When Men Refuse Him By Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture: Matthew 28:19-20 – “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
________________________________________
Introduction
I speak to you this day with a simple yet profound question: What happens when men refuse to answer the call of God? Over time, God has called many to fulfill His purposes, but when men turn a deaf ear to His voice, God’s work does not cease. He looks for willing hearts—be it men or women—to carry out His plans. Yet, those who refuse Him often stand in judgment of those who step forward in obedience, perpetuating division rather than unity.
________________________________________
The Tragedy of Refusal
God’s call to men is clear, but when they reject it, they miss the honor of being vessels of His work. Instead, God raises women who are willing and capable to fulfill His will. Unfortunately, many men who fail to respond criticize the women who do, exposing their own folly. This is not the design of God. His Kingdom is not about contention over roles but about unity in purpose and obedience to His Spirit.
________________________________________
Lost Priorities in the Church
The church has often been consumed by debates over gender roles and legalism, losing sight of its primary mission—to preach the Gospel to a dying world. Mark 16:15 says, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.” Souls are perishing while believers argue over secondary issues, neglecting the Great Commission that Jesus gave to His disciples. God’s heart is grieved when His people focus on division rather than the urgent work of saving souls.
________________________________________
God’s Design for Unity
In the natural family, a good father desires unity among his children, not competition or strife. Similarly, God calls His spiritual children to work together, respecting the gifts and roles He has bestowed on each one. 1 Corinthians 12:12 reminds us, “Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ.” When one refuses to use their gifts, God raises another—regardless of gender—to fulfill His purposes.
________________________________________
The Role of Women in God’s Plan
From the beginning, women were created as co-laborers with men. God declared His creation “very good” (Genesis 1:31). Yet, with that creation came responsibilities. Adam and Eve’s failure in the Garden of Eden was not solely Eve’s fault; Adam’s cooperation in her deception made him equally accountable. Their sin brought a curse upon the earth, but God’s redemptive plan has always been to restore unity and harmony among His people.
Throughout Scripture, women played significant roles in God’s work—Deborah, Esther, Ruth, and Mary, to name a few. These women answered God’s call with courage and faithfulness, often stepping into roles that men had neglected or abandoned.
________________________________________
The Consequences of Rebellion
Rebellion against God’s call leads to loss and judgment. Noah’s generation serves as a sobering example of this truth. Despite Noah’s warnings and God’s patience, the people refused to repent, mocking God’s messenger until the flood consumed them. Similarly, when men refuse God’s call today, they forfeit the opportunity to participate in His work, and the consequences are far-reaching—not only for themselves but for the souls they fail to reach.
________________________________________
The Call to Love and Obedience
Jesus commanded His followers to love one another and work together for the fulfillment of the Great Commission. John 13:34-35 says, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”
God’s work is not about gender superiority or inferiority but about submission to His Spirit and obedience to His commands. Division over roles only distracts from the mission. When believers unite in love and purpose, they become effective vessels for God’s Kingdom.
________________________________________
Practical Steps for Unity in God’s Work
1. Focus on the Great Commission: Prioritize spreading the Gospel over secondary issues.
2. Respect Each Other’s Gifts: Acknowledge and celebrate the diverse gifts God has given to His people, regardless of gender.
3. Work Together in Love: Commit to unity and harmony, rejecting attitudes of superiority or criticism.
4. Obey the Holy Spirit: Seek God’s guidance and follow His leading in every aspect of ministry.
5. Avoid Legalism and Contentions: Focus on God’s Word and His purposes rather than divisive debates.
________________________________________
Conclusion
When men refuse Him, God’s work does not stop. He raises those who are willing and obedient, whether men or women, to fulfill His purposes. The church must move beyond divisions and embrace unity in Christ, focusing on the urgent work of evangelism and discipleship.
Let us commit to love one another, respect God’s gifts in each other, and work together for His glory. In doing so, we honor His call and fulfill the mission He has entrusted to us.
________________________________________
Prayer for Unity and Obedience
"Lord, forgive us for the times we have refused Your call or allowed division to hinder Your work. Help us to focus on the Great Commission and to respect the gifts You have given each of us. Unite us in love and purpose, and guide us by Your Holy Spirit. May we be faithful vessels for Your Kingdom, bringing glory to Your name. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen."
.
