We just finished taking about 60 men at Redemption Gateway through 33 The Series, Volume 1: A Man and His Design. It’s a 6-week video study on authentic manhood as modeled in the life of Jesus, followed by small group discussion. We had a great study with lots of open conversation, and I learned some important things:
1. Many men are in pain. Many men feel confused, lonely, and disappointed with many areas of life. Few have had good models. Many feel like they’re failing in their key responsibilities. As a result, they run from vice to vice and hobby to hobby, remaining in a perpetual state of adolescence. John Bryson calls this, “Boyland.”
2. Men need to reject passivity. “Reject passivity” is a big slogan in 33. It’s probably the idea that resonated the most with our men. Ever since our first father, Adam, passively stood by while Eve was tempted, men have struggled to step up.
3. Authentic manhood has a clear definition. Prior to 33, I don’t know that I could have defined authentic manhood. I could have described it, but not with an easily transferable definition. Now I have one that I can easily teach to the men I disciple and to my daughters as I encourage them about the kind of man to look for. Here’s authentic manhood:
AUTHENTIC MANHOOD
Reject Passivity, Accept Responsibility, Lead Courageously, Invest Eternally
4. Life is a series of seasons, so be faithful where you are. The last session on the seasons of a man’s life was especially helpful. I was reminded that being 33 years old means I’m in a season of learning and growth. If I’m faithful and God wills, there will be plenty of opportunities for influence in the seasons to come. But for now, time to keep my head down and grow.
Check out this trailer for 33 The Series, Volume 1.
