Biblical manhood is the divine calling to take primary responsibility for protection, provision and servant leadership.

Talking Points:

  • Mature masculinity doesn’t initiate every action, but feels the responsibility to provide a general pattern of initiative. Jesus himself only led his disciples for a few years, and then he left them with the task of starting the church. John 6:5-6
  • Mature masculinity does not assume the authority of Christ over others, but advocates for it. The last thing we need in the church is more men who think it’s all about them. Ephesians 1:21-22
  • Mature masculinity grows out of love, not out of self-assertion. Too many men lead from a place of insecurity, trying to promote themselves instead of leading from a place of love for others. Philippians 2:3-4
  • Mature masculinity expresses itself not in the demand to be served, but in the strength to serve others. Jesus himself left the comforts of heaven to take on flesh and live among us. Philippians 2:5-7
  • Mature masculinity recognizes that the call to leadership is a call to sacrifice. Biblical manhood always ends up in the same place: on the altar of sacrifice. Philippians 2:7-8
Discussion:
  1. Initial reactions to this topic? What jumped out at you?
  2. Share about a man you greatly respect. Describe the characteristics and actions that have set him apart?
  3. Read John 6:5-13. Define initiative. How did Jesus show initiative in this passage? How did involving the disciples make a greater impact?
  4. Read Ephesians 1:21-22. What does it look like when men usurp Christ’s authority in the church? What does it look like when men lead others to Christ?
  5. Read Philippians 2:3-4. Identify all that these verses tell us to do or not to do. What does it look like to lead from a place of humility versus insecurity?
  6. Read Philippians 2:5-7. How do you think people would’ve responded to Jesus had he acted more like a king ruling over his followers? How have you seen Christian men misunderstand what servant leadership looks like?
  7. Read Philippians 2:7-8. Jesus gave it all for us. How should that type of leadership be exhibited in men today?
  8. Is there a step you need to take based on today’s topic?
Print Friendly, PDF & Email