Jun 19, 2006

The Marks Of Manhood

I just read this great article ”For Men Only: The Marks Of Manhood” by Dr. Albert Mohler. I don’t remember how I stumbled onto this article but I’m glad I did, this was just the wakeup call I needed to hear/read.

I was just having an internal conversation with myself about this the other day. It’s almost cliche in the christian world that what a girl wants in a guy is for him to be a spiritual leader. But what does that really mean? This list really helps to clarify and lay out some of what that means, as well as just general rules to maturity as a christian man.

When does a boy become a man? The answer to this must go far beyond biology and chronological age. As defined in the Bible, manhood is a functional reality, demonstrated in a man’s fulfillment of responsibility and leadership. With this in mind, let me suggest thirteen marks of biblical manhood. The achievement of these vital qualities marks the emergence of a man who will demonstrate true biblical masculinity.

Spiritual maturity sufficient to lead a wife and children.

Personal maturity sufficient to be a responsible husband and father.

Economic maturity sufficient to hold an adult job and handle money.

Physical maturity sufficient to work and protect a family.

Sexual maturity sufficient to marry and fulfill God’s purposes.

Moral maturity sufficient to lead as example of righteousness.

Ethical maturity sufficient to make responsible decisions.

Worldview maturity sufficient to understand what is really important.

Relational maturity sufficient to understand and respect others.

Social maturity sufficient to make a contribution to society.

Verbal maturity sufficient to communicate and articulate as a man.

Character maturity sufficient to demonstrate courage under fire.

Biblical maturity sufficient to lead at some level in the church.