In 2025, we commemorated 25 years of faithful ministry to men in Oklahoma. As we go forward our prayer remains the same to continue to “honor the Lord, reach and grow men together for the glory of God.” Last year’s theme, “Man Down,” drawn from Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 reminded us “life is better with brothers.” The overwhelming feedback after the Men’s Retreat was an appreciation for the concentration on discipleship and brotherhood.
For the 2026 Men’s Retreat our theme will be “Man Up” reflecting on 1 Corinthians 16:13 “Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong.” Our subtheme will be “Act Like Men.” In a culture that has distorted and tainted the meaning of manhood, this message is more important than ever.
Biblical manhood is not simply looking masculine such as dressing or speaking the part like John Wayne, Clint Eastwood, Chuck Norris or Dwayne “the Rock” Johnson. This oversimplification of manhood leads to immaturity, selfishness, depression and regret. Paul expresses this when he says, “When I was a child, I spoke like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I gave up childish ways.”
For believing men, however, “manning up” means pursuing Christlikeness and embracing our God-given roles and responsibilities no matter how difficult it is. This means “being watchful, standing firm in the faith, acting like men and being strong.” It’s not only our ability to do this physically, emotionally, or financially that matters but to protect, provide and lead ourselves and family spiritually.
We are excited about the line up this year. We are also excited to welcome Matt Roberson from Marlow, Connection Church back to lead worship this year. Our main sessions will feature two special guests for our “Man Talks:” Eric Hernandez, former Lead Apologist for the Baptist General Convention of Texas, and Todd Fisher, Executive Director-Treasuror of Oklahoma Baptists. In addition, we are honored to welcome Lewis “Lew” Sterrett, founder and CEO of Sermon on the Mount Ministries and Danny Gandara, Pastor of Del City, Sunnylane.
The Men’s Retreat will once again challenge and equip men through practical, relevant breakout sessions designed to meet men of any age where they are. This year’s breakouts will focus on evangelism, apologetics, men’s ministry, grandparents and more.
Lastly, we will provide multiple activities that are peaceful like fishing, competitive like pickleball, athletic like running a 5K and exhilarating like shooting sports. One of the best parts of the retreat is the down time allowed for activities. We understand that this time is more than just fun—it’s intentional fellowship with godly men. We look forward to seeing you April 24-25, 2026 at Falls Creek. For more information and to register visit oklahomabaptists.org/men/retreat.
