Was Stanley Jones a Superman? Rediscovering the Spirit-Fueled Legacy of a Modern-Day Hero
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Rediscovering the Spirit-Fueled Legacy of a Modern-Day Hero A Radio School Reflection from the Stanley Jones Foundation Presented by The What It Takes Radio Company
In a playful yet profound episode of The Stanley Jones Radio School for Fully Alive Living, host Stan Hustad opens with a nostalgic riff on the familiar phrase: "Look, up in the sky! It's a bird, it's a plane..." But this time, it's not Clark Kent we're talking about. The question posed is bold, even whimsical: Was Stanley Jones a kind of Superman? While the cape and the Krypton origin story are notably absent, the answer—surprisingly—isn't a flat no.
This engaging radio adventure invites listeners to explore not only the inspirational life of missionary statesman E. Stanley Jones, but to consider how the power of the Holy Spirit can equip anyone—yes, even you—to live with purpose, power, and maybe just a little bit of super.
The Real Origin Story: From Moses to Metropolis to Mission Fields
Stan dives deep into the history of Superman, reminding us that the original character, created by two Jewish comic artists, was inspired by the Hebrew story of Moses. Just like the baby placed in a basket and sent down the Nile, Superman was sent to Earth to escape destruction, adopted by a family, and eventually revealed to be someone with great power—sent to help others.
The Spiritual Superpower of Stanley Jones
Jones' story carries some unmistakable superhuman themes: a dramatic conversion at Asbury College, powerful preaching across India in challenging circumstances, and tireless work toward peace and reconciliation—all fueled by what he described as a "superior spirit force." Through personal loss, illness, and global turmoil, Jones kept going... and going. That's not just resilience—it's something deeper. Something divine.
A Challenge to the Listener: What Is Your Superpower?
This isn't just a tribute to a man who's long gone. It's a nudge—no, a push—for all of us to ask: - Where in my life do I need a supernatural strength? - What kind of power am I asking God to give me right now? - How can I live more fully, more faithfully, more super?
Takeaways for Reminding, Remembering & Sharing
• Stanley Jones didn't wear a cape—but he carried a message that crossed continents and brought healing and hope.
• The Holy Spirit is not a breeze—it's a force. Expect thunder. Expect power.
• Your story might still be unfolding. Even at 82, you might just start a podcast that changes lives.
• "Ah" is the goal. Wonder, power, mystery... the spiritual wow that comes from surrender.
• Streaming is the new sanctuary. And the message must move forward in new forms—from books to podcasts to AI-powered outreach.
Inspirational Close: Be a Little Bit Super Today
The episode ends not with a call to the clouds, but a challenge on the ground:
Let's not just admire Jones. Let's emulate him. Let's raise a ruckus of faith. Let's surrender, and then rise in Spirit-fueled power. Let's live out our own stories of rescue, transformation, and spiritual super-strength. As Stan puts it—"Be a little bit super today. Maybe even be a bit of a Superman."
Join the Movement—Support the Mission
You can help preserve and propel the legacy of Stanley Jones by supporting the work of the Stanley Jones Foundation. Led faithfully by Anne Matthews Younes, the foundation continues to publish, promote, and stream the wisdom of a man whose life changed lives. ✅ Donate or Partner Today ✅ Share the Broadcast ✅ Reach Out to Stan Hustad 📧 [email protected] Let's keep the spirit moving. Let's live fully. Let's be… a little super.
30 episodes