"The Distinguished Gentleman: Embracing God's Commandments for Manhood"
Introduction:
Today, we gather in the house of the Lord to explore God's Word and reflect upon His wisdom concerning manhood and being a distinguished gentleman. While we hope for some Joy and levity, Manhood in Congress and God's eyes is No Joke.
Our scripture reading is from Exodus 20:1-4, 7-9, 12-20, where God delivers the Ten Commandments to His people. While these commandments apply to everyone, today, we will focus on how they guide men to embody the qualities of distinguished gentlemen.
Growing up, my father prided his attempts to be and raise his son to be a Black Renaissance Male. The Black Renaissance Male is a multifaceted and evolving concept rooted in a rich history of resilience, creativity, and strength. In today's world, a fully evolved Black Renaissance Male is an individual who embodies not only the spirit of the Harlem Renaissance but also a profound commitment to family, community, and God.
However, when I hear the term Distinguished Gentleman my mind goes to Congress and most notably the 1992, Eddie Murphy’s Movie “The Distinguished Gentleman”
This movie offered a scathing parody of corporate influence and self-enrichment within the halls of Congress. As the film’s 30th anniversary approaches, Congress, corporate America and the Church have an opportunity to learn from the film’s lessons and reform some of the practices that continue to erode public faith in government.
In the film, Murphy stars as a con artist named Thomas Jefferson Johnson who overhears his local congressman’s tales of corruption and, upon the lawmaker’s death, seizes an opportunity to exploit name recognition and voter apathy to succeed him. What follows is a hilarious sendup of pork-barrel politics and legal corruption before the novice politician changes course to champion his constituents’ interests in the face of corporate and political pressure.
Somewhere, behind the comedy and exaggerations of the film is the idea that if you keep calling and treating a person like a decent person that they might become just that in the end.
I have always taught the 10 Commandments as not being the end-all-be-all in the bible. But as a collection of 10 travel commandments that God gives the people while they are in the wilderness. In other words, the Ten Commandments are not all the rules God gave humanity, but they are an excellent quick summary of the high points if you are on the run.
This morning, let me show you that the 10 Commandments can also be a good set of commandments for Men in the Wilderness of Life;
if you want to be a Good Man,
if you are to be a Good Father,
if you want to be a good community leader,
if you want to be a good church officer,
if you want to be a Distinguished Gentleman.
So, let's Go through them really quickly. I've Got 6 points this morning or 6 Distinguished Gentleman Commandments!
The First Commandment in the Bible : No Other Gods
Becoming a distinguished gentleman begins with recognizing that true manhood is grounded in our relationship with God. The first commandment reminds us to worship God alone, placing Him above all else. As men, we must acknowledge our Creator as our ultimate authority and guide.
1. A distinguished gentleman understands that his strength comes from the Almighty.
The Second Commandment in the Bible : No Graven Images
In the second commandment, God instructs us not to create idols. This commandment teaches us that a distinguished gentleman does not worship material possessions, success, or worldly acclaim. Instead, he treasures the spiritual and moral values that define his character.
2. A distinguished gentleman values integrity, character, and faith over pursuing wealth or fame.
The Third Commandment in the Bible : Do Not Take God's Name in Vain
Becoming a distinguished gentleman means recognizing the power of words. God commands us not to misuse His name. This commandment reminds us to speak and live with integrity and respect, reflecting God's character in our actions and words.
3. A distinguished gentleman's word is his bond, and he honors God's name by living a life of truth and honor.
The Fourth Commandment in the Bible : Remember the Sabbath Day
God's command to observe the Sabbath underscores the importance of rest and reflection. Becoming a distinguished gentleman means understanding the value of taking time to recharge spiritually, mentally, and physically.
4. A distinguished gentleman knows he can better serve God and others when refreshed and renewed.
The Fifth Commandment in the Bible: Honor Your Father and Mother
Becoming a distinguished gentleman means having respect and honoring his parents and other authorities in his life. This commandment reminds us of the importance of family and the value of honoring those who have cared for and guided us.
5. A distinguished gentleman recognizes the wisdom and love authorities have provided.
The Sixth through Tenth Commandments in the Bible: Do Not Murder, Commit Adultery, Steal, Bear False Witness, or Covet
These commandments teach us the importance of respecting the rights and dignity of others. Becoming a distinguished gentleman means valuing the sanctity of life, fidelity in relationships, honesty, and contentment.
6. A distinguished gentleman does not harm or betray others but seeks to build up and support those around him.
Conclusion:
As we reflect on God's commandments in Exodus 20, we see a blueprint for manhood and becoming distinguished gentlemen. It begins with honoring God, living with integrity, respecting authority, and treating others with love and dignity. Today, let us strive to embody these qualities and, in doing so, fulfill our roles as distinguished gentlemen in the eyes of our Lord. Amen.
