Meeting the Standard of Biblical Manhood

There is no shortage of cultural criteria when it comes to defining what constitutes manhood in America. There are those that believe age is the primary determinant in assessing manhood. Then there are those cultural paradigms that present the belief that a male’s possession define him and establish his level of manhood. One of the most fallible assertions is the postulation that procreation somehow establishes and validates manhood.

The most common fallibility associated with these flawed standards of manhood is the fact they fail to effectively consider what the Bible has to say on the matter. Secular paradigms are highly vulnerable to the selfish proclivities associated with cosmic world views, meaning that manhood is often erroneously defined to meet the expectations of the group that is providing the definition.

For the Christian believer, the Word of God is the final word on all issues, and there is no better source to help define manhood as well as provide the guidance necessary for men to men grow into their design and purpose.

Get Your Family's Budget in Order

When I consider the whole of scripture, I am overwhelmed at the wealth of information that points toward the uncompromising standards that God has set for men and the distinctive roles that He has placed them in. There is one scripture that provides a lucid expression of manhood.

“But if anyone does not provide for his own, especially for those of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.” (1 Tim. 5:8, NASB)

I have heard this scripture quoted quite often, but it is almost always quoted and viewed from a superficial perspective. What I mean by this is that most people see it as a call to be a financial provider and nothing more. Yes, the man is required to provide financial support for his family, but the provision that he is required to provide for his family extends far beyond finances. He is to provide security for his wife, identity and guidance for his children, comfort for the elders in the family and more. Ultimately, the man has to be capable of providing stability and guidance. He must be willing to lead his family in righteousness and effectiveness.

He must be capable of providing instruction through the conduit of God’s infallible Word. The Greek word translated “provide” in this passage is “pronoeo” which means to consider in advance, to make provisions beforehand. This is significant. In order for a man to effectively accomplish this he has to be seeking direction from God. He is required to meet the need before it becomes a need.

Dr. Rick Wallace

Something else that stands out to me is the phrase “especially those of his household.” This phrase points to two distinctive truths. The first truth is that a man’s home — and all in it — take priority over everything else. The second truth is that the man’s responsibility is not limited to only his home. The cultural paradigm and demands of this nation has shrank the family nucleus to only include the husband, wife and any children; however, this scriptural passage reveals that the family is much broader than that.

This is definitely not the only scriptural passage that engages the issue of biblical manhood, but it does shed significant light on the matter. It is clear that the Christian men in America have a great deal of work to do in this area. Now is the time to get to it. ~ Dr. Rick Wallace