Not a Quick Fix

Written by Nate Flynn | Aug 23, 2023 11:47:24 AM

Dear Leader,

In our journey as church leaders and disciple-makers, it can be tempting to seek the path of least resistance. The allure of quick fixes, plug-and-play programs, and shortcuts may seem to offer immediate results and apparent convenience. After all, who wouldn't want a ready-made solution that promises growth and transformation without much effort?

However, in this pursuit of convenience, we might be inadvertently sidelining the very essence of spiritual growth and transformation.

No Man Left Behind is no quick fix. In fact, we openly admit up-front that it can take up to ten years to build a sustainable, thriving ministry to men.

If we start with the right foundations though, we can begin to effect change, shift mindsets, and set off in a direction that will take us to places we never imagined "men's ministry" could be.

In Christ,

Nate Flynn

Area Director

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CONCEPTUALIZATION

If you have ever engaged in an activity that was entirely new to you, then you know the feelings that come with it.

Uncertainty, nervousness mixed with excitement, doubt, fear, hesitancy...

No matter how much someone may have explained it to you, at a certain point, you have to experience it for yourself. Of course, it's always easier having someone go with us who has been there before.

When it comes to discipleship and vibrant ministry to men, there are many pastors and men's leaders who haven't actually or fully experienced it for themselves.

It is hard to conceptualize something we're not entirely sure of, much like navigating through uncharted waters with only a distant shoreline in sight.

But, just as every adventure starts with that first step into the unknown, so does the journey toward understanding and embracing the transformative power of discipleship.

We want to see men REFLECT HONESTLY, PURSUE GOD WHOLEHEARTEDLY, and LIVE VIBRANTLY!

YOUR ACTION STEP:

Commit to the journey of making disciples

Our current concepts of "men's ministry" often fall frustratingly short of what we sense in our hearts that we really need.

How many pancakes do we have to feed a man before he's transformed!?

Transformational growth requires more than just superficial experiences; it demands intentional, authentic engagement that resonates with the core of a man's spiritual journey.

Time and again we return to the same old methods that we know because they're comfortable for us. We can check the box of men's ministry by offering monthly breakfasts, a weekly study, and an annual retreat, yet deep down we know there's something missing.

This isn't it.

On the flip side of the pancake breakfasts, we can sometimes overcorrect. Frustrated by the inadequacy of our current constructs, we might find ourselves chasing after the latest fad or the programs that promise quick results. In our pursuit of transformation, we might unintentionally exchange one superficial approach for another.

This isn't it, either.

It can be tempting to just give up. Throw in the towel. Conclude that "men's ministry" simply doesn't work.

But what do we do with that nagging feeling that something isn't right? That there is a deeper need we are longing for as men which brings us back to the pancakes or sets us off once again looking for solutions?

What we long for as men is intentional, genuine, connection. We need to be known. To be seen. To be heard. To be REAL.

True transformation comes from a relational approach that values depth over speed and authenticity over trends.

If we can submit ourselves to a journey that seeks to break free from the ruts, while respecting the fact that it will take time, intentionality, and commitment, we might just find ourselves on a path towards a vibrant ministry to men.

2023 ANNUAL CHURCH SURVEY

Results are still being analyzed for distribution, but here are just a few comments that pastors and leaders shared about their Area Director.

"I can't speak highly enough of Nate. He's hardworking, bright, and personable. But, most importantly, he has a deep love for and walk with Jesus. He desires to know God intellectually and experientially. He's a spiritual explorer, not a travel agent, and he leads by example."

"Nate is fantastic to work with regarding men's discipleship, and also a wonderful friend. He truly cares about others, listens well, and is willing to share his personal testimony to help others. Something that is rare in our world today."

"A true brother and cares beyond the resources he offers! Nate has been fabulous to work with."

Thank you to everyone who took the time to participate in our survey, and for the kind words! It is my pleasure and joy to serve so many wonderful leaders!

GO DEEPER WITH THIS POST FROM THE MAN IN THE MIRROR BLOG

Why Fraternities Thrive and Men's Ministries Don't

What drew me to my fraternity was that I found something there that I couldn't find in my student ministry group: brotherhood. Here are 10 lessons my fraternity taught me that should change the way we think about men's discipleship.

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Check out our SoIN Touch page for an updated list of ministry happenings and resources for men in Southern Indiana!

If you have events or resources you would like to share with our network, please contact me to have them added to our SoIN Touch page.

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