Book Review: Overcoming Racial And Cultural Barriers To Disciple Men by Rev. Elmo Winters

Each generation faces unique challenges that historians use to define that time period or generation.  There are some challenges that seem to transcend time and linger from one generation to the next.  The issue of race is as old as the Biblical story of the Samaritan woman at the well that encounters Jesus, a Jew.  The nature of her heart is revealed in John 4:9. “The Samaritan woman said to him, “You are a Jew and I am a Samaritan woman. How can you ask me for a drink?” (For Jews do not associate with Samaritans.)

I have been blessed to have known Elmo Winters for many years.  I am a member of the Action Team of his ministry The Kingdom Group.  A key focus of his ministry is the discipleship of men of all races.  He hosts a monthly breakfast for men of all races to openly and honestly discuss their opinions on contemporary issues.  I have seen new friendships forged from these breakfasts and improved racial relations.

The book Overcoming Racial And Cultural Barriers To Disciple Men is a welcome respite in our current divisive and polarized times.  The book addresses this lingering societal predicament among men and provides some practical solutions.  Reverend Elmo Winters has over 40 years of international ministry experience with various races to draw upon for this book. The primary focus of the book is to prepare all men to be on the front line as disciples of Christ. These targeted guys are called to lead like Christ, which goes well beyond being “born again.”  They must be committed and determined followers (disciples) of the Lord.  Disciples of Christ are not only birthed into the family of God but are skillfully trained imitators of Him.  Each chapter covers a discussion on a major hindrance to making disciples of all men, including suggestions on how to successfully overcome it.

The first chapter is titled “Examining Your Heart” and this forms an essential theme throughout the book.  The author states, “The success or failure of many endeavors are directly determined by the degree of heart engagement.”  Reconciliation is predicated upon healthy relationships but there must be a desire to be a part of the solution. 

The book states that many white people view Black Lives Matter and the Black Panthers, as divisive and offensive. “It is difficult to embrace a man who sees the merits of any organization that believes one race or people group is more valuable than another. Being a part of these is akin to being a member of the Ku Klux Klan. All such alliances as these indicate that there is a problem in the heart.”

The book is honest and real.  As a disciple of Christ, we men are called to disciple other men and not just the ones that look like us.  This book is a valuable tool for men that are serious about their discipleship.

The book can be obtained from The Kingdom Group at this Book Link.