DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

CHAPTER ONE – MAN IN THE GARDEN

1) In the last paragraph on p. 4 he says, “Once a Brian Deegan realizes that God is calling him to be a man, where can a dude like him find out how?” Where do people around you look for guidance on how to be man? For them, what does being a man look like?

2) In the third paragraph on p. 7 he says, “The Garden is the place where God relates covenantally to his creature man and where God brings the man into covenantal relationships and obligations.” What does it mean to relate covenantally to God and others? How is this different than the way men often relate to God and others?

3) On page 9 starts a section entitled, “What We Are: Lords and Servants.” What does it mean to be a lord and servant over creation? How does this relate to your work and relationships with others?

4) What was the most helpful thing you read in this chapter?

CHAPTER TWO – THE MASCULINE MANDATE

5) In the third paragraph on p. 16 he summarises the masculine mandate by two words: work and keep. In your own words, how would you describe each one in regards to our calling as men?

6) In the first lines on p. 18 he says, “We are to invest our time, our energies, our ideas, and our passions in bringing good things into being. A faithful man, then, is one who has devoted himself to cultivating, building, and growing.” What good thing do you feel called to bring into being?

7) In the last paragraph on p. 21 he says, “Truly great men are servants who give themselves to a worthy cause and leaders who stand for what is right.” Who are two men that you greatly admire? Does the reason you admire them fit with this statement about what a truly great man is?

8) What was the most helpful thing you read in this chapter?

CHAPTER THREE – MAN’S SACRED CALLING TO WORK

9) In the second to last paragraph on p. 24 he says, “Probably every man has tasted at some time the deep satisfaction of a job well done.” When have you experienced this? Why do you think you experienced it at that time?

10) In the third paragraph on p. 25 he says, “But due to God's curse on the earth because of human sin, it became necessary for man not merely to work, but to work hard.” What are some of the most difficult things you face in your job?

11) Towards the top of p. 29 he lists these five concerns we should have about our work: “•Does this work glorify God? •Does it benefit my fellow man? •Do I consider myself called to this work, or can I at least do it well and find enjoyment in that? •Does it provide for material needs? Does it permit me to lead a godly and balanced life?” Which one of these have you considered the least? How would giving is consideration impact the work you do now?

12) What was the most helpful thing you read in this chapter?