"Man of God"...What Does It REALLY Mean?

For many Christians the phrase, "Man of God" (MOG) is a veritable "badge of honor" that is thrown around loosely with little or no consideration of what the phrase actually implies and, more importantly, what it denotes about the person the phrase is directed toward.

One usually hears the exchange upon first meeting or greeting another man we believe to be a Christian, one who might be a follower of Jesus Christ or whose life exemplifies God-like qualities. More often than not, the "Man of God" mantra is exchanged between two people who don't even know each other! Now this may not seem like a big deal; but just ride with me for a while.

The inherent danger is that of "perception" versus "reality." In other words, it's like receiving a reward for not having done anything to earn it and then trying to convince your teammates that you are the MVP! When you call someone by their given name they will respond in kind. Be it "Captain" or "Doctor" or "Pilot", there are certain prerequisites to wearing a title.  One has to complete a rigorous set of requirements, skills testing and preparation in order to progress to the next level.  He must be tested and he MUST pass with exceptional grades in order to be "certified." I don't know about you, but I wouldn't want a physician to operate on me who was a "C" student!

Likewise, when it comes to our "spirituality" we seem to get very lazy. Every man is NOT a "Man of God." Every Christian is NOT a "Believer." Every man has not earned the right to be certified as a MOG! There are several characteristics that allow you to recognize a MOG when you encounter him; they are:

1. A MOG is a man of "integrity." He is consistent in his application of the Word of Faith in his life.
2. A MOG is a "Man of Action" and is deliberate and intentional in his service to God's people in the marketplace.
3. A MOG has a profound relationship with God that manifests itself in his thoughts, words and deeds. He is equally adept at leading or following.
4. A MOG is a man who is establishing a financial and spiritual "legacy" for his family.
5. A MOG is a 'Father" to the fatherless (those inside and outside of his biological family).
6. A MOG is a "seeker of wisdom" and understands the power of "destiny."
7. A MOG is not fearful and does not walk in "condemnation" but in "light."
8. A MOG is a Man of FAITH!

This is not an exhaustive list be any means, but if the MOG you think you are or the brother you are calling out as a MOG is lacking these fundamental traits, perhaps you should re-examine your intentions. For the unlearned or weaker in faith that might be in "earshot" of your declaration of MOG to another brother can and will be confused and or damaged when they witness behavior that is diametrically opposed to what they "perceive" to be the manner in which a "real" MOG is supposed to act. 

It is dangerous to sling these phrases around aimlessly.  The terms "saints", "prophet", "apostle", "elder", "pastor" and yes, even "bishop" fall precariously into this category as well. The fact of the matter is that some of these same folks should be called what they really are; that is "witches", "warlocks", "hirelings", "pimps", "snake oil salesmen", "jack-legged" and "devils."