Anyway, most theorists recognize that when faced with a dilemma, one naturally moves to advantage self and disadvantage the “opponent.” In computerized “game” experiments, however, playing hard and sharp move after move results in overall loss. Yet, “playing nice,” as counterintuitive as it may be, ultimately wins, and does so consistently. It wins the best result for both players. It wins trust among other players. It creates stability and reliability. Imagine that.

Nevertheless, just when I was understanding “game theory” as a potentially useful example in the moral arc of the universe, I learned that theorists recognize the utility of “tit for tat” when you get burned, just so you’re not seen as “weak.” And, because acting on selfish impulse is the way of the world, the constant state of stalemate has a name in game theory and is known as the “Nash Equilibrium.”

My eyes were glazing over watching all this. I woke up when I heard Jiang — fingers hovering over a map, and a laser in the other hand — admit that only a move of God could save us from our impulse for mutual destruction. At last, I agree with that.

The teachings of Jesus go beyond this earthly orientation for self-interests and self-preservation. This is not machine learning, and you can’t run this through the models and come up with this. No artificial intelligence could compute the advantage and motivation to act with His level of love.

See the Sermon on the Mount, and the counterrevolutionary moves Jesus advocated: the idea of going the second mile, extending grace in the face of rebuke. Or what about the idea of loving an enemy, and doing good to them that hate you? The “paradoxical power,” as Dallas Willard calls it in his now classic “The Divine Conspiracy,” unleashes unpredictable and far-reaching results.

The teachings of Jesus inspired the movements of leaders such as Gandhi, Martin Luther King, Jr., and others. These secrets of history-altering love and grace will be our study for eternity. They inspire us to seek the good of others, while enduring, or in spite of their calculations. Jesus played some kind of intergalactic chess. This is the revolutionary seed of universal change. One drop of dangerous goodness created the gospel of win-win.

It is why the irresistible gospel will be preached into all the world (Matthew 28:19).

Remember to let your salt season, not overpower (Matthew 5:13).

Let your light glow, not glare (Matthew 5:14-16).

Let your love hang in the air like a subtle, unforgettable fragrance.

*Disclaimer: this is a hypothetical to illustrate a point, not intended as legal advice, and I’m not sure how this plays out in a real-life, high-stakes criminal case.

With this issue of Message, I say so long as editor of this historic platform. With my whole heart I welcome my friend, former pastor, and long-time Message contributor Dr. Rashad Burden. May the voice of Message continue to ring in praise of the wisdom and ways of Jesus Christ.