Reaching men in Red Zone
By Men’s Ministries staff
A typical man is more likely to spend Sundays watching football, playing golf or, on a rare occasion, completing unfinished chores around the house than he is to attend church. He may not even get up for a Saturday morning men’s breakfast or make time to attend a weekly Bible study.
Reaching this type of man can be discouraging, frustrating and unsuccessful. That is unless a strategic game plan is used.
HonorBound Red Zone is a strategic opportunity using football, food and fellowship to reach men. Whether or not they “got game,” most guys enjoy watching football, hanging out with friends and family and consuming enough food that even Sam’s Club is required to restock its shelves.
According to researcher George Barna, there are several key factors that unchurched men said would draw them to church:
- An effective men’s ministry that touches them where they are.
- Meaning and purpose.
- Understanding of who they are and what they are thinking.
- Lasting friendships built on trust.
As part of the Reach strategy of AG national Men’s Ministries, HB Red Zone is a tool for local men’s groups to utilize as part of their outreach to unchurched men. While scrutinizing every play, arguing questionable calls and sending the coach messages throughout the game (via television of course); the gathering becomes an opportunity to also discuss strategies on how to win at the game that matters most – life.
“Watching college or pro football, you will notice a lot of discussion, statistics and strategy surrounding the ‘red zone’ on the field,” says Darian Amsler, administrative director for national Men’s Ministries. “It is a pivotal part of the game. Likewise, there are ‘red zone’ areas in each of our lives. If we don’t tighten up our ‘defense’ or focus on ‘offense,’ we stand a chance at losing.”
Regardless of how a group uses the HB Red Zone strategy, it’s an opportunity that presents itself to “do everything [we] can to win everyone [we] possibly can” (I Corinthians 9:22, CEV). It is an opportunity to use what men already love doing to share God’s game plan (from His Word) in helping them succeed in all areas of their lives.
Visit www.men.ag.org for more information, game plans and downloadable resources to use HB Red Zone this fall.