1 Corinthians 16:13 (NKJV) says, “Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong.” In today’s culture, self-sacrificing masculinity is often frowned upon — or even criminalized. Marine veteran Daniel Penny experienced this firsthand when he acted courageously to protect others on a New York subway.

Penny, a 26-year-old architecture student, was arrested in May 2023 following an altercation with Jordan Neely. Neely had boarded the subway, threatening to kill someone. This all occurred after a series of violent incidents on the subway, including over 20 people being shoved off platforms in the prior year.

According to Penny, Neely’s threats were not the typical incoherent ramblings but seemed alarmingly real. Acting to safeguard himself and other passengers, Penny subdued Neely, who had a long criminal history, by putting him in a chokehold. Tragically, Neely died during the incident. Initially questioned and released, Penny was arrested two weeks later by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg.

This week, a jury acquitted Penny. Reflecting on his actions during an interview with Fox News’s Judge Jeanine Pirro, Penny said, “The guilt I would’ve felt if someone did get hurt, if [Neely] did do what he was threatening to do, I would never be able to live with myself.” He continued, “I’ll take a million court appearances and people calling me names and people hating me just to keep one of those people from getting hurt or killed.”

Penny’s actions stand out as heroic, especially in a society where masculinity is often vilified. Many men today are paralyzed into inaction, choosing rather to record the events on their smartphones while criminals prey on the innocent. Penny broke this mold by risking his freedom to protect others.

Fortunately, the jury dismissed Bragg’s charges and acquitted Penny. Their decision sends an important message: a society remains safe only when courageous individuals — especially men willing to act selflessly — are supported, not punished, for their bravery.

Courage and bravery to act on behalf of others is a characteristic that free societies cultivate, not criticize and criminalize. That is, if they understand what is required for a free and prosperous future. 

Penny’s actions remind us of the strength and bravery called for in 1 Corinthians 16:13, a charge to remain vigilant and steadfast in doing what is right, even when it comes at great personal cost. And it’s not just physical courage that is needed — moral courage is needed to stand up for what is right and for the well-being of others. May the example of Daniel inspire others to embrace the courage to act against the destructive cultural forces that also endanger society when others won’t.