Christmas is a remarkable opportunity to talk with boys and young men about the example of Christ. What did it mean for him to become a man? What character traits did he display? What was unique about the life he lived? What implications does his life have for us as men?
God becoming flesh makes Christianity unique. In taking on the form of a boy who "grew in favor with God" and became a man, Jesus became the template for biblical manhood. Glenn T. Stanton writes that Jesus “was strong, took responsibility for His actions, served and provided for others. He looked after and cared for the weak. He spoke truth faithfully and gracefully. He demonstrated integrity in all He did. He was a man under authority. He stood up to and called out the powerful when necessary. He was the highest example of humility, moral strength, self-control and compassion. He always did the right thing. Finally, He gave Himself completely and fully for others. He withstood and overcame the greatest evil in the universe. He was victorious, and He invites each of us to become the beneficiaries of all that He has done for us! That is manhood.”
In an age of distorted masculinity the example of Christ presents an incredible dichotomy. This Christmas talk with young men in your life about God becoming flesh. Discuss the challenges Jesus embraced, and listen as they talk about challenges they are facing. Understand, instruct, and empower the young men God has placed in your life as they seek to understand how their lives are impacted by the Christmas story, and how they can live out the biblical masculinity exemplified in the life of Jesus. Anyone who wants to learn what a good man is needs only study and imitate the life of Christ. It is right there for us in the Gospel.