As someone who came to faith during the 1970s Jesus Movement, I’m sensing a profound cultural shift in America, reminiscent of that time. Christian media is rising and Bible sales have increased, but something else really exciting is happening.
As I shared on my podcast, young men are leading the charge, rejecting what culture’s been feeding them. And I think it’s time all men rise to the occasion.
The Cultural Pushback Against “Toxic Masculinity”
For too long, men have been sidelined. Terms like “toxic masculinity” and “the patriarchy” have vilified strength and leadership. They have been told the only acceptable thing they can be is soft and weak—and we’re all tired of it.
A New York Times article recently highlighted a historic shift: for the first time in modern American history, young men are more religious than their female peers.
Young men want to hear messages of responsibility, sacrifice, and leadership. They are rejecting culture’s call to be a beta-male and reclaiming the right to be men in the best sense: strong, protective, and loving.
What a Godly Man Looks Like (1 Corinthians 16:13–14)
The Apostle Paul tells us what it means to be a true man of God in 1 Corinthians 16:13–14, “Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong. Let all that you do be done in love” (ESV):
- Be Watchful: A man is the protector of his home—physically and spiritually. Lock the doors at night, keep an eye out for threats, but also guard against any harmful influences, like television or social media. Be involved in your children’s lives. Be your family’s shield.
- Stand Firm: Lead spiritually. Initiate prayer and Bible study at home. Be the one to say, “We’re going to church.” Too often, women are the ones leading—men, it’s time to step up.
- Be Strong: Strength isn’t just physical; it’s spiritual as well. Jesus, the strongest man to ever live, was “meek and lowly” (Matthew 11:29). Meekness is simply power under control, not weakness. Jesus showed us what true, godly mascuility looked like.
- Act in Love: Tell your wife and kids you love them, accept their love, and demonstrate love. Scripture says “Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends” (John 15:13) and “love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church” (Ephesians 5:25). So love sacrificially. One way to do that is by simply keeping your marriage vows.
Jesus was the ultimate man—defending the weak, loving children, serving others. Men should emulate Him.
Now is the time for men to step up and be who God has called them to be. I think when more do, a broader spiritual awakening in America has a chance to take place.
