X-Men (2000)

X-Men (2000)

X-Men (2000), the first film in the popular X-Men film series is based on the equally popular X-Men comic series from Marvel Comics. The film, introduces a set of mutants (humans with superpowers). Professor X (Charles Xavier, who can know what people think and manipulate minds) leads a school which teach young mutants who discover what powers they have. He leads a group of good mutants known as X-Men. These mutants include Storm (who can manipulate the weather), Wolverine (healing powers and metal claws which extend from his knuckles).

There are also other mutants, known as the Brotherhood of Mutants, led by Magneto. Magneto (who can manipulate metal) leads a group of like-minded mutants. Unlike the X-Men who want to live cooperatively with humans, the Brotherhood wants to eliminate the humans and have mutants rule the world.

Spiritual Gifts as Special Powers

Mutants by definition have special unique powers. Some can manipulate elements, while others can move through walls, read minds, or regenerate. In the same way, every Christian has special powers. The New Testament shows that every Christian have special powers known as spiritual gifts. These are not traits or abilities which are learned. Instead, these are powers which the Holy Spirit gives every Christian. Romans 12:6-8, 1 Corinthians 12:8-10 are just two passages in the New Testament which list these powers.

Christians and Lost People Living Together

Just as mutants live with humans, Christians live alongside lost people. Lost people need God – the One who gives us all special powers. Once they make a decision to follow Jesus Christ, they “mutate” into spiritual beings who have been endowed with special powers. Like mutants, Christians learn how their special powers operate through a period of self-discovery. Spiritual gift inventories help identify some powers. Yet, most of these powers are discovered by experience. These powers are used for good purposes. They are used to help show other people that they too can be part of God’s family. Christians, like mutants, don’t use these powers to hurt one another. Instead, they form a family to help one another.

Questions

1. As Christians, God has given us special powers called spiritual gifts. Based on Romans 12:6-8, 1 Corinthians 12:8-10, and this online spiritual gift inventory, what powers has God given you?

2. Have you had an experience where God allowed you to use a spiritual gift (special power) to share the Gospel?