Book Review: Overcoming Racial And Cultural Barriers To Disciple Men by Rev. Elmo Winters
“And hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation” (Acts 17:26 KJV).
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.
Prayer: Dear God, Thank you for my friend and brother Elmo Winters and this book. Help us to love each other as You have loved us. Help us to examine our heart and forge new relationships that are based on the heart and not outward appearances.
Meet the Author
Todd Shupe is a Men’s Ministry Specialist through the General Commission of United Methodist Men and is in training to be a Certified Lay Minister through the Louisiana Conference of the United Methodist Church. He currently serves as the President of the Baton Rouge District of United Methodist Men and is a Board Member for Gulf South Men and serves on the Action Team for The Kingdom Group. He is a volunteer for the Walk to Emmaus, Grace Camp, and Iron Sharpens Iron. Todd resides in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
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