EVERY MAN JACK

A debut guide offers a portrait of the nature—and obligations—of modern Christian masculinity.

Clubb takes as the springboard for his book a modern meaning of the word “Jack,” as a synonym for an all-around likable and trustworthy man, compassionate, caring, and completely dependable. He extends this general term into the realm of modern Christianity. “I see it,” he writes, “as an apt moniker for a spiritually healthy and emotionally intelligent man.” Throughout the work, the author directly tackles the challenges and pitfalls of contemporary Christianity as it’s experienced by men. “Real men give God control of their private, inner, and public spiritual lives by making prayer, personal Bible study, and fellowship priorities in their lives,” he writes. “And a real man isn’t afraid of connecting with other men for mutual support and accountability.” Unfortunately, Clubb decides to briefly outline what he refers to as reasons to trust the Bible, all of which are questionable. He claims the Bible provides “extensive detailed prophecies relating to the rise and fall of individuals and empires … with incredible accuracy”; Noah’s Ark was found on Mount Ararat; and the Bible was “written by eyewitnesses.” Fortunately, these digressions are limited. The bulk of the book is devoted to the author’s captivating meditations and advice to his (presumably exclusively male) readers about how the duties of their gender are reflected in the Bible. The author is an animated and very readable guide to everything from the story of King David to the Epistles of St. Paul. He skillfully intersperses these explorations with vivid stories from his own walk of faith.

An engaging, rousing study of Christian manhood with a few knotty digressions.