I was blessed to be a part of the first annual Act Like Men Conference in Townsend, TN, last weekend. Over 50 men from 15 states (California to Florida, Idaho to Pennsylvania, and everywhere in between) came together in the Smoky Mountains to be encouraged and built up spiritually. I’ve been doing men’s weekends for almost 20 years, and this was one of the best weekends I’ve ever participated in.
I spoke on Saturday morning about defining manhood from the biblical perspective. We had so many great comments that I did not finish all my notes. Today’s article provides an overview of what I planned to teach. I hope you enjoy it!
Brothers in Christ, today we’re diving deep into what it means to be a man according to God’s Word. In a world drowning in confusion about masculinity—where society either vilifies or waters down what it means to be a man—the Bible stands as our unshakable anchor. Biblical manhood isn’t about flexing power or chasing fleeting pleasures. It’s about responsibility, humility, strength, and godly leadership. It’s about reflecting Christ in a culture that desperately needs men to step up.
Manhood is in crisis. A recent Chattanooga Times Free Press article paints a grim picture—71% of college dropouts are men. Young guys are walking away from education, weighed down by debt, disillusioned by impractical ideologies, and unsure how a degree fits into real life. But the problem cuts deeper than classrooms. We’re seeing what some call “perpetual adolescence”—men in their 20s and 30s stuck in virtual worlds, battling porn addiction, and drifting without purpose. Historically, men stepped into adulthood by taking on responsibility: running farms, fighting for their people, or forging their paths. Today? Too many are coasting, avoiding the call to lead.
This isn’t just a societal issue—it’s hitting the church hard. When men disengage, families falter, and churches weaken. We need men who aren’t just present but engaged—leading their homes, serving as deacons or elders, and teaching the next generation. The world’s low expectations—telling us masculinity is “harmful” or that we’re victims—don’t align with God’s design. Scripture calls us higher.
The Biblical Blueprint: Fortitude in Action
So, what does God say about manhood? In 1 Corinthians 16:13-14 Paul writes: “Be alert, stand firm in the faith, be courageous, be strong. Do everything in love.” This is a battle cry for fortitude. This isn’t just physical toughness; it’s soul-deep resilience. It’s courage to face danger, conviction to stand for truth, and strength to endure hardship—all wrapped in love.
God’s man is a protector, a provider, a leader. He doesn’t dominate; he serves. He doesn’t shrink back; he steps up. Whether it’s shielding your family from spiritual attacks, providing wisdom in your church, or leading with integrity at work, biblical manhood is about owning the roles God entrusted to you. And it starts with fortitude—gutsy faith that doesn’t flinch.
The Crisis We Face
The enemy is working overtime to keep men down. Dr. Dan Kiley nailed it in 1983 with his book Peter Pan Syndrome—men who never grow up. Forty years later, it’s worse. Absent fathers, a victimhood culture, and voices screaming that traits like courage and strength are toxic have left guys adrift. The American Psychological Association even called traditional masculinity “harmful.”1 No wonder so many men feel lost, unsure of how to act or lead.
This drift shows up in our homes and pews. Men wrestling with secret sins, financial chaos, or disengagement from their kids aren’t just struggling—they’re leaving a void. Poor leadership at home bleeds into the church, where we desperately need men of conviction to step into the gap. Brothers, the bar’s been lowered too long. It’s time to raise it.
Four Ways to Rise Up
God’s Word doesn’t leave us guessing. Here’s how we break free from the status quo and live as men of fortitude:
Be Courageous
Deuteronomy 31:6 tells us, “Be strong and courageous… for the Lord your God goes with you.” Like Joshua facing the Promised Land, we’ve got daunting tasks—leading a family and standing for truth in a hostile world. Courage isn’t reckless; it’s trusting God’s got your back. Step into the fight, knowing He’s with you.Hold Your Convictions
A godly man doesn’t bend when the heat’s on. Ephesians 6:11-13 calls us to suit up with God’s armor and stand firm. Money, status, or approval might tempt you to compromise, but convictions rooted in Scripture don’t budge. Protect your family, uphold God’s principles—be unshakable.Reject Sin
Psalm 15 paints the picture: a man of integrity lives blamelessly and keeps his word, no matter the cost. Don’t tolerate sin—not in yourself, not around you. Set the standard high. Your life’s a witness; make it count.Lead with Integrity and Love
Paul ties it all together in 1 Corinthians 16:13-14—strength and courage, yes, but always in love. Society is crumbling because men have lost their spines. Lead your wife with humility, guide your kids with wisdom, and serve your church with grit. Psalm 27:14 says it best: “Be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord.”
Steps to Live It Out
Here’s how we put boots on this calling:
Own It: Take responsibility for your actions—especially where God’s called you to lead. No more passivity.
Check Yourself: Look in the mirror. Are you aligning with God’s Word? Examine your leadership daily.
Build Fortitude: Face challenges head-on. Start small—speak the truth when it’s tough—and watch God grow your resilience.
Stay True: Don’t waver on what’s right. Integrity is your legacy.
Lead with Heart: Serve your people—your wife, kids, church. Meet their needs with compassion.
Grow Deep: Get on your knees in prayer, open your Bible, and connect with brothers who will sharpen you.
Mentor the Next: Model this for younger men. Show them what godly masculinity looks like.
The Charge
Biblical manhood is about honoring God. It means leading humbly, protecting fiercely, and serving selflessly. Whether you’re a husband, father, or single guy, God is calling you to reflect His strength and love. This isn’t a one-and-done deal; it’s a daily grind of leaning into His grace.
Take a hard look at your walk with God. Where’s He calling you to step up? Start today—pray, dig into Scripture, and lead by example. The church needs you. Your family needs you. The world needs men who live God’s way.
Let’s commit to this: being men of fortitude, integrity, and faith. Let’s be the leaders God designed us to be.
How are you embracing biblical manhood today? Drop a comment—I’d love to hear your thoughts.
Amen 🙏 🤲