Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stands in the path of sinners, nor sits in the seat of the scornful; But his delight is in the law of Lord, and in His law he meditates day and night.
Psalm 1:1-2
A 2015 CNN report[1] stated that the average child spends a whopping 9 hours per day (63 hours/week) in secular media entertainment. You may or may not be surprised to learn that church-going children reflect this same pattern. Media entertainment might include video games, television, music, movies, smartphones, tablets and various other electronics.
Through secular media, our children are exposed to over 60 hours of non-biblical teaching each week (keep in mind there are only 168 in a week). Now, take a moment and compare that to 1-2 hours of biblical training in the local church coupled with a few hours each week of biblical training at home (this assumes parents are following God’s mandate to disciple their children). The comparison is scary and the numbers don’t lie…secular teaching exceeds Biblical teaching tenfold. The result of this lopsided distribution of time is a young generation who will inevitably grow up with a secular worldview – e.g. a philosophy of life and a framework of ideas and attitudes that determines their values and ultimately their actions. This pluralistic world of information and communication technologies directly impacts their lives, Christian witness and ultimately their worldview.
The idea of “manhood” is a key area that is being negatively impacted by societal “norms” and inappropriate cultural submersion (like spending 60+ hours a week in secular media entertainment). Suffice it to say, there is much gender confusion and bias in our society on this subject. Manhood is under attack and is being redefined according to the standards of this world rather than God’s standard of humility, sacrifice, integrity, gentleness, servant leadership, etc.
The Iron Academy provides a place where young men intentionally develop a biblical understanding of manhood and grow to be men who live accordingly. IA exists to help boys model the life of Christ and grow into exceptional biblically-grounded men who are strong and disciplined, yet lead with humility and a servant’s heart. In partnership with parents and the local church, IA instills in young men respect, honor, integrity and sacrifice. IA understands that what a young man believes will determine his values and ultimately his actions.
Your investment in and support of Iron Academy is essential not just for our young men but also for the future of our nation. The Body of Christ desperately needs men to be biblical men who are matured by a commitment and obedience to the Word of God. Biblical men courageously identify with Christ and are willing to do what is right and to stand for Truth at all times and in all circumstances. With intentionality, the Iron Academy diligently and faithfully invest in the lives of young men to the glory of our Lord…because Biblical manhood is never an accident.
[1] http://www.cnn.com/2015/11/03/health/teens-tweens-media-screen-use-report/
Contributed by Charles W. Ligon, MDiv. DMin.
I Am Iron 