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To Minister to Men You Must First Try to Understand Them Seven Factors Influencing Men
One of the challenges of ministry planning in our current
cultural context is knowing and respecting the common
characteristics that influence men and their interests. Wise ministry leaders understand that they must work with men
where they meet them. While the goal of those interested in
ministry often must be to redirect or sanctify some of these
very human characteristics, they first need to be recognized for
what they are. So, what are some of the major influences on
American and Canadian men today? Busyness—Job responsibilities, family time and
chores, sports activities, community commitments Work—Most men's top priority, everything else gives
way to work demands Individualism—The push to be strong, self
sufficient, controlled, not dependent on anyone else Loneliness—A consequence of life's other pressures
and expectations; most men lack close friends Pleasure-seeking—Sports, possessions, sex, hobbies,
entertainment Religious stereotypes—"Church is for women and
kids"; "Christianity is a crutch for
weaklings" Pragmatism—"It's got to work for me, or I'm
not interested"; "What's in it for me?" Spiritual poverty—Biblical illiteracy,
uncomfortable about prayer, purposeless feelings about life,
hunger for meaning and spiritual fulfillment |