CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS

We consent to the  reference to our firm under the caption  "Experts" and to the
use of our report  dated  February  6, 1998,  with  respect to the  consolidated
financial  statements of Business Men's Assurance Company of America included in
Pre-Effective  Amendment  No.  1 to the  Registration  Statement  (Form  S-6 No.
333-52689) and the related Prospectus of BMA Variable Life Account A.

                                       /s/ERNST & YOUNG LLP
                                       Ernst & Young LLP


Kansas City, Missouri
August 27, 1998