Four Models of Manhood TimChester.co.uk, November 2012 You can
plot models of manhood along two axes: (1) the axis of proactivity
and passivity and (2) the axis of sacrificial service and
selfishness. Godly manhood involves both proactivity and serving.
In other words, taking the initiative to serve in the home, in the
church and in the wider community. We can get manhood wrong by (1)
sliding down the proactivity-passivity axis into passivity (new
man), or (2) sliding down the service-selfishness axis into
selfishness (macho man), or (3) both (adolescent man).
serving
New Man passive and serving
sensitive and caring, but not taking responsibility or
initiative, fearful of others and fearful of imposing
Godly Man proactive and serving
taking the initiative to care, leading sacrificially, taking
responsibility in the home, church and wider world
passive
proactive
Adolescent Man passive and selfish
self-indulgent, not growing up or taking responsibility, living
for
leisure, leaving service to others
selfish
Macho Man proactive and selfish
proud, paternalistic, selfish, using his authority to
dominate,
expecting others to serve him
Where do you think you are on both axes? How could you be more
proactive? How could you be more serving? Identify three next
steps.
