Tuesday, April 24, 2012

Declaration of Manhood

When in the course of maturing it becomes necessary for a boy to become a man, to assume among other men, separate and equal station, to which God has called them, mankind requires that they should declare what defines a true man, and what process they will undertake to attain such status. We hold these truths to be evident, that all men are created equal and that they are entrusted by God with certain unalienable duties, among which are responsibility and leadership. To secure these duties it is the responsibility of men to lay firm foundations based on truth, such that boys may be raised up into true manhood. To that end let us each uphold and teach these principles to our boys: - Pursuit of righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness. Fighting the good fight of the faith and taking hold of the eternal life to which we are called (1 Timothy 6:11-12) - Reject the passivity that is so easily embraced by men. Reject the example of our ancestor Adam who idly watched as Eve accepted the fruit in the garden. Instead embrace Christ’s good example of action, especially in times of need. - Accept the responsibility that has been given. Do not avoid what is given you, or blame others for your failures. Respond as Christ did and carry out your duty with excellence even when it is not favorable to you to do so. - Lead your family, your church, your workplace, and your community courageously and with integrity and fear of the Lord. - Expect God’s greater reward in heaven for living a life that is pleasing to the Lord. At all times act in a way that will uphold the following values: - Honor A man of honor is a man of integrity; he guards every word and action against any falsehood. Ephesians 4:25 says, “Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor, for we are all members of one body.” - Courage A man of courage is one whose strength of mind enables him to overcome any fear or danger. Joshua 1:9 says, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go." - Chivalry A man who is chivalrous shows respect for others. He is considerate and puts others before himself. Philippians 2:3-4 says, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.” - Purity A man who is pure is clean in heart, mind, speech and body. Psalm 119:9-11 says, "How can a young man keep his way pure? By living according to your word. I seek you with all my heart. Do not let me stray from your commands. I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.” - Loyalty A man who is loyal is one who is true in affections and allegiance. I Corinthians 15:58 says, "Therefore my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourself fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain." - Obedience An obedient man is one who follows the commands of God’s Word and complies with the wishes of those in authority over him. Psalms 119:33-34 says, “Teach me, oh Lord, to follow your decrees; then I will keep them to the end. Give me understanding, and I will keep your law and obey it with all my heart.” - Dedication A dedicated man is one who has committed his whole self to Jesus Christ. Romans 12:1-2 says, “Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God’s mercy, offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God. This is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is; his good, pleasing, and perfect will.” - To be strong in the grace of Christ Jesus, and in these things laid out in the presence of witnesses. To entrust these things to future men, who will be qualified to teach others. (2 Timothy 2:1-2) - To endure hardships together as good soldiers of Christ Jesus. (2 Timothy 2:3) We therefore, as men, do, in the presence of God, and witnesses, publish and declare that we will learn, uphold and teach these truths, that we may mature in true manhood. For support of this declaration, with our reliance on our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, we pledge each other our support and honor of these principles and the passing on of them to the next generation.