WHAT MAKES A HERO? - Choosing the Right Hero
WHAT
MAKES A HERO? - Choosing the Right Hero
Heroes, Mentors – We all have somebody that we admire and study his or her life very closely. We have a catalogue of Bible heroes that we can pattern our lives after and if we do, this will help us become good examples in this present world. Thank God for Jesus who is the Author and Finisher of our faith – without any flaw or mistake. We will run our Christian race successfully if we continue to pattern our lives after these heroes of faith while we watch and pray and align our lives and conduct every day.
God Uses Imperfect People, They Were People of Deep Prayer and Consecration,
They Faced Severe Opposition, They Carried Unique Spiritual Assignments, They Paid a Great Price. Courage and forgiveness can change a nation. Age does not limit courage and purpose. Stand for justice even when it is dangerous. True heroes serve others selflessly.
"Why accumulate things that would come back to haunt you"
-
Darrel Lee (Walking in Integrity)
Remove anything that will despise your youth or years of faithful living.
1. In six words or less describe the Christian character quality that
we admire for each of the following people:
Elisabeth and Zacharias, Joseph (earthly father of Jesus), Jesus, John the Baptist, Deborah, Gideon, Caleb, Widow of Zarephath, Stephen, Woman who touched the hem of Jesus’ garment, Ananias and Elisha
LESSON INSPIRATIONS:
1. Elisabeth and Zacharias — Believed all things are possible.
KEY POINTS & APPLICATIONS:
A beautiful life of leadership come through consecration
Character begins with inward consecration.
The apostle’s usefulness flowed from surrender.
True Christian beauty is the result of a crucified self-life.
Discipleship is costly but glorious.
The admired Christian
character qualities of spiritual heroes include: Faith, Obedience, Courage, Perseverance, Humility, Love, Holiness, Devotion
RELATED SCRIPTURES:
Isaiah 52:7 How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings, that publisheth peace; that bringeth good tidings of good, that publisheth salvation; that saith unto Zion, Thy God reigneth!
Deuteronomy 6:5 “Thou shalt love the LORD thy God with all thine heart…”
Galatians 6:9 9 And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.
Joshua 1:9 “Be strong and of a good courage…”
1 Samuel 15:22 “To obey is better than sacrifice…”
Romans 1:17 “The just shall live by faith.”
“I’m
living by faith and fear no alarm...”
IT HAS BEEN SAID:
“Before the Spirit can fill us, self must be emptied.”
“Character is not formed in comfort, but in commitment.”
“We admire the crown, but we forget the cross.”
“Public victory is born of private consecration.”
“The fragrance of a holy life is released when it is crushed in sacrifice.”
“A beautiful Christian life is not produced by chance, but by consecration.”
CHALLENGE FOR ACTION:
When faced with uncertain situations, do you bring your questions to God, choose obedience, and lean on His faithfulness rather than your own certainty?
Do you seek God’s guidance in small
decisions today and act promptly on what you sense, trusting God with the
outcome?
Do you put others first, admit when
you’re wrong, and stand firm for truth and justice even when it’s unpopular?
When trials come, do you maintain
hopeful perseverance: pray, reflect on God’s past faithfulness, and keep taking
small, faithful steps forward?
Which quality of a Bible hero
resonates most with your current life season?
What daily habit could strengthen that quality in you this week?
Which Scripture inspires you to act, and how can you apply it concretely next time?
Remove anything that will despise your youth or years of faithful living.
Elisabeth and Zacharias, Joseph (earthly father of Jesus), Jesus, John the Baptist, Deborah, Gideon, Caleb, Widow of Zarephath, Stephen, Woman who touched the hem of Jesus’ garment, Ananias and Elisha
1. Elisabeth and Zacharias — Believed all things are possible.
A beautiful life of leadership come through consecration
Character begins with inward consecration.
The apostle’s usefulness flowed from surrender.
True Christian beauty is the result of a crucified self-life.
Discipleship is costly but glorious.
Isaiah 52:7 How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings, that publisheth peace; that bringeth good tidings of good, that publisheth salvation; that saith unto Zion, Thy God reigneth!
Deuteronomy 6:5 “Thou shalt love the LORD thy God with all thine heart…”
Galatians 6:9 9 And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.
Joshua 1:9 “Be strong and of a good courage…”
1 Samuel 15:22 “To obey is better than sacrifice…”
Romans 1:17 “The just shall live by faith.”
“Before the Spirit can fill us, self must be emptied.”
“Character is not formed in comfort, but in commitment.”
“We admire the crown, but we forget the cross.”
“Public victory is born of private consecration.”
“The fragrance of a holy life is released when it is crushed in sacrifice.”
“A beautiful Christian life is not produced by chance, but by consecration.”
When faced with uncertain situations, do you bring your questions to God, choose obedience, and lean on His faithfulness rather than your own certainty?
What daily habit could strengthen that quality in you this week?
Which Scripture inspires you to act, and how can you apply it concretely next time?
It is not the “big names” that are important, but the life lived.
A godly example may not be well known but God takes note of his life.
We should look past the well-known names and look at godly examples for inspiration.
Some of the names discussed in the previous question were not all well known. Some of their names were not even recorded in the Bible.
A person does NOT need a well-known name to be a hero.
True heroes are known by their courage, sacrifice, love, and faithfulness — not their fame.
Faithfulness, not popularity, makes a hero.
Courage defines heroes, even if they are unknown.
True heroes are shaped by struggle, not recognition.
Integrity makes a hero, not fame.
Heroes are those who give, even if unnoticed.
Helping others makes one a hero.
Unknown acts of love are heroic.
1 Samuel 16:7 “But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart.”
Luke 16:10 “He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much: and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much.”
“Not all heroes are famous, and not all famous people are heroes.”
“The humblest deed done in love is greater than the grandest intention.”
“A hero is someone who is faithful in the small things.”
“Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love.”
Look for opportunities to do the right thing in secret, trusting God with the outcome
“. . . these all, having obtained a good report through faith, . . .”
“without faith it is impossible to please him . . .” (Hebrews 11:6).
These people, as well as all the characters that were studied this quarter, pleased God.
Pleasing God through faith is a prerequisite to becoming one of God’s heroes.
Spiritual heroes:
Are distinguished by their constant trust in God.
Act boldly because they trust God fully.
Have Faith, not personal strength, makes them spiritual heroes.
Faith empowers them to accomplish what seems impossible.
Live beyond what is seen.
Their lives are built on complete dependence on God.
Faith enables the heroes to act when God calls.
Faith is the secret of spiritual power.
Move forward trusting God completely.
Hebrews 11:6 “But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.”
Hebrews 11:2 “For by it the elders obtained a good report.”
Habakkuk 2:4 “But the just shall live by his faith.”
1 John 5:4 “And this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.”
“Faith goes up the stairs that love has built and looks out the windows which hope has opened.”
“Faith is taking the first step even when you don’t see the whole staircase.”
“Faith sees the invisible, believes the unbelievable, and receives the impossible.”
“All God’s giants have been weak men who did great things for God because they believed that God was with them.”
“Faith is the gaze of a soul upon a saving God.”
Heroes act on promises before they fully understand the outcome - Memorize a promise from Scripture, meditate on it, and choose to act it’s true in your daily decisions.
God uses the lives of successful Christians to inspire others to walk closer to God and “. . . run with patience the race that is set before us.”
The witnesses inspire us by their example -they overcame, we are motivated to remove anything that slows our spiritual progress.
Their testimony makes us responsible to live with discipline and remove spiritual hindrances
Their victory challenges us to let go of anything that prevents complete obedience.
Their lives encourage action — we lay aside weights so we can run successfully.
Their example not only comforts but also challenges us to remove obstacles.
Their finished race shows us what is possible — but only if we remove hindrances.
Ephesians 4:22 “ 22 That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts;
1 Corinthians 9:24 “Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain.”
“The saints who have gone before us are not merely spectators, but their lives cry out to us to cast aside every hindrance and run well.”
“Having such examples of faith and patience, we should be ashamed to indulge ourselves in any weight that would hinder us.”
“The vision of those who have triumphed by faith calls us to a surrender of everything that hinders our full obedience.”
“Encouraged by the cloud of witnesses, let us shake off every burden and press forward in the race set before us.”
“Encouraged by the cloud of witnesses, let us shake off every burden and press forward in the race set before us.”
The witnesses provide spiritual support and stewardship through their example, urging us to lay aside hindrances - Let the stories of faith past inspire you to remove distractions today, keeping your eyes on the example set before you.
Jesus.
Hebrews 12:2, “Looking unto Jesus . . . ,”
1 Peter 2:21, “. . . ye should follow his steps.”
Jesus had all of the good qualities exemplified by the others, and more.
Jesus is not only a hero of faith — He is the origin, perfect example, and completer of faith.
Every spiritual hero follows the example set by Jesus.
Jesus demonstrated complete attributes - trust and obedience to God.
Jesus is the model of total dependence on the Father.
He is both our inspiration and our strength.
His life shows us how spiritual heroes live.
No other hero compares to Him.
He is the source of faith.
He is the perfect model of obedience.
He endured suffering without sin.
He demonstrated ultimate humility and service.
He completed the work of redemption.
Hebrews 12:2–3 “Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.
For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds.”
1 Peter 2:21 “For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps:”
Philippians 2:5–8 “Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:
Who, being in the form of God… humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.”
John 6:38 “For I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent me.”
Hebrews 5:8 “Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered;”
Mark 10:45 “For even the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.”
“Jesus is the Hero above all heroes, the Faith above all faith, and the Example above all examples.”
“The life of Christ is the believer’s example of faith in action.”
“Jesus Christ is the pioneer of faith, and He calls us to follow His path.”
“The greatest example of faith and obedience is Jesus Christ Himself.”
“Jesus is not only our Savior, but our pattern.”
“Jesus is both the source and the supreme example of faith for His people.”
“Jesus Christ is the perfect example of what faith looks like in human life.”
“Christ is the great Captain of the army of faith, and all the heroes follow in His train.”
What Would Jesus Do? (WWJD)
Walk in Jesus’ steps – by asking yourself, will Jesus do this, How will Jesus react…
3 and he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.
4 the ungodly are not so: but are like the chaff which the wind driveth away.
5 therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous.
6 for the lord knoweth the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish.
Psalm 1 does not give a detailed explanation as to why a Christian should not associate with sinners but it does warn against such action.
While associating with sinners, a person is continually having a bad example set before him.
Although God has the power to keep a Christian unspotted from the world and its influence, a person should be careful not to choose the company of sinners or those who are spiritually “lukewarm,” any more than necessary.
“Follow not that which is evil, but that which is good” 3 John 1:11
Proverbs 22:24-25; 24 Make no friendship with an angry man; and with a furious man thou shalt not go:
25 Lest thou learn his ways, and get a snare to thy soul.
2 Peter 3:17 17 Ye therefore, beloved, seeing ye know these things before, beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own stedfastness.
Notice the progression: Walk - Stand - Sit
-Casual association can gradually become comfortable identification.
Walk - casual exposure
Stand - lingering participation
Sit - settled agreement
Counsel Precedes Conduct
Environment Shapes Spiritual Health – in the long run, if not redeemed with godliness
Separation Is About Preservation, Not Pride
Gradual Desensitization Is Dangerous
It reshapes thinking.
It dulls conviction.
It weakens spiritual roots.
It normalizes compromise - gradual compromise
Draw the heart away from God
Proverbs 13:20 “He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed.”
1 Corinthians 15:33 “Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners.”
Proverbs 13:20 “He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed.”
Ephesians 5:11 “And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them.”
2 Corinthians 6:14–17 “ 14 Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?
15 And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel?
16 And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people.
17 Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you,
Genesis 13:12–13 “Lot dwelled in the cities of the plain, and pitched his tent toward Sodom.
But the men of Sodom were wicked and sinners before the LORD exceedingly.”
James 4:4 4 Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.
Proverbs 22:24-25; 24 Make no friendship with an angry man; and with a furious man thou shalt not go: 25 Lest thou learn his ways, and get a snare to thy soul.
2 Peter 3:17 17 Ye therefore, beloved, seeing ye know these things before, beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own stedfastness.
“You will eventually think like those you continually listen to.”
“Wrong company does not destroy faith overnight; it erodes it quietly.”
“What you tolerate in association, you may soon justify in action.”
“Before sin is committed outwardly, it is accepted inwardly.”
“Ideas plant seeds long before actions bear fruit.”
“Familiarity with sin reduces sensitivity to sin.”
“Association determines whether you are rooted like a tree or blown like chaff.”
“Evil communications corrupt good manners.”
“The company you keep today shapes the character you carry tomorrow.”
“Blessing flows from careful separation and deliberate meditation.”
Bad company or ungodly counsel can steer your thinking and decisions away from God’s path - Choose your daily influences carefully—consume Scripture, godly teaching, and faith-filled relationships more than social media and other influences
What practical steps can you take this week to “delight in” God’s law more than popular or worldly persuasions?
The overall objective of the quarter—to address the question of “What is a hero?”
Faith in God Above Circumstances
Obedience Regardless of Cost
Consecration and Surrender
Perseverance Through Trials
Humility and Servanthood
Love for God Above All
Deep faith - Unwavering faith in God
Obedience at all costs
Total surrender
Courage and perseverance
Humility and service
Fervent love for God
Consistent devotion and prayer
Faithfulness in trials
Dependence on God’s guidance
Hebrews 11:6 “But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.”
1 Samuel 15:22 “To obey is better than sacrifice…”
Joshua 1:9 “Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid… for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.”
Philippians 2:3–4 “Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.”
Daniel 6:10 “Now when Daniel knew that the writing was signed, he went into his house; and his windows being open in his chamber toward Jerusalem, he kneeled upon his knees three times a day, and prayed…”
James 1:12 “Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life…”
2 Timothy 4:7 “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.”
Proverbs 3:5–6 “Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”
IT HAS BEEN SAID:
“God’s heroes are simply those who say ‘yes’ when others say ‘no.’”
“A spiritual hero sees the invisible and trusts the unstoppable.”
“Heroes of faith are ordinary people with extraordinary trust.”
“A spiritual hero obeys when the outcome is uncertain.”
“You cannot be mighty for God until you are yielded to God.”
“A hero is not one who avoids trials, but one who endures them.”
“The path upward in God’s kingdom leads downward in humility.”
“True heroes serve quietly and shine eternally.”
“The measure of a spiritual hero is the measure of their love for God.”
Write out your summary desire and the person you want to be from today
Living a life that is above reproach is an example of godliness.
No person lives unto himself.
What he does or does not do may have an effect on those around him.
If a Christian’s life is open like a letter, as Paul said, to be known and read by all, sinners and fellow Christians will examine his life.
We want to be like the characters studied this quarter—people who will please God.
In doing so, we can be modern day heroes
Our Lives Are a Testimony
Our Lives Are Being Read Daily
We Represent Christ to the World
Opportunities and Influence Comes With Responsibility
Follow Their Faith, Not Their Faults
Imitate Their Perseverance
Be a Living Example to Others
Discipline, stewardship and Accountability
Guard Against Becoming a Negative Example
Consistency Matters
The World Reads Conduct Before Doctrine
Imitate Christ, the Ultimate Hero
Hebrews 13:7 “Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of God: whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation.”
Hebrews 12:1 “Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us.”
Matthew 5:16 “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.”
1 Corinthians 11:1 “Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ.”
“Character preaches louder than sermons.”
“People may doubt what you say, but they will believe what you live.”
“A believer’s conduct either clarifies or confuses the gospel.”
“Reputation is what people think; testimony is what your life proves.”
“We cannot choose whether we influence others, only how.”
“The example you set today may shape someone’s eternity tomorrow.”
“Before people hear the gospel from your lips, they watch it in your life.”
“You are writing a gospel, a chapter each day, By deeds that you do and words that you say.”
If you call yourself a follower, your life becomes evidence of the gospel’s transform power - Choose one daily action that publicly reflects Christ and do it consistently.
All his wonderful passion and purity,
O thou Spirit divine, all my nature refine,
Till the beauty of Jesus be seen in me.
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