Spider-Man & Faith: Essays on Christian Truth in the Spider-Verse

"With great power, comes great responsibility." - Uncle Ben Parker

God can work through the most unlikeliest of instruments. Such is the case of Spider-Man, one of the most popular and well-loved superheroes of all time. What’s surprising is how Spider-Man is continually portrayed as a virtuous superhero, constantly desiring to do what is right and just and always fighting for the "small guy." 

Included in this book are a variety of essays by several authors who see profound Christian symbolism in the Spider-Verse. While the original creators of Spider-Man may have never intended to preach the Gospel with this character, many spiritual lessons can be learned from the spandex-wearing, web-slinging, teenage superhero.

Preview

This book has a total of four sections. Here is a preview of the first two:

In Section One: INTRO the Spider-verse, Philip Kosloski, Josh McDonald and Julian Sicam examine the foundations of what it means to be a hero and how to tell a superhero story using the example of Spider-Man. Philip Kosloski highlights how examples like Spider-Man resonate with us largely because of their resemblance to Jesus Christ. Josh McDonald illustrates how Spider-Man has not only the skills and abilities of a hero, but the heart of one as well. Julian Sicam explores the connections in the storytelling structure of Spider-Man and its resemblance to another master storyteller.

One of the biggest themes in every Spider-Man story is the alienation a young Peter Parker and/or Miles Morales experience(s) not only because of typical young adult circumstances, but also their unique abilities. Therefore, Section Two: “I’m Spider-Man. And I’m Not the Only One”, focuses the sense of community that is found within many of the Spider-Man tales. John Tuttle and Julian Sicam write on the strength Miles draws from his family, the latter with a special emphasis on the role of the father. Philip Kosloski and Mike Schramm point out the spiritual communion one can find between Peter and Miles with their heavenly helpers the Saints.