7 Secrets for Getting More Men Involved in Ministry

Written by Richard E. Dodge

Men have been accused for many years of abdicating their role as leaders in the home and church. Certainly there are many men who have accepted - indeed, stood out as - key leaders in their churches. But men cannot avoid the reality: too many of us have not stepped forward as spiritual leaders in our homes or churches.

The image of church involvement has not been depicted as a “manly” role, a false image that Satan has instilled in hearts and minds everywhere. That seems astounding when you think about the backgrounds of those who first followed Jesus.

Developing a life- and community-changing men’s ministry will require some clear points of focus for church leaders. Consider these points as you develop a ministry to and with the men in your area. 

Focus on Christ. Jesus must be the heart and soul of whatever we do in building a men’s ministry. Jesus’ command toward spiritual maturity must be the foundation.

Focus on prayer. Seeking God’s leadership requires constant, dedicated prayer that connects us with God. Prayer must be both a source of wisdom and direction.

Focus on gifts and skills. Each Christian man has at least one spiritual gift that God has given him for use in His church. An effective men’s ministry helps men identify, develop, and use their spiritual gifts in Christian service. We also must help men discover opportunities to use their skills and talents to help others in and outside the church.

Focus on balance. Not everyone will be at the same level spiritually, emotionally, biblically, or even in their ability to lead their families. Identify levels of growth and needs, and then plan ways to address each need. Include non-Christian as well as Christian men in activities and projects. Sid Woodruff, in Drawing Men to God: Men’s Ministry Manual, identifies four actions in a balanced men’s ministry:

• Evangelizing the lost and bringing men into the church
• Helping men grow toward spiritual maturity
• Equipping men for ministry
• Involving men in missions

Focus on communication. What men are doing should not be a secret. Discover ways to communicate with others in and outside the church about the role of men in your church and what your church is doing to help men and their families.

Focus on evaluation. No ministry in any church should be exempt from periodic evaluation. Evaluation should be constant as well as strategic - ongoing as well as annual. Know what is working well and what needs improvement. Identify strengths and weaknesses.

Focus on relationships. Christ-centered relationships as friends and co-laborers will move your men’s ministry well beyond the walls of the church. Lost men are looking for friends they can trust.

Building a focused men’s ministry might be as simple as connecting men in your church with lost and unchurched men who have similar interests, skills, and hobbies. Other men outside the church, particularly younger men, will respond if invited to participate in community missions or improvement projects.

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