The Manliness of Jesus

1 Corinthians 15:45-47

Introduction

As we continue our study of masculinity, I would like to look at the picture of Jesus as the prototype for what a man ought to be.

To see in Him all the glory that God meant for men from creation.

And to see how softer aspects of Jesus are still undergirded with all the strength of the very Son of God.

The Submission of a King

Jesus submitted Himself completely to the Father’s will (Jn. 5:19, 30).

A man who has not learned to submit to the Father is not ready to lead like the Father.

If you have not learned to obey under authority, then you have not learned all that comes from such obedience. Things such as trust and devotion (Heb. 5:8).

Jesus submitted to ordered authority (Lk. 2:49-51).

He accepted all of the responsibilities that He was born into and understood the order they fell into.

Jesus accepted His responsibility in everything from a son to a savior of the world.

He understood submission is sometimes prudent even when not required (Matt. 17:24-27).

We need to learn from submission how to exercise authority well and poorly (Matt. 11:30; 18:23-34; 23:4).

We are men under and in authority (Matt. 8:9; 1 Cor. 11:3).

Emotional Stability

Jesus wept, and acted (Jn 11:1-46).

Notice that his love for Lazarus did not keep Him from allowing the situation to occur in the first place.

He steadily and capably teaches Martha about the resurrection and Himself.

He neither hid His emotion nor allowed it to get in the way of His purposes.

Jesus felt compassion and stepped in (Mk. 6:34-44; cf. Jn. 6:66).

Jesus was angry and sinned not (Jn. 2:13-17)

Emotional display was exceptional.

Majestic Meekness

The Beatitudes are easily misconstrued (Matt. 5:3-11).

Jesus did not set down authority to become a servant (Jn. 13:5-20).

Christlike meekness involves a power under control (Jn. 19:8-11).

Conclusion

These are big picture things we want to keep in mind.

But they are guard rails to keep us from the feminization or the destructive forms of masculinity that the world offers at the extremes.

In Christ, you will find that rock who provides a foundation on which YOU can stand but you will never find in Him a doormat on which you may stand.

Come and submit yourself to THE Son of Man and so learn what it is to be a man, or woman created in His own image.