In Episode 2 we are talking with Stu Fugler about the second statement from our ManDown Ethos, Mature Men Master the Scriptures. In this episode we talk about the challenges and barriers men face to studying the Bible as well as practical tips for growing in your mastery of God's Word. 

The full statement from the ManDown Ethos can be read below:

MATURE MEN MASTER THE SCRIPTURES
As men we reject the anti-intellectual spirituality that neglects serious study of the Bible and important theological reflection. Through daily

reading, focused study, and sound instruction of one another we seek to build up our understanding of the whole counsel of God’s word. We believe that the Scriptures hold ever deepening insight and stabilizing foundations that equip us to navigate a world that builds its ideas on sinking sand. While valuing devotional reading, we also pursue focused study of God’s word to help us have a clear vision of God’s nature, understand the human condition, and contend for the faith with one another and those around us. Through this study of God’s word we seek to move from recognizing God’s truth to being able to wield the sword of God’s word and articulate its doctrines in a compelling manner.

2 Timothy 3:14–17. [14] But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it [15] and how from childhood you have been acquainted with the sacred writings, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. [16] All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, [17] that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work. (ESV)

It's the official Episode 1 of the first season of our ManDown Podcast. On this episode Colby Garman, Bobby Gomez, and Joe Craft cover the first concept in The ManDown Ethos and focus on the importance of grasping the gospel.

The ManDown Ethos is our vision for pursuing the laid-down in following Jesus into mature manhood. You can read the first statement and its explanation here:

MATURE MEN GRASP THE GOSPEL
The gospel is the power of God at work in us through the promise of Christ’s all sufficient work on our behalf. Everything that makes genuine

growth as a man possible is rightly powered by a deepening understanding of the gospel and its fruits. As men we recognize that a weak grasp on the gospel leaves us looking to other things for power and security that cannot deliver on the promises they hold out to us. With a clear understanding of the gospel at the center of our lives we are able to capitalize on the many other benefits of practical wisdom and holistic development inside a framework that is life-giving and centered on God as the one who brings fruit and maturity. A firm grasp on the gospel protects us from a counterfeit vision of masculinity and helps us see the events of our lives through the primary narrative of God’s saving work in the world.

Romans 1:16–17. [16] For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. [17] For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith for faith, as it is written, “The righteous shall live by faith.” (ESV)

Each episode we will focus on one of the 8 statements that make up our ManDown Ethos.

We had to start somewhere, so here we go. In this episode we discuss what it is that we are aiming to do with the podcast and what you can expect from our upcoming inaugural season. Come along for the first ride but keep your hands in the vehicle because it is a bumpy one.