Ministering to Men

Dear Praying Friends:

What you are about to read may sound politically incorrect, but I think the reason for it will become clear as we progress.

For several reasons, it seems to me that those who want to reach Chinese worldwide with the Gospel of Christ in a lasting fashion must consider the strategic importance of concentrating at least some of our energies upon reaching men.

Why reach men?

In all societies, including China, most leadership positions are occupied by men, even now. Traditional cultures, in particular, continue to emphasize the role of men as fathers, husbands, elders in society, and leaders in the church. Simply from a sociological standpoint, if we are going to influence a family, a village, or even a nation, it would seem that capturing the allegiance of men would be wise.

Think of the problems that women generally face: Distant or abusive fathers; absent, irresponsible, violent, or even unfaithful husbands; domineering bosses; corrupt political and business leaders – almost all of whom are men. Experienced counselors all know that many problems presented by women stem from the faults and failings of the men in their lives.

There is more: In China today, Christian women outnumber men by a large margin. This disparity means that it’s very difficult to find believers for them to marry, much less suitable candidates for the position of elder, deacon, and pastor. The loneliness of women without Christian husbands and fathers, not to mention the misery of those who succumb to various pressures and marry unbelievers, compel us to work hard to redress this imbalance.

Though he taught women and included them among his band of followers, Jesus devoted most of his time to the training of the Twelve (and perhaps also of the Seventy), who were, of course, all men. We may say that contemporary social customs necessitated such a move, except that Jesus broke so many conventions, and demonstrated such tender care for women, that he cannot be accused of simply bowing to reigning prevailing mores. Likewise, Paul, who highly esteemed a number of women for their contribution to the Lord’s work, chose men to be his most intimate companions.

Paul’s instructions for church leaders (surely for elders, and probably also for deacons) assume male leadership in the churches that he founded. That concept has been vigorously challenged in recent years, and is highly disputed today, but perhaps we should inquire further into possible reasons for such a focus. Leaving aside the theological and exegetical questions, there are practical matters to consider as well.

So, it would seem that both biblical precedent and pragmatic considerations would point towards directing a significant amount of time and energy toward bringing the Gospel to men and then training them to be mature Christian leaders in the home, church, and society.

How?

As I have written elsewhere, reaching Chinese men effectively demands a comprehensive review of not only the methods we use, but the very content of our message. “Masculine” elements of the biblical Gospel must be highlighted: God as King and Judge; Jesus as a man’s man, and an example to all men; valiant men in narrative portions; specific teachings to men; etc. In particular, we need to show how the Word of God speaks to men’s concerns, including family and work and their special temptations (such as pride, ambition, autocratic leadership, lust).

Furthermore, we’ll have to be intentional about this, making sure that we make time to evangelize men and then disciple them.

Our part

Several members of our group make a priority of serving men in their personal ministry, using methods such as men’s Bible studies; books translated into Chinese, like The Measure of Man by Gene Getz; group meetings based on “Celebrate Recovery” (http://www.celebraterecovery.com.au/); and mentoring individuals. I try to spend time with a couple of men in Charlottesville, and stay in touch with others around the world.

My book comparing Confucius and Christ, available in Chinese, was written for this express purpose. An English edition, Jesus: The Complete Man contains only the sections dealing with Christ as our example, and is based on the Gospel of John. A shorter series of devotional messages, "Real Men," can be found at http://www.chinainst.org/en/devotionals/titus. I hope it will be translated someday.

Though outstanding women are also represented, most of the stories in the Biographical Dictionary of Chinese Christianity and in the “Salt & Light” series of books are about men who tried to serve Christ in every aspect of their lives.

And yours

Please pray for God to bring millions of Chinese men to repentance and faith in Christ, and to use all possible means to enable them to grow into full maturity.

Your brother,

Wright

Tax-deductible donations may be sent to:

China Institute
PO Box 7312
Charlottesville, VA 22906

Or you may contribute online: http://www.chinainst.org/en/about/donate/