We Became Men: A Journey Into Manhood

“Shawn Brower knows young men. Athletic coach extraordinaire, he gets inside their heads and inside their hearts. In We Became Men, young men will be challenged to step up to the plate of their calling, to press onward toward the goal of their purpose in life, and to run the race set before them and already accomplished through the triumph of their gracious Redeemer, the Lord Jesus Christ. Heres the perfect gift for every teen young man.”– Douglas Bond, author, Stand Fast In the Way of Truth and Hold Fast in a Broken World

“Do I have what it takes?” This is the question that either motivates or haunts every man. It has motivated Shawn Brower, compelling him to write this amazingly insightful work, and I am here to testify that the stories, insights, and wisdom of the following pages are not theoretical. They are the consummation of a life lived in the uncertain, risky, exhilarating challenge of training boys to become men and to know they have what it takes. Seven years ago the Lord introduced me to this man of passion, integrity, and vigor. A friendship developed on the field that summer that has translated into a life dedicated to helping our sons and their teammates become young men living in their “true masculine design.” It has not been easy. The road less traveled never is. But it has been worth every trial and tribulation. So spend some time with Shawn Brower, and discover “a young mans journey to his true masculine design.” Invite another man or group of men to read this book together, and if you do, be vulnerable, honest, and forthright with yourself and with these men. In so doing you will choose the narrow path less traveled, ‘for the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few’ (Matt. 7:14).”– Bryant Black, former naval officer, history teacher, and coach

“Brower gives us a sharp reminder that man has a propensity for “passivity.” We need leaders! Where have the godly men gone? Dont just buy this book, but read it, live it, and teach it!”

“Young men, if you are up for a challenge, read this book! Brower challenges us to step up and take responsibility—for our hearts, souls, and lives—under the authority of God's Word. This is a great read for young men who are seeking to live truly (and biblically) masculine lives in service to the Lord Jesus Christ.”

“As a man who did not have a Christ–centered spiritual mentor when I was young, I have spent much of my adult life trying to learn what it means to be a man who follows Jesus. Frankly, I have learned best from books written long before this present generation, with only a few exceptions. Dr. Brower has written one stunning exception. This book was significantly formative for me as a man who struggles with fear. It magnified Jesus and charted a course for me to follow as one who prays to be a man of God. I recommend this book both to Christian fathers, sons, pastors, and church members, and to cynics about the faith and inquirers into the truths of Christianity. There is much here for the teachable reader. Read slowly and savor carefully. You will not be disappointed.”

“In a culture of perpetual adolescence, young men need wise guides and wise guidebooks. Shawn Brower has a proven track record not only as a coach and Christian school leader but as a wise guide for young men, and We Became Men is a wise guidebook that youll want to pick up, read, and use whether you are a young man looking for sage counsel or someone older looking to influence the emerging generation. The teaching here is clear, biblical, practical, and visionary. Many lives have been shaped for the better by Shawn, and I pray many more will be shaped because of his important book.”