Listen up people. We all know that in today’s world a real man is categorised as someone who is tough, hard, good in business, good in bed, even mean, brings home the bread, good on the dance floor and so on. But what makes a real man – in God’s eyes? Well it’s a cliche but we have to look no further than Jesus Christ himself if we want to see a real man in action. So let’s look at Jesus. What was he like?
Jesus Christ was insufferably (to some) honest. He was hard-working. He served others before he set himself. He put people he met and didn’t know that were seeking God earnestly, before family members and close acquaintances who were not interested in truth. He put the needy first. He did not set out to become a legend in his own lunchtime – and in doing so became the greatest legend ever lived. His mission was to become smaller a lot larger. He did not I imagine spend much time on male grooming, or developing a six pack, as much as that would be convenient for many men to hear in today’s modern church.
So the difference between a real man today, and real man according to Jesus is a stark and wide gap. Boys today or taught to be everything but real mean – there is even now a premium placed on being effeminate. The world teaches men to become swindlers and dishonesty is exalted. Making money is more important than making people better, and serving your fellow man, neighbours and community. Getting ahead is what makes a real man in today’s world.
Real men work hard and do not freeload. Real men defend the innocent. Real men support the poor. Real men put others before self. Also, Jesus had a warning for people who want to be first in order to be what they consider real. He said – that the first shall be last – and the last shall be first in the kingdom of heaven. And what if I am honest could be fairer. I Had no problem with someone who has spent their life serving others having a higher place in authority over me in heaven over me, having spent much of my life serving myself. It’s quite a sobering thought.
