CCT 28-1_LR

Men were created in the image of God to be protectors, providers, and self less leaders in our communities. They embody roles that are not just culturally significant but also biblically ordained. The nuclear family, a cornerstone of both Christian values and wholesome societies, thrives when there is a loving father whose strength is measured in physical capacity, moral fortitude, courage to uphold truth, and resolution to protect. I recently interviewed Pastor Joby Martin on my podcast, The Resilient Show. 1 He addressed the topic perfectly, saying, “Every single one of us dads and hus bands will stand before the Lord, and we will give an account to the Lord of this incredible gift that He gave us, called a wife and a family, that we were called to steward.” This is our calling. However, the narrative of “toxic masculinity” has been weaponized to vilify our masculine roles, painting the associated character traits as inherently undesirable. This not only undercuts men’s right to engage in social discourse but also disre gards our contributions. Unfortunately, there are many public examples of this mindset. When men speak out against immoral practices like abortion, we are told we get no say. Yet, we have a moral obligation to stand in defense of innocent lives and protect vulnerable women from those who would exploit radical abortion laws to abdicate their own responsibilities in the lives of these women and children. These masculine dispositions are not toxic; they are commendable. Consider the men who have bravely stood up at school board meetings to pro tect children from the moral corruption of inappropriate literature or the invasion of males in girls’ sports and private spaces. These men—like Pastor John Aman chukwu, Sr. 2 in North Carolina, Texas fathers, Jeremy Story and Dustin Clark, 3 and Virginia father, Scott Smith 4 —are often labeled aggressive or combative and sometimes face arrest. 5 Truth be told, yes, we should aggressively combat practices that endanger the vulnerable. Such actions are rooted in the very essence of what it means to protect and lead with strength and goodness—godly qualities that should be celebrated, not vilified. The case of Daniel Penny 6 in New York is a frightening example of the “toxic masculinity” narrative achieving its aim. A physically powerful man put his life at risk to bravely intervene and protect vulnerable subway passengers, including a mother and her child, from a violent criminal intent on doing them harm. Then, he was prosecuted for his efforts and subjected to months in jail with the risk of life imprisonment, serving as a warning to other men who might be inclined to step in and protect the vulnerable.

The nuclear family, a cornerstone of both Christian values and wholesome societies, thrives when there is a loving father whose strength is measured in physical capacity, moral fortitude, courage to uphold truth, and resolution to protect.

CHAD ROBICHAUX

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christian counseling today VOL. 28 NO. 1