Where are the Men of the House?: Discipling that Makes a Difference

Dr. Eric Johnson’s new book reveals a clear and well-researched message about the problems and possibilities with men in today’s church. Drawing on the observations from ministerial leaders, past and present, he lays down the foundation stones for building strong Christian men. His academic research is backed up by the writer’s practical experience in his pastorate. Where are the men in the house? This piercing question tempts many pastors to be less than truthful. Like boasting about the size of church membership, and we have a tendency to blow-up the numbers of men who are active in the congregation. Dr. Johnson’s book exposes a flaw in contemporary church life, regardless of public perceptions about size and success. Church leaders must become tuned in to the unique needs of men. Men don’t have the same views about church that women seem to take for granted. The church must become more balanced in order to reach more men. Unfortunately, the nugget of truth that popped out of the mouth of my buddy’s dad went largely unheeded for the next 40 years. What a pity! Dr. Johnson’s publication builds a sound argument for reshaping the way we “do” church. The ideas that he shares from his own pastoral achievements and from a rich variety of other sources are doable. We may not be able to change everything all at once, but it’s time to make the church more welcoming, appealing and fulfilling to men.