Real Men: Fellowship In Discipleship
“Several years ago I was asked to be part of a small group of men who planned to meet weekly to discuss their faith. I was skeptical. What does “discuss our faith” mean. A bible study? Christian book review? Prayer group? Serve the community? Do we meet EVERY week? I eventually agreed and became part of a 10 men group the SOBs (Sons of the Bible), and the short answer to all of my questions: YES!
The SOBs have been meeting on Thursday mornings for the past few years at “St. Denny’s” in West Houston. We currently range in age from around 42 – 58 years. I knew 6 of the 10 men when the group started – but not particularly well. Now I call all of them brother, and they are some of my best friends.
Our commitment from the beginning has been a safe, confidential setting in which we can talk transparently about our journey through this challenging life and the role our Faith plays. Yes we do study the word of God. Books of the bible (Hebrews, Mark), discipleship books (Discipleship Essentials, Leadership Essentials), Apologetics, “respectable” sins and staying Wild at Heart as we grow older and into our spirituality. The essence of our group, however, is meeting and surrounding each brother in his place of need. Our lesson takes a back seat to the person, and we try to let the Holy Spirit guide us each week. It’s not just Thursday mornings though. Our twice a year retreats, fishing and hunting trips, Top Golf and backyard barbecues have been some of my greatest experiences. You can still be a man with friends and follow Jesus Christ. The difference is that I can have a couple of adult beverages with my brothers without sacrificing meaningful, real conversation.
Following Christ is hard! For me personally it sometimes feels like 100 steps forward and 99 steps back. We have had challenges in our group – divorce, grief, job loss, etc…, but I thank God that the SOBs have been there for each other. The best thing I can say about our small group is this: When I look back over these last few years, I don’t even want to think about where I would be on my walk with Christ if I did not have the SOBs.”