Introduction to the series

Introduction:

Masculinity is in trouble. It is especially hard for masculine men to find their place, especially in the modern-day church. It is as if the church is actively repelling masculine men. This is why we have to understand what our mandate is from God and how we can become salt and light again and to push back the darkness in this world.

Quote for the day:

“The world doesn’t need more men apologizing for their masculinity. It needs more men embracing it with honor and courage”

The three views of masculinity:

World view:

• Attacks the image of a masculine man
• Creates a contrast between toxic masculinity and the more acceptable and often spinless, nice guy with the choice falling on the latter.
• Wants to manipulate world events and does not want any resistance

Church view (wider church):

• Preference for the softer, more effeminate men because they are easier to handle.
• Even the claws of the Lion of Juda are clipped.

God’s view:

• Masculine men with a strong Godly character
• Fearless, “fierce” and passionate about life

Our mandate

Our mandate as we have received is framed within the following characteristics:

• Fearless
• Fierce
  • Love fiercely
  • Protect fiercely
• Strong (physically, mentally and spiritually)
• Passionate about life
• Champion
  • Stand up for what is right
  • Stand up for those who cannot stand up for themselves
• ·Strive for excellence
• ·Relentless/never gives up
• ·Resilient
• ·Pure of heart
• ·Uncompromising

Examples of strong men in the Bible:

• ·Samuel – 1 Samuel 15
• ·Elisha - 2 Kings 2
• ·Gideon – Judges 6 and onwards
• ·Nehemiah

The process or pattern

From their stories we have uncovered a process or a pattern that is evident in their lives:

• Step 1: there is an altercation with God
• Step 2: The choice: Do I respond to this new calling of God?
• Step 3: If I accept or respond to this calling of God the process of transformation starts with a new, transformed identity and life.

Scripture:

• Col 3:9 (NLT)
  • 9 Don’t lie to each other, for you have stripped off your old sinful nature and all its wicked deeds.
• ·Eph 4: 21-24 (NLT)
  • 21 Since you have heard about Jesus and have learned the truth that comes from him, 22throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life, which is corrupted by lust and deception. 23 Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. 24 Put on your new nature, created to be like God—truly righteous and holy.

Questions to Ponder:

• Thinking of the process we have just discussed, where are you in your journey?
• What are you holding on to that keeps God from transforming your life?