Biblical Principles Applied > Raising Boys

In today’s world the inner doubts that a boy has about his masculinity may be the fertile ground that leads him into the homosexual life-style. This is especially true for boys who do not fit the male, rough and tumble, aggressive, linebacker stereotype. Boys who are sensitive, artistic, and tender-hearted, who often don’ relate as well to boys as to girls, are more likely to be befriended by, and drawn into the gay community. Here are four biblical cornerstones to a masculine identity that need to be laid into the foundation of a boy’s soul.

The word, "radical," comes from the word "root." Jesus came to transform Adam and his race at the root, redeeming us from slavery to sin and implanting the very nature of God in us through the Holy Spirit’s work in our hearts. As Paul reminds the Romans, God ‘s purpose for us is “to be conformed to the image of his son” (Rom 8:29). Radical manhood begins with the heart attitudes that shaped Jesus—and we come to the second of these in this article. “Blessed are those who mourn for they shall be comforted.” (Matt 5:4)

Jesus has come into the world to make all things new—beginning with us! In Matt 5-7 Jesus challenges us, as members of the new humanity, to exhibit the upside-down values of his kingdom, which contrast radically with worldly masculinity. Jesus begins with the most foundational heart attitude of his kingdom people, being "poor in spirit."