To imitate Jesus, then, is to recognize fitness as a matter of more than just wellness or aesthetics, it’s a matter of obedience. And when you look at it from that standpoint, fitness is no longer just an extracurricular activity. Rather, it’s a part of your walk with Him. And with that Reality comes a sense of urgency and inspiration that goes beyond simply wanting to look good.

But “Muscular Christianity” doesn’t stop with your physical waistline. “Losing the gut” applies to your spiritual midriff as well.

Your Spiritual Gut

Your spiritual “gut” is comprised of those things that represent the distractions and excuses that keep you from being consistent where your time with God is concerned. So in this study, as you’re documenting your daily diet and exercise routine, you’ll also be documenting the time you spend with your Savior.

At the end of “Muscular Christianity,” you will notice a difference not only in the way your trousers fit, but also in your overall perspective. Yes, the exercises and the devotionals are put together strategically, but what makes the most difference is the way in which “Muscular Christianity” effects the whole of your life, and a lot that comes from the way "Muscular Christianity" has you applying the Biblical concept of accountability.

Flying Solo

So many times we men fly solo. In the gym, we typically work out by ourselves, for ourselves and answer to no one other than ourselves. Spiritually, we give it our best shot, perhaps, but without something or someone to really keep us focused, we fluctuate and our time with God becomes sporadic and devoid of substance.

With “Muscular Christianity” you will find yourself operating in the context of a community. You’ll have an accountability partner that you’ll communicate with on a daily basis and on the weekends. In addition, you’ll be meeting with a larger group dissecting the material from the previous week as well as exercising as a team.

At the End of the Day

At the end of the day, the result of this study is a more "muscular" Presence of Christ in every area of your life. Make no mistake, this is not a couple of anemic exercises casually superimposed over a Sunday School lesson. It's tough! Whether you're an athlete or someone who carts around some extra poundage, you'll be challenged. But you'll also be rewarded as is the case with anything that's truly worthwhile.

For a more elaborate explanation of how "Muscular Christianity" is designed, click here for the "Overview" that comes right out of the book.

Welcome!