Focus Scripture:

• ESV: “Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong. Let all that you do be done in love.” — 1 Corinthians 16:13-14
• NIV: “Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong. Do everything in love.” — 1 Corinthians 16:13-14

Opening Prayer (5 minutes):
Heavenly Father, we come before You today seeking to understand more about what it means to be a good Christian man. We ask for Your guidance, wisdom, and strength to live according to Your Word. Help us to reflect Christ in all that we do, and to grow into the men You have called us to be. We invite Your Holy Spirit to be present among us, guiding our discussions and inspiring our hearts. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Introduction to the Topic (5-10 minutes):
Today’s lesson focuses on the characteristics of a good Christian man. In a world that often offers confusing and conflicting messages about manhood, the Bible provides a clear and solid foundation for what it means to be a man of God. We are called to be strong, courageous, faithful, and loving, embodying the character of Christ in every area of our lives. This lesson will explore how we can grow into this calling and live out our faith with integrity, courage, and humility.

Bible Verses for Discussion (20 minutes):

1. Micah 6:8
   • ESV: “He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?”
   • NIV: “He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”
2. 1 Timothy 6:11-12
   • ESV: “But as for you, O man of God, flee these things. Pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, steadfastness, gentleness. Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called and about which you made the good confession in the presence of many witnesses.”
   • NIV: “But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance, and gentleness. Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses.”
3. James 1:19-20
   • ESV: “Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger; for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God.”
   • NIV: “My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.”
4. Psalm 112:1-2
   • ESV: “Praise the Lord! Blessed is the man who fears the Lord, who greatly delights in his commandments! His offspring will be mighty in the land; the generation of the upright will be blessed.”
   • NIV: “Praise the Lord. Blessed are those who fear the Lord, who find great delight in his commands. Their children will be mighty in the land; the generation of the upright will be blessed.”

Discussion Questions (15-20 minutes):

1. What do you think it means to “act like men” according to 1 Corinthians 16:13-14? How does this differ from worldly views of manhood?
2. How can we pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance, and gentleness in our everyday lives, as mentioned in 1 Timothy 6:11-12?
3. What are some practical ways we can “walk humbly with our God,” as called for in Micah 6:8? How do these actions help us become better Christian men?

Life Application (10 minutes):
Living as a godly man involves intentional daily choices to reflect Christ in our words, actions, and relationships. This week, choose one specific characteristic from the discussion (such as love, humility, or righteousness) and focus on developing it more fully in your life. Ask God to help you grow in this area and look for practical ways to demonstrate it. Find a Christian brother in this group to encourage you and hold you accountable in this journey.

Reflection and Encouragement (5-10 minutes):
Reflect on areas of your life where you feel strong in your faith and areas where you feel you need growth. Remember that being a good Christian man is a journey, not a destination. God is patient and gracious, helping us grow step by step. Be encouraged that you are not alone in this journey—God has given you His Spirit, His Word, and a community of brothers in Christ to walk alongside you.

Closing Verse:

• ESV: “Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.” — James 1:12
• NIV: “Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.” — James 1:12

Closing Prayer (5 minutes):
Lord, thank You for the calling to be men who reflect Your character. Help us to be strong, courageous, and loving in all that we do. Give us the wisdom to know Your will and the courage to live it out each day. May we grow in righteousness, godliness, faith, and love, showing others the power of Your transforming grace. Guide us as we seek to be men after Your own heart. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Takeaway Challenge:
This week, focus on one area of your life where you want to grow as a Christian man. It might be patience, humility, faithfulness, or kindness. Write down a specific action step you will take each day to practice this quality. Share your goal with a group member and ask them to pray with you and hold you accountable.