Biblical Manhood (Conclusion)

Traditional gender roles have provided a sense of stability, footing, and continuity for the men. Historically, men and women had established roles that didn’t overlap. Men were the breadwinners in the home. They were the primary or sole income earner in a household. They were contributing the largest portion of household income, generally cover most household expenses and financially support their dependents. Now there are stay at home dads, women making significantly more money than men, etc.,. For this reason men who’ve defined their manhood by traditional gender roles (functions they perform for their families) are in crisis and difficulty. Traditional gender roles no longer dictate what is acceptable, and a marriage where the wife is the primary earner and the husband is the primary homemaker has become a viable arrangement, just as the opposite has been for generations. The gender roles and the rules of society are changing. For this reason, men have to think in terms of purpose rather than gender roles! Gender roles have never been the true basis of a man’s identity, masculinity, and purpose. God’s purpose for the man transcends the roles and rules of society. Men are to define their worth based on God’s purpose, rather than who makes the most money in the family. Once men understand and embrace their purpose and responsibilities given by God and the true design of their relationship with women, they can be free to carry out their destiny and potential. What is a biblical man? He’s someone who knows the reality of who he is and who lives in that reality. Yes, a marriage relationship can absolutely work, and even thrive, if the woman makes more money, but it the leadership of the biblical man to provide open communication, shared decision-making, and a willingness to challenge traditional gender roles. Be encouraged!

Dr. Robert L. Taylor, Th.D., Bible teacher & expositor