I had once been an atheist actor in the entertainment industry and my purpose in life had been defined by my resume. In 2004, Christ Jesus saved me from myself. I now preach GOD's Word and my purpose is found in dying to myself daily while living for others.
If you would rather read this message, the words are provided below:
Imagine the joy and relief that helpless, distressed, and tired citizens would feel when a superhero arrives to save them from captivity, danger, or death. The people would think and/or shout, “Our savior has arrived!” To understand the full meaning of this message, I want you to first watch the following three videos which depict a hero’s anticipated arrival:
My Hero Academia: All Might announces that everything will be all right because he is there!
Justice League: Superman arrives to defend the weak and save the day!
Avengers: Infinity War: Thor, with lightning, makes a grand entrance onto the battlefield in order to lead everyone into victory!
In all three of those videos, the heroes make a memorable and remarkable entrance. But what does that have to do with my message? Everything. I’m posting this article on April 13, 2019 — the day before Palm Sunday. Palm Sunday is the day we (Christians) celebrate the triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem. The story of the triumphal entry is one of the few incidents in the life of Jesus which appears in all four Gospel accounts (Matthew 21:1-17; Mark 11:1-11; Luke 19:28-44; John 12:12-19). In combining the details of all four accounts, it becomes clear that the triumphal entry was a significant event, not only to the Jews of that time, but to all Christians throughout history! In order to fully comprehend the reason for celebrating Palm Sunday, we must fully understand the significance of the triumphal entry. But one thing you will most likely immediately notice is that Jesus’ triumphal entry isn’t like the exaggerated scenes we see in comic books, movies, or myths.
Palm Sunday marked the beginning of what is often called “Passion Week,” which is the final seven days of Jesus’ earthly ministry. Palm Sunday was the “beginning of the end” of Jesus’ work on Earth, which would become the beginning of the church (the book of Acts) before the end time.
Palm Sunday began with Jesus and His disciples traveling over the Mount of Olives. Jesus sent two disciples ahead into the village of Bethphage to find and retrieve a colt of a donkey. They found the unbroken colt just as Jesus said they would (Luke 19:29–30). When the disciples untied the colt, the owners began to question them. They told the owners what Jesus told them to say: “The Lord needs it” (Luke 19:31–34). Some people believe that Jesus stole the donkey or that He was at least presumptuous in taking it; however, Jesus had visited this region before this moment (Luke 10:38-42; John 11:1), and it is more than likely that Jesus arranged for this moment ahead of time. In fact, it is written that later on that week Jesus arranged [ahead of time] for the upper room to be available in order to celebrate Passover with His disciples (Matthew 26:17-19; Mark 14:12-16; Luke 22:7-13). And Jesus’ abilities to foresee the future and plan ahead explains why the owners of the colt accepted the disciples’ answer — the owners had been expecting them, but they wanted to be certain the men were in fact Jesus’ disciples and not common thieves.
But why the colt of a donkey? Shouldn’t a great leader and anticipated heroic Savior arrive with a grand entrance like all superheroes? Shouldn’t there be lightning, fireworks, an orchestra, big flags or banners? Shouldn’t a great leader ride on a fancy prancing steed while wearing royal robes? Where was the pizazz? What was so majestic about a colt of donkey? The colt was young and small; in fact, the disciples brought along its mother to ride alongside it (Matthew 21:7). If you were a Roman soldier at that time and you saw a grown man riding on a young and small donkey, would it look like a grand entrance to you? If I had been a Roman soldier at that time, I probably would have pointed at Jesus and laughed while saying, “Look at that jackass! Hey! Sir! You’re making an ass of yourself! Get it? An ass is a donkey?”
What made this seemingly ordinary event a triumphal entry? The answer is found in the Old Testament — Jesus was fulfilling prophecy (Psalm 24:7-10; Isaiah 62:10-11; Zechariah 9:9; Psalm 118:25-26; 148:1)! Jesus was openly declaring to the people that He was their long-awaited King and Messiah. And because the Jewish people realized this significance, the ones who believed that Jesus was the promised Messiah (anointed or chosen one) were celebrating (John 12:18)! The Old Testament prophecy predicted a coming Deliverer, chosen by GOD to redeem Israel (Isaiah 42:1; 61:1–3). The Jews called the Deliverer the Messiah — this chosen One was going to be their ‘superhero’. The only reason why the scene of Jesus riding on a colt of a donkey was a triumphal entry was because the prophets said that the Deliverer would be riding on a colt of a donkey. This event was a big deal! However, for those who had been unaware of what prophecy foretold, they just saw a grown man riding on a tiny donkey. To a Roman soldier who had been accustomed to seeing intimidating warhorses, chariots, formation of phalanxes, and lines of legions, this event seemed trivial and wouldn’t have caused them any concern — it was just a dude on a donkey. And that’s why Jesus was able to do it without the Roman army intervening. It was genius! And again, all of this was planned ahead long before the moment ever happened. And to everyone who knew the significance of this event, it most certainly was a triumphal entry. And for this reason, the people rejoiced and celebrated!
Sadly, the majority of praise from the people were not because they recognized Jesus as the Savior of their souls but only as someone who would lead them in a revolt against Rome. The people believed that the Deliverer would set up an earthly kingdom at that time, not a heavenly Kingdom in the life that is to come. And though there were many people who did not believe in Jesus as the Savior of our souls, they nevertheless hoped that perhaps He would be the one to overthrow the empire. And this is why a mixture of people hailed Jesus as King with their many hosannas, recognizing Him as the leader of the resistance revolution. The word hosanna comes from a Hebrew word meaning “save now” or “save us, we pray.” The first word of Psalm 118:25 is howosiah-na, translated “Save us!” and the crowd’s use of this word at the triumphal entry was significant—especially as they waved palm branches (Psalm 118 was associated with the Feast of Tabernacles, which is a recurring event throughout the Bible as a way of reminding Israelites in every generation of their deliverance). By saying “hosanna” as Jesus passed through the gates of Jerusalem and referring to David and David’s kingdom, the Jews were acknowledging Jesus as their Messiah. The Jews had been waiting a long time for the fulfillment of the Davidic Covenant (2 Samuel 7; 1 Chronicles 17:11–14; 2 Chronicles 6:16), and their shouts of “hosanna in the highest” indicated the hope that their Messiah had finally come to set up GOD’s Kingdom there and immediately at that time (Luke 19:11).
As Jesus rode toward Jerusalem, a big crowd gathered around Him. The people rightly understood that Jesus was the Messiah; however, they did not understand that it wasn’t yet time to set up the Kingdom. Sadly, the salvation that the people of Jerusalem wanted that day was political, not spiritual (Acts 1:6). Though Jesus had tried to tell them that He came to be the ultimate sacrifice for our salvation (Luke 19:10–12), they neglected to realize that prophecy foretold that Jesus must be a suffering servant (Isaiah 53) before He becomes King of all kings.
Nevertheless, the crowd’s use of palm branches gives us the name “Palm Sunday” (John 12:13). And as the people celebrated on that first Palm Sunday, the allusion to a Messianic psalm drew resentment from the religious leaders (Luke 19:39).
But the celebration would be short-lived because the crowd’s commitment was shallow. In only a matter of a few days, the same people who hailed Jesus as the Deliverer would deliver Him up to be nailed on a cross. The same people who proclaimed Jesus to be Christ would soon call Him a criminal (Matthew 27:15–26; Mark 15:6-15; Luke 23:13-25; John 18:38-19:16). And because Jesus lowered Himself to such a humbling position (Philippians 2:5-8), the people did not recognize Him for who He truly is (Matthew 27:27-31,39-44). The greatest tragedy in the history of mankind is to see Jesus yet not recognize Him as the Creator, Provider, Sustainer, and Savior — the great I AM. Devotion based only on curiosity or popularity fades quickly. Jesus told us that our faith needs to have deep roots (Matthew 13:1-9,18-23).
At this very moment that I’m writing this article, Palm Sunday will be celebrated tomorrow. So, why should we celebrate on Palm Sunday? Because we’re celebrating the fact that the King of kings came to live amongst us and suffer with us (Hebrews 4:15)! But we’re also celebrating the fact that He will come again! And when the Lord comes again, it will most certainly be the triumphal entry one would expect from the King of kings. And on that Day, the entire world will see and know that the name of Jesus is above every other name (Acts 1:11; Matthew 24:27,30; Mark 13:26; Luke 2:26-27). Though we don’t know the day nor hour (Matthew 24:36; Mark 13:32), there is coming a time when every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus is Lord (Isaiah 45:23; Romans 14:11; Philippians 2:10–11). Unlike the first Palm Sunday when the celebration was superficial, the worship on the new Earth under the new heavens will be authentic, deep, and meaningful. There will come a Day when people will again be hailing Jesus as King while waiving palm branches (Revelation 7:9-10). Just as Jesus restored Peter after Peter denied Him (John 21:15-17), the future worship with palm branches will symbolize our restoration.
The first Palm Sunday was a celebration of GOD’s great mercy. This is what separates Christianity from all other religions: in all other religions, humans attempt to work their way to salvation, to a god or becoming a god; however, we (Christians) know that we are simply unable to save ourselves. And this is why GOD came to us! On Palm Sunday, we are celebrating that GOD loved us enough to get personally involved and mixed up in our mess so that He could absorb all our sins and redeem us. This is why we celebrate Palm Sunday! Forget about the donkey! Only a jackass fixates on a jackass. Jesus could have miraculously stood on a snail while ants pulled Him if He wanted to do so. The point here is that GOD-Almighty lowered Himself to be with us so that we can be with Him! Palm Sunday is a celebration of a triumphal entry! Jesus was born in a manger and announced Himself while riding on a little donkey, but none of that had anything to do with the real triumphal entry. The triumphal entry is Jesus existing in the world! And that’s what the people were supposed to be celebrating on that first Palm Sunday! The fact that Jesus is Immanuel — GOD with us (Isaiah 7:14; Matthew 1:23)! None of the superheroes in the comic books have ever made a more memorable or remarkable entrance than Jesus when He was miraculously born of a virgin by the Spirit (Luke 1:26-38)! The virgin birth is the true triumphal entry! Jesus in this world is the true triumphal entry! And if you think Thor’s entrance with lightning onto the battlefield was spectacular in the movie, Avengers: Infinity War, just wait until Christ comes again and opens the sky as a scroll would roll up while the stars fall from their places (Isaiah 34:4; 51:6; Matthew 24:29-31; Revelation 6:12-17)! On that Day and at that time, it will be the greatest entrance ever witnessed! And all throughout Heaven, it will be said, “Now that’s how you make an entrance!”
Happy Palm Sunday. As you celebrate the fact that Jesus entered our pain and suffering to be our Savior, know this:
“What can we say about all of this? If God is for us, who can be against us?” (Romans 8:31) -GW
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This is Part 20 of my Superhero series. In the introduction of this series, I provided the argument that heroes are real and then I distinguished between heroes and superheroes. I also provided a list of what defines a superhero. In Part 1, we learned that superheroes recognize the absolute standard of Good and realize that evil is a mere privation of what is good. In Part 2, we learned that superheroes recognize the absolute moral standard and realize that what is wrong can only be known by the standard of what is right. In Part 3, I defined and expounded upon love because all superheroes are full of love and are compelled to act out from love. In Part 4, I explained that superheroes desire to save people from all forms of danger and/or death and this desire comes from love. In Part 5, we learned that superheroes are solution seekers. In Part 6, we saw that solution seekers are willing to sacrifice if necessary. In Part 7, we saw that sacrificial love steps forward and offers service. In Part 8, we saw that superheroes go above and beyond the call of duty. In Part 9, we saw that superheroes never give up! In Part 10, we saw that superheroes don’t need recognition – they are motivated only by love! In Part 11, we saw that relationships matter and teamwork works! In Part 12, we saw that the struggle is real; however, Jesus is the real solution to our real problems. In Part 13, we saw that despite problems, superheroes are more than conquerors! In Part 14, we saw that true superheroes do not have identity crises – they know who they are even if others don’t! In Part 15, we saw that superheroes are always ready to fight evil with the belt of Truth. In Part 16, we saw that superheroes are always ready to resist evil by putting on the breastplate of righteousness. In Part 17, we saw that superheroes are always ready to walk with purpose. In Part 18, we saw that superheroes are always ready to deflect the enemy’s attacks by holding up the shield of faith. In Part 19, we saw that by wearing the helmet of salvation, superheroes always protect themselves from evil penetrating their minds with parasitic seeds of thought that contaminate, corrupt, and control.
In this message (Part 20), we will see that by using the Sword of the Spirit, superheroes can not only block the enemy’s attacks, but also drive the enemy away.
Continuing the examination of the whole armor of GOD, we are now instructed to take the sword of the Spirit (Ephesians 6:17). Roman soldiers had different types of swords at their disposal, but the word for “sword” here is taken from the Greek word machaira. This sword was approximately 19 inches long and both sides of the blade were sharp; it was a double-edged sword.
Consider the following comic book characters: Katana (DC), Deadpool, The Swordsman, and Black Knight (Marvel) – they all use swords as their weapon of choice to fight their opponents. Though the sword is not a popular weapon of choice for superheroes, those who choose to use it find the sword to be extremely useful. And like the aforementioned superheroes, ancient Roman soldiers also considered the sword to be extremely useful. Because the sword is capable of cutting through things or even taking life away from people, it is a symbol of power. The mere sight of the sword being drawn out from its sheath could strike fear into a person’s heart. The Roman Empire equipped all soldiers with this symbol of power and fear as a reminder of their dominance and control. And just as apostle Paul used the soldier’s armor to call attention to ways of defending ourselves, Paul also calls attention to the sword as an offensive weapon. Why? Because defense without offense is unsustainable stamina.
Just as bread/manna is actually the Word of GOD (Deuteronomy 8:3; Matthew 4:4; Luke 4:4; John 6:35,41,48,51), Ephesians 6:17 tells us that the sword is also the Word of GOD. The term “word” is taken from the Greek word rhema, which describes something that is spoken clearly; spoken vividly; spoken in undeniable language; or spoken in unmistakable, unquestionable, certain, and definite terms. Thus, this word is a special word of clarity that supernaturally comes into a believer’s mind. Some excellent examples of this can be seen in Matthew 10:19-20, John 14:26, and Acts 4:8-13. But we must understand that the rhema comes out from the logos. In other words, the Holy Spirit uses the written Word (that’s already within us) to extract and highlight a special Word of clarity for a specific time and for a specific purpose. If you don’t consume the written Word, then the Holy Spirit cannot highlight which specific Word to use at a specific time. Logos is prerequisite for rhema.
When Jesus told us that all who live by the sword will die by the sword (Matthew 26:52), Jesus was telling us that if we use violent, forceful, or underhanded methods against other people, we can expect those same methods to be used against us. Violence begets violence. Those who practice violence will come to violent ends. Essentially, the measure and method you use toward others will be the measure and method by which you also will be judged (Matthew 7:2; Mark 4:23-25).
If those who live by the sword also die by the sword, why did Paul call the Word of GOD the Sword? Are we supposed to strike people down like the Crusaders did? Are we supposed to beat people over the head with our Bibles and subdue them into submission until they claim to be Christians? No! Conquest and forced conversion only has the power to change minds, but never hearts. And even the change of mind will most likely be superficial and temporary. If threatened, someone might proclaim to be converted; however, that same person will most likely revert to earlier beliefs once the threat of dying is no longer a possible outcome.
“For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.” (Hebrews 4:12) -ESV
As is evident from Revelation 1:16; 2:12, the double-edged sword comes from the mouth of the Lord — it is the spoken Word! The phrase “two-edged” or “double-edged” is taken from the Greek word distomos, which is a compound of the word di, meaning two, and the word stomos, which is the Greek word for one’s mouth. Thus, this double-edged sword is a two-mouthed sword. How so? GOD’s Word cuts in two ways. As explained in Hebrews 4:12, GOD’s Word cuts through sin, pride, and disobedience when it enters us humans. However, because GOD’s Word boomerangs and never returns void (Isaiah 55:10-11), the Word moves through us and out of our mouths, which then becomes the other side of the blade. So, GOD’s Word goes out from His ‘mouth,’ cuts into us, and then boomerangs back and out from our mouths, which not only strikes down the enemy, but also supernaturally splices into other humans. However, it is important to understand that GOD’s Word is not a sword that cuts people down; rather, it is the Sword used to cut people free from their enslavement of sin. GOD’s Word cuts through calloused and hardened hearts, exposing lies, revealing Truth, causing conviction, and leads to repentance and alignment with the absolute moral standard of GOD’s will. While striking the enemy down, the Word also sets people free (John 8:32)!
Words Are Powerful:
How powerful are words? Let’s begin by realizing that GOD spoke the universe into existence (Genesis 1:3,6,9,11,14,20,24) – that’s how powerful words can be! When GOD created everything, He did it by starting with a formless void and then shaping it with His Word. Likewise, our lives are a formless void until GOD’s Word comes in to bring life and peace, beauty and order. The opposite is true as well: when GOD’s Word departs from our lives, they descend back into chaos.
But let’s also recognize the fact that words possess power even if they come from finite and fallible human beings. Words possess the power to affect emotions and even alter the direction in which a person will travel. Harmful words are like swords that cut people down (Psalm 55:21; 64:3; Proverbs 12:18). How many negative memories do you still have in your mind of hurtful words? Perhaps they came from strangers, friends, family, or even someone you loved most. I still carry with me a memory from my childhood when someone told me I should have been a girl because I had been crying. I also have a memory from my early adulthood when a relative of mine commented on how much time I ‘wasted’ on playing guitar and writing songs: “That will never amount to anything; dreams don’t pay bills.” But I also have memories of hearing the pretty girl I liked talk about what a perfect male looked like and me realizing I looked nothing like the male she described. I also have memories of hearing people tell me that either I wasn’t good enough or the work I presented wasn’t good enough. The old saying that “sticks and stones will break my bones but words will never hurt me” is a lie. As the old joke goes, those who don’t think that words hurt has never been hit in the head with a dictionary. Words can hurt; they do hurt. The power of the spoken word is so great that many people have ended up committing suicide due to their inability to block the hurtful words from penetrating their hearts and minds. In fact, at the age of 17, I even wrote out my own suicide letter because I had not been able to handle the heavy load of hurtful words I collected throughout the years.
“The words of the wicked kill; the speech of the upright saves.” (Proverbs 12:6) –MSG
“What you say can preserve life or destroy it; so you must accept the consequences of your words.” (Proverbs 18:21) –GNT
“I can guarantee that on judgment day people will have to give an account of every careless word they say. By your words you will be declared innocent, or by your words you will be declared guilty.” (Matthew 12:36-37) –GW
How powerful are words? Words penetrate both mind and heart. Words can cut people down, but words can also build people up. So, what words will we speak? If we are all to be judged by our words, then it would be wise to speak life by speaking GOD’s Word. In fact, Paul tells us that GOD’s Word is our Sword and offensive weapon in our spiritual battle against evil. Like a fencing match or real sword fight, GOD’s Word is the Sword that blocks the enemy’s sword from connecting with our hearts and minds and also helps us to drive the enemy away.
Jesus provided the example for us when He spent 40 days in the wilderness to be tempted. The devil knows Scripture. When the devil spit out sword thrusts of destructive words, Jesus responded by using the Sword in a counter attack to not only block the attack, but to also drive the enemy away. Just as Jesus said, “it is written” (Matthew 4:4,7,10) as His offensive attack against the enemy, that must also be our response. With the shield of faith in one hand and GOD’s Word as your Sword in your other hand, you can block the enemy’s attacks and launch your own attack to drive the enemy away. Ultimately, GOD’s Word enables us to fight the lies of the great Liar and be more than conquerors in Christ (Matthew 4:10; Romans 8:37; James 4:7).
In the 1999 movie, Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace, the scene where Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan battle against Darth Maul can provide a visual depiction of what our spiritual battle looks like against evil. Darth Maul kills Qui-Gon and then immediately turns his attention toward Obi-Wan. Imagine Darth Maul as a demon, Qui-Gon as an unprepared human who allowed evil to overtake him, and Obi-Wan as yourself. Obi-Wan screamed in horror at the sight of Qui-Gon falling. Likewise, we should all be screaming in horror at the knowledge that millions of people are succumbing to the devil and his demonic deeds. But we are not exempt (1Corinthians 10:11-13). The demons are going to turn their attention toward us. Obi-Wan was prepared to battle against evil and prevailed over Darth Maul. Are you prepared to effectively battle against the devil and his demons? If the adversary knows how to use the Sword, how much more should you know how to use it? Have you been trained up in the ways of the Lord? Do you know how to handle the Sword?
The Sword Is A Weapon:
Without GOD’s Word, we have no offensive weapon to drive the enemy away. In the 2010 movie, The Book Of Eli, the evil villain, Carnegie, spoke the truth when he reprimanded his henchmen, informing them that capturing the Bible was of utmost importance because, “It’s a weapon!” And because GOD’s Word is the best weapon against evil, Satan has done everything possible in this life to ban it, burn it, discredit it, and disregard it. But of course, we already know that GOD’s Word lasts forever (Isaiah 40:8; Matthew 24:35) and Satan knows this as well. And because the enemy knows that GOD’s Word is forever, he often uses the tactic of twisting the text in order to manipulate the masses. There are many buildings proclaiming to be Christian churches, but upon closer investigation, the pastors are devils in disguise. There are many wolves in sheep clothing. We shouldn’t be surprised by this – Jesus and His disciples told us it would be this way (Matthew 7:15; 10:16; Acts 20:28-31; Romans 16:17-18; 2Corinthians 11:13-15; 1Timothy 4:1-2; 6:3-5; 2Timothy 3:1-9; 4:2-5; 2Peter 2:1-3; 1John 4:1,5-6). GOD’s Word warns us about false teachers in the world. And this is why it is important for us to have the Sword. However, an available weapon won’t be of any use to a person who doesn’t know how to use it. In order to use GOD’s Word, you must know GOD’s Word. Do you know the Word of GOD? Is it in you?
The Word Saves:
“All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness,that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.”
(2Timothy 3:16-17) -ESV
“So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.” (Romans 10:17) -ESV
“Peter’s words pierced their hearts, and they said to him and to the other apostles, ‘Brothers, what should we do?’Peter replied, ‘Each of you must repent of your sins and turn to God, and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. Then you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.This promise is to you, to your children, and to those far away—all who have been called by the Lord our God.’Then Peter continued preaching for a long time, strongly urging all his listeners, ‘Save yourselves from this crooked generation!’Those who believed what Peter said were baptized and added to the church that day—about 3,000 in all.”
(Acts 2:37-41) -NLT
GOD’s Word is the Sword that cuts people free from the Counterfeiter’s cage of captivity. Those who have been released from the the devil’s dungeon (like myself) find themselves shouting praises of gratitude for the gift of GOD’s grace. Like Paul, I was once blind to the Truth, but now I see! Think about it! How did 3,000 people get saved in one day? Because Peter was so amazing? No. Peter finally allowed the Holy Spirit to guide him and he used the Sword of the Spirit. Thousands of people were saved due to Peter and the apostles slicing through Satan’s snares with the Sword of the Spirit – GOD’s Word! In fact, in Acts 4:4, it is written that 5,000 men had been saved due to the preaching of the Gospel – and that number didn’t even include women or children! Thousands of people can be saved if we would only allow the Holy Spirit to guide us as we share the Gospel with them! Do you know GOD’s Word? Are you sharing the Gospel like Jesus commanded us to do?
“Jesus came and told his disciples, ‘I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth.Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:18-20) -NLT
“Preach the word of God. Be prepared, whether the time is favorable or not. Patiently correct, rebuke, and encourage your people with good teaching.For a time is coming when people will no longer listen to sound and wholesome teaching. They will follow their own desires and will look for teachers who will tell them whatever their itching ears want to hear.They will reject the truth and chase after myths. But you should keep a clear mind in every situation. Don’t be afraid of suffering for the Lord. Work at telling others the Good News, and fully carry out the ministry God has given you.”
(2Timothy 4:2-5) -NLT
Are you able to defend the faith like the apostles had been able to do (2Corinthians 10:5; 1Peter 3:15)? If you don’t know GOD’s Word, then you are not trained to use the Sword. If you’re not able to use the Sword, the devil and his demons will use the Sword against you. How do you know if someone is preaching the true Word of GOD? What if someone uses GOD’s Word by twisting the text like Satan did? Without GOD’s Word, we cannot know Truth. If we do not know Truth, we will inevitably believe lies. If you have the Bible in your possession, then you have the Sword in your possession. If you do not know GOD’s Word, you do not know how to use the Sword. If, however, you do know GOD’s Word, then you know how to use the Sword. Understand this: Satan has targeted you and is coming after you. Are you prepared to not only block the enemy’s attacks but to also drive him away? If you don’t know how to use the Sword, you better start training before it’s too late. If you do know how to use the Sword, you need to start training others how to use it. It’s time to take up the Sword! It’s time to cut people free from bondage and to release them from the darkness of the devil’s dungeon! How do we do that? We reflect the Light and shine bright!
It is written in Psalm 119:130 that GOD’s Word gives light. Why? Because GOD is able to bring unbelievers out of the darkness and into the light. Jesus is the Light
(2Samuel 22:29; Job 12:22; Psalms 18:28; Isaiah 42:16; John 1:5; 8:12; 12:46; Acts 26:16-18; Ephesians 5:8; 1Peter 2:9-10; 1John 1:5-10). And Jesus commanded us to be the light in the darkness of this world (Matthew 5:14). So, we are the light? But John 9:5 states that Jesus is the Light. So, which is it? Both. The first half of John 9:5 is the key to understanding this. Jesus “passed the torch” to His followers. Jesus is the primary Light; we are the secondary light, a reflection of the Light. We are light-bearers. As the light of the sun is to the moon, so the light of the Son is to us. Jesus shines the Light, the light enters us, casts out darkness, and then we reflect that light to everyone around us.
However, examine Matthew 5:14 in context. Jesus spoke about salt and light. But right before He spoke about salt and light, He gave the Sermon on the Mount and spoke about the “Beatitudes,” which is a list of blessings. In this, there are nine individual promises that come together to form one: we will be blessed if we are in alignment with GOD’s will. Within the entirety of the Beatitudes, there is only one command: rejoice and be glad. It happens to be in the midst of the warnings about persecution. The command is immediately followed by a promise that we will have a great reward in Heaven. This means we need to begin with the end in mind and make decisions based on our eternal destination, not our temporal circumstances (Psalm 30:5). Like Paul, we need to keep our eyes on the prize if we are to obtain the Beatitudes’ promise of being blessed (1Corinthians 9:24; Philippians 3:14).
Jesus then goes on to say that we are the salt of the earth and the light of the world. We already discussed the light, but what about the salt? Salt is a necessity of life and has been used as a seasoning, a preservative, a disinfectant, and even used on icy conditions. Think: Are we preserving all the good qualities of life? Are we enhancing the ‘flavor’ of life? Are we a disinfectant, helping to eliminate the ‘germs’ of false doctrines? Are we being used for icy conditions? Are we thawing ice-cold hearts with our love? Are we helping people gain traction on slippery slopes? Our salty ‘flavor’ should cause people to salivate for salvation. Are we shining the Light and sharing the Gospel or are we hiding under a basket, thereby making it a casket? Hiding the Light under a basket is remaining silent when we should be speaking the Word. Superheroes don’t hide under baskets! Couch potato Christians are consumers in comfort-coffins.
Comfort Is The Coffin Of Christianity:
When Jesus told us not to hide our light under a basket (Matthew 5:14-16), He meant that we should not go into hiding and remain sheltered. In fact, Jesus commanded us to go out into the world, sharing the Gospel (Matthew 28:28-20). Do not be content with the knowledge of your own salvation!
“None of you should be looking out for your own interests, but for the interests of others.” (1Corinthians 10:24) –GNT
“Keep being compassionate to those who still have doubts,and snatch others out of the fire to save them. Be merciful over and over to them, but always couple your mercy with the fear of God. Be extremely careful to keep yourselves free from the pollutions of the flesh.”
(Jude 1:22-23) -TPT
If you are content with your own comfort and decide to build protective walls around yourself and refuse to leave that safety-box, it is more than likely that you will shelter yourself into non-existence. How can superheroes save anyone if they are hiding in a box? Evil wants you to build walls of comfort around yourself and for you to stay in your safety-box – the longer you stay inside your sheltered life, the more that shelter becomes your coffin. And if you stay inside your sheltered life, how could you have relationships with others and lead people to Christ? If you cut yourself off from the rest of the world, you cut yourself off from GOD’s plan for your life. If you cut yourself off from GOD’s will, you will be the substance without its source and you will slowly wither and die. Don’t shelter yourself; however, don’t live as the rest of this world lives. Rise above with love and speak out and reach out while inviting others in.
The safety-box of a sheltered life is a comfort-coffin. People try to justify their sheltered lives in many different ways, but here is the truth: those who are content with their own salvations and live sheltered lives don’t obey GOD’s laws nor live by His decrees. GOD has called us to love others – it’s not possible to reach out (with love) to those in the darkness if we are hiding in our safety-box (hiding our light).
Everyone’s coffin is different, yet they are all the same: the coffin is crafted to contour to your comfort. What does your coffin look like? It’s important to know what your coffin looks like – knowing what it looks like will help you stay out of it! A coffin can look like the car that someone loves to work on and invest in, it can look like the sports team someone spends all his/her time studying, it could look like the beer can someone can’t let go of long enough to use his/her hands for a better purpose, or it could even look like someone’s television set or his/her own apartment/house. Understand this: a coffin can even look like protection against evil. Although the coffin appears to be protection that keeps evil away from you, is the opposite – you need to realize that it is a trap, designed to keep you out of the world. Evil doesn’t want Christians out in the world. A comfort-coffin can even look like a church building.
I urge you – do not seek shelter! I urge you to step outside of your sheltered life; I urge you to get out of your comfort-coffin. Batman does not stay in the Batcave! If he did, he would never save anyone. Too many men are hiding in their man-caves. Do your hobbies consume all of your free time leaving you unable to help others? Examine your decisions and the motives behind your decisions. With the time you do have, do you use it to advance the Kingdom of GOD? Are you willing to leave your comfort-coffin in order to save others? Are you willing to go places you might not want to go and help people regardless of your opinion of them? Do your video games, beer pong, sports, etc. stand in the way of leading people to Christ? We are called to love others and to lead people to Christ. Let us go out and do exactly that! How? By knowing GOD’s Word and sharing the Good News! But how can you do that if you don’t know GOD’s Word? Is it in you?
The Word Is The Link To Your Sword:
Because rhema (a special word of clarity from the Holy Spirit) only comes from logos (the written Word of GOD), we must first know the Word of GOD in order to receive the Sword. Some people sit idly by in the darkness of their comfort-coffins, hoping to receive a Sword from GOD. But we will only receive the Sword by living in the light and reading our Bibles.
Consider the classic 1986 video game, Legend of Zelda. The main character, Link, can find and collect helpful items that enable him to live a victorious life. In the game, you are able to uncover hidden areas and discover game-changing items such as a map, compass, food, potion, shield, candle, bomb, key, boomerang, or even an upgraded sword.
To be a superhero in the name of the Savior, we must go on a quest much like Link does in the Legend of Zelda. Think about it. The only way Link will ever find and attain any game-changing items and reach the end of the game is by advancing forward, examining everything, and using his gifts while battling evil. To Link, game-changing items help him to be victorious and reach the end; likewise, superheroes end up as conquerors for Christ due to the life-changing Word. Link has a map and compass to help him find his way; likewise, we have GOD’s Word and moral compass to guide us in life. Link is sustained by food he finds; GOD’s Word is our food. Link has potion to give him life; GOD’s Word comes from the Lord, the Lord is Life and gives life. Link has a shield to protect him from evil’s attacks; we have the whole armor of GOD. Link has a candle to give him light to use in the darkness; the Lord is the Light and we are the light of the world. Link has a bomb he can use to blast his way through walls; we destroy strongholds with Truth-bombs. Link has a key to unlock new areas; by reading the Bible, the Holy Spirit will help us understand ‘secret passages’ and this will unlock new areas of life for us. Link has a boomerang that returns to him; we have GOD’s Word, which also acts as a boomerang because it never returns void. Link can get an upgraded sword; we receive a Sword as an upgrade after knowing the Word. According to zeldauniverse.net, Link can attain an upgraded Magical Sword by following these steps:
“Requirement: Min. 12 Heart Containers
From the starting screen, head right one screen, up five screens, left two screens, down one screen, left one screen up one screen, left two screens, down one screen, left two screens, and up one screen to find yourself in part of the graveyard.
Push the middle grave in the third column from the left to reveal a stairwell leading to the sword.”
Likewise, in order for superheroes (Christians) to receive a rhema (Sword), we must be willing to take the required action of the necessary steps. What are these necessary steps? Just as there was a minimum requirement of 12 heart containers for Link to receive the Magical Sword, there is a minimum requirement for us to receive the Sword: we must read the Bible. Just as there are directions to follow in order for Link to receive the Magical Sword, there are directions we must follow to receive the Sword: read the Bible, study the Bible, meditate on what is written, and trust the Holy Spirit to present you with the Sword at the right time. Link received the Magical Sword only after the secret passage was revealed. Likewise, the special Sword we receive from the Holy Spirit is like a secret passage being revealed. But if we have not read GOD’s Word, then the Holy Spirit cannot help us bring it to mind at the right time for a specific purpose. Link had to put forth effort in order to attain game-changing items. Likewise, we must also put forth effort in order for the life-changing Sword. All we need to do is know the Word. Have you consumed the Word? By consuming the Word you can receive the Sword. Is it in you?
If you would rather read this message, the words are provided below…
This is Part 17 of my Superhero series. In the introduction of this series, I provided the argument that heroes are real and then I distinguished between heroes and superheroes. I also provided a list of what defines a superhero. In Part 1, we learned that superheroes recognize the absolute standard of Good and realize that evil is a mere privation of what is good. In Part 2, we learned that superheroes recognize the absolute moral standard and realize that what is wrong can only be known by the standard of what is right. In Part 3, I defined and expounded upon love because all superheroes are full of love and are compelled to act out from love. In Part 4, I explained that superheroes desire to save people from all forms of danger and/or death and this desire comes from love. In Part 5, we learned that superheroes are solution seekers. In Part 6, we saw that solution seekers are willing to sacrifice if necessary. In Part 7, we saw that sacrificial love steps forward and offers service. In Part 8, we saw that superheroes go above and beyond the call of duty. In Part 9, we saw that superheroes never give up! In Part 10, we saw that superheroes don’t need recognition – they are motivated only by love! In Part 11, we saw that relationships matter and teamwork works! In Part 12, we saw that the struggle is real; however, Jesus is the real solution to our real problems. In Part 13, we saw that despite problems, superheroes are more than conquerors! In Part 14, we saw that true superheroes do not have identity crises – they know who they are even if others don’t! In Part 15, we saw that superheroes are always ready to fight evil with the belt of Truth. In Part 16, we saw that superheroes are always ready to resist evil by putting on the breastplate of righteousness.
In this message (Part 17), we will see that superheroes are always ready to walk with purpose.
Continuing the examination of the whole armor of GOD, we are now instructed to put on the shoes of readiness (Ephesians 6:15).
Marvel’s superhero, Daredevil, is a great example of having feet of readiness. In his true civilian identity, Matthew Michael Murdock is a skilled and respected New York attorney, detective, tracker, and interrogation expert, as well as being an expert marksman. But the amazing thing about this superhero is that he is blind! However, Daredevil – though he is blind – is always alert and ready to respond appropriately to any situation and is prepared to dodge danger and evade evil. But not only is Daredevil ready to avoid the attacks of his adversaries, he is also ready to effectively combat evil and accomplish good.
Many people might believe Daredevil to be far-fetched fairytale nonsense, but there are numerous accounts of people being amazing despite being blind – click on the examples to see their inspirational stories:
So, what are the shoes of readiness? What purpose did shoes serve for a Roman soldier? What purpose do these spiritual shoes serve for us? The shoes were primarily composed of two parts: the greave and the shoe itself. The greave was a fitted piece of bronze or brass that began at the top of the knee and extended down past the lower leg, finally resting on the upper portion of the foot. The shoes were equipped with spikes on the bottom. How does this apply to our lives as superheroes for the Savior? Well, imagine a solider being completely covered with protective armor yet having bare and exposed feet. Just one rock, glass shard, or nail could bring a soldier down to his knees, trip him up and cause him to be overcome in battle. Because the feet carry the soldier and direct him to the battle and through the battle, protection for the feet are necessary.
For example, in Greek mythology, the most enduring story of the death of Achilles describes how one single arrow shot from a man named Paris landed in the one spot Achilles happened to be vulnerable – his heel. The one area of exposed weakness was enough to bring the great warrior down in defeat. Another example can be found in the comedic 1990 movie, Home Alone. In a hilarious scene of boobytraps and mishaps, the criminal, Marv, steps on a nail with his bare foot and then falls down stairs:
“Therefore be careful how you walk, not as unwise men but as wise, making the most of your time, because the days are evil.” (Ephesians 5:15-16) -NASB
May you also understand that it’s not necessary to have physical feet in order to put on the shoes of readiness. This is a spiritual war and the spiritual armor still applies to those who don’t have physical legs. There have been many people who have either lost their legs or were born without legs yet they accomplished good deeds in life. Consider the following examples:
The spikes on the bottom of the Roman soldier’s shoes helped him to have firm footing and prevent him from being pushed back or slip and fall down. Scripture tells us that we are to stand in the confidence of knowing that we have on the shoes of readiness given by the gospel of peace. The word “peace” is taken from the Greek word eirene, an old word that conveys the idea of a peace that prevails or a conquering peace. When you have strapped on that peace and you have peace on the bottom of your feet, you are immovable. This peace helps us stand our ground and hold you in place when the enemy tries to drive you back. The person who has the footing in peace is like a tree with deep roots that won’t get knocked down during a storm. In Ephesians 6:14, 1Corinthians 16:13, and 2Corinthians 1:24, for example, we are instructed to “stand.” It’s interesting to note that the majority of verses in the New Testament that have to do with standing also have to do with faith. It’s time to take a stand. Stand your ground! Don’t allow the enemy to push you back!
Dodging Danger; Evading Evil:
Due to fallen humanity’s inclination toward evil and war, it is estimated that there are about 110 million land mines throughout the world that are still in the ground right now. That’s what we created! Think: What are we creating? An estimated equal amount of mines are in stockpiles waiting to be used or destroyed. If de-mining efforts remain at about the same rate as they are now, and no new mines are planted, it is estimated to take over 1,000 years to get rid of all the world’s active land mines. Research declares that about every 20 seconds, someone in the world gets injured or dies due to mines. And that’s merely the danger of human physical warfare. Now imagine how many ‘mines’ have been strategically placed in the spiritual war that is waging all around us.
Even after war is over, the remnants of war remains; wounds still must heal – both physically and mentally. The full extent of war’s destruction is evident in the aftermath through the process of rebuilding. The spiritual war was won when Christ sacrificed Himself on the cross and then rose again on the third day; however, there are still traps for those who refuse GOD’s gift of grace and mercy. There are traps for those of us who have accepted GOD’s gift of grace! Even though the enemy has been defeated, the spiritual mines still remain active. Until Christ returns and takes us to the New Earth under the New Heavens (Isaiah 65:17-25; 2Peter 3:13; Revelation 21-22), this current life is still Operation Relentless Rescue.
Observe. Think! Analyze. Be aware. Do you truly believe that the temptations which come your way are merely coincidental? Is it possible that Satan knows your selfish desires? Do they seem too subtle to be certain? The physical enemy plants physical mines where there is a likelihood for people to travel; likewise, spiritual mines are also planted in places where people frequently travel through life.
Like the birds in the 2003 movie, Finding Nemo, many people scream, “Mine! Mine! Mine!” Many people are so accustomed to saying, “mine” for selfish reasons that when the word is heard, they believe the word to be a proclamation of possession. Like many people, I am also screaming, “Mine!”; however, I am screaming for your sake, not mine. Consider this message of mine to be yet another warning. This is just one of many warnings I will preach.
Our culture that is contaminated by corruption of the Counterfeiter has planted millions of mines within our advertisement and entertainment industries (see my article, “Reflection and Direction“). Be careful: these mines look like your desires. All mines are strategically placed around sex, money, title/position, stimulants, and material possessions. Why do you think this would be so? Well, Jesus told us the answer:
“Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.” (Matthew 26:41) -ESV
Those who work in the entertainment and advertisement industries know that the flesh is weak – that’s why they promote their products in the appealing ways that they do! We must put on the shoes of readiness and watch our steps or we will find that we won’t even have a leg to stand on. We better watch our steps or we will lose our way. If we’re not careful, we’ll not only lose a limb or life, but we can also lose our purpose and then our eternal joy in Heaven will instead be eternal sorrow and anguish in Hell. Consider the wisdom of what is written:
“For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul? Or what shall a man give in return for his soul?” (Matthew 16:26) -ESV
“There is a way which seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death.” (Proverbs 14:12) -NASB
It may be tempting to allow the anger within to explode outward, but do not sin in your anger (Genesis 4:5-7; Ephesians 4:26-27). #Mine 💣💥
It may be tempting to puff up with pride, but don’t walk into anger, step into that argument, and allow poisonous words to spill out from your mouth (Ephesians 4:29-31). #Mine 💣💥
It may be tempting to see if the grass is greener on the other side, but don’t walk over boundaries and step into another person’s romantic relationship (Exodus 20:17; Deuteronomy 5:21). #Mine 💣💥
It may be tempting to get credit and receive praise for something you didn’t do, but don’t walk into dishonesty and dishonor by stepping into another person’s place of honor (Proverbs 3:27; Romans 12:10; Philippians 2:3). #Mine 💣💥
It may be tempting to immerse yourself in the entrancement of technology, but don’t walk into a dead end by stepping into isolation (Genesis 2:18; Ecclesiastes 4:9-12; Proverbs 18:1; 1Corinthians 12:14). #Mine 💣💥
It may be tempting to exchange personal information for the sake of friendship, but don’t walk down Disrespectful Drive or Slander Street by stepping into the realm of gossip (Exodus 23:1; Leviticus 19:16; Proverbs 11:12-13; 20:19; James 4:11). #Mine 💣💥
It may be tempting to compromise an area of Truth to experience ‘fun’ or receive pleasure, but do not walk into disobedience to seek temporary desires that never fulfill. Never make a permanent decision based on a temporary emotion. Don’t trade away GOD’s lifelong gift to satisfy a short-term appetite (Genesis 25:29-34; Hebrews 12:16-17; 2Samuel 11-13). #Mine 💣💥
It may be tempting to escape suffering and sorrow, but do not walk down Evil Lane and step into the entrapment of drugs. Don’t walk into that store and step your way into becoming a drunken fool. #Mine 💣💥
It may be tempting to escape the pain in life by ending your life, but do not walk into the possibility of Hell by stepping your way into suicide. #Mine 💣💥
“Therefore let anyone who thinks that he stands take heed lest he fall.No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.”
(1Corinthians 10:12-13) -ESV
Advance Forward:
The spikes on the bottom of the shoes isn’t only for standing your ground and refusing to be pushed back, it’s also for traction in order to gain ground and advance forward. Are you taking ground or losing ground? In Joshua 1:3, GOD told Joshua that he would possess all the land he walked on. GOD freely gave the children of Israel the Promised Land; however, in order for them to possess that land and enjoy it, they had to advance forward while overcoming opposition. It is written in Romans 16:20 that “The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet.” The word “crush” is taken from the Greek word suntribo, and it was historically used to denote the act of smashing and utterly crushing grapes into wine. But it was also used to denote the act of snapping, breaking, and crushing bones. Because of Jesus, Satan is under our feet. Alone, we are no match for Satan. But because we have partnership with the Lord, we can overcome. Jesus completely destroyed Satan’s power over you through His sacrificial death and resurrection. Standing in faith is a defensive move and a refusal to go back; walking with the Lord is an offensive move and a decision to advance forward. And because we walk in the confidence and peace of knowing this, it’s time to advance forward and walk with purpose.
Walking With Purpose:
It is good to be able to dodge danger and evade evil, but that does not mean that we should avoid the adversary or stay away from sinners. Superheroes do not run away from problems; rather, they embrace their callings and seek solutions.
“And by this we know that we have come to know him, if we keep his commandments.Whoever says ‘I know him’ but does not keep his commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him,but whoever keeps his word, in him truly the love of God is perfected. By this we may know that we are in him:whoever says he abides in him ought to walk in the same way in which he walked.” (1John 2:3-6) -ESV
“Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them.And when they saw him they worshiped him, but some doubted.And Jesus came and said to them, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.’ ”
(Matthew 28:16-20) -ESV
Wherever Jesus had directed the disciples to go, they went there. The shoes of readiness help us to dodge danger and evade evil; however, the shoes of readiness also guide us to walk with purpose. Our purpose for walking by faith is to share the Gospel (good news). If your feet don’t take you out of your comfort zone and into the battlefield, then you’re not wearing the shoes of readiness. The Couch Potato Christians might as well wear ankle monitors and consider themselves prisoners of their own probations.
When Saul of Tarsus became Paul, Jesus helped him to realize that he had been blind to the Truth all along (Acts 9:3-19). From this, we can learn that without Jesus, we are all dead in our own sins (Ephesians 2:1-3). The Lord is the Light (John 8:12) and the only reason we have sight (Isaiah 42:16; Ephesians 2:4-9). Without Jesus to give us vision, we would all be blind darkness dwellers. Without GOD as the Light that guides our steps (Psalm 119:105), we would all be the blind leading the blind (Matthew 15:14; Luke 6:39). But because Jesus called us out of the darkness and into the Light (Colossians 1:13), we became the light-bearers (John 9:5; Matthew 5:14-16; Ephesians 5:8; 1Thessalonians 5:5; 1Peter 2:9) who act as travel guides. Just as tourists typically follow tour guides until they reach their destinations, the “lost” only follow Christians until they come to Jesus. People ultimately follow Christ, not Christians. But as light-bearing guides, we must put on the shoes of readiness if we are to lead those in the dark to the Light. Don’t walk in the darkness without your shoes on; don’t go into the battlefield with bare feet. Are your shoes on? Are you ready?
“How then will they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in him of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone preaching?And how are they to preach unless they are sent? As it is written, ‘How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news!’ ”
(Romans 10:14-15; see also Isaiah 52:7) -ESV
Prayer:
GOD, thank You for the shoes of readiness You gave to us. Please open our eyes and help us to see what You truly want us to see. Expose the lies and reveal the Truth! Please open our ears and help us to hear what You truly want us to hear. Help us to recognize the ‘mines’ for what they truly are. Help us to walk the straight and narrow path of righteousness (Proverbs 4:25-27; Isaiah 30:21; Deuteronomy 5:32-33; Matthew 7:13-14) and keep us from deviating from the path of Truth. And when we encounter the ‘mines,’ please help us recognize the path of escape that you promised to provide (1Corinthians 10:13). Please lead righteous people our way and surround us with good and righteous influences who will keep us accountable and inspire us to rise to new and higher levels in our lives of faith. Please use us to guide others away from the destructive ‘mines’ of the adversary’s mind. Please help us to guide the lost to the One who can save. I humbly recognize that if You had not given me vision, I would still be blind. Help me lead others to You so that You may heal them of their blindness, open their eyes and help them to see — truly see! Help me to be a bright light in the darkness of this world. Help me to provide my light to those without sight so they may find their way Home. Help me to give light to those without light so they can also go shine their lights and help others acquire light. A candle was designed to provide light. A candle can either refuse to be lit and remain a mere candle all its inactive days or it can accept the fire of the Holy Spirit and provide light as it was designed to do! I understand that as I provide light, my life will dwindle down to nothing, but in doing so I will truly live (John 11:25-26). And truly, I’d rather live than merely exist. It is better to sink while sailing for the Savior than to forever float in Hinder Harbor, tied to the devil’s dock.
GOD, I am only another mere candle creation, but please help me light as many other candles as possible before my time ends. Please guide our steps to be in step with Your perfect will. Amen.
If you would rather read this message, the words are provided below…
This is Part 8 of my Superhero series. In the introduction of this series, I provided the argument that heroes are real and then I distinguished between heroes and superheroes. I also provided a list of what defines a superhero. In Part 1, we learned that superheroes recognize the absolute standard of Good and realize that evil is a mere privation of what is good. In Part 2, we learned that superheroes recognize the absolute moral standard and realize that what is wrong can only be known by the standard of what is right. In Part 3, I defined and expounded upon love because all superheroes are full of love and are compelled to act out from love. In Part 4, I explained that superheroes desire to save people from all forms of danger and/or death and this desire comes from love. In Part 5, we learned that superheroes are solution seekers. In Part 6, we saw that solution seekers are willing to sacrifice if necessary. In Part 7, we saw that sacrificial love steps forward and offers service.
In this message (Part 8), we will see that superheroes go above and beyond the call of duty.
Co-founder of Google, Larry Page, is reported to have advised people to “always deliver more than expected.” This is a popular quote used for those working in the business realm. The concept is simple: if you want to get ahead and rise to the top, then you need to be better than everyone else by doing more than everyone else. Only by exceeding expectations will one be noticed by the consumer. This advice – though close to what Jesus taught, is not at all how Jesus intended for us to incorporate the extra-mile concept into our lives.
“If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles.” (Matthew 5:41) -ESV
That would certainly be delivering more than expected, wouldn’t it? The popular notion of going the extra mile is not about our works. We are not to do more than expected in order to rise to the top or get ahead of other people. In fact, Jesus told us plainly that “whoever wants to be first must take last place and be the servant of everyone else” (Mark 9:35).
But if we’re not to go above and beyond in order to rise above and go beyond the majority of the population, why are we called to go the extra mile? What exactly does that mean?
Many people equate going the extra mile with going above and beyond what is expected of us. A recent event caught the attention of news stations in West Virginia: an 8-year-old girl came up with a program to collect items and stuff backpacks for the homeless. Now, even if Sophie were to only do this one time in her life, she could be considered a hero for those she helped. But if Sophie decides to dedicate her entire life to helping the homeless, she will be a superhero. However, contrary to what most people tend to believe, this is not to be considered going the extra mile or going above and beyond expectations. In fact, what Sophie has done is only the bare minimum as commanded by Christ:
” ‘Teacher, which is the most important commandment in the law of Moses?’ Jesus replied, ‘You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.This is the first and greatest commandment.A second is equally important: “Love your neighbor as yourself.”The entire law and all the demands of the prophets are based on these two commandments.’ ”
(Matthew 22:36-40) -NLT
Ponder on this: How sad is it that news stations and common citizens alike will explode like fireworks in the sky in celebration of the bare minimum? Now, I’m not saying that what Sophie did shouldn’t receive its due praise – she’s beautiful and flippin’ amazing for what she is doing. She’s an 8-year-old child! But allow that fact to sink in and settle within your spirit. She’s an 8-year-old child! The fact that a child is doing more than most adults should shake us, wake us up, bring us to repentance, and call us to action!
“About that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, ‘Who is greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven?’ Jesus called a little child to him and put the child among them.Then he said, ‘I tell you the truth, unless you turn from your sins and become like little children, you will never get into the Kingdom of Heaven.So anyone who becomes as humble as this little child is the greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven.And anyone who welcomes a little child like this on my behalf is welcoming me.But if you cause one of these little ones who trusts in me to fall into sin, it would be better for you to have a large millstone tied around your neck and be drowned in the depths of the sea.’ ”
(Matthew 18:1-6) -NLT
Though good deeds like the ones seen in Sophie’s story are good, her story should call attention to the fact that the bare minimum is done so infrequently that it gets highlighted as an unusual occurrence when it does happen. This simply should not be! Acts of love – as seen in Sophie’s story – should be a regular occurrence! The bare minimum love should be an everyday affair! These bare minimum acts of love should occur so frequently that a news story such as the one seen with Sophie should not catch people off guard in order to warm their hearts. Think of the absurdity of hearts becoming warmed over the mere pilot light of the bare minimum! Our hearts should be a fiery furnace where above-and-beyond love is forged in faith, hardened only in holiness, and strengthened by our Savior!
Jesus told us that we need to be like children; however, in 1Corinthians 13:11, Paul says, “When I was a child, I spoke and thought and reasoned as a child. But when I grew up, I put away childish things.” So, did Paul contradict Jesus by telling everyone not to be like children? No. Critical examination reveals the deep discovery that those two Scriptures are complementary, not contradictory. Jesus told us to possess the good qualities of children: we are to be humble, loving, helpful, giving, joyful, inviting others into joy, making good use of our creativity, living by faith and trusting in the Father, etc. Paul was instructing us to be mature in our understanding and to stay in alignment with living a life of sacrificial love. Thus, Jesus and Paul both instruct us to do the same things even though they approached the same topic from opposite ends.
The ‘extra mile’ challenge of Matthew 5:41 is for us to show love instead of seeking revenge. The context surrounding this specific verse is in regards to retaliation. And in the very next section, Jesus exhorts us to love our enemies.
We must remember that Jesus and the disciples lived in a time period under the Roman Empire. One of the Roman Empire’s marvels of their conquest was a vast system of highways that they had built for travel to and from their conquered territories. There were more than 50,000 miles of these Roman roads throughout the Empire. At each single mile was a stone marker. These mile markers pointed directions, determined the distance to the next town as well as to Rome itself, and warned of dangers that might lie ahead. Hence the common phrase “All roads lead to Rome.” Back in Jesus’ day, Roman soldiers could lawfully force able-bodied civilians to carry their gear (which could weigh upwards of 100 pounds) for one mile. It was unfair, inconvenient, took them away from working for their own livelihood, and it was often backbreaking and even infuriating because it was oppressive. Jesus exhorted His followers to respond in a new and unexpected way, one that would reflect the generous love of GOD’s Kingdom instead of unlawful resistance or revenge (Matthew 5:39). This teaching was definitely unexpected and seemed absolutely absurd. The Jews had expected their Messiah to be a warrior who would overthrow the Roman Empire and release them from their oppression. And yet Jesus – the Messiah – told everyone to not only carry the Roman solider’s gear for a mile as the Roman law commanded of them, but to willingly carry it a second mile!
The first mile is the carrying of another’s burden. It is obligation, duty, and the law. Carrying a soldier’s heavy gear a second mile might seem outrageous, but that’s often what it takes to turn the tables lovingly on our so-called enemies. This is the common theme found all throughout the Bible: the Great Reversal! It’s a powerful and hopeful way to respond, one that reflects the new life of GOD’s coming Kingdom. And it’s one of countless ways to emulate the gracious love of our “Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:45,48).
In those ancient days, Jews were strict and set on GOD’s Law. There were 613 laws and all of them were to be kept at all cost! It was as if they demanded that religion must be a ritual and they should prefer tradition over Truth! In Matthew 12, the religious Pharisees wanted to condemn Jesus and His disciples for helping and healing people on the Sabbath! In the Gospel of Luke, the synagogue leader condemned Jesus for healing a woman on the Sabbath, but Jesus exposed the lie from the religious hypocrisy and revealed the truth that the Law is only the bare minimum:
“But the Lord replied, ‘You hypocrites! Each of you works on the Sabbath day! Don’t you untie your ox or your donkey from its stall on the Sabbath and lead it out for water?This dear woman, a daughter of Abraham, has been held in bondage by Satan for eighteen years. Isn’t it right that she be released, even on the Sabbath?’This shamed his enemies, but all the people rejoiced at the wonderful things he did.”
(Luke 13:15-17) -NLT
Jesus took the Ten Commandments and instructed us to do more than expected. In fact, Jesus taught that GOD’s commands are the bare minimum. As superheroes, we are not called to be a blue cord believer or a bare minimum bum.
The Jews of Christ’s day abused the bare minimum law in order to extract every last penny from another, and in the majority of cases, there was no mercy shown. Human nature – being what it was then and still is now – the Jews insisted that the one who caused the problem receive every bit of punishment coming to him. What GOD designed as a system of justice with mercy (Leviticus 19:18; Proverbs 24:28-29; 25:21-22; Lamentations 3:30-31) had been distorted over the years into a license for revenge. And it was this misapplication of the Law that Jesus attacked. Jesus shined the light of Truth onto the heart of the matter: disciples are to accurately reflect the love of GOD by going above and beyond the call of duty. The call of duty is the bare minimum, but Jesus expects us to go the extra mile.
Now, what’s the difference between revenge and avenge? Revenge is to take it upon oneself to exact punishment upon an offender or perceived offender as seen in Exodus 21:24; Leviticus 24:20; Deuteronomy 19:21. There’s no mercy in revenge. An avenger, however, seeks vengeance for another. Essentially, an avenger is the one who seeks justice for the victim. Understand this: Marvel has made some great movies with the Avengers; superhero movies are entertaining and inspiring; however, GOD declares that vengeance belongs to Him and He is the One who will avenge us; GOD is the Avenger (Deuteronomy 32:35; Matthew 26:52; Romans 12:17-19). Our duty is to love unconditionally, expose lies, reveal Truth, but to do so respectfully with care and concern (Ephesians 4:15; 1Peter 3:14-17).
In regards to resisting retaliation and GOD being the Avenger, Jesus is not speaking of dangerous situations, like encountering a person in a dark alley who has intent to rape or kill you; we have the right to preserve purity and life. Jesus is referring to circumstances of daily life that are insulting, bothersome, or even mildly injurious, but not life-threatening. Jesus desires that, rather than retaliating and acting with the same attitude of hatred as the aggressor, we should recall our calling and suppress the urge to seek revenge. Just as evil cannot cast out evil (Matthew 12:25-28), we simply cannot fight evil with evil. In fact, Paul instructs us not to repay evil for evil, reiterating what Jesus taught (Romans 12:17). But Paul goes even further than merely instructing us not to do evil:
“My friends, don’t try to get even. Leave room for God to show his anger. It is written, ‘I am the One who judges people. I will pay them back,’—(Deuteronomy 32:35) — says the Lord. Do just the opposite. Scripture says, ‘If your enemies are hungry, give them food to eat. If they are thirsty, give them something to drink. By doing those things, you will pile up burning coals on their heads.’ —(Proverbs 25:21-22) — Don’t let evil overcome you. Overcome evil by doing good.” (Romans 12:19-21) –NIRV
An example of above-and-beyond or extra-mile love is the true story of Jim Elliot and the other martyred missionaries. In 1956, five Americans traveled to the jungles of Ecuador to bring the Gospel of Christ to the remote Waorani Indians. Due to a grave misunderstanding, the natives killed the missionaries out of fear. Jim’s wife, Elisabeth, after being notified of her husband’s death, went the extra mile and took her 3-year old daughter and moved into the Waorani village to minister to her husband’s killers. She was also accompanied by the sister of one of the murdered missionaries. The team of women served the natives for two years. The tribe was eventually won over by the loving ministry, and they gradually accepted the Gospel of Jesus Christ. You can read the entire true story from the book, “Through Gates of Splendor” written by Elisabeth Elliot. Not only does this true story exemplify above-and-beyond or extra-mile love, but it also reveals that women are more than capable of being superheroes! In fact, the Bible reveals that GOD loves females and uses females to do good work in this world.
Do you believe loving is easy? The truth is that if loving someone is easy, then it’s not extra-mile love:
“If you only love the lovable, do you expect a pat on the back? Run-of-the-mill sinners do that. If you only help those who help you, do you expect a medal? Garden-variety sinners do that. If you only give for what you hope to get out of it, do you think that’s charity? The stingiest of pawnbrokers does that.” (Luke 6:32-34) -MSG
Another great example of above-and-beyond or extra-mile love can be seen in Acts 16:16-40. Paul and Silas got beaten and thrown into jail. The jailer was ordered not to allow Paul and Silas to escape. However, a massive earthquake created openings and provided Paul and Silas with the way out. The jailer, believing that he would be held responsible for Paul and Silas’ escape pulled out his sword with intentions of killing himself; however, Paul stopped the jailer from committing suicide and showed him that he and Silas were still there. Paul and Silas were provided the easy way out. But understand this: the easy way out usually doesn’t help others. Even though Paul and Silas had been beaten and thrown into jail, they went the extra mile for the person in charge of their imprisonment. This above-and-beyond love caused the jailer and his entire household to accept Jesus as Lord and Savior and thus get saved. Above-and-beyond love is how we overcome evil with good!
Above-and-beyond or extra-mile love requires sacrifice, but it also requires faith in GOD that He will act in His timing to set up the Great Reversal so that the so-called enemies will be saved. Take for example Joseph from the Old Testament: Joseph had been sold into slavery by his own brothers, but he went the extra mile to not only show mercy to his brothers later on, but to use his situation of suffering to help save the lives of many Egyptians and other surrounding nations.
“But Joseph replied, ‘Don’t be afraid of me. Am I God, that I can punish you?You intended to harm me, but God intended it all for good. He brought me to this position so I could save the lives of many people.No, don’t be afraid. I will continue to take care of you and your children.’ So he reassured them by speaking kindly to them.” (Genesis 50:19-21) -NLT
We should be willing to take a loss if it adds to GOD’s glory. Where our treasure is, our heart is there also. But our treasure should be in Heaven (Matthew 6:19-21; Luke 12:34). You will care about whatever you deem to be valuable. That which you consider to be valuable will motivate your actions and guide you. Your heart is at the center of all you do and who you are. This is about loyalty and being single-focused. If you’re focused on GOD’s will, your treasure will be in Heaven; if your treasure is in Heaven, then Christ is your compass. Is your heart steering you to sin or salvation? Are you seeking treasure promised by Satan, society, or the Savior? Are you serving self or the Savior? Where is your treasure? By going above and beyond the call of duty, we accurately reflect the love of GOD.
Truly, no one has ever gone so above and beyond as the One who willingly sacrificed Himself on our behalf in order to save us from ourselves. Jesus knew rejection yet He willingly carried our burdens anyway. He was rejected, mocked, spat upon, beaten, lacerated, and then crucified. But Jesus carried our sins so that we could be blameless in His presence. Going the extra mile might require martyrdom, but love demands sacrifice if that’s the only solution (John 15:13).
The first mile is the mandated mile; the second is a miracle mile. But how can one get to the second miracle mile unless that person is first obedient in the first mile? The second mile is only made possible by being obedient to the first mile. I wonder if that Roman soldier at the cross who said, “Truly this was the Son of God,” might have had such an earlier experience with an extra-mile follower of Christ or if he simply recognized the above-and-beyond love of Jesus (Matthew 27:54).
How many people can come to know the love of Christ by encountering superheroes of faith who go the extra mile? In what ways can you deliver more than expected, to go the second mile, the Miracle Mile, with someone else today?
A secret to going the extra mile is found in the words of our Lord and Savior as He was being crucified:
“Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” (Luke 23:34) -ESV
Also, who said you had to stop at the second mile? Why not travel the third, fourth, fifth, or beyond? Just as Jesus didn’t tell us we have to forgive exactly 490 times (Matthew 18:21-22), we do not have to travel exactly two miles and then stop. The point is that we should not be keeping the score of the sins of others and reach an end of our ability to love simply because we want to do the bare minimum.
“But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to his cross and crucified them there.Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Spirit’s leading in every part of our lives.”
(Galatians 5:22-25) -NLT
The first mile is required due to the Law – the absolute standard and bare minimum! The second mile is grace – this is the mile where miracles become possible! So many people complain about not seeing miracles in their lives yet they refuse to walk the first required mile of the bare minimum of obedience, let alone the second mile. Is it any wonder why they don’t see any miracles? The first mile of obedience must be walked out if we are ever to begin the extra miles, which are the miracle miles. The second mile is grace, but the third and beyond is exactly that – above and beyond! Just as we are supposed to give with a cheerful heart and not out of compulsion (2Corinthians 9:7), we are to also willingly serve people with a cheerful heart! Let love lead! And if by love you feel compelled to travel an extra mile or above and beyond, then walk in obedience! Be the superhero Christ called you to be!
Christian church history did not begin at the birth of Jesus [like many assume]; rather, it started “in the beginning” (Genesis 1:1). Christianity is the continuity and completion of Judaism. To see how this is so, read my other article, “Is Judaism and Christianity Complementary or Contradictory?”
In AD 30, Jesus was crucified, He resurrected, and then ascended into Heaven after revealing Himself to multiple people. Also in that same year was the Holy Spirit’s arrival at Pentecost. In 33, Stephen was the first Christian martyr. Saul of Tarsus had been one of the people responsible for the death of Stephen. In that same year of 33, Saul encountered Jesus, became a Christian, and was from that point on known as Paul. Around 43, Antioch became the center of Christian activity. In 45, Barnabas brought Paul to Antioch. In 47-48, Paul and Barnabas visited Galatia during their first missionary journey. In 49, the Jerusalem Council recognized that the Gospel is also for Gentiles. In that same year, Roman emperor, Claudius, forced the Jews out of Rome; Priscilla and Aquila left Rome and ended up in Corinth where they meet Paul. Around 49-52, Paul had a vision of a man from Macedonia and visited there for the first time during his second missionary journey; Timothy traveled with Paul and Silas. In 50, Paul, Silas, and other missionaries landed at Philippi and the church was established there. In that same year, Paul also went to Thessalonica and established a church there. Around 50-52, Paul visited Corinth for the first time on his second missionary journey. Around 51, Luke joined Paul, Silas, and Timothy during Paul’s second missionary journey. In 52-54, Paul taught in Ephesus. In 52, Emperor Claudius installed Felix as procurator of Judea. From 52-62, Paul defended his faith before Roman procurators Felix (52-60) and Festus (60-62). From 54-68, Emperor Nero ruled the Roman Empire. Around 57-59, Paul was imprisoned in Caesarea. In 60, Paul had been shipwrecked on the island of Malta en route to Rome. Around 60-63, Luke wrote his Gospel and the book of Acts.
In AD 64, there was a great fire in Rome that destroyed 70% of the capital city. Emperor Nero (AD 54-68) blamed the fire on Christians. Prior to the Jewish revolts and the great fire, Christians had been largely ignored by those in power, with of course some martyrs sprinkled throughout the timeline. According to the Jewish-Roman historian Josephus, the Sanhedrin ordered James (linking James as the brother of Jesus) to be stoned to death around AD 62. But because of the great fire two years later (AD 64), persecution came down hard on Christians because Nero blamed the fire on the Christians. According to early church tradition, Peter died in Rome during Nero’s persecution, crucified upside down. It is said that Paul also died during the intense persecution between AD 64-65. And because of the Jews’ open revolts against the empire’s overstepping of boundaries, Nero eventually gave General Vespasian 60,000 soldiers to regain Galilee and Judea. And because Vespasian conquered Galilee, we have the writings from Josephus. It is said that Josephus surrendered to Vespasian. Before attacking Jerusalem, Nero had apparently committed suicide and Vespasian returned to Rome to claim the imperial throne. Josephus went with him and ended up writing his major treatises there. An important mention in the historian’s writings (Antiquities of the Jews) is the reference to Jesus as a historical figure who was reputed to be a prophet and miracle worker who had been crucified under Pontius Pilate.
After becoming emperor, Vespasian sent his son, Titus, and an army back to Jerusalem to besiege the city. However, before besieging the city, the Jews were allowed to enter into the city for the Passover celebration, thereby collecting more Jews in one area than might have been possible otherwise. But just like in the lyrics of Hotel California by the Eagles, they could come in, but they were not to leave. The Temple was eventually destroyed in AD 70, thereby fulfilling the prophecy of Jesus (see Matthew 24:2). Only one wall of the temple mount (known today as the “Wailing Wall”) remained. And because of all this, many Jews who desired to avoid further tragedies, excluded all fringe groups, including Christians, from their synagogues. But where had the Christians been during the siege of the city? Eusebius tells us that the Christians, acting on a revelation, to flee to a certain town called Perea, which they called Pella. After the disastrous Jewish War of AD 66-73, large numbers of Jews moved away from their traditional homes (Dispersions). And then up until AD 81, Christians were largely ignored again. But then Vespasian’s son, Domitian, became emperor (AD 81-96) and demanded divinity status (divus) and to be declared as Dominos et Deus Noster (‘Our Lord and God’). But persecution continued even after a new emperor, Trajan, took the throne.
Polycarp was one of the martyrs — he had been burned alive because he refused to deny Christ. According to Irenaeus, Polycarp was his spiritual mentor and Polycarp was a disciple of apostle John. In the second century century AD, apologists began defending their faith and their innocence, desiring to prove that Christians weren’t criminals. The most famous of the apologists was a man named Justin. Justin studied the philosophies of Aristotle, Plato, Pythagoras, and the Stoics. Around AD 132, he eventually came to the conclusion that Christianity was the “one sure worthy philosophy.” In AD 165, he was beheaded and soon became known as “Justin Martyr.” Christianity was unpopular in the first and second centuries for a few reasons: Christianity went against the social order and opposed the pluralistic, polytheistic, and relativistic ways of life that catered to the pursuit of pleasure. And if we substitute polytheistic for atheistic, we find the reasons for Christianity being unpopular remain the same today of the Western world in 2017. And much like today, GOD used human factors to produce spiritual results. The allowance of the Roman empire produced the dissatisfaction of the empire; consequently, many found refuge in the grace of Christ. Those in power produced persecution, which caused the stirring of faith and the scattering of believers; consequently, seeds of salvation grew in areas that needed the Gospel. Think about it: in the depth of the darkness, surrounded by soil, the future of the buried seed always looks hopeless. But that’s where growth takes place; that growth will eventually be known when it shoots up, breaking through the soil to proclaim life.
Quest For Truth 