Monday, May 10, 2010

So what is a man or woman anyway?

Rachel and I are part of a group that is writing a curriculum of sorts for parents to use to teach their children to become mature men and women. Check out these definitions of manhood and womanhood:
‘At the heart of mature masculinity is a sense of benevolent responsibility to lead, provide for and protect women in ways appropriate to a man’s differing relationships.” – John Piper
‘At the heart of mature femininity is a freeing disposition to affirm, receive, and nurture strength and leadership from worthy men in ways appropriate to the differing relationships.’ – John Piper
These are not exhaustive definitions, instead these are at least what the definitions of manhood and womanhood should be. To get a fuller definition see John Piper's "Recovering Biblical Manhood and Womanhood'.
So how in the world does one go about teaching their child to become a biblical man and woman?
That is the question we are seeking to provide an answer for. An answer that is not as ambiguous as saying 'just teach the Bible'.
But before we share any of this we first need to say that this teaching begins with the parents.
We need:
Purpose: We have a clear vision and zealous pursuit of what we as men and women are called to be.
Responsibility: Are you willing to bear the burden, or shame of poor decisions, willing to lay down your life for this most important pursuit?
Accountability: Paramount for keeping the first two, namely making decisions in the presence of others.
Itegrity: How you conduct your life, in finances, faithfulness, speech, how you spend time, not hypocritical
Servanthood: Committed to die to self, no passivity, not authoritarian, live outside yourself, gospel centered
Example: In weakness, need, and success, willing to lead other men, women, boys and girls in a life of repentance and faith. You are an example.

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