10 October 2024, El Paso, Texas, David Gomez – There has been a degradation of masculinity in churches all across America. Men have been distracted by worldly things and forsaken their biblically-mandated duties as husbands and fathers.  We see the far-reaching consequences throughout American society, from kids acting out in school to single-moms trying to raise and economically support children all on their own.

But no more—it’s time for a revival. 

What is Christian Masculinity?

“Likewise, urge the younger men to be self-controlled. 7 Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity, 8 and sound speech that cannot be condemned, so that an opponent may be put to shame, having nothing evil to say about us.” —Titus 2:7 

Christian masculinity, at its core, is not about dominance or power over others, but rather about stewardship and sacrificial love. It is rooted in the example of Jesus Christ, who embodied strength in gentleness, courage in humility, and leadership in service. Looking around the world today, there is a need to reclaim these values.

One aspect of reviving Christian masculinity involves challenging harmful stereotypes and toxic behaviors that have been perpetuated in the name of masculinity. This includes rejecting attitudes of entitlement, aggression, and objectification of others. Instead, Christian men are called to serve with humility and integrity and be model to their households. We are called to uphold the dignity and worth of every individual, recognizing that all are created in the image of God—and leading our families to do the same. 

“For the husband is the head of the wife even as Christ is the head of the church, his body, and is himself its Savior. Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit in everything to their husbands. Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her, that he might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word, so that he might present the church to himself in splendor, without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, that she might be holy and without blemish.”

— Ephesians 5:23-33 

Christian husbands and fathers are the example to their household in every aspect of their lives. Christian masculinity entails embracing responsibility in all spheres of life – whether it be within the family, the workplace, or the community. This means being actively involved in nurturing healthy relationships, providing for one’s family, and contributing positively to society. Whether that is maintaining professional work relationships, volunteering to coach the basketball team (and keeping a cool head from the sidelines!), or taking your wife out for dinner to let her know how much you appreciate her, as a Christ follower, everything you do is a reflection of the church. Christian men must be accountable for one’s actions and striving for integrity in all endeavors.

9 But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 10 For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.”

—2 Corinthians 12:9-10

Leading all the time inevitably gets exhausting. Which is why real Christian men are called to be vulnerable before the Lord. They are to invite Him into the dark places of their soul where they are afraid, ashamed, and broken. And God promises to lift them up and bolster them with courage, self-discipline, and perseverance. In a culture that often equates masculinity with emotional stoicism or aggression, embracing vulnerability and empathy is a radical act of Jesus-centered masculinity.

Similarly, Christian men are also called to show Christ-like compassion to others experiencing hardship. Jesus Christ’s ministry was characterized by compassion for the marginalized, the oppressed, and the suffering. As followers of Christ, men are called to emulate this compassion by standing up for justice, advocating for the voiceless, and extending a hand of mercy to those in need. True strength is found in acts of kindness, forgiveness, and reconciliation.

A Prayer to Revive Christian Masculinity 

The time is ripe for a revival of Christian masculinity – one that is characterized by humility, compassion, and responsibility. By rejecting harmful trends and embracing virtues rooted in the example of Jesus Christ, men can redefine masculinity in a way that honors God and serves humanity. As Christian men embrace their calling to love sacrificially and lead with integrity, they can contribute to a more just, compassionate, and flourishing world.

Our Prayer

Heavenly Father,

We come before you with humble hearts, seeking your guidance and strength as we strive to embody true Christian masculinity in our lives.

Grant us the wisdom to reject toxic behaviors that distort our focus on You. Help us to see ourselves and others through your eyes, recognizing the inherent dignity and worth of every individual.

Give us the courage to embrace responsibility in all aspects of our lives – as husbands, fathers, sons, brothers, friends, and members of our communities. May we steward our roles with integrity and grace, seeking to serve others with sacrificial love.

Instill within us the virtues of compassion, humility, and empathy, that we may follow in the footsteps of your Son, Jesus Christ. May our actions be guided by a desire to stand up for justice and extend mercy to those in need.

Grant us the strength to face challenges with courage and perseverance, trusting in your providence and grace. 

Lord, as we seek to revive Christian masculinity in our lives, may our words and actions reflect your love and grace to the world around us. May we be beacons of light in a world that often struggles with darkness, pointing others towards the transformative power of your love.

In Jesus’ name, we pray.

Amen.