“Man of Steel” and the Leap of Faith
A Hope at The Movies message by Rev. Dr. Mark Jordan, Pastor
Today’s clip comes from Man of Steel (2013) starring Henry Cavill as Clark Kent/Superman. Click here to watch the clip on YouTube.
Kenosis: Jesus’ willing self-emptying of His divine status to take on human form
- Philippians 2:6-8 (ESV) | Though [Jesus] was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.
Temptation: enticement to stray from God’s purpose and path
- Matthew 26:41-42 (NLT) | 41Keep watch and pray, so that you will not give in to temptation. For the spirit is willing, but the body is weak!” 42 Then Jesus left them a second time and prayed, “My Father! If this cup cannot be taken away unless I drink it, your will be done.”
Faith, Trust, and Bitterness: Bitterness is anger and disappointment at being treated unfairly
- Hebrews 12:15 (NLT) | Look after each other so that none of you fails to receive the grace of God. Watch out that no poisonous root of bitterness grows up to trouble you, corrupting many.
What Leap of Faith Do You Need to Take this Week?
- What do you need to empty of your flesh so God can use you?
- What do you need to take on in faith and trust?
Reflection Questions
- In the scene from Man of Steel, Clark Kent doubts whether he can trust humanity to accept him, but the priest urges him to take a “leap of faith.” What doubts or fears have you faced when considering God’s calling for you? How does Clark’s struggle encourage you to step out in faith despite uncertainty?
- How does the passage from Philippians 2:6-8 point to Jesus’ mission? How was this depicted visually in the film through Clark Kent?
- Clark’s fear of rejection almost stops him from embracing his purpose. What are some common doubts that keep you from persevering in your purpose? How can we rely on God’s strength, like Clark’s eventual choice, to push through these doubts?
- The stained-glass image of Jesus in Gethsemane reminds us that Jesus faced doubt but chose faith in God’s will. How do you find your spirit willing but knowing there is weakness in your flesh?
- What’s one area of your life where you can take a small leap of faith this week—perhaps in forgiving someone, sharing your faith, or trusting God with a decision?