In July I attended the National Gathering of United Methodist Men at Purdue University in West Lafayette, Ind. I was representing the Menās Life ministry and Faith Alive Christian Resources. I led three workshops on āReaching Men Through Small Groupsā and exhibited Faith Aliveās Discover Life Bible study materials.
It was great being there, but as I returned I wondered, āWhy isnāt this happening in the Christian Reformed Church?ā Our denomination is experiencing a leadership shortage, but we donāt have a denominational menās ministry to train and disciple men.
Iāve been involved with ministry to men for more than 20 years. Believe me, men need a place to gather, tell their stories, and be discipled as they study Godās Word.
Did you know that the CRC, through Faith Alive Christian Resources, produces some of the best small-group Bible studies for men? Developed over the past 20 years, Discover Life Bible studies have proven highly effective. Theyāre used by many denominations and para-church organizations.
But something is missing: there is a real need for the CRC to minister to men in and outside our denomination. Pastors need to encourage men to get involved in meeting together to study Godās Word. Mature men need to step up and disciple other men.
David had his āmighty men of God.ā For the CRC to have its mighty men of God, they must be discipled.
About the Author
Rick Kiekintveld is a pastor of youth and education for Ada Christian Reformed Church and directs the churchās menās ministry and leads menās small-group Bible studies. He also serves as Menās Life representative for the CRC and Faith Alive.
