The Fatherhood Principle: God's Design and Destiny for Every Man

by Myles Munroe

The inherent purpose of all men is fatherhood. Whether a man is married or single, and whether or not he has children, he is designed by God to fulfill the role of father in the lives of those around him. It is his calling to reflect the creative and cultivating nature of God.
This book provides key principles and insights that will teach you how to be a father in your personal sphere of influence. In clear and compelling terms, Dr. Munroe explains how a man can become source, nourisher, sustainer, protector, teacher, discipler, leader, head, caring one, and developer. The Fatherhood Principle provides practical guidelines for fulfilling your God-given fatherhood role by showing you… 
How to be the foundation of your family
How to be strong even in the storms of life
How to meet the needs of women
How to develop the potential and gifts of children
How to find your life’s vision
Five vital purposes of the male
 Discover God’s original blueprint for men and step into your true purpose in life.

Genres: Christian, Fatherhood, Parenting, Nonfiction, Leadership, Psychology

190 pages, Paperback

First published April 13, 1996

About the author

Myles Egbert Munroe, OBE was an ordained minister, professor, author, speaker and leadership consultant. He founded and led the Bahamas Faith Ministries International (BFMI) and Myles Munroe International (MMI). He was also the chief executive officer and chairman of the board of the International Third World Leaders Association, and president of the International Leadership Training Institute.

Munroe received his B.F.A. in Education and Theology from Oral Roberts University in 1978 and his Master's degree in administration from the University of Tulsa in 1980. He also received doctoral degrees from various schools. He was an adjunct professor of the Graduate School of Theology at Oral Roberts University.

Reviews

[Paul · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you're a Christian, or are willing to become one, this book lays out a strong and principled approach to being a man and a father in the contemporary world. For this author, man and father are synonymous terms, regardless of whether one has had actual biological offspring, since a man's role and purpose in the world is to act as a "father" to others who need dependable and unselfish guidance and support.

Munroe's views are based on the Bible, which he takes seriously and literally. And if you're willing to accept all Bible stories, especially that of Adam and Eve, as literally true, then his arguments are strong and well formed. You can even say the same about his views on homosexuality, for which he became notorious in his native Bahamas (he died in a plane crash in 2014), for in the Bible God's position on homosexuality is as clear as can be.

The big question is whether one who is not a Christian, or not a Christian who takes every Bible story literally, can still benefit from Dr. Munroe's vision of fatherhood. I like to think yes. My own experience is that genuinely spiritual people, of whatever stripe, are a positive force in the world. Here Dr. Munroe tells men, especially young men who may feel confused and aimless, how to gain a sense of purpose and meaning in life, and thereby become the rock that others can lean on or stand on for support. Feminists would no doubt howl with execration at his ideas about men being the heads of their households, but I suspect that many women would be happy to marry a man who was principled, ethical, and dedicated to the welfare of his family. Munroe's vision of man as the head of the household is that he leads by example and does his best to help everyone in his care to realize their potential.

But for such a man to be entirely credible he does need to have a strong spiritual grounding, and in Munroe's view this means being thoroughly versed in the teachings of the Bible. For the real question is what one does when the going gets tough. The godly man has the Bible and his church as his supports; what does the secular man or the non-Christian man lean on? I think that men from other spiritual traditions, such as, say, Buddhism (where I've had my own spiritual training, such as it is), can probably take valuable advice from Munroe's book, even though Munroe himself is dismissive of other spiritual traditions. If you believe there is such a thing as masculinity and masculine virtues, then it makes sense to apply these notions to that most defining of male functions: fatherhood. If you can ground those virtues in spirituality, then you're on your way.

[Thomas · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is great because it doesn't look at what's wrong with fathers of today and try to build a correct model of fatherhood from that. No, it goes straight to God the Father, the perfect father, and shows forth the principles of fatherhood from the example He has set. A great book for men and women a like, if you were never fathered by your earthly father, or if you want a book on fathering from a comprehensive, objective view, based solely on God the Father.

[Samuel Adeosun · Rating 5 out of 5]

First read — 2020! Second read — 2025! God bless Dr. Myles Munroe!

The Fatherhood Principle: God’s Design and Destiny for Every Man reveals a powerful truth: every man is created for fatherhood. 📌

That calling goes far beyond biological children; and that is what Dr. Myles elucidated. Married or single, with a family or not, a man is divinely designed to influence, guide, nurture, and lead those around him. Fatherhood is the expression of God’s own creative, protective, and cultivating nature through the life of a man.

In this transformational book, Dr. Myles Munroe subtly unpacks the foundational principles that shape true fatherhood. He explains how every man can become a source, nourisher, protector, teacher, mentor, leader, and developer in his home and community. With clarity and depth, he shows what it means to carry the heart of a father in everyday life.

Through practical guidance and spiritual insight, The Fatherhood Principle teaches men how to:

Build a strong foundation for their families 📍

Stand firm through life’s storms📍

Understand and meet the needs of women📍

Cultivate the gifts and potential of children📍

Discover and pursue their life’s vision📍

Embrace the five essential purposes God gave to the male📍

This book is an invitation to rediscover God’s original blueprint for manhood and step boldly into the identity and purpose He intended. Of course, it is written from the perspective of a Christian using the lenses of the scriptures.

[Georgia Bryce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Powerful

[Victor A. Chaungwe Jr · Rating 4 out of 5]

It contains such profound insight on being a father based on scripture.
I recommend it to all men.

[Olubunmi Adewumi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mind-blowing, eye-opening and impactful book.

[Jarmo Larsen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Boken tar for seg mannens rolle i familien, menigheten og samfunnet og hvordan mannen er kalt til å være far og leder og samtidig reflektere Guds natur i mennesker som han er satt sammen med. Myles Munroe gir innsikt i hvordan vi som menn og fedre kan leve dette gudgitte livet ut i praksis og oppfylle denne viktige rollen som en mann.

Siden denne boken hovedsaklig er rettet mot menn så kan den fort virke litt polarisert og noen kan få det inntrykket at denne nedverdiger kvinnen, noe den absolutt ikke gjør, men gir mannen et mye større ansvar enn det kvinnen har og sikter til bibelske prinsipper til hvordan en mann skal elske sin kone og være villig til å ofre sitt liv for henne, ja, tjene henne slik Kristus tjente menigheten og gav sitt liv for den. Vi får innsikt i mange av mannens roller og hvordan de kan få utspille seg hvis vi legger til rette for dette. Boken er ganske inspirerende og Munroe trekker fram mye fra Bibelen, men noen ganger kan det virke som Munroe trekker noen litt forhastede konklusjoner.

Munroe og konen omkom i en tragisk flyulykke i 2014, men han hadde en vidstrekkende tjeneste på forskjellige områder som å lære mannen å finne sin plass på en bibelsk måte. Selvom Munroe er fra den karismatiske fløyen, med tanke på at han er uteksaminert fra Oral Roberts University, samt at han nevner Jessie Duplantis som en nær venn og at et par andre typiske trosbevegelsesprinsipper kommer fram, men da hovedsakelig bare i en bisetning. Jeg ønsker ikke å dømme ham eller boken ut fra disse forhold, selvom jeg har noen fordommer mot den karismatiske bevegelsen som sådan, så virker det her at Munroe stort sett trekker frem solide bibelske prinsipper med tanke på mannens rolle i hjem, menighet og samfunn. Han gir noen perspektiver på saken som jeg ikke har vært så bevisst på før. I det store og hele er dette en grei bok om en sårt trengt tema i et samfunn som holder på å gå i oppløsning, noe den vil gjøre hvis faren i huset ikke trer fram på banen han er satt til å være på.
Tre sterke stjerner får denne.

[Stone Michaels · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! This book was such a profound and "I didn't know that or this is the why" book. Dr. Munroe literarily breaks down each chapter and section. He brings it all back together with the chapter principle reviews which are after every chapter like a "check on learning". It's awesome. He also recaps main thoughts and takeaways on every page. He backs up every principle with spiritual and tangible facts. The principles are very practical and not hard to implement. He's a true spiritual leader and educator. I mourned his death. We've truly lost a giant in this arena. May his children continue to spread his teachings to the world.

Stone Michaels, Author of Defining Atlas

[Deborah Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Fatherhood Principle: God’s Design and Destiny for Every Man

This was an “Awesome” book on fatherhood. I would recommend that all men from the four corners of the globe would read it and introduce it to every male they are in contact with. This book needs to be read in a men’s Bible study and every “Father’s Day.” I as a single mother was truly blessed by it. So I try to read it every Father’s Day because it reminds me of “Our Father Who Art In Heaven.” God bless God for using Myles Munroe for writing this book to all men. I would highly recommend it . God bless BFMI.

[Nathan Winkler · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dr. Myles Munroe writes on the importance of Fatherhood, the roles and purposes of every male, why the male is the sole foundation and anchor of the health and wellness of families, and therefore the same of society as a whole.

This book is a keeper, one I plan on rereading, noting, referring to, meditating on. This is a classic leadership book for all males, calling males to become fathers and fulfill our God give purpose in the lives of our wife, children and communities

[Pudensiana · Rating 4 out of 5]

In 'Fatherhood Principles', Myles Munroe explores the importance of fatherhood, providing biblical insights and practical guidance on parenting. He emphasizes the significance of a father's role in shaping the next generation, covering topics like leadership, responsibility, and spiritual guidance. A must-read for fathers seeking to make a lasting impact.


DNF @ 23%. 4 stars because you can never go wrong with a Myles Munroe book!

[geoffrey ellerby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Truly Transformational!!

This book is one of the best books I've ever read!! l just finished my second reading of it. If you are a male who wants to find out how to be a real man or a female who wants to know what a real man looks like, l would highly recommend that you read this book. You won't regret it!

[Atiba · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the greatest books I've ever read on parenting and fatherhood. Not just for your family but for the whole community. As the book of James says "true religion is this, visiting the orphan and the widdow in their affliction. "

[Fred · Rating 1 out of 5]

I have so many negative things to say about this book that I rather not.....

[Ivan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well narrated points on the (why/ how to) role of men in strengthening the family and society.

[Hemchand Hemraj · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book.

The book has some great examples for fathers that follow the creator who design us. Awesome advice to all men.

[Igbamerun Oluwagbemi · Rating 5 out of 5]

It Exposes Your Mind To The Duties/Roles Of A Father (As The Male Gender) And Also Portrays Why God Is The Source (Sustainer) Of The Universe And Father Of All Flesh

[edmond · Rating 5 out of 5]

INSPIRING READ!

A must read for each father and fathers to be. This is one of the most inspiring books ever read

[Olubunmi Adewumi]

I will definitely give this book a second reading. Every man and woman across the globe should read this book. It is really mind-blowing and thought-provoking.

[Kevin · Rating 5 out of 5]

good advices. eye opener

[Prosper Obomeguono Azanuwa · Rating 4 out of 5]

In a time when there are classes, books, and even workshop for every skill and hobby, I would challenge every father and even aspiring father to take time to invest in his most important role - FATHERHOOD.

A good father is priceless, as are the children he leads and invests in.
In his book, ''The Fatherhood Principle,'' Dr. Myles Munroe provides a fresh look at time-tested principles for men to measure their effectiveness as fathers' in our modern society.
He explains that although every man is called to be a father, knowing how to live in this purpose is not automatic. Hence, there is need to adequately understand the basic characteristics as well as master the skills of true fatherhood.

His fatherhood tips in each chapter are challenging.
Dr. Munroe literally breaks down each chapter and section. After every chapter, he gave principle reviews which are like a ''Check On Learning''. He also recaps main thoughts and takeaways on every page.

In this book, you are going to learn the PURPOSE, PRINCIPLES, AND FUNCTIONS OF FATHERHOOD so that it doesn't matter what the facts of your life currently are.
You will know, understand, and learn how to recognise the qualities, character of a true father.
ON PURPOSE

''Fatherhood'' has a broader meaning than just the biological production of children.
Fatherhood is not a choice for a male but is inherent in his very nature. Buried in every boy is the potential of being a father.
This means that Abba Father intends every boy to grow up into Fatherhood.
Fatherhood is the design and destiny of the male.

ON PRINCIPLE
Facts will always submit to principles when principles show up. But if you have facts without principles, facts are going to control and frustrate your life.
Principles are permanent. Principles protect products. Principles preserve. Principles contain inherent judgment. Principles cannot be broken; rather, you break yourself on them.
PRINCIPLES ARE INDEPENDENT OF CULTURE, RACE, OR CREED.
Adherence to principles breeds success.
The principles therein are very practical and not difficult to implement.
ON FUNCTION
There are roles or functions expected of a father to be fulfilling.
In clear and compelling terms, Dr. Munroe highlighted the functions of a father:
1] PROGENITOR OR SOURCE,
2] SUSTAINER,
3] NOURISHER,
4] PROTECTOR,
5] TEACHER,
6] DISCIPLINARIAN,
7] LEADER,
8] HEAD,
9] CARING ONE,
10] DEVELOPER.
The above, he summarised as the 10 BASIC FUNCTIONS OF A FATHER.
As Progenitor, Source, Sustainer, Nourisher, and Protector:
Fatherhood is a heavy honour and a huge responsibility. The father's job is to uphold, sustain, and support the generation he brings forth.
When a man sows seed into the receptor (the woman) and a child is conceived, the next generation is given its identity by the genes.
As Teacher:
If a man takes the responsibility to become the teacher and instructor in his home, he attracts God's favour and blessing. Why? Because the father functioning as a teacher fulfils God's purpose for his life, (See Proverb 4:1-5).
As Disciplinarian:
Discipline, intently, is not punishment. It takes teaching to the next level. Discipline, therefore, is training - (Proverb 22:6).
This instruction is spoken to fathers', (See Ephesian 6:4).
As Leader:
A true leader provides an environment for growth. He does not create an atmosphere of fear.
As a leader, the father expands, motivates, inspires, encourages, and exhorts.
A father leads his house.
As Head:
We can use the physical body (the head) as an analogy for understanding the spiritual functions of being the head of the family.
Eye (Vision, Perception):
He is aware of what is happening to his wife and children.
Brain (Conception):
He sets in motion a process. CREATIVE POWER IS BIRTHED.
Nose (Discerns):
Discerning is somewhat related to caring.
He detects the ''Scent'' of his family, home, business, and his neighbourhood.
Mouth (Speaks):
A father should communicate effectively with his family, community, (See Ephesian 4:15).
Ear (Listens):
The Father should always be listening to God and his family - (See Psalm 116:1).
Listening is a gift that fathers' give to their families. Their listening tells their families that they care for them while a failure to listen communicates a lack of love and caring.
As Caring One, Developer:
In marriage, God wouldn't give you a perfect woman. He will give you a woman who is ''raw material''.
A good husband will minister to his wife and develop her until she is ''RADIANT'' and everything He desires her to be - a glorious bride.
A good man brings out the best in his wife.

LESSON LEARNT
Discover God's blueprint for men.