In his book, The Warrior Poet Way, John Lovell argues that the heart of true masculinity is to “protect and defend.” He writes, “A man needs to trudge the ancient paths of true masculinity. We must return to our timeless roles as protectors, providers, leaders, and caretakers of all we have been entrusted with.” [1]
The concept of man as protector is deeply rooted not only in how men are intrinsically “hard-wired,” but is also rooted in Scripture, with numerous passages in the Bible depicting men as guardians, defenders, and providers for their families and communities. This role is not merely a social construct but is portrayed as a divine mandate, reflecting the character of God Himself as the ultimate Protector. From the earliest stories in Genesis to the teachings of the New Testament, the Bible provides a comprehensive view of what it means for a man to be a protector in the eyes of God.
The Foundation in Genesis
The biblical foundation for man as protector begins in Genesis with the creation narrative. In Genesis 2:15, Adam is placed in the Garden of Eden and given the responsibility to "tend and keep it." The Hebrew word for "keep" (shamar) can also be translated as "guard" or "protect." This indicates that Adam's role was not only to cultivate the garden but also to safeguard it. This protective role is further emphasized when God creates Eve as a companion for Adam. Adam is expected to protect and care for her, establishing the pattern of men protecting their families.
The fall of man, described in Genesis 3, further illustrates the importance of the protective role. When the serpent deceives Eve, Adam fails to protect her from temptation, resulting in the introduction of sin into the world. This failure to protect has far-reaching consequences, underscoring the critical nature of the protective role that men are intended to fulfill. The account of Adam and Eve sets a precedent for the responsibility of men to protect not only physically but also spiritually, guiding their families in righteousness and obedience to God.
Examples of Biblical Protectors
Throughout the Bible, there are numerous examples of men who exemplified the role of protector. One of the most prominent is Noah, who was chosen by God to protect his family and the future of humanity from the impending flood (Gen. 6–9). Noah’s obedience to God and his commitment to safeguarding his family reflect the protective responsibility that men are called to in times of crisis. Abraham, the patriarch of Israel, also exemplifies the protector role. In Genesis 14, when Lot, his nephew, is captured by enemy kings, Abraham mobilizes a small army to rescue him, demonstrating courage and a deep sense of responsibility for his family. This act of protection is not only a physical rescue but also a spiritual one, as Abraham continually intercedes for his family before God, particularly in the story of Sodom and Gomorrah (Gen. 18).
King David is portrayed as a protector of Israel. From his youth, when he defended his sheep from lions and bears, to his leadership as king, where he protected the nation from its enemies, David is consistently shown as a man who embraces his God-given role as protector. His psalms frequently speak of God as his Protector, a theme that highlights the biblical model of men reflecting God's protective nature.
New Testament Teachings
The New Testament continues to affirm the role of man as protector, particularly in the context of family and community. In Ephesians 5:25–29, the Apostle Paul instructs husbands to love their wives "as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her." This sacrificial love is the ultimate form of protection, where a man is called to lay down his life, if necessary, for the well-being of his wife and family. This passage underscores that protection is not just physical but also emotional and spiritual, requiring men to nurture and care for their families with the same dedication that Christ shows for the church.
The role of protector also extends to the community of believers. In 1 Timothy 5:8, Paul writes, "But if anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for members of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever." This strong statement highlights the seriousness with which the Bible views the protective and providential role of men within their families. Providing for one's family is seen as a fundamental aspect of faith, and failure to do so is considered a grave failing.
Jesus Himself provides the ultimate example of a protector in the New Testament. Although He was not a biological father, He consistently protected those who were vulnerable, such as the poor, the sick, and the marginalized. His protection was not merely physical but also spiritual, as He shielded His followers from the power of sin and death through His sacrificial death on the cross. Jesus' role as protector is the perfect model for Christian men, who are called to emulate His example in their own lives.
From a biblical perspective, the role of man as protector is a divine calling, deeply rooted in the character of God and reflected in the lives of many biblical figures. This role encompasses physical, emotional, and spiritual protection, requiring men to safeguard their families and communities with courage, wisdom, and sacrificial love. The Bible presents this protective role not as an option but as an essential aspect of faithful manhood, integral to the well-being of families and the broader community of believers. In a modern context, this biblical mandate challenges men to rise above societal expectations and embrace their God-given responsibility to protect those entrusted to their care. As men seek to fulfill this role, they not only reflect the character of God but also contribute to the flourishing of their families and communities, living out the timeless truths of Scripture in a world that desperately needs strong, compassionate, and faithful protectors.
[1] John Lovell, The Warrior Poet Way: A Guide to Living Free and Dying Well (New York: Sentinel, 2023), 3, 11.
Brian Cosby is senior pastor of Wayside Presbyterian Church on Signal Mountain, TN, adjunct professor at RTS Atlanta, and creator of the Provide & Protect Youtube channel.
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