Courageous Manhood - Message Study Questions

Message Summary

Culture doesn’t reward manhood, it rewards conformity to the evolving morals and values of the day. Culture rewards men who strive to be passive, submissive, and eager to live without standards or any code of ethics. God doesn’t reward this type of man, it’s demonic.

God rewards men who act like men, men who take responsibility for their life, men who refuse to be the victim for their entire life. The transition to manhood isn’t marked by age. It’s defined by strength of character, purpose, and a code of honor. Real men put away childish thoughts and actions.

The five marks of a man are found in 1 Corinthians 16:13-14.
“Be watchful; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong. Do everything in love.”

As children of light, men stay alert and clearheaded, protected by the armor of faith and eternal security. They know God’s word and allow it to guide their lives. They admit it when they are wrong and always accept and grant forgiveness, leaning into God’s grace. They have the courage to do the right thing, no matter the cost, knowing they have the power of the Holy Spirit and the promise of eternal life. They exhibit patience. They persevere and take the long view. They renounce selfishness and, in love, look out for the needs of others. That is how real men live.

1. Is it harder for you to be assertive when the situation calls for it, or is it harder for you to defer to others?
   

2. What’s the difference between a Biblical leader and a bully?
   

Consider This

Real men take action and do something when something needs to be done. Boys sit on the sidelines and do nothing or complain that others should do more. Men take responsibility and action.

1. What does it mean to be on guard? What should you be on guard against?

   • 1 Peter 5:8
   • 1 Timothy 6:20
   • 2 Peter 3:17
   • 1 John 5:21
     

2. What, especially, do you need to be on guard against in this season of your life?
   

3. Read Ephesians 4:12-15. Church leaders equip all the believers to serve and in turn, they build up other believers. When men stand firm in the faith, what are the results in verses 13 and 14?
   

4. Why is prayer important for a man? How is your prayer life?
   

5. What does it mean for you to live courageously? What would it look like for you now?
   

6. “But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness. Fight the good fight of the faith” (1 Timothy 6:11-12a). From what should a real man flee? See 1 Timothy 6:4-5, 9-10. From what do you need to flee this week?
   

7. When do you need to stand firm? See James 4:7, Ephesians 6:13. What do you need to do to stand firm this week?
   

8. How can you find the strength to be the man God wants you to be?

   • Psalm 73:26
   • Isaiah 40:31
   • 2 Corinthians 12:10
   • Proverbs 24:5
     

9. What does it mean for you to speak the truth in love?
   

Moving Forward – Application

Real men live for a greater reward, not temporary gratification.

“Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.” James 1:12.

1. So then, each of us will give an account of ourselves to God” (Romans 14:12). Real men take responsibility. What in your life do you need to take responsibility for this week?
   

2. What specific action is God leading you to take this week? Will you take a step of faith?
   

3. The absence of a father in a child’s home statistically has profound effects. Is there anything you could do about that this week?