What is a man?

Maranatha Christian School in Endeavour Hills has been part of the Rite Journey program since 2020. This initiative helps mark the transition from childhood to adulthood at the end of Middle School (Years 7 to 9). Recently, I attended the final ceremony, The Homecoming, where our Year 9 boys stood in front of their families and peers. Each student individually announced the seven virtues they hoped to live out as a man. A similar ceremony was held at the same time for our Year 9 girls.

There has been much debate in recent years about what it means to be a man or a woman. It was even a discussion point in the recent US presidential election. I believe we can find the answers in the best-selling book of this year and every year, the Bible. Our holy book helps us to understand God’s design for everyone.

What does it mean to be a man according to the Bible

To me, being a man has nothing to do with the way you look, dress, talk, or walk. Too often, our boys feel they must conform to a particular stereotype. It is not about your physical development or strength compared to others. Being a man is also not about your abilities or areas of interest. It is a shame when boys don’t engage in certain passions because they are wrongly seen as being for girls. There are also expectations around emotions that are unhelpful. Being a man has nothing to do with your ability to cry or not cry.

For me, a man is someone who works hard and takes responsibility. He looks to serve, respect, and protect others. More than anything else, a man leans on God to meet his ultimate needs and give direction on life’s journey. There appears to be a shortage of men who fit this definition, both in and out of the church. We don’t need individuals who are self-absorbed, lazy, or avoid responsibility while seeking indulgence from others.

We see no better example of a man than Jesus. He lived and preached a life of service to others. Jesus reached out to those on the margins of society. He wasn’t constrained by the social expectations of the time. Despite a hectic public ministry, Jesus found time to withdraw and pray. He poured his life out for others and started a revolution that changed the world. In the end, Jesus takes responsibility for all our sins on the cross.

My encouragement to parents is to allow your children to take on greater responsibility as each year passes. Don’t be afraid when the inevitable challenges arise because they are opportunities to grow. When obstacles appear, resist the temptation to remove them but be their guide as they overcome each one. My plea to our Year 9 boys at the end of the Rite Journey program was to follow Him and be a man. The world already has enough adult boys.