In a recent interview, Pastor G. Craig Lewis of EX Ministries delved into his latest series, “Missing Pieces.” This is a 10-lesson course. It aims to restore the foundations of manhood eroded by societal and cultural shifts. The series has its roots in a men’s group from over a decade ago. It addresses the critical gaps in the upbringing of men. This is especially true for those who have lacked a strong father figure.
Pastor Lewis argues that these “missing pieces” are the root cause of many cultural issues today. These include a lack of respect for authority. They also encompass challenges in male leadership within the church. He emphasizes that even men who grew up with fathers present have had these crucial aspects of their development shaped more by the world. Their development was shaped more by the world than by their fathers. Wise, godly counsel may not have shaped them as much.
The Ten Missing Pieces
The “Missing Pieces” series focuses on ten key areas that are essential for a man’s development:
- Authority: Recognizing and respecting authority is presented as a foundational principle, essential for a man to become a leader himself.
- Work Ethic: The importance of a strong work ethic is highlighted as a cornerstone of responsible manhood.
- Leadership: The series aims to equip men to take on their God-given roles as leaders in their homes and communities.
- Discipline: Self-discipline is presented as a vital component of a man’s character.
- Respect: The principle of “Do unto others as you have them do unto you” is vital. It is a key part of this missing piece. This principle fosters mutual respect in all relationships.
- Commitment: The ability to commit and follow through is identified as a crucial aspect of mature manhood.
- Fortitude: The series encourages the development of mental and emotional strength to overcome challenges.
- Healthcare: Taking care of one’s physical well-being is presented as a responsible and necessary aspect of a man’s life.
- Faith: A strong foundation of faith is presented as the anchor for all other aspects of a man’s life.
- Priorities: The series helps men to establish and maintain a biblical set of priorities.
The Battle for the Family
A central theme of the interview is the spiritual battle for the family unit. Pastor Lewis references the biblical principle that to spoil a man’s goods, one must first bind the strong man. He argues that the adversary’s primary strategy is to target the man in the home. If the “strong man” is neutralized, the family is left vulnerable. He highlights the intentional efforts of figures like Alice Bailey. Anton LaVey is another figure who has openly targeted the traditional family structure.
Restoring Manhood and the Home
The solution, according to Pastor Lewis, is for men to reclaim their God-given authority. They can achieve this through prayer, strategic fasting, and a return to the foundational teachings of the church. He encourages men to lead with humility, openly communicating their failures and leading by example. He also stresses the importance of regular fellowship with other believers. He references the book of Hebrews’ exhortation to not forsake “the assembling of yourselves together.” This is especially important as we “see the day approaching”.
In a world where meekness is often mistaken for weakness, Pastor Lewis provides insight into Moses as a biblical example. The Bible tells us that “There is not a man more meek than Moses.” True leadership, he suggests, is found not in worldly aggression but in a humble submission to God’s will. Pastor Lewis’s series addresses these “missing pieces.” It aims to equip men to be strong and godly leaders. Their families and communities desperately need this guidance.
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