The concept of biblical masculinity seems to be fading in today’s culture, but its importance remains central when we turn to Scripture.
Recently, I came across an insightful interview where Jonny Ardavanis interviewed Paul Washer.
The wisdom shared in that conversation opened my eyes to what it truly means to “act like men” (1 Corinthians 16:13).
Paul Washer’s thoughts challenged me to reevaluate masculinity through the lens of God’s Word, and I’d love to share what I’ve learned.
Paul Washer pointed out how masculinity is often misunderstood.
In the past, the ideal “manly man” was modeled after figures like John Wayne—rugged, tough, and independent.
While these traits may seem noble, they don’t fully capture biblical masculinity.
On the flip side, today’s culture often portrays men as overly passive or hesitant to lead, which is equally unbiblical.
Neither extreme aligns with God’s design.
Instead, the Bible provides a clear model for masculinity, centered on Jesus Christ.
Being a man is not about cultural stereotypes or appearances; it’s about self-giving love, sacrificial service, and godly character.
The perfect example of biblical masculinity is Jesus.
Ephesians 5:25 reminds us, “Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.”
Christ’s leadership was sacrificial, putting the needs of others above His own comfort or desires.
True headship in the family is not about control but about serving for the benefit of one’s wife and children, even when it comes at great personal cost.
Just as Christ stood in the gap for us, men are called to stand in the gap for their families.
This means providing, protecting, and leading with humility and strength.
Washer described how Christ’s life was marked by giving until there was nothing left to give.
That’s the kind of love and leadership men are called to emulate.
One of the most profound lessons Paul Washer shared was that love is what makes a man truly strong.
He recounted a story about a timid, slight man who joined him on a mission in the jungle.
Despite being afraid of everything—snakes, spiders, shadows—this man persevered out of love for the people and his desire to share Christ with them.
This kind of courage comes from love. As 1 John 4:18a says, “There is no fear in love. but perfect love casts out fear.” Love empowers men to protect, fight for, and serve their families and communities, even in the face of great challenges.
Washer also spoke about raising boys to become godly men.
He shared how he created opportunities for his sons to develop discipline, work ethic, and resilience—whether it was cutting wood, lifting weights, or enduring long hours outdoors.
Proverbs 22:6 teaches, “Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.”
By instilling hard work and responsibility, we prepare boys to become men who can lead and serve well.
However, Washer cautioned that biblical masculinity isn’t about physical strength or bravado.
True strength comes from humility and selflessness.
A man’s character, shaped by his conformity to Christ, is what enables him to stand firm in the face of adversity.
One of the greatest threats to biblical masculinity, according to Paul Washer, is self-absorption.
Today’s culture often encourages men to focus on their own desires, comfort, and achievements. But Jesus set a different standard.
Matthew 20:28 says, “The Son of Man did not come to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
True masculinity is about turning outward—toward God and others—and serving with sacrificial love.
As Paul Washer reminded us, 1 Corinthians 16:13-14 gives a powerful charge: “Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong. Let all that you do be done in love.”
Biblical masculinity isn’t about fitting into cultural molds or pursuing personal glory.
It’s about reflecting the character of Christ—loving sacrificially, leading humbly, and serving courageously.
This interview with Paul Washer left me deeply inspired and reminded me of the high calling of biblical masculinity.
Whether you’re a husband, father, brother, or son, the call to “act like men” is clear: love sacrificially, lead with humility, and stand firm in faith.
Let’s set our eyes on Jesus, the ultimate example of what it means to be a man, and strive to reflect His character in every aspect of our lives.
What about you?
How do you define biblical masculinity, and how have you seen it lived out in your life or the lives of others?
Let’s continue the conversation in the comments!
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