In this engaging episode of the Stand Up Dude podcast, hosts Tim Bisagno and Stewart White sit down with Jason Cruise, an ordained leader and pastor, to explore the intersection of faith, masculinity, and culture. Jason, drawing from his deep well of wisdom and pastoral experience, offers valuable insights on the evolving definition of masculinity and the unique challenges young men face today.

Throughout their conversation, Jason underscores the vital role of mentorship and community, reflecting the Christian call to fellowship and brotherhood. He fervently encourages men to embrace their God-given identities and roles, guided by timeless virtues such as grit, godliness, resolve, integrity, and toughness. These principles, grounded in Scripture, provide a clear path for men striving to live out their faith authentically and courageously.

As the episode wraps up, there's a compelling call to action for men everywhere: to seek out genuine, life-giving relationships and to boldly live out their faith in every aspect of their lives. It's a powerful reminder that in Christ, we find the strength and purpose to stand firm and be the men God has called us to be.

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Music:
Theme Music: Prodigal - by Arrows in Exile 
Used with full permission from the author, Michael Blakley


Timestamps:
0:00 Introduction to Jason Cruise
Jason emphasizes the importance of surrounding oneself with godly men for spiritual empowerment.
0:13 Guest Introduction
Stewart White introduces Jason Cruise as the guest, highlighting his long-standing friendship with Tim.
2:25 Jason's Dual Life
Jason describes his passion for advancing God's kingdom and his involvement in the hunting industry.
3:04 Hunting Industry Experience
Jason shares his extensive background in the hunting industry, including media and writing for Christian publishers.
4:09 Successful Shows
Discussion on Jason's show "Spring Chronicles," which was a top performer on the Sportsman Channel.
5:24 The Church Landscape
Jason reflects on his dual existence in the hunting and church worlds, observing the American church's evolution.
8:46 Cultural Observations
Jason discusses the broader cultural context, emphasizing the need for men to occupy their spaces.
10:00 The Evolution of the American Church
Jason asserts that the church is undergoing significant changes, especially post-COVID.
12:19 Historical Church Dynamics
He explains how the church once dominated community life and discusses shifts since the 1980s.
14:34 Impact of Mega Churches
Jason critiques the corporate structure of modern churches, noting a loss of spiritual focus.
16:01 Post-Pandemic Challenges
He highlights how the pandemic revealed weaknesses in church leadership and community engagement.
17:48 Cultural Shifts in the Church
Jason observes a movement towards smaller, more intimate gatherings among younger generations.
19:54 Men's Leadership in Today's Culture
Jason discusses the challenges men face in asserting their masculinity in a changing cultural landscape.
22:59 Models of Manhood
Jason critiques outdated stereotypes of masculinity, advocating for diverse expressions of manhood.
24:18 The Crisis of Masculinity
Discussion on how pop culture shapes young men's identities and the inner longing for strength.
25:56 Meekness Defined
Exploration of meekness as power under control, contrasting societal perceptions of strength.
27:19 The Importance of Male Mentorship
Advice on surrounding oneself with godly men to learn how to be a man of God.
28:39 The Influence of Relationships
Discussion on how relationships shape one's character and the importance of seeking wisdom.
29:59 Biblical Foundations for Manhood
Emphasis on the importance of scripture and mentorship in defining biblical manhood.
31:00 Rites of Passage and Progression
Reflection on historical rites of passage for boys transitioning to manhood and their modern absence.
33:24 Defining Manhood: The Four Pillars
Introduction to the acronym GRIT: Godliness, Resolve, Integrity, and Toughness as manhood's foundations.
35:20 Learning Through Struggles
The importance of allowing boys to face challenges and learn from their mistakes.
36:32 Longing for Real Relationships
Discussion on younger generations seeking meaningful connections with older men for guidance.
39:34 The Role of Mentorship in Faith
Encouragement to find and connect with resolute men for support and accountability.
40:42 Community and Connection
Invitation to join a community focused on spiritual growth and support among men.
44:58 Prayer for Strength and Confidence
A prayer for listeners, asking for healing, strength, and the confidence of God in their lives.