In this podcast, Trevin Wax discusses the crisis of manhood, the confusion around masculinity, and the need for strong male role models. He explores biblical masculinity and its challenges in the church, emphasizing the importance of embracing masculinity in Christian faith. Trevin also highlights the significance of mentoring young men and living with purpose. Additionally, he addresses the damaging impacts of pornography and previews an upcoming episode where listener comments and questions will be addressed.
The church has the potential to provide a positive vision of masculinity and mentor young men to pursue moral virtues and life-giving leadership.
The perception of masculinity has evolved throughout history, with societal shifts and cultural debates, but it is important to celebrate biological differences between men and women when directed towards ethical ends.
The church can support men's overall well-being by encouraging physical fitness and self-discipline, which can extend to other areas of life and help cultivate a robust and disciplined approach to life.
Deep dives
The importance of positive male role models
In a society where the concept of masculinity is often seen as problematic, the lack of strong male role models and the absence of traditional markers of manhood have created a crisis for young men. The percentage of boys growing up without their biological fathers has almost doubled since 1960, leading to a sense of floundering and falling behind. However, the church has the potential to provide a solution by offering a positive vision of masculinity and mentoring young men to pursue moral virtues and life-giving leadership. By emphasizing responsible fatherhood, the church can counter the societal trend of devaluing masculinity and help young men find their identity and purpose in serving God and others.
The historical evolution of masculinity
Throughout history, the perception of masculinity has undergone various shifts. In the 19th century, women were considered morally superior to men for the first time, leading to the belief that men were naturally more prone to sin and vice. The rise of Darwinism further contributed to a negative view of male character, equating manhood with ruthless competition and an animalistic nature. The Industrial Revolution played a significant role in changing societal norms, shifting men's focus from the home and family to individualistic pursuits. As a result, the character of men changed, and concerns about moral integrity and virtue arose. While there have been cultural debates on the meaning of traditional masculinity, it is essential to recognize that biological differences between men and women exist and should be celebrated as good when directed toward ethical ends.
The impact of physical fitness and self-discipline
Physical fitness and self-discipline play a vital role in shaping masculinity. Engaging in regular exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle not only benefits an individual's physical well-being, but also impacts their emotional, mental, and spiritual growth. By taking responsibility for their own health and personal development, men can become examples for younger generations to follow. Physical fitness also provides an opportunity to develop discipline and create meaningful habits that extend to other areas of life, such as spiritual growth and serving others. By encouraging men to prioritize physical health and fitness, the church can support their overall well-being and help them cultivate a more robust and disciplined approach to life.
The dangers of idolizing physical appearance and worldly success
While physical fitness and achievement can be positive pursuits, it is essential to guard against idolizing physical appearance and worldly success. Some men fall into the trap of equating their masculinity solely with their physical prowess or material accomplishments. However, true masculinity goes beyond external factors and focuses on character, servanthood, and sacrificial love. By taking inspiration from biblical examples like King David and Apostle Paul, men can aspire to be servant leaders who channel their strength and abilities in ways that honor God and benefit those around them. It is crucial to cultivate a vision of masculinity that aligns with biblical principles and rejects the cultural pressure to conform to shallow and self-centered versions of manhood.
The church's role in providing a positive vision of masculinity
The church plays a vital role in offering a positive vision of masculinity and addressing the crisis facing men today. By emphasizing the virtues of self-sacrifice, responsibility, servanthood, and leadership modeled by Jesus Christ, the church can inspire men to pursue a higher calling and find fulfillment in their roles as fathers, husbands, workers, and community members. The church's focus should be on developing Godly character in men, nurturing meaningful relationships and friendships, and equipping them to serve the world with joy and purpose. Through authentic mentorship, the church can help young men embrace their identity as sons of God and empower them to embrace their potential to make a positive impact in their families, churches, and society.
All across the spectrum, you find commentators chattering away about the crisis of manhood in the wake of gender confusion, the denigration and disparagement of men traditionally involved in “men’s work,” and the quest for significance and identity among men who seem to be lost and lonely in our strange new world. What happens in a society where markers of manhood, the passing from adolescence into adulthood, become obscured, where men stagger forward without mentors or friends? What happens to a society that pathologizes competition, achievement, roughness, and the aggression required to protect the weak or pursue what’s good? How does it make sense to push back against toxic expressions of masculinity without a clear picture of actual manliness, a positive vision that shatters the caricatures?
On this episode of Reconstructing Faith, join Trevin Wax as he considers how the church can respond wisely to the challenges facing men today.