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The Superheroes Devotional: 60 Inspirational Readings
“Can you actually find spiritual truths in comicbooks and superhero movies?”
Yes, you can!
For more than 75 years of comic book history and dozens of gigantic cinematic releases, Superheros have captivated our imagination--filling our senses with heart-pounding adventures, riveting plots, and spectacular special effects—and sometimes they have profound messages woven into them. Often the underlying themes reveal a Judeo-Christian influence, and even when it isn’t intentional, you can still draw deep lessons from them. Whether it’s the self-sacrifice and humility of Captain America and the Hulk’s struggles with anger or the parallels between Superman and Jesus or between Black Widow and a ruthless Bible heroine, your favorite heroes and heroines (and even villains) have much to teach.
If you’re a fan of this good vs. evil world, you will love The Superheroes Devotional —featuring 60 interesting, challenging, and encouraging readings. With devotions drawn from dozens of favorite superheroes from both the Marvel and DC Comics universes—well-known names like Captain America and Batman and lesser-known heroes like Shazam and Gambit—each reading includes spiritual lessons relating superheroes to the heroes of the Bible in themes like faith, hope, courage, pride, and power. You’ll also enjoy reading about the history and background of each superhero, shared by author and lifelong fan Ed Strauss.
Read on, True Believer, and may you draw inspiration and encouragement from the characters and stories that you know and love from comicbook pages and big screen movies alike.
Yes, you can!
For more than 75 years of comic book history and dozens of gigantic cinematic releases, Superheros have captivated our imagination--filling our senses with heart-pounding adventures, riveting plots, and spectacular special effects—and sometimes they have profound messages woven into them. Often the underlying themes reveal a Judeo-Christian influence, and even when it isn’t intentional, you can still draw deep lessons from them. Whether it’s the self-sacrifice and humility of Captain America and the Hulk’s struggles with anger or the parallels between Superman and Jesus or between Black Widow and a ruthless Bible heroine, your favorite heroes and heroines (and even villains) have much to teach.
If you’re a fan of this good vs. evil world, you will love The Superheroes Devotional —featuring 60 interesting, challenging, and encouraging readings. With devotions drawn from dozens of favorite superheroes from both the Marvel and DC Comics universes—well-known names like Captain America and Batman and lesser-known heroes like Shazam and Gambit—each reading includes spiritual lessons relating superheroes to the heroes of the Bible in themes like faith, hope, courage, pride, and power. You’ll also enjoy reading about the history and background of each superhero, shared by author and lifelong fan Ed Strauss.
Read on, True Believer, and may you draw inspiration and encouragement from the characters and stories that you know and love from comicbook pages and big screen movies alike.
- GenresChildrens
320 pages, Paperback
Published March 1, 2017
About the author
Ed Strauss
88 books15 followersEd Strauss lives in British Columbia, Canada, with his wife and three tween-aged children. Ed is a freelance writer with a passion for Biblical apologetics and fantasy fiction. Apart from writing, Ed enjoys biking and exploring nature.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
March 6, 2017
About the Book:
“Can you actually find spiritual truths in comic books and superhero movies?”
Yes, you can!
For more than 75 years of comic book history and dozens of gigantic cinematic releases, Superheros have captivated our imagination--filling our senses with heart-pounding adventures, riveting plots, and spectacular special effects—and sometimes they have profound messages woven into them. Often the underlying themes reveal a Judaeo-Christian influence, and even when it isn’t intentional, you can still draw deep lessons from them. Whether it’s the self-sacrifice and humility of Captain America and the Hulk’s struggles with anger or the parallels between Superman and Jesus or between Black Widow and a ruthless Bible heroine, your favorite heroes and heroines (and even villains) have much to teach.
If you’re a fan of this good vs. evil world, you will love The Superheroes Devotional—featuring 60 interesting, challenging, and encouraging readings. With devotions drawn from dozens of favorite superheroes from both the Marvel and DC Comics universes—well-known names like Captain America and Batman and lesser-known heroes like Shazam and Gambit—each reading includes spiritual lessons relating superheroes to the heroes of the Bible in themes like faith, hope, courage, pride, and power. You’ll also enjoy reading about the history and background of each superhero, shared by author and lifelong fan Ed Strauss.
My Review:
Most kids especially little boys absolutely love super heroes thats what makes this the perfect devotional for children. It appeals to one of the things that they love the most, superheroes.So, as I was reading this devotional so that I can give you an accurate review it became very interesting. Now I'm going to be very frank here, I'm a girl and I don't really like superhero anything. But this book explained a lot of things that I didn't quite know about the subject.
Because of the correlations between the superhero stories and the christian life these stories should interest us a lot more than they do. So Ed Strauss created a devotional for children centered around this life and it is really a great devotional for our children. He shows us different parallels and I thank God there are things like this out there for my boys. This day and time things are edging ever closer to that line that gets really blurred at times. The line--of right and wrong and I believe this world is definitely losing sight of that line and it's getting to where they can't see it much.
We are definitely living in troubled times and those evil things are fighting to get a piece of us and our children. So what better way to fight all that than with a devotional to strengthen what my boys are already taught. I really like this devotional and its written in a story form so it looks a little different than your typical devotional.
Recommended for 4th grade-8th grade.
Great devotional! I definitely recommend it!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
“Can you actually find spiritual truths in comic books and superhero movies?”
Yes, you can!
For more than 75 years of comic book history and dozens of gigantic cinematic releases, Superheros have captivated our imagination--filling our senses with heart-pounding adventures, riveting plots, and spectacular special effects—and sometimes they have profound messages woven into them. Often the underlying themes reveal a Judaeo-Christian influence, and even when it isn’t intentional, you can still draw deep lessons from them. Whether it’s the self-sacrifice and humility of Captain America and the Hulk’s struggles with anger or the parallels between Superman and Jesus or between Black Widow and a ruthless Bible heroine, your favorite heroes and heroines (and even villains) have much to teach.
If you’re a fan of this good vs. evil world, you will love The Superheroes Devotional—featuring 60 interesting, challenging, and encouraging readings. With devotions drawn from dozens of favorite superheroes from both the Marvel and DC Comics universes—well-known names like Captain America and Batman and lesser-known heroes like Shazam and Gambit—each reading includes spiritual lessons relating superheroes to the heroes of the Bible in themes like faith, hope, courage, pride, and power. You’ll also enjoy reading about the history and background of each superhero, shared by author and lifelong fan Ed Strauss.
My Review:
Most kids especially little boys absolutely love super heroes thats what makes this the perfect devotional for children. It appeals to one of the things that they love the most, superheroes.So, as I was reading this devotional so that I can give you an accurate review it became very interesting. Now I'm going to be very frank here, I'm a girl and I don't really like superhero anything. But this book explained a lot of things that I didn't quite know about the subject.
Because of the correlations between the superhero stories and the christian life these stories should interest us a lot more than they do. So Ed Strauss created a devotional for children centered around this life and it is really a great devotional for our children. He shows us different parallels and I thank God there are things like this out there for my boys. This day and time things are edging ever closer to that line that gets really blurred at times. The line--of right and wrong and I believe this world is definitely losing sight of that line and it's getting to where they can't see it much.
We are definitely living in troubled times and those evil things are fighting to get a piece of us and our children. So what better way to fight all that than with a devotional to strengthen what my boys are already taught. I really like this devotional and its written in a story form so it looks a little different than your typical devotional.
Recommended for 4th grade-8th grade.
Great devotional! I definitely recommend it!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
March 6, 2017
Every once in awhile, I find books that I'm intrigued by, but I'm just not sure what to do with it. The Superheroes Devotional is one such book for me. All of the new superhero movies are usually pretty high on my "I want to see this" list, but paired with the word "devotional"... I couldn't make sense of it. But, once I read a handful of the devotions in this book, and saw the authors approach, I gained a new appreciation of this book.
The thing that impressed me most about this book, is that it was maybe a bit meatier than I expected it to be. Finding spiritual truths in the stories around superman, the x-men or spiderman just doesn't seem very deep. Sure there are good lessons there about making good choices and just the general good vs. evil, but I'm not sure that is a lot there that says much about my walk with Christ. Well, in this devotional book, Strauss uses superheroes and their stories as a jumping off point. Each devotional focuses on a particular character (or group... X-Men, Avengers...) and uses their story or characteristics to direct us somewhere in the Bible. It might be how a particular character shares something in common with someone for the Bible, or how a character might be a bit more demonstrative of a spiritual truth.
At the end of the day, I don't think this book can ever replace reading your Bible. And I don't think a person would get as much out of it as they would an actual Bible study. But, where I'm glad this book is now on my shelf, is that it just might give me some opportunities to start conversations with people about the Marvel and DC universes, and lead that into a conversation about God. And if nothing else, the book has also given me a new lens in which to watch these new superhero movies.
**I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.**
The thing that impressed me most about this book, is that it was maybe a bit meatier than I expected it to be. Finding spiritual truths in the stories around superman, the x-men or spiderman just doesn't seem very deep. Sure there are good lessons there about making good choices and just the general good vs. evil, but I'm not sure that is a lot there that says much about my walk with Christ. Well, in this devotional book, Strauss uses superheroes and their stories as a jumping off point. Each devotional focuses on a particular character (or group... X-Men, Avengers...) and uses their story or characteristics to direct us somewhere in the Bible. It might be how a particular character shares something in common with someone for the Bible, or how a character might be a bit more demonstrative of a spiritual truth.
At the end of the day, I don't think this book can ever replace reading your Bible. And I don't think a person would get as much out of it as they would an actual Bible study. But, where I'm glad this book is now on my shelf, is that it just might give me some opportunities to start conversations with people about the Marvel and DC universes, and lead that into a conversation about God. And if nothing else, the book has also given me a new lens in which to watch these new superhero movies.
**I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.**
March 4, 2017
This book was a surprising and delightful find. When I first chose this one, I thought it was targeted to middle school boys. I’m not sure why. Maybe the description, or cover, gave me that idea. However, I would highly recommend this book to anyone who has ever enjoyed Marvel or DC comic books, movies, cartoons.
Jammed packed with the history of some of our favorite comics, how they’ve evolved, and how they relate to so many biblical teachings earned this book a permanent spot on my bookshelf.
Jammed packed with the history of some of our favorite comics, how they’ve evolved, and how they relate to so many biblical teachings earned this book a permanent spot on my bookshelf.
March 10, 2017
Recently my son has become enamored with the super heroes. He has been watching every movie I will allow. He also has this uncanny ability to find godly comparisons in these types of things, not limited to super heroes. Recently, I read a book about a boy whose fascination with super heroes helped him overcome struggles he faced with some disorders such as OCD, ADHD, etc..., so to be frank, this book totally caught my attention when it became available.I always find out ironic, possibly even providential, when things kind of come together. With the impeccable timing, I couldn't resist the opportunity to see what the author has to say.
He begins by giving us a little super hero comic background and history lesson, which considering my son's infatuation with super heroes was very insightful. Personally, other than an admiration for Superman and Wonder-woman growing up, I haven't had much interest in getting to know much
about the lives of the Super heroes. But this author does a very awesome job of making it interesting and bringing to light things I may not have ever considered. He also includes his viewpoint on the role of Christianity in superhero comics.
Personally, I wouldn't really call this a devotional. At least it's not really my ideal of one. I view it more as an analysis, a commentary, or a compare contrast of super heroes and bible characters. As the author is comparing and contrasting, he does use scripture and scenes from the movies or comics. I think my son is really going to enjoy this because it is a reflection of how he thinks.
On the flip side, my biggest reservation is that the super heroes are figures of someone's imagination, make believe characters, who seem at times to be quite realistic; while the Bible is nNOT make believe. It is God's Holy Word, inspired, and the characters in it are not fictional. They are real people with the same passions and desires as we have. And Jesus was NOT a super hero with super powers. He was God incarnate! He never sinned or used his powers for selfish reasons. The gods of mythology do not compare to the one true God. The author, however, does stress this in most of the devotionals, so I was thankful for that!
I am not sure what age this would be for. My son, who is finishing up the 6th grade and has a love for superheroes and researching will enjoy it for sure. I think older teens and young adults will also enjoy this devotional. My recommendation is that all things in life can point us to Christ if allowed to do so, but it is important we learn the TRUTH from God's Word. We are reading this with open discussion between my son and I, so I can understand what he is thinking as he reads it.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher to read. I was not required to review or talk about it positively. All opinions are my own.
He begins by giving us a little super hero comic background and history lesson, which considering my son's infatuation with super heroes was very insightful. Personally, other than an admiration for Superman and Wonder-woman growing up, I haven't had much interest in getting to know much
about the lives of the Super heroes. But this author does a very awesome job of making it interesting and bringing to light things I may not have ever considered. He also includes his viewpoint on the role of Christianity in superhero comics.
Personally, I wouldn't really call this a devotional. At least it's not really my ideal of one. I view it more as an analysis, a commentary, or a compare contrast of super heroes and bible characters. As the author is comparing and contrasting, he does use scripture and scenes from the movies or comics. I think my son is really going to enjoy this because it is a reflection of how he thinks.
On the flip side, my biggest reservation is that the super heroes are figures of someone's imagination, make believe characters, who seem at times to be quite realistic; while the Bible is nNOT make believe. It is God's Holy Word, inspired, and the characters in it are not fictional. They are real people with the same passions and desires as we have. And Jesus was NOT a super hero with super powers. He was God incarnate! He never sinned or used his powers for selfish reasons. The gods of mythology do not compare to the one true God. The author, however, does stress this in most of the devotionals, so I was thankful for that!
I am not sure what age this would be for. My son, who is finishing up the 6th grade and has a love for superheroes and researching will enjoy it for sure. I think older teens and young adults will also enjoy this devotional. My recommendation is that all things in life can point us to Christ if allowed to do so, but it is important we learn the TRUTH from God's Word. We are reading this with open discussion between my son and I, so I can understand what he is thinking as he reads it.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher to read. I was not required to review or talk about it positively. All opinions are my own.
March 19, 2017
The Superheroes Devotional is not exactly what you think it might be. I was a pretty disappointed. First, this book is not for kids. MAYBE(?) older kids (15 and up - but parents should pre-read it) but certainly not for younger kids. This is unfortunate because from the front and back covers it looks like something kids would enjoy. The phraseology is just too advanced, such as: "You may be surprised that a so-called deity or false prophet would boldly repeat biblical truths and expressions and claim that he or she is fulfilling them, but it's more prevalent than you might imagine." The vocabulary gets pretty advanced, too, at least for a child. Words like postulated, unscrupulous, and chagrin don't crop up in too many kids books. Also, one of the characters explored in this devotional is Deadpool. Need I say more.
Second, there are no actual Superheroes in the book. I'm talking about images, here. How much fun is it to TALK about a Superhero without being able to look at a picture of one? You would expect glossy paper with great graphics and color, or at least some black and white images, no? Aside from an intriguing cover, this book really has nothing in the way of Superheroes, except dropping their names throughout the text. Just plain paper, no pictures…..
Lastly, the content is just really too watered down for me. Considering now that this is a book for adults, why is it that the best lesson the author can provide after a review of the story of Jehu in 2 Kings 9 and John 15:13 is to never give up on yourself even if you are a "failure or self-centered slob." Seriously?
There are SO MANY better options out there for devotionals. Take a pass on this one.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
Second, there are no actual Superheroes in the book. I'm talking about images, here. How much fun is it to TALK about a Superhero without being able to look at a picture of one? You would expect glossy paper with great graphics and color, or at least some black and white images, no? Aside from an intriguing cover, this book really has nothing in the way of Superheroes, except dropping their names throughout the text. Just plain paper, no pictures…..
Lastly, the content is just really too watered down for me. Considering now that this is a book for adults, why is it that the best lesson the author can provide after a review of the story of Jehu in 2 Kings 9 and John 15:13 is to never give up on yourself even if you are a "failure or self-centered slob." Seriously?
There are SO MANY better options out there for devotionals. Take a pass on this one.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
March 22, 2017
Devotionals are little inspirational books meant to be read one chapter, one day at a time. They are also usually targeted at women. So it was to my surprise and delight to stumble over The Superheroes Devotional. Now here’s a book that hits my sweet spot: it’s a devotional, it’s about pop culture and faith, and it’s seemingly targeted towards men. (Not that women would be interested in this, particularly geeky women, but I’ve always seen comics as a bit of a male stronghold in the same way that soap operas are or were for women.)
This book is made up of 60 chapters based on superheroes, and I find the premise a bit ingenious as comicbooks (as Strauss, the author, spells it to differentiate between illustrated books and humour books) have used the Bible as the genesis for some of their creations. Thus, it’s natural that a comicbook and Bible pairing would go very well together. Most of the comicbook characters here are drawn from the Marvel universe (DC Comics gets scant attention), and the Bible stories used to illustrate how the two relate tend to be obscure. So if you read Christian books and run into the same verses over and over again, well, you’ll probably learn a lot here.
Read more here: https://medium.com/@zachary_houle/a-r...
This book is made up of 60 chapters based on superheroes, and I find the premise a bit ingenious as comicbooks (as Strauss, the author, spells it to differentiate between illustrated books and humour books) have used the Bible as the genesis for some of their creations. Thus, it’s natural that a comicbook and Bible pairing would go very well together. Most of the comicbook characters here are drawn from the Marvel universe (DC Comics gets scant attention), and the Bible stories used to illustrate how the two relate tend to be obscure. So if you read Christian books and run into the same verses over and over again, well, you’ll probably learn a lot here.
Read more here: https://medium.com/@zachary_houle/a-r...
November 3, 2017
I read a lot of these types of books because I have an interest in the subject of superheroes and Christian spirituality. Many of them seem to try to force the metaphors a little too much, or will mold the messages to fit the author's particular interpretation. This is one of the better ones in that the author, Ed Strauss, lets the stories unfold across many different versions of superhero stories, whether it's a comic book or film interpretation. This allows him to apply the basic plot or theme to a particular biblical story or teaching. Often, in other similar works, these are very simplified. But here, Strauss more often than not is more nuanced, and doesn't dumb down the message for his supposed audience. He teases out solid lessons from several characters and their backstories or the plot of a particular arc or movie. Occasionally, these do drift into either overly simplified lessons or tortured metaphors, but not very often.
I would recommend this for parents of tweens or young adults to give to their children to encourage their devotional life, or to someone who may know their comic book heroes far better than their biblical heroes.
I would recommend this for parents of tweens or young adults to give to their children to encourage their devotional life, or to someone who may know their comic book heroes far better than their biblical heroes.
December 30, 2016
I wanted this because my roommate and her son are marvel fanatics, at the age of 3.5 ask him just about anything and he will tell you so I thought since I am already emerged in it this would be great and that maybe I could get her to want to read it. I have a kindle and it is a bit off on the format making it difficult to read at times and understand. I also believe that a few pictures were missing, so I am about to download the computer version of it to see if its better. Thus, being said I loved the devotionals the inspiration and I do believe that they have something here. I believe that they will get to many people with this devotional in a good way. I hope they fix the spelling and errors. I read this on free download.
March 12, 2017
The Super Hero Devotional
Ed Strauss
I'm not quite sure what I expected when I picked up this book to read...well I sort of thought there might be some comics in it, but that was not to be.
However, I am learning more about the background of Marvel Super Heroes than I ever understood before and I am fascinated! Who would have ever thought about applying Biblical truths to Super Heroes?
Ed Strauss, thats who. And he does an awesome job of it. Some readers may use this as a devotional but I'm personally just reading it for sheer enjoyment. A plus, the paper the book is printed on and the ink quality is rather similar to the touch and feel of a comic book. It even smells like a comic book!
Ed Strauss
I'm not quite sure what I expected when I picked up this book to read...well I sort of thought there might be some comics in it, but that was not to be.
However, I am learning more about the background of Marvel Super Heroes than I ever understood before and I am fascinated! Who would have ever thought about applying Biblical truths to Super Heroes?
Ed Strauss, thats who. And he does an awesome job of it. Some readers may use this as a devotional but I'm personally just reading it for sheer enjoyment. A plus, the paper the book is printed on and the ink quality is rather similar to the touch and feel of a comic book. It even smells like a comic book!
March 17, 2017
This devotional is a unique perspective of Biblical thought and comic book blending. By comparing superheroes and Biblical passages, Ed Strauss seeks to point the reader to Biblical truth that can often be seen in comic book narratives.
To be honest, this devotional was alright. I was hoping for some more depth and seemed to get more issue-related thoughts rather than spiritual growth. I understand that the target audience are most likely younger in age but I still feel that some depth could have been inserted.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
To be honest, this devotional was alright. I was hoping for some more depth and seemed to get more issue-related thoughts rather than spiritual growth. I understand that the target audience are most likely younger in age but I still feel that some depth could have been inserted.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
March 1, 2017
What a unique twist on a devotional! Geared more for adults than the younger generation, doesn’t mean they won’t get anything out of it. I enjoyed how the author could find the lessons in many different characters and/or movies/comics that we all might miss. Biblical applications in each one with verses to back it up make it a useful tool to add to your morning devotions. I really enjoy this – definitely for the comic/superhero enthusiast for a unique devotional.
I was given the book by Barbour. All opinions are completely my own.
I was given the book by Barbour. All opinions are completely my own.
March 15, 2017
I'll admit that I was a bit dubious about this one. A superheroes devotional book......But I do like superheroes, and Barbour Books doesn't put out junk, so I requested it.
First off, one might think that this is a devotional book for kids. That is not the case. This is definitely for adults, and the length of the devotions are even longer than the average devotional book. Most of them go between 4 and 5 pages in length. The topics covered are not necessarily deep theological topics, yet they are deep enough to bring home a point that is worth considering.
If you know much about superhero comics and/or movies, there is usually a fight between good and evil, thus it isn't difficult to find Christian themes in the comics and superhero movies..... though the author does an even better job of it than I expected.
I have been reading a devotion a day from the book, and have not had enough days to read the whole book. However, I like what I have read and have been encouraged by what I have read. Each devotion starts with a reference to something in a comic book and/or movie, and ends with a spiritual application.
This is a devotional that is geared for people who read comic books and/or watch superhero movies. If you do neither, you most likely won't understand or enjoy the book. However, if you are into superheroes..... this book is definitely for you, or would make a great gift for the superhero fan in your life.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
First off, one might think that this is a devotional book for kids. That is not the case. This is definitely for adults, and the length of the devotions are even longer than the average devotional book. Most of them go between 4 and 5 pages in length. The topics covered are not necessarily deep theological topics, yet they are deep enough to bring home a point that is worth considering.
If you know much about superhero comics and/or movies, there is usually a fight between good and evil, thus it isn't difficult to find Christian themes in the comics and superhero movies..... though the author does an even better job of it than I expected.
I have been reading a devotion a day from the book, and have not had enough days to read the whole book. However, I like what I have read and have been encouraged by what I have read. Each devotion starts with a reference to something in a comic book and/or movie, and ends with a spiritual application.
This is a devotional that is geared for people who read comic books and/or watch superhero movies. If you do neither, you most likely won't understand or enjoy the book. However, if you are into superheroes..... this book is definitely for you, or would make a great gift for the superhero fan in your life.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
August 23, 2017
I would have never thought you could learn Bible truths from comic book superheroes but Ed Strauss does an excellent job of this with sixty inspiring devotions.
He begins with a little background of the history of comic books and their heroes. Then in each devotional he picks a character like Batman, Superman, Spider-Man, Wonderwoman and many more. Their background and superpower is explained and related to a Biblical character using Scripture. I loved the correlation and then the great example for us to incorporate in our daily lives.
One example I especially liked was the Hulk. When pressed to anger, he bulks out, turns green and causes destruction. He was related to Sampson in the Bible who had super human strength when given that by God in times of emergencies. But like the Hulk he was prone to anger when confronted with his enemies. Our own human anger is then discussed and how it can be good or bad. Backed up with Scripture it gives us good lessons for our lives.
This could very well be a great witnessing tool if bought as a gift for those that enjoy comics and do not know the Lord. For that reason I believe Mr. Strauss made the last devotional titled What About You? 60. Are You A True Believer? He does a great job laying out a background and then uses Scripture to tell the gospel message. This was not preachy to me but inspiring with challenges to add in our own lives. I also think it would be a useful tool for Youth Ministers to use in their lessons that would draw in the teenagers and maybe lead them to Christ.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
He begins with a little background of the history of comic books and their heroes. Then in each devotional he picks a character like Batman, Superman, Spider-Man, Wonderwoman and many more. Their background and superpower is explained and related to a Biblical character using Scripture. I loved the correlation and then the great example for us to incorporate in our daily lives.
One example I especially liked was the Hulk. When pressed to anger, he bulks out, turns green and causes destruction. He was related to Sampson in the Bible who had super human strength when given that by God in times of emergencies. But like the Hulk he was prone to anger when confronted with his enemies. Our own human anger is then discussed and how it can be good or bad. Backed up with Scripture it gives us good lessons for our lives.
This could very well be a great witnessing tool if bought as a gift for those that enjoy comics and do not know the Lord. For that reason I believe Mr. Strauss made the last devotional titled What About You? 60. Are You A True Believer? He does a great job laying out a background and then uses Scripture to tell the gospel message. This was not preachy to me but inspiring with challenges to add in our own lives. I also think it would be a useful tool for Youth Ministers to use in their lessons that would draw in the teenagers and maybe lead them to Christ.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
May 4, 2018
This is a good devotional book filled with Holy scriptures pertaining to certain character traits of our favorite DC/Marvel superheroes. A couple negatives are more emphasis toward Marvel characters than DC, and several characters and heroes are missing.
January 3, 2019
Didn’t function quite like an inspirational devotional for me. I need more depth. Some connections seemed contrived but some made me want to read certain scripture sections more closely. Because it made many connections to familiar heroes it’s worth the read.
March 14, 2017
One of the best devotionals I’ve come across in a long time! This is not your typical structured devotional. Rather, the author integrates the story and the verses together into a comprehensive short and extremely interesting lesson/devotional. The reader can take this lesson as far as he/she wants. It can take 3 minutes to read or you can stop and look up the verses mentioned and study them in depth. As for the topics, the author biographies famous comicbook characters and compares them to Biblical characters and Biblical truths. Anger, moral relativeism, the sacrificial healing of believing in Jesus are just a few of the many concepts covered. He incorporates both the comic and the movies since they are sometimes divergent. This could easily act as a small group study as well. If I were to make a suggestion, if there’s a future edition, I would add 2-3 questions at the end of each segment. If used as a devotional, this would help the reader to further ponder the lesson learned. If used as a small group study, it would help aid discussion. As for age ranges, I would suggest pre-teen to young adult. It helps for the reader to be familiar with the character. EXCELLENT BOOK, HIGHLY RECOMMEND! I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
March 15, 2017
The Super-Heroes Devotional by Ed Strauss felt like it was written by my kindred spirit. If you’re a Christian and love superheroes- especially Marvel- like me, it will feel like that for you. Each chapter is about one of your favorite superheroes and their stories, whether movie or comic, and gives you some information about them before moving on to compare the information to spiritual truth, like comparing the character to a Bible hero or heroine. I learned some new things about both the superheroes and the Bible. I couldn’t seem to put it down. The sections are short and readable on comic book-esque paper, with an adorable equally comic book-esque cover. It would be a good gift for the Christian superhero lover in your life- or even the non-Christian one.
I received a copy of this book for free from Barbour. I was not required to give a positive review and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
I received a copy of this book for free from Barbour. I was not required to give a positive review and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
September 13, 2020
Too evangelical and not so much about superheroes as it was about using them as a jumping off point for other things.
March 9, 2017
My Thoughts: When I think of a devotional, I'm looking for something that will help me center my day on Christ and possibly even teach or rebuke me. As a mature Christian, this wasn't the type of devotional that taught me anything new, but I did find it highly entertaining and even enlightening. I enjoyed taking a new look at characters that I've grown up with and some that I haven't met before. I'll certainly never look at them the same! I was blown away by the connections Strauss had made.
While I don't believe any devotional should take the place of your time in the Bible and very few are great Bible studies, I do believe this will be a great read for Christians who are also superhero fans. I can also see this being a great conversational tool for older kids/teens and their parents.
Rating and Recommendation: I'm giving it 5 stars and recommending it to Christian Superhero fans. I think you're really going to love this one!
"I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review."
While I don't believe any devotional should take the place of your time in the Bible and very few are great Bible studies, I do believe this will be a great read for Christians who are also superhero fans. I can also see this being a great conversational tool for older kids/teens and their parents.
Rating and Recommendation: I'm giving it 5 stars and recommending it to Christian Superhero fans. I think you're really going to love this one!
"I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review."
March 11, 2017
Very well written
Who doesn't like comic books and superheroes? Ed Strauss does a great job joining comic book heroes with Biblical truths. This book will have you looking at these comic heroes in a new light...a light that shines for God. I highly recommend this book.
“I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.”
Who doesn't like comic books and superheroes? Ed Strauss does a great job joining comic book heroes with Biblical truths. This book will have you looking at these comic heroes in a new light...a light that shines for God. I highly recommend this book.
“I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.”
March 12, 2017
"The Superheroes Devotional" is more than I expected. Full of adventures with exciting characters this devotional is great for boys and girls who enjoy superheroes, the best part is that they get a spiritual feeding each day explained in a way that youngsters will find exciting and can understand...I learned a few things also.
Colorful and inspiring is how I would describe it. A great teaching tool.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
Colorful and inspiring is how I would describe it. A great teaching tool.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
April 4, 2017
The Super-Heroes Devotional by Ed Strauss, takes superheroes and does a compare contrast to Biblical characters. This definitely is not for small children but is written for teens or adults. He does a great job giving the history of superhero/comics and then adding Christianity to the comics.
This is not a devotional but more of a commentary about how comic book characters compare to Biblical ones. He uses scriptures and references comics or movies. This approach is possibly a good one for a comic book buff or someone interested in super heroes.
The issue would be that people can see Christ in all aspects if they just look, but if someone is not rooted in Biblical truth then they can easily be lead astray. It would be beneficial for someone to keep an open mind and study the Scriptures that are referenced when reading.
I received a free copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was not required to post a review. All opinions are my own.
This is not a devotional but more of a commentary about how comic book characters compare to Biblical ones. He uses scriptures and references comics or movies. This approach is possibly a good one for a comic book buff or someone interested in super heroes.
The issue would be that people can see Christ in all aspects if they just look, but if someone is not rooted in Biblical truth then they can easily be lead astray. It would be beneficial for someone to keep an open mind and study the Scriptures that are referenced when reading.
I received a free copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was not required to post a review. All opinions are my own.
April 16, 2017
It is amazing how this author is able to find Christianity and spiritual inspirations woven into superhero comic books and movies. It helps that he begins with a little background of the history of comic books and their heroes. I was familiar with many but was glad that I could follow tales of those that were new to me. I enjoyed so much experiencing the messages in such a unique and special telling. I was impressed by the connections Strauss had made and enjoyed the conversational story telling style in which they were presented. A very entertaining way to be reminded of our Christian upbringing and perhaps become fans of the creators of these superheroes. A good read.
April 19, 2017
A novel and refreshingly unique devotional book by an author who is a fan of comic book super-heroes and has a desire to share his faith in the ultimate super-hero.
Many of the super-hero comic books and movies have clear themes of good versus evil. Many of the super-heroes' attributes and actions clearly originate from the rich history and deep moral value systems of the Judeo-Christian faiths.
This book is divided into 60 short chapters which are easy to understand and thought provoking at the same time. It is filled with lessons on fears and courage, justice and judgement, power and perseverance, promises, beliefs and faith.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
Many of the super-hero comic books and movies have clear themes of good versus evil. Many of the super-heroes' attributes and actions clearly originate from the rich history and deep moral value systems of the Judeo-Christian faiths.
This book is divided into 60 short chapters which are easy to understand and thought provoking at the same time. It is filled with lessons on fears and courage, justice and judgement, power and perseverance, promises, beliefs and faith.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
April 23, 2017
Full review on Faithfully Bookish http://wp.me/p7ngfE-N9
This book doesn’t dummy-down scripture but points out biblical truths and lessons within popular comic books and comic-inspired movies.
Anyone, from a casual movie fan to the comic book fanatic, will enjoy reading through these 60 devotionals.
I would highly recommend this book to comic enthusiasts of all ages for a fun and insightful look at our favorite heroes through the lens of faith.
I requested the opportunity to read this book through the publisher. The opinions expressed are my own.
This book doesn’t dummy-down scripture but points out biblical truths and lessons within popular comic books and comic-inspired movies.
Anyone, from a casual movie fan to the comic book fanatic, will enjoy reading through these 60 devotionals.
I would highly recommend this book to comic enthusiasts of all ages for a fun and insightful look at our favorite heroes through the lens of faith.
I requested the opportunity to read this book through the publisher. The opinions expressed are my own.
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