Biblical Principles Applied

The word, "radical," comes from the word "root." Jesus came to transform Adam and his race at the root, redeeming us from slavery to sin and implanting the very nature of God in us through the Holy Spirit’s work in our hearts. As Paul reminds the Romans, God ‘s purpose for us is “to be conformed to the image of his son” (Rom 8:29). Radical manhood begins with the heart attitudes that shaped Jesus—and we come to the second of these in this article. “Blessed are those who mourn for they shall be comforted.” (Matt 5:4)

Jesus has come into the world to make all things new—beginning with us! In Matt 5-7 Jesus challenges us, as members of the new humanity, to exhibit the upside-down values of his kingdom, which contrast radically with worldly masculinity. Jesus begins with the most foundational heart attitude of his kingdom people, being "poor in spirit."

Some approaches to battling for sexual purity can send men into deeper despair and isolation. Dr. William Struthers, observes that one of the most frequent responses of a conscience seared by repeated pornography is “to turn against itself and plunge into the despair of self-loathing and unhealthy shame." This article presents the principles or establishing the ministry in the local church that doesn't shame them or drive them further into isolation, but encourages them and empowers them in their battle with sexual lust.