Our culture’s model of masculinity does not always reflect a biblical view of what it means to be a man, but we can do better by following the model of Jesus.
Talking Points:
- Some false views about masculinity:
- Men shouldn’t show emotion and if they do it should only be anger.
- Men should always be the aggressor. They should be bigger and stronger and always looking to come out on top.
- Men should be hyper sexual and always looking for a beautiful woman.
- The dark side of masculinity is found in the statistics that men predominately commit violent crimes. And, 1/3 of men talk about feeling lonely.
- Jesus showed righteous anger at times and he cried when his friend Lazarus died. And, he modeled servanthood rather than dominance and control. Matthew 21:12-13, John 11:35, John 13:12-16
Discussion:
- Initial reactions to this topic? What jumped out at you?
- What are some male stereotypes you’ve encountered? How true or false are they?
- Why do you think men have been told for a long time not to express their feelings? What do you think about expressing your feelings?
- List a few more examples of “toxic masculinity.” Where have you seen this?
- What are some examples of positive masculinity? What examples are there of this?
- Read Matthew 21:12-13. Jesus showed righteous anger here, and even violence by making a whip. What are some situations where it is appropriate for a man to show righteous anger and to even employ violence? What are some situations where this is not appropriate?
- Read John 11:32-36. Jesus knew what he was going to for Lazarus so why do you think he wept? What does this tell you about expressing feelings of sorrow or sadness?
- Read John 13:12-16. Jesus was a servant. How can you take steps to live out “positive masculinity” in your life?
- Is there a step you need to take based on today’s topic?
David Johnson, PhD, practices at the Ogden Center for Change.
