Godly Men Learn to Follow Jesus 

Throughout this series, A Much-Needed Conversation About Masculinity, we are exploring a fundamental question: What does it mean to be a man who uses his masculine traits properly?

My previous posts broke down the differences between masculinity, manliness, and manhood, highlighting why simply possessing these traits does not automatically make someone a man. Then, I suggested we need a Proper Vision for Masculinity and Manhood to help develop the next generation of good men –better men. Most recently in What Does It Mean To Be A (Godly) Man?, I examined the critical distinctions between being a “good” man and a “godly” man.

In this post and upcoming ones, I will describe the ultimate blueprint for manhood: the manhood modeled by Jesus.

Again, Masculinity is Not the Problem 

I stated in previous posts that masculinity itself isn’t bad, nor is manhood the problem.

The problem is that too many immature, irresponsible males still act like young boys even into adulthood. They believe becoming a man is simply about demonstrating strength, success, independence, or checking off the traditional milestones of adulthood. 

But strong character and maturity help make good men. And we need more good men!

In my opinion, though, the problem stems from not setting a good standard for manhood and teaching boys and adolescents how to channel their inherent manly energy and traits in ways that demonstrate mature and responsible manhood.

But I also suggest we set the standards from just being a good man to being a godly man. Men who use their masculine qualities in alignment with God’s standards by becoming more like Jesus

Jesus Christ is the Model of Manhood

The logical place to begin this transformation from good to godly is to look at Jesus. 

That might sound obvious to those who believe Christ is our Savior, Lord, and Teacher. We don’t always think of Him as our model for masculinity and manhood. But we should.

Jesus gives us a remarkably different picture of what masculine strength looks like.

• He was strong enough to confront people when necessary, but humble enough to serve them.
• He was confident in who He was, but never needed to prove His superiority.
• He demonstrated authority, but didn’t use it to dominate others.
• He could challenge powerful people, yet He welcomed children, touched lepers, and cared for people whom society had pushed aside.
• He worked hard, traveled extensively, endured physical hardship, and ultimately faced an agonizing death.

Jesus also exhibited other traits not considered manly these days:

• He wept.
• He experienced grief.
• He needed solitude.
• He accepted help from others.
• He developed deep friendships.
• He listened, prayed, and served them.
• He willingly sacrificed Himself for others.

Those traits are not weakness. Those traits are strength under control.

Following Jesus Is a Journey

None of this means that Christian men are expected to become perfect. We can’t and won’t.

Following Jesus means becoming a disciple—someone who is continually learning, growing, failing, receiving grace, and trying again.

That’s why godly manhood isn’t a destination we eventually arrive at or label we achieve. It is a lifelong journey.

We learn to become more courageous. More responsible, self-controlled, and balanced. We learn compassion. become more truthful. More willing to admit when we’re wrong. We are more generous and willing to serve.

Most importantly, we are willing to grow in godliness together with others.

Godly Friends Help Build Godly Men

This is where my emphasis on better male friendships connects directly with this conversation about masculinity.

We aren’t meant to make this journey alone.

Even Jesus Himself surrounded Himself with other men. He taught them, challenged them, served them, and entrusted His mission to them.

The foundation of GodBuddies is that we become better men when we become more godly men who follow Christ.  

My next post on this site begins to describe Jesus’ masculine traits.

All Men Need Better Friends

If you’re serious about becoming a better man, you must surround yourself with better men who encourage you, challenge you, hold you accountable, and walk alongside you.

This is the parallel emphasis of Get Out of Your Man Cave, my new non-religious content channel. Because the need for better friends even exists outside the church! Click on the link and subscribe… it’s FREE!

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