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Part 5 of the Series:
In recent articles, we have discussed God’s creation of human beings at the beginning of time. When describing this act of creation, God states, ‘So God created man in his own image, in the image of God, created he him; male and female created he them’, Gen. 1. 27. This statement makes it clear that God did not create two identical people but rather two unique individuals with many similarities. Thus, masculinity and femininity are not products of human social structures but are part of God’s design. Both men and women were created to reflect different aspects of God’s nature. In the case of men, this includes strength, wisdom, protection, and love.
One significant issue in 21st-century Western civilization is the lack of identity that many people feel. The Creator’s intention was for men to embrace their identity as men. It’s important to clarify what I mean, as historically some men have exhibited chauvinism, aggression, arrogance, and excessive assertiveness. Genesis chapter 3 verse 16 hints at these traits as consequences of sin entering the world.
To truly understand what God means by masculinity, we need to read scripture carefully. Masculinity does not imply a lack of feelings or emotions, nor does it mean that a man should be aggressive, proud, or hard-hearted. Such behaviours are often the result of sin and diverge from God’s original intentions for men.
The scriptures indicate that a man should embrace adventure (as seen in the stories of David, Samson, etc.), possess the capacity to work hard, and use his physical strength for the purpose of providing for and protecting his family, 1 Tim. 5. 8. Provision is not limited to financial means; it also includes emotional, spiritual, and relational support. A biblically masculine man takes responsibility for his family’s well-being and nurtures their growth. To fulfil this role, a man needs strength. Joshua chapter 1 verse 9 commands, ‘Be strong and of a good courage: be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God will be with thee whithsoever thou goest’. Biblical masculinity involves trusting God in the face of fear and leading others with confidence grounded in the Lord.
Masculinity is not a justification for oppression or rudeness. Instead, it is the God-given capacity to embrace adventure, remain steadfast in difficult situations, and demonstrate the strength and skill that God has bestowed upon men, 1 Cor. 16. 13. This call to vigilance and courage is not about physical dominance but about spiritual resilience. Men are encouraged to stand firm in truth, defend righteousness, and lead with conviction. It is crucial to note that this does not imply that men are better than women, but that men are distinct from women, 1 Cor. 11. 8-12. The Lord Jesus exemplified humble masculinity, as described in John chapter 13, when He washed His disciples’ feet - a task reserved for servants. True masculinity follows Christ’s example by serving, protecting, and uplifting those in one’s care.
Paul’s exhortation in 1 Timothy chapter 6 verse 11 provides a blueprint for masculine virtues, ‘But you, O man of God, flee these things and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, and gentleness’ NKJV. These traits, often overlooked in modern portrayals of masculinity, are central to the biblical model. Gentleness and endurance are not signs of weakness but indicators of spiritual maturity.
In our next article in this series, we will explore femininity. As I conclude, I want to remind all males reading this article that they possess unique capacities and abilities that differ from their female counterparts. It is essential to use these characteristics wisely, for the glory of God, and for the good of others.
