Male Friendship 101: David, Jon, & Iron MikeSample

Matthew 22:16, "And they sent their disciples to him, along with the Herodians, saying, "Teacher, we know that you are true and teach the way of God truthfully, and you do not care about anyone's opinion, for you are not swayed by appearances."

Mike Tyson was the one. Iron Mike was 50-6 throughout his boxing career; the man was a beast. Not only was Iron Mike good for a knockout, but his soundbites were also phenomenal. Now and then, you'd get something philosophical, almost biblical. One of my favs: "Everyone that you fight is not your enemy, and everyone who helps you is not your friend."

Iron Mike had many people telling him what he wanted to hear . . .

Like Mike, those who follow King Jesus must be on guard against flattery. Fiery darts and swords are not Satan's only weapons. Satan will use more seductive measures when fear of bodily harm doesn't move us. And nothing is more seductive than flattery.

In our text today, the enemies of Jesus try to get Him to let down His guard. They do not attack Him physically or personally. They do not employ slander or malice nor threat to His person, family, or friends. Their weapon? Flattery. It was impossible to take His soul; they wanted the next best thing: to poison His soul using false kindness and praise.

We should remember that the sword did not bring down Samson and Solomon; they were brought down by women who told them what they wanted to hear. An invading army did not ruin Hezekiah; it was flattery that led to his demise. JC Ryle once said, "peace often ruins nations far more than war. The sun makes the traveler cast off his protective garments far sooner than the north wind.... remember, Judas betrayed Jesus with a kiss."

Flattery gets you nowhere. Flattery fuels pride, and pride ultimately destroys. Be careful not to believe the hype that surrounds you . . . and "woe to you when all men speak well of you" (Lk. 6:26).

After losing 400+ million dollars, Iron Mike learned he had far more friends in the ring than outside of it.

Hands up, chin down.

Lesson: The best kind of friends are friends who love you for who you are but want you to be more than you are.