The Men We Need: God’s Purpose for the Manly Man by Erik B. Hansen: A Reflective Review
When I first stumbled upon Erik B. Hansen’s The Men We Need: God’s Purpose for the Manly Man, I was intrigued. The title almost beckoned me: what does it mean to be a man in today’s world? My curiosity led me to delve into Hansen’s exploration of masculinity, a topic that has been fervently debated and is ever-evolving. His blend of humor and sincerity piqued my interest, and I couldn’t wait to see what insights awaited.
Hansen embarks on a mission to redefine modern manhood through a biblical lens. He gracefully weaves scriptural concepts into his narrative, touching on themes of self-control, self-sacrificial love, and the importance of tending to our “gardens,” as he puts it. The humor sprinkled throughout his prose makes the reading light, which is refreshing when tackling such weighty subjects. Yet, I found myself grappling with some of Hansen’s ideas. While I appreciate his efforts to articulate a masculine purpose rooted in God’s creation, the omission of critical components left me wanting more depth. Is our only duty to guard and tend, or are we also called to be fruitful and to “multiply,” as written in Genesis 1:28? The nuances of that directive seem to get lost in his presentation.
Moreover, I noticed a recurring theme in the way Hansen associates manhood with protecting women and children. While it’s noble to emphasize safety and care, I felt it overlooked the broader biblical mandates for men, like mentoring other men, which is prominent in the epistles. This seemed a lost opportunity to discuss the rich tapestry of masculine roles outlined in scripture.
Hansen’s illustrations are vivid and dramatic, often revolving around heroic rescues that certainly grab attention. Yet I couldn’t help but think: why not highlight the small yet significant acts of kindness that often go unnoticed? A simple phone call to an ailing friend or staying up late to help someone in need can demonstrate the essence of protection just as powerfully as scaling a building to save a child.
Perhaps the most surprising element was Hansen’s frequent mention of the necessity to be attractive to women as a motivator for men to fulfill their roles. While the allure of heroism certainly makes a commendable point, does emphasizing attractiveness as a primary motivation detract from the inherent call to do good for goodness’ sake? As a Christian, I pondered whether adherents should be driven primarily by the desire for approval—shouldn’t the desire to glorify God be enough motivation in itself?
Despite these critiques, I do believe Hansen advances a vital conversation about societal perceptions of masculinity. Although it didn’t fully penetrate the depths I hoped for, the book still offers value, particularly for those navigating the complex landscape of being a modern man.
In conclusion, The Men We Need has something to offer, especially for readers seeking to explore biblical masculinity in a light-hearted yet thoughtful way. It may not be the ultimate guide I wish for, but it’s a step in the right direction—a conversation starter that reminds us just how multi-faceted and challenging the notion of manhood can be. If you’re looking to ponder the essence of being a man, reflect on faith, and enjoy a few laughs along the way, this book may just be in your wheelhouse. Happy reading!
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