“When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put the ways of childhood behind me.”
I Corinthians 13:11
Are you a man?
I know what you’re thinking. “What a dumb question! Of course, I’m a man! You sent me this email because I’m in MD5. Besides, the whiskers I see in the mirror every day prove it!"
I hear you.
However, I could successfully argue that I was also in MD5 and have been shaving for a while, but I am very often not a man in the biblical sense.
Manhood Graduation
Two weeks ago, I was with my MD5 Cohort, and we discussed Authentic Manhood. We discussed how in western culture, unlike many other cultures in the world, there is no specific event in a boy’s life when he officially becomes a man. This lack of a definitive moment of “graduation” from childhood to manhood is, in my opinion, unfortunate.
I know, and greatly admire, men who have taken their sons on a camping trip or similar event at some pre-determined time in their life to celebrate their passage into the world of men. This type of intentional approach is a fantastic way to honor and memorialize an important transition from boyhood to manhood.
The Manhood Process
When it comes to “identity,” our world is changing so fast and in directions that make it hard for some of us to keep up. However, we shouldn’t worry that we don’t have a word from God on the subject.
Paul wrote this to the Corinthians and very specifically answered the question, “What is a real man.”
“When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put the ways of childhood behind me.”
I Corinthians 13:11
Manhood According to Scripture
What is a man according to scripture? It’s someone who has intentionally rejected childish behaviors. And what are those behaviors?
How we talk – children’s speech is often petty, vulgar, silly, and hateful
How we think – children are naturally selfish and self-centered
How we reason – children lack life experience, education, and context
Grow Up!
So, when we choose to “grow up” we reject childish behaviors and replace them. But with what?
May I suggest...
Reject Passivity
Accept Responsibility
Lead Courageously
Invest Eternally
God, help us recognize when we are childish, reject those behaviors, and be the men you’ve called us to be!
Larry Martin
MD5 Lab Facilitator