He has purposely given us spiritual gifts that are designed to make us mutually dependent in a church body. We need stronger, growing, vibrant churches. Why not start with the men?

Men, are you in deeply spiritual God-honoring friendships with other men? You should be.  Why not start?

Right now.