What is Promise Keepers?

Response

Promise Keepers is a Christian organization established by former college football coach Bill McCartney. It is widely recognized for the significant men’s conferences it has hosted since its inception in 1990. Promise Keepers operates as a non-profit organization and is not tied to any specific denomination or church. While primarily based in the United States, they also have branches in other countries.

The main goal of Promise Keepers is to serve as “a Christ-centered ministry committed to uniting men through meaningful relationships to become positive influences in their communities.” The men’s conferences consistently feature the preaching of the gospel. The organization highlights seven commitments, with the first being “A Promise Keeper is dedicated to honoring Jesus Christ through worship, prayer, and obedience to God’s Word in the strength of the Holy Spirit” (more details available on their website). The remaining promises focus on fostering fellowship, maintaining purity, building strong marriages, engaging in local church activities, promoting unity, and supporting evangelism.

Promise Keepers has faced criticism from various sources. Radical feminists and homosexual activists oppose the organization for expected reasons. Criticism also comes from within the church, often centered on accusations of ecumenism, diluted theology, and the endorsement of Charismatic beliefs. It is crucial for any ministry organization to center on the gospel, and if Promise Keepers continues to uphold the gospel message (as it seems they do), they are fulfilling the mission Jesus assigned in Matthew 28:19–20. In our society, there is a definite need for strong, dedicated men who cherish their spouses, nurture their children, and follow God’s path.