Screen Sermons

THE CONSPIRATOR (2010)

2011-09-04T15:52:00.000-07:00

Directed by: Robert Redford
Written by: James Solomon
US Distributor: Roadside Attractions
Starring: Robin Wright, James McAvoy
Rated: PG-13

About the film:
Mary Surratt is among those arrested and charged with conspiracy to assassinate Abraham Lincoln. Though there is little evidence connecting her to the plot, she is nevertheless brought before a military tribunal which is predetermined to find her guilty. A Yankee lawyer who was coerced into defending her is the only person standing between her and the gallows.

Movie Quote:
“The Bible bears as many interpretations as anything else.”
Frederick Aiken (James McAvoy) The Conspirator (2010)

Bible Quote:
“Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation.”
2 Peter 1:20 (KJV)

Commentary:
While what Aiken says is true, it is what he does not say that is most important to remember. People do read many things into the scriptures and tend to interpret it to fit whatever it is they already believe. This does not make their interpretation true or accurate.

The Bible’s testimony of itself is clear. There is no private interpretation that should be forced upon it. It does not matter what any individual thinks a verse of scripture means. This leaves us with two remaining choices. Either the Bible cannot be interpreted, rendering it meaningless and therefore useless; or the Bible must be able to interpret itself.

It is of course the latter that is true and remains the challenge for us today. In order to discover the one true interpretation of the Bible; the one that represents God’s original thought and intent, we must become diligent students of the entire book. It is why He calls us to be “workmen” of the Word.

“Study and be eager and do your utmost to present yourself to God approved (tested by trial), a workman who has no cause to be ashamed, correctly analyzing and accurately dividing [rightly handling and skillfully teaching] the Word of Truth.” 2 Timothy 2:15 (Amplified)

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. How does one find the true meaning of any scripture? What are the keys to the Bible’s interpretation?

2. Was justice served in the events depicted in the film? Why or why not?

KUNG FU PANDA 2 (2011)

2011-08-31T18:48:00.000-07:00

Directed by: Jennifer Yuh
Written by: Jonathan Aibel, Glenn Berger
US Distributor: Paramount Pictures
Starring: Jack Black, Angelina Jolie
Rated: PG

About the film:
Po, the giant panda, seeks answers about his origins even as the evil Lord Shen seeks to gain control over all those within the country which he rules with an iron fist.

Movie Quote:
“The cup you choose to fill has no bottom.”
Soothsayer (Michelle Yeoh) Kung Fu Panda 2 (2011)

Bible Quote:
“For my people have committed two evils; they have forsaken me the fountain of living waters, and hewed them out cisterns, broken cisterns, that can hold no water.”
Jeremiah 2:13 (KJV)

Commentary:
Whether it is a bottomless cup or a broken cistern that can hold no water, the result is the same. Whatever goes into either is lost forever. It cannot be retrieved. And this is exactly the lesson that God wants us to know.

Both the biblical and movie quotes refer to what we choose to believe in or trust. We can choose to trust in something that is strong, secure, and dependable and receive the positive results of our believing in something that is true. Or we can choose to trust in something that is weak, filled with holes, and unreliable and receive the negative results of believing in something that cannot provide what we desire. God be praised, the choice is ours. But the consequences of making the wrong choice are enormous and life-changing.

God gives us this analogy to exhort us to believe in His Word which is unshakeable, undeniable, and unwavering in its representation of His truth. His Word is the solid cup or cistern in which He wants us to put our trust. When we do we will never be disappointed.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Po suffers from distractions that hinder him during the course of the film. How debilitating are distractions and what can we do to keep our focus despite them?

2. Adoption is also a subject that is considered during the course of the film. What does God have to say about adoption and how does that relate to the film?

YOU AGAIN (2010)

2011-08-24T13:45:00.000-07:00

Directed by: Andy Fickman
Written by: Moe Jelline
US Distributor: Touchstone Pictures
Starring: Kristen Bell, Odette Annable
Rated: PG

About the film:
A young PR executive learns that the “mean girl” from high school, who made her teenaged life a living hell, is engaged to her brother. What’s a girl to do? Don’t ask mom. She’s got problems of her own when she meets the new bride-to-be’s aunt and recognizes her as her own high school nemesis.

Movie Quote:
“You can’t control the things that happen to you but you can control how you react to them.”
Marni (Kristen Bell) in You Again (2010)

Bible Quote:
“See that none render evil for evil unto any man; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men.”
1 Thessalonians 5:15 (KJV)

Commentary:
For many people, “turning the other cheek” is easier said than done. However, we see from the Bible that it is possible. And more than possible, it is encouraged. The benefits that come to us when we follow God’s exhortations so greatly outweigh the alternatives that there is really no choice at all.

Granted, life is difficult at times. Few, if any, get through it completely unscathed. We will have bad times; we will experience unpleasant events; we will find ourselves in unjust situations – and most through no fault of our own. But nothing we face need dictate to us how we are to respond. We can operate on a higher plane.

God has given us, through the incredible design of the human body, the ability to control our minds. By controlling our minds, we have control over our thoughts, our actions, and even the responses we choose to have to negative situations.

God certainly does not want us to be life-long victims; subject to the abuse of everyone else. But neither does he want us to use unjust abuse as an excuse to act in opposition to all He teaches us. It remains our choice, of course. But He is clearly pointing us in the direction He would have us go.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. How does forgiveness figure into the film’s story? Who shows the most forgiveness?

2. What is the best answer to a bullying situation? What would be the Christian response?

SOURCE CODE (2011)

2011-07-31T07:27:00.000-07:00

Directed by: Duncan Jones
Written by: Ben Ripley
US Distribution: Summit Entertainment
Starring: Jake Gyllenhaal, Michelle Monaghan, Vera Farmiga
Rated: PG-13

About the film:
A helicopter pilot finds he can relive the last eight minutes of another man’s life. He uses this as an opportunity to discover the identity of a terrorist before that terrorist can strike again.

Movie Quote:
“What would you do if you knew you only had one minute to live?”
“I’d make those seconds count.”
Colter (Jake Gyllenhaal) and Christina (Michelle Monaghan) in Source Code (2011)

Bible Quote:
“Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.”
Ephesians 5:16 (KJV)

Commentary:
How we spend our time may be an individual choice but it is a choice which should be considered carefully. Time is the one commodity we possess that we simply can’t replicate, grow, or hoard. All we can do is to use it in the most effective, meaningful way possible.

Unlike Colter, who has multiple opportunities to relive the same time period to achieve a desired goal, we have just one opportunity to make our seconds count. Once time has passed, there’s simply no bringing it back. How we spend our time throughout the course of our life will determine whether we look back on it with regret or with satisfaction.

God exhorts us to redeem the time. A literal definition of the word “redeem” is to “rescue from loss.” The natural state of time is one of waste or loss. It is only through our action that time has purpose and meaning. Make the seconds count. Let life have its purpose.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. What does “redeem the time” mean to you? How is it demonstrated in the film?
2. What are the greatest “time stealers” in your life? What can you do to protect yourself against them?

ALICE IN WONDERLAND (2010)

2011-07-24T11:25:00.000-07:00

Directed by: Tim Burton
Written by: Linda Woolverton
Studio: Walt Disney Pictures
Starring: Mia Wasikowska, Johnny Depp, Helena Bonham Carter
Rated: PG

About the film:
19-year-old Alice returns to the strange place she once knew as Wonderland only to find the odd denizens there filled with anticipation of a long-awaited fulfillment of a prophecy in which she is to play a major part.

Movie Quote:
“You cannot live your life to please others. The choice must be yours.”
White Queen (Anne Hathaway) in Alice in Wonderland (2010)

Bible Quote:
“Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.”
Galatians 1:10 (NIV)

Commentary:
It is a natural human tendency to want to be liked. The downside is that our natural desire can and often does tempt us to present a false image of who we are or what we believe so as to gain the approval of others. The irony is rich. We might get “them” to like us… but it really isn’t “us” that they are meeting.

God exhorts us to walk honestly towards all men. No facades, no feigned words or false emotions… simply speaking and living the truth as we know it. It is not always easy. It is always profitable to God and to our souls.

Sure, there may be those who will not agree with what we say. And they may personalize the message to such an extent that they will choose to dislike the speaker as well as the speech. We can’t necessarily control how people react to us. But we can always control that what we present to them is honest and true.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. How does the Alice we see at the beginning of the film differ from the Alice at the end? What causes this change?
2. Who is the most honest character in the film? Defend your answer.

THE CONTENDER (2000)

2011-07-20T16:26:00.000-07:00

Directed by: Rod Lurie
Written by: Rod Lurie
Studio: DreamWorks SKG
Starring: Joan Allen, Gary Oldman, Jeff Bridges
Rated: R

About the film:
A female vice-presidential candidate is victim of a smear campaign that has been organized by a political opponent. When her personal life is probed by her enemies, she refuses to confirm or deny their allegations on the basis of principle.

Movie Quote:
“Napoleon once said, when asked to explain the lack of great statesmen in the world, that "to get power you need to display absolute pettiness; to exercise power, you need to show true greatness." Such pettiness and greatness are rarely found in one person.”
President Jackson Evans (Jeff Bridges) in The Contender (2000)

Bible Quote:
“Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom.”
James 3:13 (NIV)

Commentary:
There doesn’t seem to have been much improvement in the quality of statesmanship since Napoleon’s day. Now, as then, the lack of “great statesmen” is readily apparent. Today’s political scene abounds in pettiness. It is sorely lacking in anything resembling true greatness.

And the reason is as President Evans explains. The characteristics it takes to gain power are not the same characteristics that are needed to use that power to serve a nation… or a people. Unfortunately, the self-serving position seekers often get the jobs they want but they can’t (or won’t) perform those jobs in the way we the people need them to perform.

Believe it or not, meekness is the key. It takes a strong man to stay meek when presented with such power. A leader who remains meek enough to receive good and sound council but can also exercise the boldness to act upon that council for the good of the people he serves would indeed be worthy of those who elect him.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. What qualities do you look for in a political candidate?
2. What motivates the various characters in the film? What informs the choices they make?

WHITE CHRISTMAS (1954)

2011-07-14T15:59:00.000-07:00

Directed by: Michael Curtiz
Songs by: Irving Berlin
Studio: Paramount Pictures
Starring: Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Rosemary Clooney
Rated: Not Rated (G equivalent)

About the film:
Two successful producers, who once served together in the Army, stage a show in a failing Vermont resort in order to try to help the now semi-retired general whom they followed during World War II.

Movie Quote:
“When I’m worried and I can’t sleep; I count my blessings instead of sheep. And I fall asleep counting my blessings.”
Bob Wallace (Bing Crosby) In White Christmas (1954)

Bible Quote:
“Give thanks in all circumstances: for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
1 Thessalonians 5:18 (NIV)

Commentary:
Worry causes internal stress. It is a form of fear that has negative physical manifestations. But since it is internalized, we can control it. Bob Wallace’s advice is wisdom beyond even his own understanding.

We cannot always control what happens to us. But we can always control how we react to it. Bad things may come our way. But by reminding ourselves of the power, strength and victory which God has given to us through his son, Jesus, we can remain thankful… even in the darkest of situations.

The promises that God has given to us bring us peace. And regardless of what external chaos may be blowing about us, our peace can remain uninterrupted. Next time a situation arises that tempts you to worry – remind yourself of the victory you have already received. Count your blessings.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Each character in the film seeks for a peace of heart in different ways. What are they? And how can a man or woman truly find peace within his or her heart?
2. How is the concept of service (or serving others) manifested in this film? Who demonstrates this quality the most and why?

TOY STORY 3 (2010)

2011-07-12T18:02:00.000-07:00

Directed by: Lee Unkrich
Written by: Michael Arndt
Studio: Pixar Animation Studios
Starring: Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Joan Cusack
Rated: G

About the film:
The third film of the series finds Andy destined for college and his lifelong toys awaiting the decision as to their fate. Will it be Andy’s attic, the trash heap, or something else? As the toys embark on what may be their final adventure, the movie pulls a few heartstrings with its message of friendship, loyalty, and lessons learned.

Movie Quote:
“Now Woody, he's been my pal for as long as I can remember. He's brave, like a cowboy should be, and kind, and smart. But the thing that makes Woody special is he'll never give up on you... ever. He'll be there for you, no matter what.”
Andy (John Morris) in Toy Story 3 (2010)

Bible Quote:
“The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid, do not be discouraged.”
Deuteronomy 31:8 (NIV)

Commentary:
The qualities used to describe the characteristics of a fictional toy cowboy speak of an ideal – an ideal that is often not realized in the world in which we live. But it is an ideal we crave… to have a friend in whom we can trust implicitly, without reservation, because he never disappoints us.

Woody, an imaginary friend, was that to Andy. And the imaginary bond that was formed between the toy and the boy helped the child develop into a caring, sensitive young man. Who wouldn’t want to have a friend like Woody?

The truth is that we have it better - not just a friend, but a father. We have a father who is incapable of lying, cheating, or disappointing We have a father who will never leave us in our times of need nor forsake us when we are at our weakest. We have a father who patiently waits for us to come to the realization that He loves us and will do anything for us. He will not give up on us… ever. He will be there for us… no matter what.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. What responsibilities do we have to those who have influenced our lives?
2. What is the goal of the toys of Toy Story 3? How does that equate to the goals we set for ourselves? Are the goals we set ones which enable us to serve or ones that empower us to be served? Which is better?

THE GREAT BUCK HOWARD (2006)

2011-07-10T06:33:00.000-07:00

Directed by: Sean McGinly
Written by: Sean McGinly
Studio: Magnolia Pictures
Starring: John Malkovich, Colin Hanks, Tom Hanks
Rated: PG

About the film:
A young man signs on as the personal assistant of an aging and demanding illusionist trying to stage a comeback to the national stage.

Movie Quote:
“Only something fake could work 100% of the time.”
Troy Gable (Colin Hanks) In The Great Buck Howard (2006)

Bible Quote:
“Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of people in their deceitful scheming.”
Ephesians 4:14 (NIV)

Commentary:
Troy’s skepticism is certainly understandable in our day and time. How many times have we been led to believe something or someone only to discover that what we thought was true and reliable was anything but? However, just because we have been disappointed in the past does not mean that truth does not exist. It just means that we’ve been looking for it in the wrong places.

Buck Howard’s illusions may, upon first glance, appear to be real and sometimes amazing but appearance and truth are not interchangeable. Deception, sleight of hand, and misdirection are all tricks of the trade for any magician or illusionist. But there is one, capable of the greatest acts man has ever seen, who needs not to rely upon tricks and illusions. In fact, He is incapable of them.

Our God, Creator of the heavens and the earth, cannot lie. He will not turn even unto the shadow of the truth. The Bible, which God revealed to man, is the one source we can turn to and rely upon for the truth (when read with proper spiritual discernment.) It will work 100% of the time without any kind of “fakery.”

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Is it easier to believe an illusion you can see than an invisible truth? Why or why not?
2. What can we do to keep from accepting a lie or deception as truth?

THE KING'S SPEECH (2010)

2011-07-05T04:49:00.000-07:00

Directed by: Tom Hooper
Written by: David Seidler
Studio: The Weinstein Company
Starring: Colin Firth, Geoffrey Rush, Helena Bonham Carter
Rated: R

About the film:
Prince Albert, known familiarly as “Bertie”, is the second son of King George V and suffers from a severe speech impediment. When his older brother abdicates the throne following their father’s death, the responsibility of the crown falls to Bertie who recognizes that he must overcome his physical limitation in order to be effective as a ruler.

Movie Quote:
“Poor and content is rich and rich enough.”
Lionel Logue (Geoffrey Rush) In The King’s Speech (2010)

Bible Quote:
“But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And, having food and raiment, let us be therewith content.”
1 Timothy 6:6-8 (KJV)

Commentary:
There is great wisdom in what Lionel professes. Contentment is a state of being that is often overlooked. It never seems to be lauded quite as highly as it deserves. Most people, in their quest for fame, glory or riches, neglect to consider whether the attainment of those goals will truly satisfy.

And yet there are few worthier aims than to be content; to be satisfied in life; at peace with one’s self and one’s condition. Whether one is a king or a commoner, rich or poor, contentment is available to all who recognize and embrace its value.

The first step to contentment is to identify what our needs are. If our needs are met, then, by definition, there is nothing else that we need. Having no need is the kind of wealth that brings a peace of mind that all the possessions of the world cannot match.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Why were Lionel’s unorthodox methods successful in treating Bertie’s condition?
2. There are many reasons why people have difficulty finding contentment. What are some of them?

EAT PRAY LOVE (2011)

2011-07-03T16:13:00.000-07:00

Directed by: Ryan Murphy
Written by: Ryan Murphy, Jennifer Salt
Studio: Columbia Pictures
Starring: Julia Roberts, Javier Bardem, Richard Jenkins
Rated: PG-13

About the film:
A woman embarks upon a personal journey of self-discovery… leaving her everyday world behind to experience other cultures in the hopes to awaken a sense of who she is… or better yet… discover who she could be.

Movie Quote:
“That’s what you do. It isn’t who you are.”
Luca Spaghetti (Giuseppi Gandini) In Eat Pray Love (2011)

Bible Quote:
“For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he.”
Proverbs 23:7a (KJV)

Commentary:
Doing and thinking are two completely separate acts. How often do we think about a situation without doing anything about it? Other times may find us doing something without giving it one moment of thought. Some people have even mastered the deceptive art of doing one thing while thinking another.

So why is it that people seem to want to define us by what we do? What we do is not nor has it ever been a good and accurate indicator of what is in our hearts. And, as God reminds us, what we hold in our hearts is the only true test of who we really are.

Actions may speak louder than words but our private, unprompted, uncalculated thoughts of the heart speak even louder. It is certainly what God sees and hears when he looks at us. Not our words or deeds… but our innermost thoughts.

Questions to consider while watching the film:

1. Why was Liz so dissatisfied with her life? How would you have counseled her?
2. Is Liz truly a “different” person at the end of the film? Why or why not?

THE ADJUSTMENT BUREAU (2011)

2011-06-30T16:13:00.000-07:00

Directed by: George Nolfi
Written by: George Nolfi
Studio: Universal Pictures
Starring: Matt Damon, Emily Blunt
Rated: PG-13

About the film:
A political candidate is attracted to a young dancer only to discover that a mysterious organization is conspiring behind the scenes to keep them apart. As he learns more about this organization, he comes to the realization that the world may not be quite the place he always thought it was.

Movie Quote:
“Free will is a gift that you’ll never know how to use until you fight for it.”
Harry Mitchell (Anthony Mackie) in The Adjustment Bureau (2011)

Bible Quote:
“It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.”
Galatians 5:1 (NIV)

Commentary:
At the core of The Adjustment Bureau is a false premise… the idea that our free will is nothing more than illusion – given to us because we, as a race of beings, are not yet capable of living with such freedom without destroying ourselves in the process.

This, of course, is ridiculous. God would not provide us with a gift without giving along with it our ability to use it effectively. Our freedom was purchased with a dear price – the life of God’s only begotten son. He is not taking that back from us. Our freedom is real; it is no illusion. We are free from bondage; free from fear; free from the hundreds upon thousands of doubts and worries that can multiply within us to keep us from achieving all that is within us to be.

But our freedom is more than mere deliverance. We are not just free from things that are negative… we are free to do things that are positive. We are free to act; free to love; free to serve; free to be the sons and daughters of the God Who gave us our freedom in the first place. Our freedom provides us with more than the release from our spiritual chains of bondage; it also gives us the ability to never allow anyone or anything to ever hold us captive again. This is what “fighting for our free will” means – the fact that we have the ability to choose what we believe and how we will act upon that believing.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Why does the Chairman’s plan change over time? How does that relate to the way God established the world and the lives of its people?
2. Can free will be a dangerous thing? How and why? What is the best way to protect ourselves from ourselves?

THE GOOD EARTH (1937)

2010-04-19T07:52:00.000-07:00

Directed by: Sidney Franklin
Written by: Talbot Jennings, Tess Slesinger, Claudine West
Studio: MGM
Starring: Paul Muni, Luise Rainer, Walter Connolly
Rated: PG-13

About the film:
A poor Chinese farmer takes a wife and together they begin to scrape out a meager existence. As their fortunes increase, the farmer loses sight of what helped lead him to his success.

Movie Quote:
"The soul of a great nation is expressed in the life of its humblest people."
Screen caption in The Good Earth (1937)

Bible Quote:
“So get rid of all uncleanness and the rampant outgrowth of wickedness, and in a humble (gentle, modest) spirit receive and welcome the Word which implanted and rooted [in your hearts] contains the power to save your souls.”
John 15:12 (Amplified)

Commentary:
Humility or meekness is often a much-maligned quality that is not given its proper due by people who don’t recognize or understand its power. The scriptures state that a person willing to adopt a humbleness of mind will be rewarded. A great nation is one that is comprised of such people and led by a ruler who will similarly subjugate his own ego to follow a higher standard or truth.

Unfortunately, a person’s humility or meekness is sometimes mistaken for weakness, cowardliness or uncertainty. Our human tendency is to be drawn towards those A-type personalities whose charisma and take-charge attitude often mask the fact that they are being blinded by their own egos and desires.

It is not a sign of weakness to refer to a map when traveling to an unfamiliar location. By following a map’s directions, we can move forward with confidence and be assured of successfully reaching our goal. The challenge of safely navigating through life is no different. When we, humbly or meekly, allow God to direct our steps, we are given a strength and power that enables us to prevail in any situation. When our nation’s leaders do the same, the fruit of following that wisdom becomes evident for all to see.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. What led to Wang Lung’s initial success and how well did he handle the obstacles that were placed before him?
2. What is meant by “the soul of a nation” from the movie’s quote? To what does that refer?

Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com

DAN IN REAL LIFE (2007)

2010-04-15T15:02:00.000-07:00

Directed by: Peter Hedges
Written by: Pierce Gardner, Peter Hedges
Studio: Touchstone Pictures
Starring: Steve Carell, Juliette Binoche, Dane Cook
Rated: PG-13

About the film:
A widower who has taken his three children on a family vacation meets a woman who sparks his romantic interest. The problem is… she’s already dating his brother.

Movie Quote:
"Love is not a feeling. It’s an ability."
Dan Burns (Steve Carell) in Dan in Real Life (2007)

Bible Quote:
“A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.”
John 15:12 (KJV)

Commentary:
Love is often confused (as it is in this film) for a feeling. People who desperately desire love tend to mistake it for the first tingling sensation they receive. Lust, infatuation, fear, even hunger have all been confused at one time or another for man’s concept of love. The great reality of love is far richer and goes much deeper than any “feeling.”

Dan is superficially correct. Love is an ability. But he stops short at arriving at the truth. For although God granted all of us the ability to love, many of us never achieve it. Love is, above all else, a free-will choice. Each of us has the ability to choose to love or choose not to love. We can also choose to accept love or choose to reject it.

God defines love in a simple and straightforward manner. “And this is love, that we walk after His commandments.” (2 John 1:6) It is a choice that we make. It may not be signaled with a tingling sensation; it may not come in on floods of emotion; it may not even be reciprocated. But love, as God defines it, is the crux of creation. It is the meaning for our existence. And knowing that love is a choice that we make… applicable to any relationship we choose to enter… should change the way we approach those relationships.

Feelings come and go. Love can and should be a constant… in our hearts… in our minds… and in our lives.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Is there such a thing as “love at first sight?” Why or why not?
2. If love is not a “feeling,” what causes the feelings we experience and how do we protect ourselves from their effects?

Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com

MR. DEEDS (2002)

2010-04-13T13:58:00.000-07:00

Directed by: Steven Brill
Written by: Tim Herlihy
Studio: Columbia Pictures
Starring: Adam Sandler, Winona Ryder, John Turturro
Rated: PG-13

About the film:
Longfellow Deeds is a simple man from a small New England town who not only inherits a fortune but also controlling interest in a huge multi-media conglomerate. He travels to the big city where his small town ways make him easy pickings for the ruthless, unethical and self-serving people that he encounters there.

Movie Quote:
"It's hard to soar with the eagles when you're surrounded by turkeys."
Mr. Deeds (Adam Sandler) in Mr. Deeds (2002)

Bible Quote:
“He who walks with the wise grows wise, but a companion of fools suffers harm.”
1 Corinthians 15:33 (NIV)

Commentary:
Deeds may be a simple man but simple men often have a way of seeing things most clearly. Deed’s quoted comment is not only amusing but ultimately rings true. Like it or not, we are affected by those with whom we choose to associate. Hanging around with a bunch of flightless “turkeys” can easily keep us from realizing our true potential as eagles.

We are, from an early age, exhorted to “choose our friends wisely.” As we mature, we come to realize the wisdom of that advice. There has been many a man (or woman) with a once promising life that was ruined due to their falling in with the wrong crowd. Most of the worst decisions we make are a result of the peer pressure being applied upon us from unwise companions.

Fortunately, the converse is also true. When we choose to fellowship with those who demonstrate positive or admirable traits - this association tends to rub off on us as well. We can learn from and can be guided by their example; we can be encouraged by their successes; and we can be inspired by their character. We can soar in this life… with a little help from our friends.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Who in the Bible erred as a result of the company he or she kept?
2. What are the benefits of fellowshipping with like-minded believers? How is this reflected in the film?

Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com

REPO MAN (2010)

2010-04-10T17:46:00.000-07:00

Directed by: Miguel Sapochnik
Written by: Eric Garcia, Garrett Lerner
Studio: Universal Pictures
Starring: Jude Law, Forest Whitaker,
Rated: R

About the film:
In the future, medical technology has become so advanced that critically-ill patients can have expensive mechanical parts transplanted in them to prolong their life. The problem is when the patient falls behind in their payments, the company sends a “repo man” to recover their property.

Movie Quote:
“If you want to change who you are, you have to change what you do.”
Remy (Jude Law) in Repo Man (2010)

Bible Quote:
“Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.”
Acts 2:37-38 (KJV)

Commentary:
No one likes to change. And yet, we all must. If we want to have any hope of improving our lot in life and receiving the fullness of God’s promise to man, we must first undergo a fundamental change… to go from a man or woman dead in sins and without God in this world to a born again believer filled with power from on high and able to manifest that power in this world.

Becoming born again of God’s spirit is one of the easiest changes we’ll ever go through. God and his son have already accomplished the hard work. But there’s much more to a Christian walk than simply the pedigree that God bestows upon us. To live as an ambassador for Christ requires a major change in our thinking and our behavior. Changing our “old man nature” is a 24 hour – 7 days a week exercise. But the rewards of our success are immeasurable. By changing what we do, we indeed have the ability to change who we are.

Because our salvation is fully paid for, we need not fear a spiritual “repo man.” Our spiritual change is once and forever. Our mindset therefore must be to walk worthy of God’s calling. Knowing that we have been chosen of God, we should conduct ourselves in a manner befitting that remarkable reality.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Why do we resist change if change is a necessary part of life? What can we do to lessen our resistance?
2. Who in the Bible demonstrates a dramatic change in their manner or thinking? What can we learn from them?

Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com

THE SOLOIST (2009)

2010-04-08T14:52:00.000-07:00

Directed by: Joe Wright
Written by: Susannah Grant
Studio: DreamWorks SKG
Starring: Robert Downey Jr. Jamie Foxx
Rated: PG-13

About the film:
Journalist Steve Lopez discovers a homeless man with a musical gift and works to bring him to the attention of an appreciative world. But the man’s mental illness proves to be an obstacle that causes Lopez to reconsider what he is doing and why. More importantly, he grows to recognize his share of responsibility for the troubled man.

Movie Quote:
“I’ve learned the dignity of being loyal to something you believe in; of holding onto it, above all else. And above all else, of believing, without question, that it will carry you home.”
Steve Lopez (Robert Downey Jr.) in The Soloist (2009)

Bible Quote:
“Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.”
Revelation 2:10 (KJV)

Commentary:
Steve Lopez learns a thing or two during his association with Nathaniel, a mentally ill, homeless but quite talented musician. Being true to something… anything… takes work. At some point along the way, we will all be tempted to take the easy route or make the expedient choice by setting our principles, integrity, or beliefs aside because of stiff opposition to them.

Being faithful or loyal to one’s principles or beliefs brings a certain weight or heft to one’s walk. There’s a noble, dignified quality that is associated with those who quietly refuse to bow down to or cave in to pressure or tempting pleasures. Our beliefs ultimately define us. If we choose only to believe when it is convenient (or when there is no opposition to those beliefs) what are we really saying about ourselves?

Being true to one’s beliefs or being faithful and loyal to that which we believe in carries its own reward. It strengthens us, even though we may appear weak. It sustains us, even though we may appear to be failing. It brings us the victory, even though we may appear to be defeated. We must remember that the battles we fight are spiritual ones. And the rewards are eternal.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. What did Steve Lopez learn about himself during the course of the film?
2. How can we strengthen our resolve when tempted to let go of our beliefs due to pressure being applied from outside sources?

Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com

FROST/NIXON (2009)

2010-04-06T15:50:00.000-07:00

Directed by: Ron Howard
Written by: Peter Morgan
Studio: Universal Pictures
Starring: Frank Langella, Michael Sheen
Rated: R

About the film:
Disgraced former president Richard Nixon agrees to be interviewed by TV personality David Frost in what would become an historical event. As the event draws near both participants come to realize the significance and importance of this interview… not only for themselves but also for a nation at odds with itself.

Movie Quote:
“The unhappiest people of the world are retired – no purpose. What makes life mean something is purpose – a goal, a battle, a struggle.”
Richard Nixon (Frank Langella) in Frost/Nixon (2009)

Bible Quote:
“Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.”
James 4:14 (KJV)

Commentary:
A life without purpose can’t be called much of a life at all. If we are to look back on our life as we draw near to its end, what do you suppose will provide the most satisfaction for us? Far too many of us may be surprised to find that the endeavors that took up most of our time are, in retrospect, rather insignificant.

A purpose for living provides two main benefits. First, it gives us a goal to strive for; a direction in which to follow. We need not wander aimlessly through life wondering why we are so discontent. Secondly, it provides us with a benchmark for success. With nothing to accomplish, a wasted day is merely another link to a wasted life. Having a purpose gives us a measurement for success… reasons to rejoice… and a life that has meaning.

Coming up with a purpose in life is no small task… and men who try to figure one out for themselves often discover too late that their self-constructed purpose for living grows into a disappointing reality – successful or not. We can be thankful that God has provided a purpose for us. He formed, made, and created us with a purpose in mind. When we are faithful to that, our lives will live on and have meaning forever.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. What is man’s purpose in this life that God has given us?
2. How are the qualities of ego and pride represented in the two characters? What decisions do they make that are based upon them?

Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com

ANGELS & DEMONS (2009)

2010-04-05T06:38:00.000-07:00

Directed by: Ron Howard
Written by: David Koepp, Akiva Goldsman
Studio: Columbia Pictures
Starring: Tom Hanks, Ewan McGregor
Rated: PG-13

About the film:
The Vatican again turns to noted symbologist Robert Langdon to help solve a crisis that involves four kidnapped Cardinals, a stolen container of destructive anti-matter, and the legendary group known only as the Illuminati.

Movie Quote:
“Science and religion are not enemies. There are simply some things that science is just too young to understand.
Camerlengo Patrick McKenna (Ewan McGregor) in Angels and Demons (2009)

Bible Quote:
“Do we then make void the law through faith? God forbid: yea, we establish the law.”
Romans 3:31 (KJV)

Commentary:
The observation made by one of the characters in Angels & Demons is a valid one. Throughout the years there have been those who regard scientific knowledge and religious faith to be diametrically opposed one to the other. Such a mindset limits our understanding in both categories. Science is nothing more than a systematic approach to acquiring knowledge – the study of the world around us using a methodology requiring observation, experimentation, and measurement. As such, science is not an enemy to faith… it is simply another means by which our faith can grow.

All of God’s creation can and should be scientifically studied. God, as creator of this world and all else, established the physical laws which govern its rule. Such laws are observable, and can be tested and measured. And seeing as how God has been around much longer than man and his scientific knowledge, it is little wonder that our science often “discovers” truths that God revealed to us thousands of years earlier.

One of the keys to scientific study is to share one’s findings, thus enabling others to build upon the work of all those working in the same field. If we want to learn all there is to know about a subject, it only makes good scientific sense to include in our studies, a study of the knowledge God has already made available to us through His Word.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. What are some of the “modern day” scientific discoveries that God provided foreshadowed knowledge of in the Bible?
2. Like science, art can also be seen as a help or a hindrance to one’s faith. What are some of the examples of art being used for either purpose?

ALICE IN WONDERLAND (2010)

2010-04-02T15:10:00.000-07:00

Directed by: Tim Burton
Written by: Linda Woolverton
Studio: Walt Disney Pictures
Starring: Mia Wasikowska, Johnny Depp, Helena Bonham Carter
Rated: PG

About the film:
19-year-old Alice returns to the strange place she once knew as Wonderland only to find the odd denizens there filled with anticipation of a long-awaited fulfillment of a prophecy in which she is to play a major part.

Movie Quote:
“The only way to achieve the impossible is to believe it is possible.”
Charles Kingsleigh (Marton Csokas) in Alice in Wonderland (2010)

Bible Quote:
“He replied, ‘Because you have so little faith. I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.’"
Matthew 17:20 (KJV)

Commentary:
Alice’s father has stumbled upon what is arguably the greatest secret to success in the universe. Woven into the fabric of creation as an immutable law is this simple key: Believing equals receiving.

The fact that this law works for Christian and non-Christian alike, it has been adopted by many who write self-help, how-to-succeed manuals: (The Power of Positive Thinking, The Law of Attraction, The Secret, etc.) Whatever moniker today’s authors care to put on it, the principle remains the same as when God first created it.

Of course, there are two kinds of believing. Positive believing (believing for health, prosperity, success) will reap positive results. Negative believing (fearing illnesses, poverty, failure) will reap negative results. Eradicating fear and other negative thoughts from our minds and replacing them with thoughts and visions of victory will go a long, long, way to our realizing the desires of our hearts.

But believing is not a passive activity, nor is it for the lazy or timid. Believing requires that we take action in line with our beliefs. The greater our believing, the bolder our actions may become. Believing also has rules. Our believing must be in accordance with what God says is available for us to believe. When we believe Him, and His promises to us, all things really do become possible.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Why do we sometimes find it hard to believe what God says is possible? How do we strengthen our believing?
2. Through much of the film Alice insists she is not the Alice of the prophecy. Why and what changed her view? How does that relate to the roles we play in the body of Christ?

Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com

THE SWORD IN THE STONE (1963)

2010-04-01T15:15:00.000-07:00

Directed by: Wolfgang Reitherman
Written by: Bill Peet
Studio: Walt Disney Pictures
Starring: Karl Swenson, Rickie Sorenson, Sebastian Cabot
Rated: G

About the film:
The animated adventure of a young boy named Wart who wants to be the squire of a knight. He is guided by a powerful wizard named Merlin who knows that Wart (eventually to be known as Arthur) will grow to become the future king of Camelot.

Movie Quote:
“Knowledge and wisdom is the real power.”
Wart (Rickie Sorenson) in The Sword in the Stone (1963)

Bible Quote:
“The fear (respect or reverence) of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding.”
Proverbs 9:10 (KJV)

Commentary:
Knowledge, wisdom, and understanding are desirable qualities indeed… especially when concerning spiritual matters. God be praised, they are readily available to anyone willing to expend the effort to obtain them. One shall lead to the other and they all lead to “real power.”

Getting them is as easy as putting a jigsaw puzzle together. Metaphorically speaking, each piece of the puzzle would equate to a separate piece of knowledge. The wisdom is simply the act of using the pieces as they were designed to be used – applying the knowledge (or pieces) appropriately. Understanding is seeing the big picture become clear as more and more pieces of knowledge become connected through the application of wisdom.

Spiritually, God has given us knowledge through His Word. When we apply that knowledge, we walk in wisdom. As we walk in wisdom, according to the truth (or knowledge) of His Word, our eyes of understanding will be opened as we shall know and manifest the exceeding greatness of His power.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Why was Arthur the one person who could pull the sword out of the stone? What lessons can we learn from this to apply in our own lives?
2. Merlin taught Wart by turning him into different animals. How did this help him? What can we learn by observing the animal kingdom?

Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com

THE GREAT DEBATERS (2007)

2010-03-31T17:11:00.000-07:00

Directed by: Denzel Washington
Written by: Robert Eisele
Studio: MGM
Starring: Denzel Washington, Denzel Whitaker, Jurnee Smollet
Rated: PG-13

About the film:
Based on a true story, professor and poet Melvin Tolsen organizes and coaches a debate team for Wiley College, a small, Negro liberal arts school. Their phenomenal success leads to an invitation to debate the national champions of Harvard University.

Movie Quote:
“The time for justice, the time for freedom, the time for equality, is always right now.”
Samantha Booke (Jurnee Smollet) in The Great Debaters (2007)

Bible Quote:
And do this, understanding the present time. The hour has come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed.
Romans 13:11 (NIV)

Commentary:
The power of “now” often goes unstated and therefore unrecognized by most of us. It is gone in an instant. Fortunately there is always another “now” to take its place. And the “now” is always overflowing with potential. Procrastination serves nobody but our spiritual adversary and delivers nothing but missed opportunities.

I cannot understand the logic of people who make their New Year’s resolutions and then count down the days until they have to start them. If there is benefit to be had by adhering to the resolution, why not start it “now?”

Every change that ever took place in our lives – be it societal, cultural, or spiritual – can be traced to that single moment in time when we decided to take action to make the change. Embracing the potential of our “now” moments is fundamental to our getting the most out of the lives we’ve been given. God has designed life to give us an endless supply of “now” moments. It is up to us to use them to our benefit – and for the benefit of those around us.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. What were the moments of decision in the lives of these characters? Can you spot their “now” moments and how they handled them?
2. A good debater should be able to argue either side of any issue. Why is this important? How can this lesson aid us in facing those who may disagree with our beliefs?

Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com

FACING THE GIANTS (2006)

2010-03-30T16:57:00.000-07:00

Directed by: Alex Kendrick
Written by: Alex Kendrick, Stephen Kendrick
Studio: Destination Films / Samuel Goldwyn Films / Sherwood Pictures
Starring: Alex Kendrick, Shannen Fields
Rated: PG

About the film:
A losing coach with an under-performing team faces the all too real possibility of also losing his job. At the end of his rope, he rededicates himself and his team to God. As he rediscovers his faith, his team discovers their untapped potential.

Movie Quote:
We weren't supposed to have a winning season, but we do. We weren't supposed to advance to the playoffs, but we did. We're not supposed to be here, but we are.
Grant Taylor (Alex Kendrick) in Facing the Giants (2006)

Bible Quote:
“And he said, ‘The things which are impossible with men are possible with God.’”
Luke 18:27 (NIV)

Commentary:
People who say, “I can’t,” “It’s too hard,” or “It’s impossible,” are generally proven to be right. Not because they’ve correctly surmised the situation but because they tend to give up without trying. Grant Taylor and his football team decide to push against the odds facing them and, as a result, share the joyous experience of exceeding everyone’s expectations… including their own.

Keeping God involved in any of our endeavors, through prayer and supplication, is the best ingredient for success that I know. That’s not to say that we are to sit back and just believe for all our successes to be handed to us without effort. God expects us to do our best in all that we do. But when our best isn’t enough to get the job done, we can be assured that God is able and willing to do the rest.

Whenever we limit ourselves and our believing, whether it is due to fear, insecurity, or ignorance, we deprive ourselves of seeing the power of God prevail in our lives. God is greater than any obstacle we face or any adversity we meet. It is an easy reality to accept once we believe and let Him carry us through a few.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. The title suggests comparisons to David & Goliath. What similarities are there?
2. What are the figurative “giants” that must be faced by the various characters in this film?

Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com

HITCH (2006)

2010-03-29T05:08:00.000-07:00

Directed by: Andy Tennant
Written by: Kevin Bisch
Studio: Columbia Pictures
Starring: Will Smith, Kevin James, Eva Mendes
Rated: PG-13

About the film:
The “date doctor” has helped countless men woo the ladies of their dreams but he has problems when it comes to taking his own medicine. Even as he helps his latest client win a seemingly unattainable girl, his own pursuit of and attractive journalist seems to be running aground.

Movie Quote:
“Ninety percent of what you're saying isn't coming out of your mouth.”
Hitch (Will Smith) in Hitch (2006)

Bible Quote:
“Because our gospel came to you not simply with words, but also with power, with the Holy Spirit and with deep conviction. You know how we lived among you for your sake.”
1 Thessalonians 1:5 (KJV)

Commentary:
When the “date doctor” gives wise counsel to his client, he is, in essence, restating something the Apostle Paul once taught the believers of Thessalonica. As the saying goes, 'talk is cheap.' Unfortunately, the cost of listening to and following cheap talk can be very dear indeed.

Eloquence is not nor has it ever been a very good reflection of character. The quality of a man is best judged by his actions, not his words. Choose a prominent spokesman who later became embroiled with an ethical or moral scandal (and sadly, there are plenty to choose from.) Try to reconcile the things he or she publicly said with the things he or she privately did. Which paints a more accurate picture of the person?

How a man or woman conducts himself (publicly, privately, in any situation) speaks far more loudly than a thousand speeches on the subject. When Christ called us to be “lights in this world,” he challenged us to live in this world according to his teachings – not just give lip service to them. Our lights shine only when we practice what we preach.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. How do you view the “service” Hitch provides to the men who hire him? Is it a form of deception as some characters claim? Why or why not?
2. What is the main lesson we, as Christians, can draw from the film as we go through the dating process?

ZERO EFFECT (1998)

2010-03-28T05:22:00.000-07:00

Directed by: Jake Kasdan
Written by: Jake Kasdan
Studio: Columbia Pictures
Starring: Bill Pulman, Ben Stiller, Ryan O’Neal, Kim Dickens
Rated: R

About the film:
Daryl Zero is the world’s greatest detective, able to quickly piece together fragments of clues in order to solve his case. His only problem is that he is so socially inept he requires the use of a front man in order to interact with those who hire him.

Movie Quote:
“For every event, there is a cause and effect. For every crime, a motive; and for every motive, a passion. The art of research is the ability to look at the details and see the passion.”
Daryl Zero (Bill Pullman) in Zero Effect (1998)

Bible Quote:
“Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.”
1 Timothy 2:15 (KJV)

Commentary:
Zero’s methodology of criminal research actually mirrors a key principle to biblical study. The scriptures say that God has given us all things pertaining to life and godliness. The availability of God’s Word allows us the opportunity to grow closer to Him. But it requires our ability to read His words while seeing the truth they represent.

“Rightly dividing” the Bible requires diligence, commitment, perseverance, and faithfulness. Above all, it requires a considerable amount of meekness as we must be willing to research the Word without forcing our own preconceived and prejudicial ideas into what we read. We must learn to read the Word… not read into the Word. To rightly divide means to “make a straight cut.” There is only one interpretation that has significance or power – God’s.

The benefits of honestly “working the Word” are innumerable. As we closely examine all the details which God has woven into His Word and see how they fit so perfectly together, we can understand more clearly His divine nature which includes the passionate and unconditional love He has for us.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. If there is one way to “rightly divide” the Bible, why is there so much doctrinal disagreement between the various Christian denominations?
2. If everything in the Bible was given to us by a perfect and infallible God, why do there seem to be discrepancies in the text? What are we to do as “workmen” when we come across an apparent discrepancy?

Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com

YOU CAN'T TAKE IT WITH YOU (1938)

2010-03-26T15:11:00.000-07:00

Directed by: Frank Capra
Written by: Robert Riskin
Studio: Columbia Pictures
Starring: Jean Arthur, James Stewart, Lionel Barrymore
Rated: Not Rated

About the film:
Alice Sycamore, daughter of an eccentric family must introduce them to her fiancé’s family who subscribe to a much more conservative philosophy. The potential in-laws arrive for dinner on the wrong night as various members of the Sycamore clan are arrested for anarchy, visited by the IRS for tax evasion, and discovered making fireworks in the basement.

Movie Quote:
“Maybe it’ll stop you trying to be so desperate about making more money that you can ever use. You can’t take it with you, Mr. Kirby. So what good is it?”
Martin Vanderhoff (Lionel Barrymore) in You Can’t Take It With You (1938)

Bible Quote:
“For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it.”
1 Timothy 6:7 (NIV)

Commentary:
There’s a bumper sticker that reads, “He who dies with the most toys, wins.” It may be amusing, but it’s a lie. He who dies with the most toys is still dead and won’t have the opportunity to play with them anymore. That doesn’t sound much like winning.

Man’s obsession with accumulating more wealth than one needs in this world is not a healthy one. Money is merely a tool, designed to be spent or used, not hoarded.

While there’s no sin in being wealthy, an undue emphasis on the importance of gathering material riches will keep one’s mind focused upon temporal or transitory things instead of upon the spiritual riches which will pay eternal dividends.

“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.” Matthew 6:19-20 (NIV)

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. The Bible says that the love of money is the root of all evil. What examples from the scriptures or from your own observations help to illustrate this truth?
2. The Sycamore family has more than its share of quirky members. Is it important that they change to fit into society? Why or why not? How do you define “normal behavior?”

Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com

YEAR OF THE DRAGON (1985)

2010-03-25T15:15:00.000-07:00

Directed by: Michael Cimino
Written by: Oliver Stone, Michael Cimino
Studio: MGM
Starring: Mickey Rourke, John Lone, Ariane, Leonard Termo
Rated: R

About the film:
When a young man named Joey Tai uses violence to become head of the Chinese Mafia in New York, Stanley White, a Vietnam veteran turned police officer, is assigned to Chinatown and charged with keeping the peace. His racial bigotry and brutal manner make peace an unlikely prospect.

Movie Quote:
“Well, a great man is one who in manhood still keeps the heart of a child.”
Stanley White (Mickey Rourke) in Year of the Dragon (1985)

Bible Quote:
“Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.”
Matthew 18:4 (NIV)

Commentary:
Nobody would accuse the bigoted Stanley White of having a childlike heart but that doesn’t mean that the comment he makes in Year of the Dragon is void of substance or meaning.

There are few things in this world as powerful or pure as the believing of a child. And yet, the “whole heart believing” which comes so naturally to a child can be a rare commodity in an adult.

To be as humble as a child is to recognize that there is a higher power to whom we are to lovingly submit. To do so requires a degree of meekness which we, as adults, are unaccustomed to practice. It would do us well to try. As we are meek to do God’s bidding, He grants us the strength and ability to succeed.

“Whole heart believing” is the one requirement needed for salvation and deliverance. To trust, as a child does, that our Father is there to love and protect us; that He wants us to have everything good He can provide. When we believe this to be true - beyond any doubt - we have everything that we need.

“Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.” Mark 11:24 (NIV)

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. What is it about the maturing process that robs us of our childlike believing? How might we retain it as adults?
2. White’s racial bigotry affects how he performs his job. What is the root of that bigotry and how can White overcome it? How are we to view and interact with different races and cultures?

Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com

X-MEN (2000)

2010-03-24T17:48:00.000-07:00

Directed by: Bryan Singer
Written by: David Hayter
Studio: 20th Century Fox
Starring: Hugh Jackman, Patrick Stewart, Ian McKellen
Rated: PG-13

About the film:
A mutant named Magneto builds a machine that will expedite the mutation process in humans because he believes that mankind will be more amenable to mutant rights and less fearful if everyone would evolve at the same time. A small band of mutants led by Professor X set out to stop him.

Movie Quote:
“Mankind has always feared what it doesn’t understand.”
Magneto (Ian McKellen) in X-Men (2000)

Bible Quote:
“He said to his disciples, ‘Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?’”
Mark 4:40 (NIV)

Commentary:
Magneto may be misguided in his actions but he is cognizant of an important truth. Man does tend to fear the unknown.

If fear is born of ignorance, the solution to fear is obvious. Knowledge, which leads to understanding, empowers us. It fuels us with the strength and confidence we need to prevail over the temptation to fear.

There is no greater knowledge available to acquire than the knowledge of God. The more we know of Him, His love for us, and His desire for our lives, the less reason we’ll have to fear.

In the quoted scripture, the word “faith” can also be translated to read “believing.” We can grow fearful when we fail to believe God’s promises. And we cannot truly believe what we do not understand. To strengthen our believing requires that we grow in our knowledge of God’s Word.

“Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ.” Romans 10:17 (NIV)

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. What are some examples where God must instruct someone to “fear not” or “have no fear” before He can tell them what they need to hear?
2. Scriptures say that the antidote to fear is love. Why is that true?

Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com

THE WIND AND THE LION (1975)

2010-03-23T15:36:00.000-07:00

Directed by: John Milius
Written by: John Milius
Studio: MGM
Starring: Sean Connery, Candice Bergen, John Huston
Rated: PG

About the film:
An American woman and her two children are kidnapped by a Berber chieftain and used as pawns in an attempt to force a political resolution to the unrest taking place in Morocco. President Teddy Roosevelt seizes upon this event as an opportunity to boost his popularity during an election year by forcibly securing the woman’s release.

Movie Quote:
“Ignorance is like a steep hill with perilous rocks at the bottom.”
Mulay El Raisuli (Sean Connery) in The Wind and the Lion (1975)

Bible Quote:
“My people are destroyed from lack of knowledge. Because you have rejected knowledge, I also reject you as my priests; because you have ignored the law of your God, I also will ignore your children."
Hosea 4:6 (NIV)

Commentary:
To be called ignorant is not necessarily something of which we need be ashamed. Everyone is ignorant of something. A Rhodes Scholar who can’t cook may be called ignorant of the culinary arts. Ignorance occurs when the opportunity for knowledge is available to us but we choose to willingly ignore it and make the free will choice to refuse to learn it.

God has given mankind many avenues by which to reach an understanding of the truth He would have us know. He set His truth in the heaven’s very firmament, via the alignment of the stars and planets. He exhorted parents to teach and re-teach their children verbally. He set His truth down in writing – establishing it for all time. He set His only begotten son to preach and teach His truth to all who had ears to hear.

The reason God has been so painstakingly patient in trying to reach us with His Word is because He knows that living our lives ignorant of His truth would be like trying to climb a steep hill with perilous rocks at the bottom. It may be doable but, more likely than not, it won’t be enjoyable and it will end in disaster.

“Now about spiritual gifts (or matters), brothers, I do not want you to be ignorant.” 1 Corinthians 12:1 (NIV)

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. How do Raisuli’s actions mirror what is happening in the Middle East today? Is he a terrorist or a freedom fighter? Why or why not?
2. What do Raisuli and Eden learn from the time they spend with each other?

Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com

WATERSHIP DOWN (1978)

2010-03-22T03:48:00.000-07:00

Directed by: Martin Rosen
Written by: Martin Rosen
Studio: AVCO Embassy Pictures
Starring: John Hurt, Richard Briers, Ralph Richardson
Rated: PG

About the film:
A young rabbit receives a premonition of his warren’s destruction and, with a small band of friends, sets off in search of a new home. The journey they take is fraught with dangers and terrors of all kinds.

Movie Quote:
“All the world will be your enemy, Prince with a Thousand Enemies, and when ever they catch you, they will kill you.”
Frith (Michael Hordern) in Watership Down (1978)

Bible Quote:
“If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you.”
John 15:19 (NIV)

Commentary:
It is natural to want to be liked. During our formative years, especially in school, popularity is a badge of honor to be held in high esteem. It usually isn’t until we mature a little that we grow to understand how shallow and meaningless the quest for “popularity” can be. There are worthier goals to which we can aspire.

Jesus Christ did not come to earth to “win friends.” He came to win souls. In doing so, he became the most hated man in history. And those who follow him share in the animosity directed towards him.

To fully understand the scripture that is quoted, we must first understand what is being referenced by the word “world.” It certainly can’t mean the physical planet nor can it mean everyone on the planet. To assume either would be illogical.

No, in this case, the world is a figurative reference to he who rules the world. Called “the god of this world” or “the prince of the power of the air,” he is the spiritual enemy who hates us simply because we are loved by God.

The first step to protecting one’s self against an enemy who will attack without warning or provocation is to recognize that he exists. It is why Jesus Christ taught his disciples about unseen spiritual realities. His recorded words, spoken by revelation, will continue to instruct and protect us to the degree that we heed them.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. The rabbits’ search for a new home has many biblical parallels. What are they?
2. What should our response be in the face of hatred directed toward us because of our beliefs?

Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com

WAR OF THE WORLDS (1953)

2010-03-21T05:47:00.000-07:00

Directed by: Byron Haskin
Written by: Barre Lyndon
Studio: Paramount Pictures
Starring: Gene Barry, Ann Robinson, Les Tremayne, Lewis Martin
Rated: G

About the film:
An interesting scientific discovery – a meteor crashing just outside a small community – turns into a massive alien invasion as seemingly indestructible Martian ships attack major cities around the world. Mankind struggles to resist and counterattack but nothing seems to work against these technologically advanced invaders.

Movie Quote:
“After all that men could do had failed, the Martians were destroyed and humanity saved by the littlest things which God in His wisdom had put upon the Earth.”
Narrator (Sir Cedric Hardwicke) in War of the Worlds (1953)

Bible Quote:
“But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong.”
1 Corinthians 1:27 (NIV)

Commentary:
War of the Worlds offers more than science fiction entertainment – it provides a reminder that man is not all-knowing or all-powerful. But we do have access to the One who is. And often His solution to a problem is something that we might have never considered were it not for His guidance.

What God esteems as being great, most desirable, or most needful is often contradictory to the values or ideals that man will build in his mind. Sometimes, something which we might view as being small and insignificant is the very thing that God will use to bring victory to a situation.

David defeated the more powerful Goliath, not with an army or superior strength but with a small rock and great believing. God directed Gideon to overcome the stronger and more powerful Midianites, not with swords and spears but with trumpets and empty pitchers.

In our sci-fi movie example, all of man’s ingenuity and invention had failed to repel their invaders. What turned the tide was something so small as to be invisible to man. It is a reminder to us that whenever we are faced with obstacles or difficulties in our lives, we need to let God direct our steps that will lead us to deliverance.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. What other examples (from the Bible or from your own life) can you point to that illustrates the truth of 1 Corinthians 1:27?
2. Why does God sometimes choose the least obvious methods to accomplish His desires? What is He telling us by doing so?

Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com

A WALK TO REMEMBER (2003)

2010-03-20T09:19:00.000-07:00

Directed by: Adam Shankman
Written by: Karen Janszen
Studio: Warner Brothers
Starring: Shane West, Mandy Moore, Peter Coyote, Daryl Hannah
Rated: PG

About the film:
When bad boy Landon Carter gets into trouble, he is sentenced to do community service which puts him in close proximity to good girl Jaime Sullivan. Her faith and his growing love for her cause him to reconsider what he is doing with his life. Her influence changes him in remarkable ways.

Movie Quote:
“Maybe God has a bigger plan for me than I had for myself.”
Jaime (Mandy Moore) in A Walk to Remember (2003)

Bible Quote:
“However, as it is written: ‘No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love Him.’”
1 Corinthians 2:9 (NIV)

Commentary:
Jaime’s faith is commendable and her understanding of God’s love for her is inspiring. She may not fully comprehend what the future holds for her but she can trust in the One who does know. Whenever we can do that, our futures seem boundless.

It doesn’t matter how grand a plan we might make for ourselves or how elaborate a dream we may be pursuing for ourselves. God’s ways and thoughts are infinitely larger. When we trust in Him to direct our steps, He will lead us to heights and places unimaginable.

It was God’s vision for Abraham that convinced him he would be the father of many nations even though he was still childless at the age of 99. He chose to believe in the power and promise of God rather than the physical limitations of his own body.

As we determine to follow God’s will in our lives, setting aside our own doubts, fears, and selfish ambitions, we too shall see God’s promises come to pass. When God’s promises eventually come to fruition, as they must always do, they will far exceed anything that we could ask or think for ourselves.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. One person can have a dramatic impact upon the life of another. Who has helped to shape you to become the person you are? Who has inspired you and why?
2. The way we live life is described in the Bible as a “walk.” What are the characteristics of a walk and how do they parallel with how we should approach life? What constitutes a “walk to remember?”

Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com

VOYAGE TO THE BOTTOM OF THE SEA (1961)

2010-03-19T18:07:00.000-07:00

Directed by: Irwin Allen
Written by: Irwin Allen, Charles Bennett
Studio: 20th Century Fox
Starring: Walter Pidgeon, Joan Fontaine, Barbara Eden
Rated: PG

About the film:
When the Van Allen radiation belt catches fire, the admiral of a new atomic powered submarine takes decisive action. His plan is to launch nuclear missiles into the belt thus putting out the flames. He has plenty of obstacles to overcome: his plan is not authorized; his crew is close to mutiny; and there’s a saboteur on board his vessel.

Movie Quote:
“If God ordains that man should die without a fight, then why does He give us the will to live?”
Admiral Nelson (Walter Pidgeon) in Voyage to the Bottom of the Sea (1961)

Bible Quote:
“This day I call heaven and earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live.”
Deuteronomy 30:19 (NIV)

Commentary:
There are a lot of things that can be said about death – that it is God’s will for us is not among them. In 1 Corinthians, death is called an “enemy;” in Hebrews we read that the “power of death” belongs to the devil; in other sections of the Bible death has been given these descriptive attributes: “terrors,” “sorrows,” “snares,” and “a sting.” In Proverbs we even see that death is costly to God.

As God’s children, we have been given the greatest privilege and responsibility in the world. We are to serve as His hands, feet, and voice with our whole hearts, souls, minds, and strength. We are to sound out with His truth as we live our lives to their fullest. Quite simply, we cannot fulfill that purpose when we are dead.

Jesus Christ willingly gave up his life for a single reason… that we might live. The payment of his ultimate sacrifice need not be made again by us. Our sacrifice is to be a living sacrifice and is paid through our obedience to our heavenly Father’s will.

While death is certainly inevitable and will come to all of us (should our Lord tarry), it need not be feared. Neither is death to be welcomed as a friend. As long as we have strength to resist, we should choose life. It is the choice God would have us make.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Why did death originally come into this world? What was the cause and what was the source?
2. Admiral Nelson is single-mindedly determined to carry out his plan and will consider no other options even though many are opposed to his proposal. How can we tell the difference between acting with conviction and just being stubborn or unreasonable?

Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com

WAKING LIFE (2001)

2010-03-17T14:24:00.000-07:00

Directed by: Richard Linklater
Written by: Richard Linklater
Studio: 20th Century Fox
Starring: Wiley Wiggins, Ethan Hawke, Julie Delpy
Rated: R

About the film:
An animated film follows a man in a dreamlike state who meets a number of individuals who express their thoughts and opinions on a myriad of philosophical topics such as the meaning of life, death, and perception.

Movie Quote:
“The truth is out there in front of you, but they lay out this buffet of lies.”
Man in Car (Alex Jones) in Waking Life (2001)

Bible Quote:
“And even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing. The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.”
2 Corinthians 4:3-4 (NIV)

Commentary:
There is a truth that exists in this world. It is so strong and pure and dynamic, that no lie could ever stand against it. Our spiritual enemy knows this and so he doesn’t present to us a “believe me or Him” ultimatum. He’s much craftier than that.

The ploy our adversary takes can be best described as a spiritual “Where’s Waldo” puzzle. The difficulty in “finding” Waldo in these puzzles comes from the abundant buffet of activity that fills the rest of the scene. There’s only one Waldo, but there’s hundreds of other images that distract us and keep us from seeing him. The devil doesn’t care what we believe, as long as it isn’t the truth.

We must condition ourselves and our minds to focus on finding God’s truth… the one truth set amid a sea of lies. We need not be blinded or distracted from the truth God wants us to know. Finding it, like finding Waldo, can sometimes be difficult. But it isn’t impossible. It simply takes a concentrated effort, perseverance, and the ability to recognize it when you see it.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. The best lies are the ones which most closely resemble the truth. In what ways has our spiritual adversary used the above statement to deceive people?
2. What enables us to discern between the truth and all the lies that contradict it? How do we keep our minds from being blinded?

Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com

VOLUNTEERS (1985)

2010-03-16T15:10:00.000-07:00

Directed by: Nicholas Meyer
Written by: David Isaacs, Ken Levine
Studio: TriStar Pictures
Starring: Tom Hanks, John Candy, Rita Wilson, Tim Thomerson
Rated: R

About the film:
A spoiled rich ne’er-do-well runs up a huge debt which his tycoon father refuses to pay. In order to escape from his debtors, he enlists in the Peace Corps and finds himself in Southeast Asia where he is supposed to help the villagers build a bridge.

Movie Quote:
“It’s not that I can’t help these people. It’s just I don’t want to.”
Lawrence Bourne III (Tom Hanks) in Volunteers (1985)

Bible Quote:
“Yet he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God, being fully persuaded that God had power to do what He had promised.”
Romans 4:20-21 (NIV)

Commentary:
Granted, at the beginning of the film, the central character of Volunteers is not a sterling example of altruism. And yet, I don’t think a man alive, if he’s honest with himself, can say that a similar sentiment to the one Bourne expresses is one that has never entered his mind. Being of the flesh, we can sometimes get selfish with our time and energy by withholding our help from those in need.

Thankfully, we have a God who is better than that. His ability always equals His willingness. God does not withhold anything from us. If, in His Word, He has stated that something is available to us then we can know beyond any doubt that He is willing to give it to us. Eternal life, health and prosperity, peace and happiness… It doesn’t matter what the promise is, once made, He backs it up with action.

The key to life is, and always has been, found in the principle of believing. It is a universal law that God has woven into all of His creation. As we believe, without doubting, we shall receive all that for which we believe. If we want to receive blessings from God, we first have to believe that He wants to give them to us.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Positive thinking is something that is taught in secular self-help books. From a spiritual perspective, why does positive thinking work?
2. What changes in Bourne as a result of his experiences? What causes him to mature in his thinking and attitude?

Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com

THE USUAL SUSPECTS (1995)

2010-03-15T05:14:00.000-07:00

Directed by: Bryan Singer
Written by: Christopher McQuarris
Studio: Gramercy Pictures
Starring: Kevin Spacey, Benecio Del Toro, Gabriel Byrne
Rated: R

About the film:
A suspicious explosion leads police to gather up five known criminals. During the questioning, the five agree to do a job together. Looming over them is the mysterious shadow of a legendary criminal figure known as Keyser Soze.

Movie Quote:
“The greatest trick the devil ever pulled was convincing the world he didn’t exist.”
Verbal Kint (Kevin Spacey) in The Usual Suspects (1995)

Bible Quote:
“Oh that one would hear me! Behold, my desire is, that the Almighty would answer me, and that mine adversary had written a book.”
Job 31:35 (KJV)

Commentary:
Job’s lament is an understandable one. Beset by problems and overwhelming trouble from an unseen and unknown adversary, he cries out for a way to understand why and how these problems are being visited upon him.

Our spiritual adversary is both wise and crafty. He hasn’t written a book and has no plans to reveal himself or his methods. He requires secrecy to accomplish his only goals which, according to John 10:10, are to “steal, kill, and destroy.” He wants this world to be ignorant of him because it makes us easier to deceive and defeat. That’s why the greatest trick he could ever pull is to convince people he doesn’t exist.

His desire for secrecy was thwarted because Jesus Christ came to open our eyes spiritually and show us the unseen spiritual warfare which rages all around us. We need not be ignorant of our spiritual enemy and his devices because even though he hasn’t written a book, our God had one written for us. It contains plenty of information on how to become spiritually aware of the devil and his lies. Not only do we know he exists, thanks to God and His son, Jesus Christ, we know how to beat him.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. It has been said that knowledge is power. Why is this true and how does it apply to our spiritual lives?
2. How can we defend ourselves from an unseen opponent? How do we know if and when we are being deceived by our spiritual enemies?

Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com

THE UNTOUCHABLES (1987)

2010-03-14T05:33:00.000-07:00

Directed by: Brian De Palma
Written by: David Mamet
Studio: Paramount Pictures
Starring: Kevin Costner, Sean Connery, Robert De Niro
Rated: R

About the film:
As Al Capone rises to power in the Prohibition-era Chicago underworld, Federal agent Eliot Ness makes plans to end Capone’s criminal reign by adopting unorthodox methods. Unable to trust the system which has been deeply corrupted, Ness decides to operate independently using only a small band of men – a veteran cop, a rookie, and an accountant.

Movie Quote:
“Never stop, never stop fighting till the fight is done.”
Eliot Ness (Kevin Costner) in The Untouchables (1987)

Bible Quote:
“I have fought the good fight. I have finished the race. I have kept the faith.”
2 Timothy 4:7 (NIV)

Commentary:
Perseverance is a key to victory in any endeavor. Eliot Ness understands that, in going after a goal, one must be committed to going the distance if one is to reach it. Stopping before we reach the finish line will result in our losing the race.

In a heavyweight bout, it is rather obvious what would happen if one boxer just stopped fighting while his opponent continued. The technical term is called a “knockout.” Spiritually, the same misguided action would most certainly bring about the same disastrous result.

We can often forget we are in a spiritual fight because our adversary doesn’t like to face us “toe to toe.” He’s a sneaky fighter, preferring to circle around behind us and throw “sucker punches” whenever we aren’t looking. Fighting a “good fight of faith” (1 Timothy 6:12) requires a daily diligence against an unseen and dirty opponent.

We, ourselves, will never land a knockout blow against him. For us, the fight does not end until the final bell rings (or trumpet sounds!) It is then that the true champion will reenter the ring and end this fight once and for all time. Until then, we keep our guard up and our believing strong, holding our adversary at bay.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. At the end of the film, Ness says, “I have broken every law I swore to defend. I have become what I beheld and I am content that I have done right.” Was Ness justified in taking the action he did? Why or why not?
2. The film’s title refers to the four men who aim to bring Capone to justice. Why were they “untouchable?”

Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com

TUCK EVERLASTING (2002)

2010-03-12T15:47:00.000-08:00

Directed by: Jay Russell
Written by: Jeffrey Lieber, James V. Hart
Studio: Walt Disney Pictures
Starring: Alexis Bledel, William Hurt, Sissy Spacek
Rated: PG

About the film:
Winnie Foster is a young woman who meets the Tuck family and discovers that they never age. The Tucks offer her the secret to their immortality – a drink from a spring which serves as a fountain of youth. But, they caution, such a decision is not to be made lightly. There are consequences that she might not like.

Movie Quote:
“Do not be afraid of death Winnie; be afraid of the unlived life.”
Angus Tuck (William Hurt) in Tuck Everlasting (2002)

Bible Quote:
“He too shared in their humanity so that by his death he might destroy him who holds the power of death – that is, the devil – and free those who all their lives were held in slavery by their fear of death.”
Hebrews 2:14b-15 (NIV)

Commentary:
Immortality is something that most of us have thought about at one time or another. The kind of immortality that is presented in films generally stems from a character’s fear of dying. It is a fear that is common to man.

Even though a fear of death may be something we have all experienced, if we stop to consider it, we’ll realize that holding such a fear is irrational. Death is inevitable and will come to us all. Only the arrival of the Lord will prevent it and the timing of that event is not within our control.

If we continue to operate with a fear of death, we will actually be preventing ourselves from living a full and fulfilling life. Fear is an inhibitor. It builds a barrier within those it controls and hinders them from achieving their desires and goals.

Only by being delivered from a fear of death may we truly embrace and appreciate all that this life has to offer. Such deliverance is available due to the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. The eternal life which he promises is not based in fear. It is a reality born of love.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. If a spring really did exist that would give eternal life in this world to anyone who drank from it, would you drink? Why or why not?
2. What were the reasons Winnie had for her decision? Do you think she had regrets?

Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com

TROY (2004)

2010-03-11T16:02:00.000-08:00

Directed by: Wolfgang Petersen
Written by: David Benioff
Studio: Warner Brothers
Starring: Brad Pitt, Eric Bana, Orlando Bloom, Diane Kruger
Rated: R

About the film:
A non-mythical telling of the Trojan War, the film begins with Paris, a prince of Troy, stealing Helen, wife of the Spartan king, who turns to his brother Agamemnon for help to restore his honor. Agamemnon marshals an immense army to sail against Troy. Leading the charge is Achilles, a great Greek warrior who fights, not for Greece or Agamemnon, but for his own future glory. His counterpart is Hector, brother of Paris, who fights out of a sense of obligation and duty.

Movie Quote:
“I’ve fought many wars in my time. Some I’ve fought for land, some for power, some for glory. I suppose fighting for love makes more sense than all the rest.”
Priam, king of Troy (Peter O’Toole) in Troy (2004)

Bible Quote:
“From whence comes wars and fighting among you? Come they not hence, even of your lusts that war in your members?”
James 4:1 (KJV)

Commentary:
Priam is looking to rationalize what he knows will be a bloody and deadly conflict. The love he has for his son causes him to try and justify the war he knows will follow. But he’s wrong.

Something tells me that, when we finally reach our heavenly home and look back upon our history as men, there will be little recorded about the wars we fought that will make spiritual sense.

God does tell us about war and why they happen. It has nothing to do with glory or honor or love. Wars occur because of our own weaknesses, fears, and frailties; because the human race, as a whole, too often fails to follow the path along which our God would have us walk.

Because we live in this world, we must deal with the reality of this world. Wars will continue to be waged as long as we are upon this earth. God tells us not to be surprised or terrified by this. Instead, He tells us to live with the hope and understanding that a day is coming when a new world will exist – a world without war, pain, or sorrow – a world worth waiting for.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Why did Achilles choose to sail to Troy? Why was it important to him? Contrast his reasons for fighting with Hector’s reasons.
2. How could this war have been avoided? What actions could have been taken (or not taken) by the characters to prevent the tragedy that followed?

Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com

TOP GUN (1986)

2010-03-10T15:52:00.000-08:00

Directed by: Tony Scott
Written by: Jim Cash, Jack Epps Jr.
Studio: Paramount Pictures
Starring: Tom Cruise, Kelly McGillis, Anthony Edwards
Rated: PG

About the film:
The best pilots of the US Navy compete for the honor of being “top gun.” Maverick is one of the leading contenders until a tragedy causes him to lose his nerve. With support from his commanding officer and the love of an attractive Top Gun instructor, Maverick struggles to regain his confidence.

Movie Quote:
“A good pilot always evaluates what’s happened so he can apply what he’s learned.”
Viper (Tom Skerritt) in Top Gun (1986)

Bible Quote:
“Anyone who listens to the Word but does not do what it says is like a man who looks at his face in a mirror and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like.”
James 1:23-24 (NIV)

Commentary:
We can use all of life’s experiences, good or bad, to better ourselves. If we treat each experience as a time of learning and evaluation, we can grow and mature on a daily basis. Every experience is like a snapshot that allows us to look in a mirror and see where we are in terms of our development.

Mirrors are amazing. They grant us the ability to examine ourselves as we actually are. If we don’t like what we see in the reflection (i.e. a hair out of place, a blemish, etc.), we have the opportunity to correct it before we present ourselves to the rest of the world.

The Word of God also shows us a reflection… a reflection of what we can be. It gives us a picture of how God sees us. If we don’t recognize ourselves in His Word, we then have the opportunity to make changes in our lives so we might more closely match the vision God has for us.

The Word, like a mirror, will only work if we take the time and expend the energy to study what’s there, evaluate the reflection and take corrective action based upon what we see. If we don’t like what we see of ourselves in it’s light, but take no action to change it… who is to blame?

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. What lessons did Maverick learn during the course of the film and how do they equate with biblical lessons addressed to us?
2. The quoted verse of scripture indicates that if we do not apply what we learn, we will forget it. What examples of this can you think of either form the Bible or from your own experience?

Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com

TOMBSTONE (1993)

2010-03-09T15:11:00.000-08:00

Directed by: George P. Cosmatos
Written by: Kevin Jarre
Studio: Buena Vista Pictures
Starring: Kurt Russell, Val Kilmer, Sam Elliott, Bill Paxton
Rated: R

About the film:
Wyatt Earp moves to Tombstone Arizona with his brothers and his old friend Doc Holliday. His plans for a peaceful retirement from law enforcement are interrupted by a group of outlaws who call themselves The Cowboys.

Movie Quote:
“Look at all the stars. You look up and you think, ‘God made all this and He remembered to make a little speck like me.’ It’s kind of flattering, really.”
Morgan Earp (Bill Paxton) in Tombstone (1993)

Bible Quote:
“When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is man that you are mindful of him, the son of man that you care for him?”
Psalms 8:3-4 (NIV)

Commentary:
As we can see from the scriptures, Morgan Earp wasn’t the first one to look at the creation of God with awe and wonder. How much more “flattered” might he have been to know that we were not just one of God’s afterthoughts but the reason behind creation itself?

At the center of God’s heart has always been the desire to have a family. He wants to enjoy fellowship and to love and be loved in return. We are the recipients of that love. All that was made by him was made with us in mind.

The heavens were positioned precisely so that human life could be sustained on this planet. The earth was created so that it could nutritionally support life and aesthetically please and bless us. No other planet in the universe provides us with all our needs the way the earth does. God designed it for us.

The psalmist asks a question that, at the time he wrote it, wasn’t able to be answered fully. It is now, because of what the sacrifice of Jesus Christ made available. What is man, that God is mindful of him? For those who believe, the answer is obvious: We are His kids.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Compare and contrast the motivations of the various characters – notably Wyatt Earp, Doc Holliday, Curly Bill and Johnny Ringo.
2. Why did Virgil Earp decide to accept the sheriff’s badge? What is our obligation when we find ourselves confronted with injustice?

Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com

TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD (1962)

2010-03-08T15:08:00.000-08:00

Directed by: Robert Mulligan
Written by: Horton Foote
Studio: Universal International Pictures
Starring: Gregory Peck, Mary Badham, Phillip Alford
Rated: Not Rated

About the film:
Six-year-old Scout learns about life and the evils of the world as her father Atticus defends a black man against rape charges in a racially charged Alabama courthouse circa 1932.

Movie Quote:
“You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view.”
Atticus Finch (Gregory Peck) in To Kill a Mockingbird (1962)

Bible Quote:
“To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all men so that by all possible means I might save some.”
1 Corinthians 9:22 (NIV)

Commentary:
Atticus Finch was recently named as the number one movie “hero” of all time. The cited quote gives us a good understanding why this character is so esteemed by filmgoers. His expressed view may be simple but it is perfectly aligned with how God would want us to behave and act towards one another.

Scriptures say that “a word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver.” It is a beautiful mind picture to help us recognize how important and powerfully beneficial the right words can be when spoken at the right time.

To fitly speak requires that we first take the time to understand a person’s situation before offering counsel or advice. Then, when we speak, we are able to choose the appropriate words of truth that will address the need and hit his or her heart in a way as to give peace, strength or deliverance.

Even with all the mass media communication available today… technology which allows preachers to speak to hundreds of thousands of people simultaneously, nothing will ever impact a person more than words of wisdom and love delivered by an individual who has simply taken the time to get involved in the other’s life.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. What does the Bible say about racial prejudice?
2. What lessons can be learned from the character of Boo Radley and how Scout and the other children view him?

TIME BANDITS (1981)

2010-03-07T04:59:00.000-08:00

Directed by: Terry Gilliam
Written by: Terry Gilliam, Michael Palin
Studio: AVCO Embassy Pictures
Starring: David Rappaport, Kenny Baker, John Cleese
Rated: PG

About the film:
A young boy joins a band of dwarves on a time-traveling adventure. The dwarves have stolen a map showing the location of “time holes” from The Supreme Being which allows them to escape through time so they can plunder to their heart’s content.

Movie Quote:
“No one created me! I am Evil! Evil existed long before Good. I cannot be unmade. I am all-powerful.”
Evil Genius (David Warner) in Time Bandits (1981)

Bible Quote:
“I form the light, and create darkness; I make peace, and created evil: I the LORD do all these things.”
Isaiah 45:7 (KJV)

Commentary:
As we look at the above quote from Time Bandits, we see that it is full of lies. Contrary to the claims of Evil Genius, evil is not all-powerful. It can be “unmade.” It did not exist before good. And as the scripture from Isaiah informs us, evil was purposely created… what’s more, it was created by God.

That may seem a bit contradictory and even blasphemous to say but because the Word of God declares it to be true, we must accept it and try to understand what it means. As we delve deeper into the nature of God we find that it isn’t contradictory at all.

Evil exists because we have a kind, fair, just and loving God. We have a God who did not want His children to be mindless robots or puppets which could be controlled by the pulling of a string. He had to create the possibility of both good and evil… so He could then grant us the free will to choose between the two.

The ultimate expression of love that we can give to our Creator and our God is found in our faithfulness to always choose good, thus fulfilling His greatest desire.

“I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.” 3 John 4 (NIV)

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. What would life be like if God had not given us free will? Would you freely give up your free will in order to live in a world without evil? Why or why not?
2. How does Romans 12:21 apply to this film? And how do we practically follow its exhortation in our lives?

Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com

THIRTEEN DAYS (2000)

2010-03-06T08:20:00.000-08:00

Directed by: Roger Donaldson
Written by: David Self
Studio: New Line Cinema
Starring: Kevin Costner, Bruce Greenwood, Steven Culp
Rated: PG-13

About the film:
The Kennedy administration deals with the growing threat of Russian missiles being placed in Cuba capable of striking the United States. All the diplomatic entreaties, military posturing, and political rhetoric does not mask the seriousness of the times and the very real tension which will be felt during these next thirteen days as the world stands on the brink of a major military standoff between two superpowers.

Movie Quote:
“If the sun comes up tomorrow, it is only because of men of good will. That is all there is between us and the devil.”
Kenny O’Donnell (Kevin Costner) in Thirteen Days (2000)

Bible Quote:
“So he said he would destroy them – had not Moses, his chosen one, stood in the breach before him to keep his wrath from destroying them.”
Psalms 106:23 (NIV)

Commentary:
Throughout history, there have been men who were asked to rise to an occasion and make decisions or take actions that would affect countless others. At such times, it is comforting if we know that such leaders trust in and rely upon the power and wisdom of God to guide them.

How important is it that men continue to believe and manifest the power of God in this world? Where would the world be if Moses had chosen not to return to Egypt to lead God’s chosen people to the Promised Land? Or if Noah had allowed himself to be tainted by the corrupt and perverse times in which he lived? What if David took one look at Goliath and ran in the opposite direction?

The courageous, believing stand of one man is often all that stood between victory and defeat of an entire people. We, above all others, have cause to appreciate this truth for it is through the life of one man that we have received our spiritual deliverance.

As long as we continue to live in this world, we can be those “men of good will.” With Jesus Christ as our example, our lives can be as shining lights able to hold the spiritual darkness at bay.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Scripture says that there is “safety in a multitude of counselors.” How does this film illustrate that truth?
2. The film addresses the fact that many times a character did not feel worthy or equipped to do the job he was being asked to do. What should we do when we feel the same way?

Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com

THIRTEEN CONVERSATIONS ABOUT ONE THING (2001)

2010-03-05T15:12:00.001-08:00

Directed by: Jill Sprecher
Written by: Karen Sprecher, Jill Sprecher
Studio: Sony Pictures Classics
Starring: Matthew McConaughey, Alan Arkin, John Turturro
Rated: R

About the film:
The “one thing” referred to in the title is happiness. More importantly, the question the film asks is “how does one achieve happiness in life?” In Thirteen Conversations we look at a number of people who are trying to answer that same question.

Movie Quote:
“Luck is the lazy man’s excuse.”
Troy (Matthew McConaughey) in Thirteen Conversations About One Thing (2001)

Bible Quote:
“But the man who looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues to do this, not forgetting what he has heard, but doing it – he will be blessed in what he does.”
James 1:25 (NIV)

Commentary:
Luck, fate, karma… They are all concepts created by man to try to explain why things happen the way they happen. Those who put their trust in such things are bound to be disappointed because they fail to see that God, when He created the universe, designed it purposefully. It functions by a set of laws and standards.

Whenever I think about “luck,” I remember the words of Thomas Jefferson who purported said, “I’m a great believer in luck and I find the harder I work, the more I have of it.”

To believe in luck is “a lazy man’s excuse” because it relinquishes us of responsibility. It indicates a belief that no action on our part will change what “luck” will bring us. This is about as non-scriptural a mindset that we could have.

God did not establish a “law of luck.” He did establish the “law of believing.” As we believe according to His will and take actions that are aligned with our believing, He promises that we shall receive that which we desire.

God does not want us to be lucky… He only wants us to be blessed.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Where does “bad luck” come from? How can it be avoided?
2. Of the characters in the film, which ones demonstrate the most positive characteristics that we would want to emulate in our lives? Why?

Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com

TALK RADIO (1988)

2010-03-04T15:02:00.000-08:00

Directed by: Oliver Stone
Written by: Eric Bogosian, Oliver Stone
Studio: Universal Pictures
Starring: Eric Bogosian, Ellen Green, Alec Baldwin
Rated: R

About the film:
Barry Champlain, an abrasive and controversial talk show radio host who has made a career out of insulting his callers, is about to break into national syndication. But before he does he must deal with executives who want him to tone down his blistering rhetoric and handle the death threats that continue to stream into the studio from the neo-Nazi groups he has offended.

Movie Quote:
“Sticks and stones can hurt my bones but words cause permanent damage!”
Barry (Eric Bogosian) in Talk Radio (1988)

Bible Quote:
“All kinds of animals, birds, reptiles and creatures of the sea are being tamed and have been tamed by man; but no man can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison.”
James 3:8 (NIV)

Commentary:
Of all the harm that man can inflict upon one another, the injuries that take the longest to heal are the ones caused by the impact of the words we speak.

The central character of Talk Radio makes his living by releasing the power of his words across the nation’s airwaves without thought or consideration as to the impact or effect they will have upon those who hear them. Such blatant disregard for one’s fellow man is unconscionable. And yet it is difficult to point a finger of blame without turning it upon ourselves as well.

Why is it then that we are so unaware of the power that is unleashed with every utterance we make? Words constantly leave our lips with thoughtless abandon. They become random “fiery darts” that will ultimately find a target and leave their mark.

It does not have to be so. All it takes is a bit of deliberation and a desire to bless instead of blast. Words can be used to comfort, edify and heal. It is entirely up to us as to how we employ them.

“Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.” Proverbs 12:18 (NIV)

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. How do we balance man’s right to freedom of speech with God’s exhortation to speak only words of grace and edification?
2. How much of today’s talk radio is exploitation? Where do we draw the boundaries between entertainment, information, and propaganda?

Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com

SWEET CHARITY (1969)

2010-03-03T14:19:00.000-08:00

Directed by: Bob Fosse
Written by: Peter Stone
Studio: Universal Pictures
Starring: Shirley MacLaine, John McMartin, Chita Rivera
Rated: G

About the film:
Despite constant disappointments with life, taxi dancer Charity holds onto her faith and continues to hope that true love is waiting for her just around the corner.

Movie Quote:
“Without love, life would have no purpose.”
Vittorio (Ricardo Montalban) in Sweet Charity (1969)

Bible Quote:
“If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing.”
1 Corinthians 13:2 (NIV)

Commentary:
There is much that we can do without in this world. We don’t need riches or calamity; neither luxuries nor poverty are needed in order to carve out a life of meaning and substance. But a life without love is no life at all. It doesn’t take much to understand why.

God is the creator of life. And God is love. (1 John 4:8) Certainly He would weave His very nature throughout all His creation. To live life without living it in love is to deny the One Who gave us life in the first place.

What some fail to comprehend is the truth that love is not a “feeling” that we may fall into. It is a decision we make. It is not accident or fate. It is a deliberate choice. Because this is true, we have the opportunity to always operate from a mindset of love. Regardless of the situation, we have the God-given ability to face anything and always frame our actions out of a heart filled with love. It is our choice. Whether we act in love or act without love is our decision.

As we determine within ourselves to always act with love in our heart (and by love I mean the love of God and the love for our fellow man) we are well on our way to a spiritual maturity that is reflective of His love for us.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. How would you counsel Charity if she came to you asking for advice?
2. How are we to react in the face of disappointments and unrealized expectations? How do we keep our faith strong if our goals are yet to be reached?

Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com

SUPERMAN (1978)

2010-03-02T16:09:00.000-08:00

Directed by: Richard Donner
Written by: Mario Puzo, David Newman, Leslie Newman, Robert Benton
Studio: Warner Brothers
Starring: Marlon Brando, Gene Hackman, Christopher Reeve
Rated: PG

About the film:
An alien is sent to earth by his parents when it becomes clear that his planet is dying. He is found and adopted by kind farmers and grows up to become The Man of Steel, with superhuman powers which he uses to protect the people of his new home… Earth.

Movie Quote:
“They can be a great people, Kal-El, if they wish to be. They only lack the light to show the way. For this reason, above all, their capacity for good, I have sent them you: my only son.”
Jor-El (Marlon Brando) in Superman (1978)

Bible Quote:
“For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
John 3:16 (NIV)

Commentary:
There are a lot of parallels between the story of Superman and the story of our Lord and Savior. This is not to belittle God’s plan of redemption. We know that nothing compares to the accomplishments of Jesus Christ and the grace extended to us through his works. But, the creators of the Man of Steel clearly borrowed from the Son of God.

He sacrifice of God’s only begotten son was made so that every man, woman and child on this earth would have the opportunity to be saved. This sacrifice can never be understated nor can it be overemphasized for it is this simple act that has literally changed the world and delivered hope where hope did not exist.

We do have the potential to be a great and mighty people… a people not defined by territorial boundaries, skin color, or heritage. That which binds us together is the bond fused by the love of God and made possible by the blood of Christ.

Let us live worthy of the love God has shown us. Let us live in the light which God has illuminated in our hearts, showing us the way we should go. Let us live as Jesus Christ lived, following his steps, doing his works, always doing the Father’s will. Only then shall we be the “supermen” that God knows we can be.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. In what ways does the story of Superman remind you of aspects of the life and earthly ministry of Jesus Christ? It what ways does the analogy fail?
2. Spiritually speaking, was Superman right or wrong to take the action he did at the end of the film? Why or why not?

Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com

SUPER MARIO BROS. (1993)

2010-03-01T04:31:00.000-08:00

Directed by: Annabel Jankel, Rocky Morton
Written by: Parker Bennett, Terry Runte, Ed Solomon
Studio: Hollywood Pictures
Starring: Bob Hoskins, John Leguizamo, Dennis Hopper
Rated: PG

About the film:
Two plumbers find themselves in an alternate universe, doing battles against dinosaur-like villains while trying to save a princess and the fate of their own universe. The film is based upon the popular video game.

Movie Quote:
“Anything is possible, Mario. You just gotta believe in it.”
Luigi Mario (John Leguizamo) in Super Mario Bros. (1993)

Bible Quote:
“I tell you the truth, if anyone says to this mountain, “Go, throw yourself into the sea,’ and does not doubt in his heart but believes that what he says will happen, it will be done for him.”.
Mark 11:23 (NIV)

Commentary:
Sometimes the simplest concepts are the hardest ones to grasp. They are also often the most important ones to understand. Perhaps, by employing simple logic, we might be able to build our believing of the crucial point being illustrated in the above quotes.

If there is a God – a spiritual being who created the heavens and the earth; a God who brought order out of chaos and light where there was only darkness… are there any limits to what this God can do? The simple and logical answer would have to be no.

What we call impossible is a reflection of our limited beliefs and understanding rather than an indication of God’s inability to perform. He acts as we believe. As we read and understand His promises to us; as we believe and claim those promises for our lives, God is obligated by His own Word to do all that He has promised to do.

If that means a mountain must slide into the sea, God is able. If it means the dead come to life, God is able. He is able to cause the lame to walk and the blind to see. He can part the sea, stop the sun, and bring light and life into a dead and dark world.

There is only one thing that God is unable to do. By His own testimony, God cannot lie. Now that would be impossible.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. If God can do anything, and the records of His miracles described in the Bible are true… Why don’t we see more signs and miracles in our day?
2. What other manifestations of God’s power are recorded in the Bible and how does reading about them help our believing today?

Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com

SUNSHINE (1999)

2010-02-28T05:15:00.000-08:00

Directed by: Istvan Szabo
Written by: Istvan Szabo, Israel Horovitz
Studio: Paramount Pictures
Starring: Ralph Fiennes, Rosemary Harris, Rachel Weisz
Rated: R

About the film:
Sunshine follows the trials and tribulations of three generations of the Sonnenschein family. The film spans over 70 years of European history as it tracks this family of Hungarian Jews who live through two world wars and a seemingly endless parade of governments and philosophies.

Movie Quote:
“Never allow yourself to be driven into the sin of conceit. Conceit is the greatest of sins. The source of all other sins.”
Ignatz Sonnenschein (Ralph Fiennes) in Sunshine (1999)

Bible Quote:
“For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.”
Romans 8:37 (NIV)

Commentary:
Ego. It can be a stumbling block to one’s personal growth and development… especially when it runs unchecked and uncontrolled. Ego can lead a person to make decisions and take actions that will produce far less than their desired effect. Scriptures state that it was ego that led to the first recorded sin of all time – Lucifer’s betrayal.

A simple definition of “sin” might be rendered “broken fellowship with God.” When we sin, we are choosing to do something contrary to God’s expressed will for our lives. We choose our way rather than God’s way. We are, in effect, saying that we know more about how to conduct ourselves than the Creator of the heavens and the earth. Isn’t that the height of ego?

An ego-driven step will always be a step in the wrong direction. Humility may be a much maligned or neglected quality in this world but it is still held in high esteem by the one judge who truly matters. A humble spirit will always be rewarded beyond measure.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. How can it be said that conceit is the source of all other sins? In what way?
2. What are some examples of meekness and humility that are recorded in the Bible and what results did those who displayed those qualities receive?

Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com

STARMAN (1984)

2010-02-27T14:53:00.000-08:00

Directed by: John Carpenter
Written by: Bruce A. Evans, Raynold Gideon
Studio: Columbia Pictures
Starring: Jeff Bridges, Karen Allen, Charles Martin Smith
Rated: PG

About the film:
When an alien crash lands and becomes stranded on Earth, he takes the form of a young widow’s late husband and requests that she drives him across the country to a predetermined extraction point. Government agents hotly pursue the couple, wanting to study the alien more closely.

Movie Quote:
“Shall I tell you what I find beautiful about you? You are at your very best when things are worst.”
Starman (Jeff Bridges) in Starman (1984)

Bible Quote:
“No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.”
Romans 8:37 (NIV)

Commentary:
The alien in Starman makes an interesting observation based upon watching how humans act and react to various situations. From his perspective it may seem a bit incongruous that, as things around us get bad, we tend to rise to the occasion and get better.

There’s a phrase which has been around for a while that speaks to this issue: “The darker it gets, the brighter the light can shine.” Darkness cannot extinguish light – all it can do is make it more noticeable.

Leading up to Romans 8:37, the apostle Paul lists a series of cataclysmic events (persecution, famine, peril, sword, etc.) in order to make the point that, despite what our outward circumstances may be, our inner strength will be sufficient to overcome them. The reason for this is because our strength comes from God whose power knows no equal.

The more we tap into God’s strength and power – the more we will prevail over the many obstacles we face in our lives. The more we prevail, the brighter our lives will shine… reflecting His light for the entire world to see.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Why does Jenny change her mind and begin to help the alien? What does the Bible say about giving aid to strangers in need?
2. Why does the alien take on the appearance of Jenny’s dead husband? What can we learn from that as we approach people with the good news of Christ?

Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com

STAR WARS - THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK (1980)

2010-02-26T14:38:00.000-08:00

Directed by: Irvin Kershner
Written by: Leigh Brackett, Lawrence Kasdan
Studio: 20th Century Fox
Starring: Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher
Rated: PG

About the film:
In this continuation of the Star Wars saga, Luke receives advanced Jedi training from Jedi master Yoda. Meanwhile, his friends are captured by Darth Vader which means that Luke must quickly utilize all he has learned in order to rescue them.

Movie Quote:
“Size matters not. Look at me. Judge me by my size, do you? Hmm? Hmm? And well you should not. For my ally is the Force, and a powerful ally it is.”
Yoda (Frank Oz) in Star Wars – The Empire Strikes Back (1980)

Bible Quote:
“You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.”
1 John 4:4 (NIV)

Commentary:
It is hard to imagine that the muppet-like Yoda would be capable of accomplishing any great physical feat. It is because we have become accustomed to sizing things up and reaching conclusions based solely upon our sense knowledge awareness. As Yoda so quickly points out, this would be a serious misjudgment on our part.

Bigger is not necessarily better. In fact, where God is concerned, size is of no consequence. God’s strength and might can work within even the smallest individual and bring victory to a situation despite overwhelming odds or resistance.

By believing, David defeated Goliath even though he was at a great physical disadvantage. By believing, Gideon and 300 unarmed men conquered an army of Midianites. By believing, Moses stood in front of the vast Red Sea and, calling upon the power of God, commanded the sea itself to part.

The various obstacles and adversities that we face in life may appear to us to be unbeatable if we look at them at face value. What we must remember is that we do not tackle our problems alone. As we believe and trust in God, there is no enemy that we cannot drive back and no obstacle that we cannot overcome.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. What should be the criteria used when estimating a person’s worth or value to us?
2. What must Yoda teach Luke before he can grow in his knowledge and understanding of “the Force?” What are the spiritual implications of this?

Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com

STAR WARS (1977)

2010-02-25T15:32:00.000-08:00

Directed by: George Lucas
Written by: George Lucas
Studio: 20th Century Fox
Starring: Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher
Rated: PG

About the film:
A young farm boy is swept into a galactic adventure as he teams with a renegade space smuggler and a pair of androids to rescue Princess Leia who has been taken captive by the evil Imperial Forces. Once the princess is safe, they must then defend the galaxy against the evil invaders.

Movie Quote:
“The Force will be with you… always.”
Ben Obi-Wan Kenobi (Alec Guinness) in Star Wars (1977)

Bible Quote:
“The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.”
Deuteronomy 31:8 (NIV)

Commentary:
Obi-Wan offers words of encouragement to the young untested farm boy who will grow into becoming a great Jedi knight. How does the “Force” of which he speaks relate to our lives?

The word that leaps out to me in the quoted phrase from the movie is “always.” We hear that word so often being used by men who disappoint that perhaps it has lost some of its impact. The word literally means “at all times” or “in every instance.” When referring to the presence of God in our lives, it is a word that carries great import.

God is always with us. No matter where we go, He is with us. Every time we turn to Him, He is there. Every time we speak to Him, He hears us. He walks before us, showing us the way; He walks beside us, giving us strength; He walks behind us, supporting us and encouraging us to continue. Most importantly, He dwells within us, filling us with His love and His strength and His power.

His promise to us is that He will never leave us nor forsake us. It is a promise that He has always kept to those people who love Him.

Always.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. How does Luke’s struggles to trust and use “the force” compare to our learning how to trust and use the power of holy spirit?
2. Han Solo undergoes a radical change of character during the course of the film. Why? What does that say about how our lives might affect our unbelieving friends and family members?

Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com

STAR TREK THE UNDISCOVERED COUNTRY (1991)

2010-02-24T16:17:00.000-08:00

Directed by: Nicholas Meyer
Written by: Nicholas Meyer, Denny Martin Flinn
Studio: Paramount Pictures
Starring: William Shatner, Leonard Nimoy, DeForest Kelly
Rated: PG

About the film:
The Klingon Empire and the Federation are on the verge of signing a peace treaty which will end generations of conflict and warfare. But someone is out to sabotage the accord and the crew of the Enterprise must take action to prevent them from succeeding.

Movie Quote:
“Logic, logic, logic. Logic is the beginning of wisdom, Valeris, not the end.”
Spock (Leonard Nimoy) in Star Trek: The Undiscovered Country (1991)

Bible Quote:
“The fear (respect or reverence) of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: all who follow his precepts have good understanding.”
Psalms 111:10 (NIV)

Commentary:
Spock says that logic is the beginning of wisdom. The Scriptures say that having respect or reverence towards God is the beginning of wisdom. Oddly enough, we don’t really have to choose between the two. The key to understanding how these quotes compliment each other can be found in the opening verse of the gospel of John.

In the beginning was the Word (logos), and the Word (logos) was with God, and the Word (logos) was God. John 1:1 (NIV)

The Greek word logos, which is obviously related to the English word for logic, is used in the scriptures to refer not only to God but also God’s will, God’s son who always did His will, as well as the written Word which was given by God to reveal His will.

Believing in God’s Word is inherently “logical.” As we apply that logic or sound and rational thinking to our lives, we gain wisdom. But as Spock notes, logic is only the beginning. And wisdom is not the end. As we faithfully act with wisdom, over time we will gain something even greater: understanding. We’re given the ability to see the big picture: how all the pieces of knowledge and wisdom fit together to form the grand tapestry of the life which God designed.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. If respect or reverence to God equals logic, where does illogical thinking come from?
2. The peace talks between the Klingons and the Federation are being threatened by an unseen opponent. The peace in our hearts is often similarly disrupted. How might we counter that which prevents us from being at peace?

Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com

STAR TREK: THE WRATH OF KHAN (1982)

2010-02-23T15:05:00.000-08:00

Directed by: Nicholas Meyer
Written by: Jack B. Sowards
Studio: Paramount Pictures
Starring: William Shatner, Leonard Nimoy, Ricardo Montalban
Rated: PG

About the film:
Captain Kirk, feeling old and useless, gets a surprise as his old nemesis, Khan, returns with an aim to exact his revenge. Kirk gathers the old crew of the Enterprise and once again goes where no man has gone before in an attempt to stop Khan’s threat and save the Federation once again.

Movie Quote:
“Live long and prosper.”
Spock (Leonard Nimoy) in Star Trek: The Wrath of Kahn (1982)

Bible Quote:
“Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth.”
1 John 1:2 (KJV)

Commentary:
Who knew that Mr. Spock’s classic line from Star Trek had biblical roots? Indeed, this is God’s greatest desire… that above all things we, His beloved children, would prosper and be in health as we live long and fruitful lives. What father doesn’t want that for his child?

Throughout His Word, God gives us instruction on how we might achieve such a desired result. In Ephesians we read, “Honor your father and mother” – which is the first commandment with a promise – “that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.” God cannot say something if it isn’t true. A long and happy life is a reward of obedience.

As far as prosperity is concerned, 2 Corinthians holds a fundamental principle of a life that is more than abundant: “Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously.” God promises that as we give we shall receive. It is one of three spiritual keys to financial prosperity: Work heartily as to the Lord; live within one’s means; and share abundantly.

Live long and prosper… it’s more than a catch phrase… It’s God’s heartfelt desire for our lives.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. If it is God’s will that we prosper, why do many Christians suffer from financial difficulties? (Consider the latter part of 3 John 1:2)
2. Another quote from the film comes at a time of sacrifice as a character reflects “The needs of the many outweigh the needs of the few.” Is that a spiritual accurate belief? Why or why not?

Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com

SPY GAME (2001)

2010-02-22T05:07:00.000-08:00

Directed by: Tony Scott
Written by: Michael Frost Beckner, David Arata
Studio: MCA / Universal Pictures
Starring: Robert Redford, Brad Pitt, Catherine McCormack
Rated: R

About the film:
One of the last acts a retiring CIA agent named Muir must perform is working against his agency superiors to help release his ex-partner, Bishop, from a Chinese prison camp before his execution is carried out. Even as he examines the options available to him, he reflects on his relationship with the man he recruited and trained to be a spy.

Movie Quote:
“When did Noah build the ark Gladys? Before the rain.”
Nathan Muir (Robert Redford) in Spy Game (2001)

Bible Quote:
“As it was in the days of Noah, so it will be at the coming of the Son of Man.”
Matthew 24:37 (NIV)

Commentary:
The point Muir is making in his quote is that preparation is the key to a successful outcome. As the old saying goes, “If you fail to plan, you plan to fail.” God does not want us to fail and so He encourages us to learn from the past, live for today, and plan for tomorrow.

Had Noah waited for the first raindrop before starting to build the ark, the world today would only be populated by fish. The key to his (and our) survival was his obedience to prepare for the rain he did not see coming.

We, like Noah, have been given an opportunity to escape a future calamity. But if we wait until it arrives before we choose to take action, we’ll miss the boat and be left behind. God has given us a way to avoid the tribulation that is to come.

When Jesus Christ returns, he is coming for his church. Any and all born again believers will be removed from this earth and taken to our new spiritual home which he has prepared for us. The “tickets” for that ride have already been paid for… but they must be claimed in advance. There will be no exceptions. The truth of Romans 10:9 tells us “how.” The “when” is left for us to decide.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Why did Muir break his own rules – rules he once said were inviolate – in order to save Bishop?
2. What are the moral dangers in viewing the world as Muir views it; where people, places, and things are all considered to be assets that can be used and discarded for the purpose of the mission?

Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com

SPIDER-MAN (2002)

2010-02-21T07:55:00.000-08:00

Directed by: Sam Raimi
Written by: David Koepp
Studio: Columbia Pictures
Starring: Tobey Maguire, Willem Dafoe, Kirsten Dunst
Rated: PG-13

About the film:
After being bitten by a genetically altered spider, mild-mannered Peter Parker develops superhuman abilities. The world at large begins to distrust him rather than embrace him as a hero. While Parker tries to figure out how to capitalize on his new powers, a second freak accident occurs, turning a scientist into the evil Green Goblin who wreaks havoc upon the town.

Movie Quote:
“With great power comes great responsibility.”
Uncle Ben (Cliff Robertson) in Spider-man (2002)

Bible Quote:
“From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked.”
Luke 12:48b (NIV)

Commentary:
Parker’s uncle Ben is trying to teach the youthful Peter a lesson that will be vital for him to learn. All men may be equal in the eyes of God, but in terms of abilities, strengths, or long suits, we are not equal. As we sojourn in this world, we may find ourselves among a few who excel in a given area. When we do, we should be asking ourselves how we might use our ability (or power) to its best advantage – not merely for our benefit, but for the benefit of all.

In the Old Testament, God chose a handful of men as his prophets to communicate His will to the people. In the gospel period, Jesus Christ was on this earth, revealing God’s truth and ministering to the hearts of God’s people. Today, we are the ones to whom God has given the power and authority to act in His name.

We are called to be part of the body of Christ. As a part of that body, we have a responsibility to use the power we’ve been given to function in the role to which we’ve been called. As with our physical body, should one limb or organ fail to perform its function, the whole body suffers as a result.

We’ve been given much for which to be thankful. We may express our thankfulness by doing what God would have us do with the power and abilities He’s granted us. The body of Christ will be stronger for it.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Prior to the quoted scripture, Jesus tells his disciples a parable. What is the meaning of the parable in context of Luke 12:48 and how does it relate to the film?
2. Peter can be seen as an illustration for a born again believer. What are the similarities? What are the differences?

Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com

THE SPANISH PRISONER (1997)

2010-02-20T16:24:00.000-08:00

Directed by: David Mamet
Written by: David Mamet
Studio: Magnolia Films
Starring: Campbell Scott, Steve Martin, Rebecca Pidgeon
Rated: PG

About the film:
An employee develops a “process” which will make his company sizable millions but he begins to wonder if his boss will reward him for his efforts. When he begins talking to others outside of the company, things become complicated and he is uncertain who he can trust.

Movie Quote:
“Worry is like interest paid in advance on a debt that never comes due.”
George Lang (Rickey Jay) in The Spanish Prisoner (1997)

Bible Quote:
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”
Philippians 4:6 (NIV)

Commentary:
If we ever stop to think about it, there are a lot of things going on in this world that should give us cause to worry. This is exactly why we shouldn’t – because we’d have to STOP to think about it. God wants us to keep moving.

Worry is a way-station on the road to the destination of fear… and fear is a dead-end. Let’s not get on that track. Life is too short and time is too valuable to spend any of it worrying about things that may or may not come true.

Worry does absolutely nothing to resolve the problems we may face in our lives. Yes, we will have problems… but worrying about what they might be or how it will all end doesn’t help us in the slightest.

A much healthier outlook would be to meet each day head on, planning for but not fearing the future, believing the promises of our heavenly Father who assures us that He shall supply all our needs. When adversity hits, we need not shrink in fear but confidently and faithfully work through the situation until we emerge victorious.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Is there anything positive that can come from worrying? How can we best keep our minds from being worried about a situation?

2. Trust is a major factor in this film. How important is trust in a relationship and as Joe trusts less and less what happens to his mental and emotional state?

Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com

SONG OF THE SOUTH (1946)

2010-02-19T15:01:00.000-08:00

Directed by: Harve Foster, Wilfred Jackson
Written by: Dalton S. Reymond, Morton Grant, Maurice Rapf
Studio: Walt Disney Pictures
Starring: James Baskett, Hattie McDaniel, Ruth Warrick
Rated: Not Rated

About the film:
When Johnny arrives at his grandmother’s plantation, he learns that his parents are separating. Distraught, he befriends an old black man named Uncle Remus who delivers life lessons to Johnny by telling him stories about Brer Rabbit.

Movie Quote:
“So ‘scuse me for sayin’ so, but them who can’t learn from a tale about critters, just ain’t got the ears tuned for listenin’.”
Uncle Remus (James Baskett) in Song of the South (1946)

Bible Quote:
“But ask the animals, and they will teach you, or the birds of the air, and they will tell you; or speak to the earth, and it will teach you, or let the fish of the sea inform you. Which of all these does not know that the hand of the Lord has done this?”
Job 12:7-9 (NIV)

Commentary:
Uncle Remus uses a technique which the greatest teacher of all time used… and that teacher learned it from his father. God uses figures of speech throughout His Word in order to communicate truth to us in a deep and meaningful way. These figures of speech emphasize certain points He wants to make sure we understand.

There is so much we can learn about God, life, and truth simply by observing His creation in action. Many of the lessons recorded in the scriptures use the animal kingdom to figuratively illustrate the point being made.

In Proverbs 6, we are told to consider the ways of the ant and be wise. In 1 Peter 5, the devil is described as a roaring lion on the prowl. In Matthew 10, Jesus told his followers to go forth as sheep in the midst of wolves; to be wise as serpents and harmless as doves.

In each case, by considering the illustration, we gain further insight into the spiritual lesson being taught. All it takes is tuning our ears or minds to God’s “channel.”

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Why was Johnny’s mother insistent that Uncle Remus stop telling stories to her son? Was her concern justified?

2. What lessons have you observed by watching animals in action?

Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com

SOLARIS (2002)

2010-02-18T16:26:00.000-08:00

Directed by: Steven Soderbergh
Written by: Steven Soderbergh
Studio: 20th Century Fox
Starring: George Clooney, Natascha McElhone, Viola Davis
Rated: PG-13

About the film:
A troubled psychologist is called to visit the members of a space expedition orbiting the planet Solaris. Upon his arrival, he discovers strange and unexplained occurrences are threatening their very existence.

Movie Quote:
“And death shall have no dominion.”
Chris Kelvin (George Clooney) in Solaris (2002)

Bible Quote:
“Knowing that Christ, being raised from the dead, dieth no more; death hath no more dominion over him.”
Romans 6:9 (KJV)

Commentary:
The Solaris quote is taken from a Dylan Thomas poem, the title of which is obviously inspired from the Scriptures. Every year, when we celebrate Easter in remembrance of Christ’s resurrection, these words resonate with eternal significance.

It is impossible to overstate the importance of what God accomplished when He raised Jesus Christ from the dead. Death was defeated. There will be no rematch; no best two out of three. The final page of history has been written. It just hasn’t been played out to completion yet.

Death holds no dominion over us because it could not hold Jesus Christ. As we believe in him, our future eternity is assured; our place in heaven is established; and our spiritual rewards are set aside – being stored for us until that glorious day when our Lord returns to gather us together as his church.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. The film gives us much to ponder in terms of the differences between reality and perception. Can we ever know what is real or will our perceptions of reality always affect what we experience?

2. It has been said that the spiritual battle between good and evil is fought in the arena of our mind. How is this illustrated in Solaris?

Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com

SIGNS (2002)

2010-02-15T08:42:00.000-08:00

Directed by: M. Night Shyamalan
Written by: M. Night Shyamalan
Studio: Touchstone Pictures
Starring: Mel Gibson, Joaquin Phoenix, Rory Culkin
Rated: PG-13

About the film:
A minister is shaken by his wife’s death. When mysterious crop circles appear in his cornfield, it marks the beginning of even more unusual events which place the rest of his family in danger and lead him to a crossroads in his faith.

Movie Quote:
“There is no one looking out for us. We are all alone.”
Graham Hess (Mel Gibson) in Signs (2002)

Bible Quote:
“Don’t you know that you yourselves are God’s temple and that God’s spirit lives in you?”
1 Corinthians 3:16 (NIV)

Commentary:
The desperate comment coming from the grieving Graham Hess could not get any further from the truth. Not only are we not alone, the spirit of God dwells within us. Once we are born again, it is as much a permanent part of us as our heart, our eyes, or our breath.

The spirit of God which dwells within us is called many things throughout the scriptures: “power from on high” (Luke 24:49); “the inner man” (Ephesians 3:16); “Christ in you, the hope of glory” (Colossians 1:27); “the earnest of our inheritance” (Ephesians 1:14); “incorruptible seed” (1 Peter 1:23); and “the gift of God” (Ephesians 2:8).

Whatever terminology we wish to use, the truth is the same. Because of God’s unique spiritual gift, we have an unbroken connection to our heavenly Father. We are not alone nor shall we ever be alone. He is as near to us as we are to ourselves.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. The film gives us the impression that everything that happens (good or bad) is preordained by God. Is this a biblically accurate belief? Why or why not?

2. What caused the lead character’s crisis of faith? How would you have counseled him had he come to you for help?

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot.com

SHANE (1953)

2010-02-14T04:15:00.000-08:00

Directed by: George Stevens
Written by: A. R. Guthrie
Studio: Paramount Pictures
Starring: Alan Ladd, Jean Arthur, Van Heflin, Brandon De Wilde
Rated: Approved

About the film:
A retired gunfighter named Shane, looking to settle down, finds himself drawn into an escalating conflict between homesteaders and some cattle ranchers. Befriended by Joe and his family, Shane decides to strap on his guns one more time with Joe’s son Joey looking on in awe and wonder.

Movie Quote:
“A gun is a tool, Marion; no better or worse than any other tool – an axe, a shovel, or anything else. A gun is as good or as bad as the man using it.”
Shane (Alan Ladd) in Shane (1953)

Bible Quote:
“To the pure, all things are pure, but to those who are corrupted and do not believe, nothing is pure. In fact both their minds and consciences are corrupted.”
Titus 1:15 (NIV)

Commentary:
We’ve heard the argument, “Guns don’t kill people – people kill people” but we may not have stopped to consider the spiritual logic that resides behind that phrase. Inanimate objects bear no responsibility in the eyes of God for how they are used.

All things in this world were originally given to man for him to use as he saw fit. Whether objects are used to bless and edify others or whether they are used to hurt and destroy… That’s a decision that is solely up to the individual wielding them.

People, trying to avoid the accountability of their actions or decisions, will sometimes be quick to try and shift blame to the object or instrument that was used in a tragic or unhappy circumstance. We must remember that whether it is a gun, a car, or anything else, the fact remains that no tool is inherently evil. The responsibility for how we use what is available to us remains with us alone.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Based upon the quote from Shane, what would be the most logical kind of gun control legislation that could be enacted?
2. Why did Shane enter into a fight that wasn’t really his? What motivated him to risk and possibly give his life?

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot.com

SHALL WE DANCE? (1996)

2010-02-13T15:06:00.000-08:00

Directed by: Masayuki Suo
Written by: Masayuki Suo
Studio: Miramax Films
Starring: Koji Yakusho, Tamiyo Kusakari, Naoto Takenaka
Rated: PG-13

About the film:
A Japanese businessman, suffering from a severe case of ennui, rediscovers the joy and excitement in life when he begins secretly taking ballroom dance lessons.

Movie Quote:
“A weak first step transmits nothing.”
Mia Kishikawa (Tamiyo Kusakari) in Shall We Dance? (1996)

Bible Quote:
“You have made me stride freely, and my feet do not slip.”
2 Samuel 22:37 (NRSV)

Commentary:
We see, as we watch Shohei learn the fundamentals of ballroom dance, the importance of firm and confident actions. A dance between two people is an artful form of communication and in any type of communication it is important to make sure the proper message is being received.

Properly leading a dance partner requires confidence and deliberate, well defined actions. Hesitant or tentative movements will not communicate to a partner and so will spoil the dance before it starts. Our Christian walk is no different.

When we believe fully, our movements are sure and our expectation of success is high. As we move, we do so decisively and with full assurance as to the outcome. It is when we entertain doubts or allow fear to creep into our thinking that we move with uncertainty. Uncertain actions will reap undesirable fruit.

Our God has promised to support and strengthen our steps as we walk according to His will. He provides us with the confidence and assurance that enable us to fully commit our heart, soul, mind, and strength right from the very first step.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. What was it about the dance lessons that so transformed Shohei?
2. Lack of confidence must stem from a condition of fear. What does God say about fear? How can we control it?

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot.com

SHADOWLANDS (1993)

2010-02-11T15:32:00.000-08:00

Directed by: Richard Attenborough
Written by: William Nicholson
Studio: Savoy Pictures
Starring: Anthony Hopkins, Debra Winger, Michael Denison
Rated: PG

About the film:
C.S. Lewis, a professor at Oxford University and Christian author of children’s books, begins a romance with a free-spirited American fan named Joy. Their romance comes to a bittersweet end when Joy is diagnosed with a terminal illness.

Movie Quote:
“I pray because I can’t help myself. I pray because I’m helpless. I pray because the need flows out of me all the time, waking and sleeping. It doesn’t change God, it changes me.”
C.S. Lewis (Anthony Hopkins) in Shadowlands (1993)

Bible Quote:
“Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.”
James 5:16 (NIV)

Commentary:
C.S. Lewis offers a beautiful expression of how he views prayer. By saying that “it doesn’t change God, it changes me,” he speaks a profound truth that, once recognized, may forever change the manner in which we pray.

What is the value of prayer? Why should we ask God to do things for us that we can’t do for ourselves? If God loves us, why doesn’t He just act on our behalf regardless of what we do?

The answer should be obvious. Among the laws of the universe which He has designed, God has given us free will. Certainly He wants us to have what He knows is best for us but He cannot contradict His own design. He has given us free will which means that He must wait until we welcome Him into our lives.

Praying to God softens our hearts and attitude. God is constant. He is all good and He is all giving. We’re the variable ones in this equation. His desire is always to bless us. But He doesn’t give until we bridge the gulf between us and demonstrate that we are ready to receive.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. One key to prayer can be found in Mark 11:24. Consider C.S. Lewis’ quote from the context of this verse.
2. Why do some prayers seem to go unnoticed? What is the key to maintaining our faith in the face of tragedies or disappointments?

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot.com

THE SECRET OF NIMH (1982)

2010-02-10T17:53:00.000-08:00

Directed by: Don Bluth
Written by: Don Bluth, Will Finn, Gary Goldman, John Pomeroy
Studio: United Artists / MGM
Starring: Derek Jacobi, Elizabeth Hartman, Dom DeLuise
Rated: G

About the film:
A widowed field mouse, whose son is dying of pneumonia and whose home is in the path of a farmer’s plow, seeks the help of a secret society of super-intelligent rats who are more than willing to lend a helping hand.

Movie Quote:
“You can unlock any door, if you only have the key.”
Mrs. Brisby (Elizabeth Hartman) in The Secret of NIMH (1982)

Bible Quote:
“Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’”
John 14:6 (NIV)

Commentary:
It may be a simple truth, but it still manages to be one which many have missed. Without the proper key, all that is held behind a locked door will remain out of reach; unseen and unusable. The lack of a key is often the only thing standing between where a person is and where that person desires to be. It is certainly true when speaking of spiritual matters.

To fully understand the scriptures; to establish and maintain a close personal relationship with our Creator; to grow and mature as a spiritual being; to receive all the spiritual blessings that God is overjoyed to give us… we must first believe that Jesus Christ is what the Word of God declares him to be.

Jesus Christ is the key to unlocking the Bible thus bringing its interwoven and eternal truths to our full awareness. Knowledge of who Jesus Christ is and what he was sent to accomplish is absolutely essential if we are to follow the exhortation of 2 Timothy 2:15 and “rightly divide” the word of truth as “workmen of the Word.”

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. If there is only one key that unlocks the door leading to God, how many wrong keys are there? (Compare against Matthew 7:13-14)
2. What spiritual meanings can be seen in the film’s final resolution? How was Mrs. Brisby able to save her home?

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot.com

THE SANTA CLAUSE (1994)

2010-02-09T15:51:00.000-08:00

Directed by: John Pasquin
Written by: Leo Benvenuti, Steve Rudnick
Studio: Walt Disney Pictures
Starring: Tim Allen, Wendy Crewson, Judge Reinhold, Erick Lloyd
Rated: PG

About the film:
When Santa falls off the roof of a man who mistook him for a burglar, the homeowner is persuaded to don the red suit and complete the big guy’s rounds. What he didn’t know was that by agreeing, he is magically (and legally!) committed to being Santa Claus for the rest of his life.

Movie Quote:
“Seeing isn’t believing. Believing is seeing.”
Little Elf Judy (Paige Tamada) in The Santa Clause (1994)

Bible Quote:
“Then Jesus told him, ‘Because you have seen me, you believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed…’”
John 20:29 (NIV)

Commentary:
We shouldn’t be too hard on “doubting Thomas.” After all, who is to say that we wouldn’t have acted similarly if we were in his position? Still, the incident is recorded in the Bible to teach us that our believing is not based upon visual proof.

Ever since Jesus of Nazareth first appeared on the scene, people have clamored to see signs, miracles and wonders. Believing something is easy when we are staring at the proof of its existence.

God needs not prove anything to us. It is we who must prove our willingness to accept from Him all that He desires for us. The “I’ll believe it when I see it” mentality almost ensures that we’ll never get to see spiritual realities manifested in the physical realm. It is our believing that activates the power of God. It is not, nor should it be, the other way around.

“Then Jesus said, ‘Did I not tell you that if you believed, you would see the glory of God?” John 112:40 (NIV)

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. If we are to believe what we cannot see, how are we to know that it is true?
2. What are some of the illustrations Jesus Christ used to teach his followers of the importance of believing?

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot.com

ROXANNE (1987)

2010-02-08T06:10:00.000-08:00

Directed by: Fred Schepisi
Written by: Steve Martin
Studio: Columbia Pictures
Starring: Steve Martin, Daryl Hannah, Rick Rossovich
Rated: PG

About the film:
Roxanne is a modern version of Edmond Rostand’s play, Cyrano de Bergerac. In it, fire chief C.D. Bales is blessed with a sharp mind, a quick wit, and an extraordinarily large nose. His affections are fixed on the beautiful Roxanne but she only has eyes for the dimwitted but handsome Chris.

Movie Quote:
“Sometimes, the answer is so obvious, that it’s as plain as the nose on your face.”
Dixie (Shelly Duvall) in Roxanne (1987)

Bible Quote:
“For this commandment which I command thee this day, it is not hidden from thee, neither is it far off.”
Deuteronomy 30:11 (KJV)

Commentary:
C.D. Bales’ biggest problem is that he can’t see beyond the problem he has. If he could, he would see the solution that is so obvious to Dixie and to the rest of us.

We have all had questions that we’ve wanted answered; questions about life, death, love, and God. Some people may even go a lifetime without realizing that the answers were always available to us, and just as plain as the nose on our face.

The Bible says that God has given us all things pertaining to life and godliness. The answers we seek, He has provided. God originally set them in the stars for all to see. He gave them directly to Adam and commanded that they be passed down from father to son throughout the generations. He caused them to be recorded in a written form. And finally, He gave them to us by sending us His only begotten son to teach us.

If our questions are still going unanswered, it isn’t God’s doing. We simply need to look at what He has already given us. Instead of stumbling in the dark, we need only turn to the light… the light that has always been there.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Why do some men choose to stay in spiritual darkness when light is available?
2. How does fear manifest itself in the actions of the characters? What is the result of that fear?

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot.com

ROCKY IV (1985)

2010-02-07T05:39:00.000-08:00

Directed by: Sylvester Stallone
Written by: Sylvester Stallone
Studio: Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer
Starring: Sylvester Stallone, Talia Shire, Burt Young
Rated: PG

About the film:
After his friend, Apollo Creed, is killed in a bout with Ivan Drago, a chemically enhanced Soviet fighter, Rocky agrees to fight the Russian on his home turf. During the grueling match, Rocky learns something about himself and the nature of people.

Movie Quote:
“I guess what I’m trying to say is, if I can change, and you can change, everybody can change.”
Rocky Balboa (Sylvester Stallone) in Rocky IV (1985)

Bible Quote:
“Repent then, and turn to God, so that you sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord.”
Acts 3:19 (NIV)

Commentary:
Rocky expresses one of the fundamental blessings which God has bestowed upon man. We have the right to change and grow – not only as individuals but as spiritual beings.

Spiritually, we all start from the same place. We are born as individuals “having no hope, and without God in the world.” (Ephesians 2:12) How then do we gain a relationship with God and access to all His promises? Very simply, we must change. And because God is a loving creator, He has given each and every man, woman and child the free will ability to do so.

When we confess Jesus as Lord and believe in our hearts that God has raised him from the dead (Romans 10:9-10), we are changed. We move from being a “natural man” with body and soul, to a threefold being: body, soul and spirit. God restores us to complete wholeness by creating within us the “earnest (token) of our inheritance” which is spirit.

Since God is spirit (John 4:4), our change is essential if we are to join in full fellowship with Him, His son Jesus Christ, and all who call upon the name of the Lord. Change can be a good thing and, when we are talking spiritually, it can be the best decision we will ever make.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Note the differences between the way Ivan Drago trains and the way Rocky trains. Which is more rewarding and why? What biblical principles does this reflect?
2. What was it that got the crowd to change its opinion of Rocky? What does that tell us about how to respond when we face negative reactions from those we encounter?

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot.com

ROCK STAR (2001)

2010-02-06T16:25:00.000-08:00

Directed by: Stephen Herek
Written by: John Stockwell
Studio: Warner Brothers
Starring: Mark Wahlberg, Jennifer Aniston, Jason Flemyng
Rated: R

About the film:
When the lead singer of a famous rock band is voted out of his group, an average guy who sings in a garage cover band is given his shot at stardom. He learns that having fame is not the same as handling it.

Movie Quote:
“That’s right, I’m standing here, living proof that if you work hard enough, and you want it bad enough… dreams do come true. So, follow your dreams.”
Chris (Mark Wahlberg) in Rock Star (2001)

Bible Quote:
“The sluggard craves and gets nothing, but the desires of the diligent are fully satisfied.”
Proverbs 13:4 (NIV)

Commentary:
Just because we might want something doesn’t necessarily mean we’ll get it. This world is filled with people who are continually disappointed in their expectations. We do not have to count ourselves as being among them.

By way of illustration, we see that Chris respected the music produced by the rock group, Steel Dragon. He respected them so much that he worked hard to emulate their sound. Because of the hard work which he put into copying their songs and style, when opportunity came knocking, he was ready to answer.

God’s promises will always work for those who are not only faithful to believe them but also diligent to act upon their believing. Working heartily, as unto the Lord, is a key element to having a prosperous life.

As we set our hearts upon desired goals, we are to relentlessly work towards those goals, having no doubt that our victory is assured. Our patience, faithfulness and diligence will ultimately be rewarded as we receive and enjoy the fruits of our labor. God is able to not only meet our desires, but abundantly exceed them. He is a rewarder to those who believe. The evidence of our believing can be found in the actions we choose to take.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. What was it about Chris that drew the band’s attention to him? Why was he given the lead singer’s spot?
2. After being hired by the group, where did Chris go wrong? What did he forget? What lessons can be learned from his experiences?

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot.com

Road to Perdition (2002)

2010-02-05T15:28:00.000-08:00

Directed by: Sam Mendes
Written by: David Self
Studio: Dreamworks SKG
Starring: Tom Hanks, Paul Newman, Jude Law, Tyler Hoschlin
Rated: R

About the film:
The son of a hit man witnesses a mob killing so the crime boss orders him killed. After the rest of his family is slaughtered, the hit man and his son take to the road to escape their would-be killers and wait for the opportunity to get their revenge.

Movie Quote:
“A man of honor always pays his debts… and keeps his word.”
John Rooney (Paul Newman) in Road to Perdition (2002)

Bible Quote:
“Above all, my brothers, do not swear – not by heaven or by earth or by anything else. Let your “Yes” be yes, and your “No” no, or you will be condemned.”
James 5:12 (NIV)

Commentary:
It is a fine sentiment that John Rooney expresses. It is too bad that we can’t believe him. It’s not that the truth he speaks is wrong, merely that the man speaking them can’t be trusted to live by them.

Words are not cheap… but they can be cheapened by those who use them without integrity. A man of honor and integrity will weigh his words before he speaks because he knows that he must bear the cost of speaking them.

Such men do exist. They may not make headlines or show up on the nightly news. They don’t make a show of telling the truth. They don’t even need to swear on a stack of Bibles. They simply say what they mean and mean what they say. Always.

When we meet such a man, regardless of his position or title, grant him the respect he deserves. His worth is inestimable. Better yet, vow to be that man – a man who is as good as his word.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. What is honor and how do we recognize it when we see it?
2. Is there an honorable man among the characters in Road to Perdition? Who and why?

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot.com

A RIVER RUNS THROUGH IT (1992)

2010-02-04T14:37:00.000-08:00

Directed by: Robert Redford
Written by: Richard Friedenberg
Studio: Columbia Pictures
Starring: Brad Pitt, Craig Sheffer, Tom Skerritt
Rated: PG

About the film:
Two sons of contrasting temperaments are growing up in Montana in the early 1900s. The one bond they share, besides the familial relationship, is their love of fly-fishing which has been conveyed to them by their father, a Presbyterian minister.

Movie Quote:
“My father was very sure about certain matters pertaining to the universe. To him, all good things, trout as well as eternal salvation, came by grace and grace came by art, and art does not come easy.”
Narrator (Robert Redford) in A River Runs Through It (1992)

Bible Quote:
“Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.”
James 1:17 (NIV)

Commentary:
The narrator’s father has it half right. As we can see in the book of James, all good things do come by grace – the grace of God, our Father. But grace doesn’t come from art unless that happens to be God’s nickname (as in the punch line of the old children’s joke, “God who is Art in heaven.”)

Grace is God’s unmerited favor to man. The blessings which He bestows upon us are undeserved by us. We do not earn them by our works. What He gives to us (eternal life, sonship rights, and spiritual abilities to manifest His power) He gives because He loves us despite our flaws and frailties.

We do not earn His gift by our works. But neither are we to stop working altogether. Just as He is motivated by love to extend grace to us, He desires that we will, because of the love we have for Him, live our lives in ways that are pleasing to Him.

Contrary to the narrator’s quote, grace actually comes easy. It is freely given of God. It is the responding to that grace by heeding God’s exhortations and direction that can sometimes be hard, especially at the beginning. It gets easier the more we do it.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Fly-fishing, in this film, is said to be an analogy for life. In what ways is this true? Does the analogy hold up when compared to the scriptures?
2. The two brothers, raised in the same environment, have very different personalities and traits. What motivates each and what were the consequences of their individual actions? What does this say about the “cause and effect” principle of life?

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot.com

RIO BRAVO (1959)

2010-02-03T17:05:00.000-08:00

Directed by: Howard Hawks
Written by: Jules Furthman
Studio: Warner Brothers
Starring: John Wayne, Dean Martin, Angie Dickinson
Rated: Not Rated

About the film:
A sheriff in a small town arrests a man for murder. The prisoner has a wealthy brother who doesn’t plan to wait for a trial. The sheriff and a small band of volunteers must hold off the brother and his hired gunmen until the US marshal arrives to take custody of the prisoner.

Movie Quote:
“You got no use for a man you can’t depend on.”
Dude (Dean Martin) in Rio Bravo (1959)

Bible Quote:
“Like a bad tooth or a lame foot is reliance on the unfaithful in times of trouble.”
Proverbs 25:19 (NIV)

Commentary:
Sometimes profound truths make the most impact when stated simply. Dude’s observation is nothing more than common sense. No wonder we can see the same sentiment expressed in the truth of God’s Word.

Much of the time, the Bible reflects what could be considered just good common sense. What is the value of someone who is unfaithful? What is someone worth if he cannot be counted on to perform a needed task at a crucial time?

Just as we wouldn’t put much confidence in our ability to move with quickness and agility when suffering from a broken foot, putting confidence in someone who has proven himself unworthy of trust is likewise foolish and will lead to defeat and disappointment.

The opposite holds true as well. A man who has proven himself to be faithful and worthy of trust adds strength, peace, and comfort to the lives of anyone he considers a friend. His value is beyond price and beyond words.

Of course, our dearest and truest friend is God who will never disappoint because He will always be there for us when we need Him. We can trust in Him with our whole heart knowing that He will be faithful.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Dude, who delivered the quote in Rio Bravo, is a drunkard and filled with self-pity. The sheriff places his trust in him anyway. How did that affect the Dude’s behavior?
2. What causes unfaithfulness? How can we build our integrity to resist temptation?

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot.com

THE REMAINS OF THE DAY (1993)

2010-02-02T15:48:00.000-08:00

Directed by: James Ivory
Written by: Ruth Prawer Jhabvala
Studio: Columbia Pictures
Starring: Anthony Hopkins, Emma Thompson, Christopher Reeve
Rated: PG

About the film:
A butler loyally follows his employer’s lead through World War I and beyond, at the risk of sacrificing his own life and personal happiness. As he looks back upon his life and relationships, we are left wondering what might have been had he followed through on his own desires and interests.

Movie Quote:
“I don’t believe a man can consider himself fully content until he has done all he can to be of service to his employer.”
James Stevens (Anthony Hopkins) in The Remains of the Day (1993)

Bible Quote:
“Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not men.”
Ephesians 6:7 (NIV)

Commentary:
Though Mr. Stevens may come to regret the words he has spoken, we need not share in that regret. The service which we perform in the name of God does not preclude us from pursuing activities to further our lives both at home and in our careers.

God’s exhortation to us extends to every aspect of our life, not just our churchgoing behavior on Sunday mornings. As His ambassadors, how we conduct ourselves in this secular world should always be a reflection of His goodness, His power, and His light.

By extending ourselves to the fullest of our potential in our various workplaces, be they secular or not, we are showing our obedience and faith in the God by whom all things are made possible. Being the best that God has made us to be is a witness in and of itself.

We are His ambassadors to this world in which we live. As ambassadors, we have a responsibility to serve God by representing Him in all that we do. That certainly includes our jobs and careers. The work ethic we demonstrate is often the stimulus that opens the door of witness as we explain to those who ask us why we work as hard as we do.

“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men.” Colossians 3:23 (NIV)

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. What specific examples of service can we find in the scriptures?
2. Was Stevens wrong in his sense of propriety? Why or why not? How could he have balanced his personal views and beliefs with his sense of duty and obligation to his employer?

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot.com

THE RAZOR'S EDGE (1984)

2010-02-01T13:44:00.000-08:00

Directed by: John Byrum
Written by: John Byrum, Bill Murray
Studio: Columbia Pictures
Starring: Bill Murray, Theresa Russell, Catherine Hicks
Rated: PG-13

About the film:
A World War I veteran is emotionally changed by his battlefield experiences. He returns home to his fiancée but cannot find peace of heart. He then leaves her to seek for the meaning of life, traveling from Paris to Tibet. The next time he and his fiancée meet, their relationship is irrevocably changed.

Movie Quote:
“The pathway to salvation is as narrow and as difficult to walk as a razor’s edge.”
A Tibetan monk in The Razor’s Edge (1984)

Bible Quote:
“But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.”
Matthew 7:14 (NIV)

Commentary:
The wise Tibetan monk who spoke that line in The Razor’s Edge either didn’t understand or didn't believe in the all-knowing, all-forgiving heart of God. Yes, the way to salvation is “narrow” but it isn’t as impossible to traverse as a razor’s edge. The reason it is called “narrow” is because while there is only one “way” to salvation, there are numerous “ways” that lead away from it.

The one way to life everlasting can be found in the understanding of and believing in Jesus Christ. All other theories, beliefs, postulations, and fantasies will lead people to nothing more than dead ends. If the Bible is true, and I believe that (when rightly divided) it is, Jesus Christ is the key to all understanding.

When we confess Jesus as Lord in our life AND believe that God raised him from the dead, we will have found that small gate that leads to eternal life. Anything else leads to oblivion. Jesus himself said that “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No man comes unto the Father but by me.” We can trust those words and believe them for they are true.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. The central character desires to know the meaning of life. How does God answer this question in His Word?
2. Life experiences will cause us to grow and change. How can we best manage our relationships with our wives or husbands so we don’t grow apart?

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot.com

THE PRINCESS BRIDE (1987)

2010-01-31T06:12:00.000-08:00

Directed by: Rob Reiner
Written by: William Goldman
Studio: 20th Century Fox
Starring: Cary Elwes, Mandy Patinkin, Robin Wright Penn
Rated: PG

About the film:
A grandfather reads to his sick grandson and tells a tale about a beautiful princess in need of rescuing. It is a tale of great adventure – with giants, pirates, wizards, and exciting swordplay. But, above all else, it is a tale of love.

Movie Quote:
“You can’t hurt me. Wesley and I are joined by the bonds of love. And you cannot track that, not with a thousand bloodhounds. And you cannot break it, not with a thousand swords.”
Princess Buttercup (Robin Wright Penn) in The Princess Bride (1987)

Bible Quote:
“Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? As it is written, “For your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.” No in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.”
Romans 8:35-37 (NIV)

Commentary:
The Princess Bride is a story about true love. True love is the strongest bond that exists in this world and the truest love of all is the love of God exemplified by the standard that was set by Jesus Christ.

When we operate with the love of God in our heart, the impact our loves make upon others is both palpable and real. Nothing in this world can change the fact that God loves us. Nothing in this world should change the fact that we love Him back. With His love, we are more than conquerors… we are winners in every sense of the word.

Our love need not be affected by the trials and tribulations of this world. We recognize that we will go through hard times or, as the scriptures say, “night seasons.” But the love that binds us to God is not changed by outward circumstances. It abides within us and it grows stronger every day and with every passing moment. The challenges of life will come and go but the love of God is constant and shall never fail.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. What are the different ways that the characters in the film express their love?
2. Wesley defied the odds and overcame every obstacle in order to be reunited with his love. What won’t God do for us to reconcile us to Him?

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot.com

THE PREACHER'S WIFE (1996)

2010-01-30T18:51:00.000-08:00

Directed by: Penny Marshall
Written by: Nat Mauldin, Allan Scott
Studio: Touchstone Pictures
Starring: Denzel Washington, Whitney Houston
Rated: PG

About the film:
A hardworking reverend is allowing his marriage to falter due to the constant pressures of his work and the financial difficulties of his church. He prays to God for help but the angel who arrives as his answer to prayer seems to be making matters worse.

Movie Quote:
“Just because you can’t see the air doesn’t keep you from breathing. And just because you can’t see God doesn’t keep you from believing.”
Jeremiah Biggs (Justin Pierre Edmund) in The Preacher’s Wife (1996)

Bible Quote:
“We live by faith, not by sight.”
2 Corinthians 5:7 (NIV)

Commentary:
The Preacher’s Wife presents us with a story which can be hard to believe. The scriptures speak of angels and describe angelic encounters that men have had. That doesn’t mean that it is easy to embrace the concept of an angel appearing before us.

There’s no question that it is easier to believe what is right before our faces than it is to believe something that is invisible. If we think about it however, there are many things that we do not doubt exist even though we may never be able to see them.

The quote from The Preacher’s Wife identifies one: Air cannot be seen yet we have no doubt that, when we inhale, we replenish our lungs with that substance required of all human life. When we get out of bed each morning, we are confident that our feet will remain on the floor because of an invisible reality called gravity.

We believe in these things that we cannot see because we can see the effects caused by their existence. If we are spiritually attuned, we will also see the effects of the invisible God who is every bit as real and vital as the air and gravity which He created.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. How can we believe in that which we cannot see? How can we build our faith?
2. The angel does not seem to immediately satisfy the prayers of Rev. Biggs. Why not? What does this teach us about how God answers prayers?

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot.com

THE POSEIDON ADVENTURE (1972)

2010-01-29T15:34:00.000-08:00

Directed by: Ronald Neame, Irwin Allen
Written by: Wendell Mayes, Stirling Silliphant
Studio: 20th Century Fox
Starring: Gene Hackman, Ernest Borgnine, Shelly Winters
Rated: PG

About the film:
When a luxury liner capsizes while at sea, a small band of survivors make their way to the “bottom” of the ship in order to be prepared for the possible rescue that might follow.

Movie Quote:
“So what resolution should we make for the New Year? It’s to let God know that you have the guts and the will to do it alone. Resolve to fight for yourselves and for others… for those you love. And that part of God within you will be fighting with you all the way.”
Rev. Frank Scott (Gene Hackman) in The Poseidon Adventure (1972)

Bible Quote:
“For the Lord your God is the one who goes with you to fight for you against your enemies to give you victory.”
Deuteronomy 20:4 (NIV)

Commentary:
Rev. Scott reminds us that prayer and believing must be backed by our actions. God will always expect us to do what we can for ourselves. As we do, He is willing and able to step in whenever we are lacking and have need of help. But first, it is our responsibility to act. Life affords us plenty of opportunities.

Anyone who has lived on this earth for a sufficient period of time can see the fallacy in the adage that “life is just a bowl of cherries.” There is a spiritual adversary in this world that stands in opposition to all which we hold true. Because of this, life is often a struggle. But it is a struggle that we can win if we but put our trust in the One who is stronger than our adversary.

We all battle daily against a spiritual enemy whether we are aware of it or not. But we do not battle alone. God stands with us, arm bared, ready to fight against those invisible powers who mean to defeat us. It is an unseen reality that we can often forget in the heat of the battle.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. What motivated the other passengers to remain where they were instead of following Scott and his small group? What would you have done and why?
2. There were a number of sacrificial acts made during the film that enabled the survivors to be rescued. Compare and contrast these acts against the sacrifice of our Lord.

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot.com

THE MAGNIFICENT SEVEN (1960)

2010-01-28T16:32:00.000-08:00

Directed by: John Sturges
Written by: Walter Newman, William Roberts
Studio: United Artists
Starring: Yul Brynner, Eli Wallach, Steve McQueen
Rated: PG-13

About the film:
A gang of seven gunslingers with no vested interest in the cause for which they were hired nevertheless try to protect a tiny Mexican village from invading bandits.

Movie Quote:
“You think I am brave because I carry a gun? Well, your fathers are much braver because they carry responsibility: For you, your brothers, your sisters, and your mothers. And this responsibility is like a big rock that weighs a ton. It bends and it twists them until finally it buries them under the ground. And there’s nobody says they have to do this. They do it because they love you, and because they want to. I have never had this kind of courage.”
O’Reilly (Charles Bronson) in The Magnificent Seven (1960)

Bible Quote:
“Which of you fathers, if your son asks for a fish, will give him a snake instead?”
Luke 11:11 (NIV)

Commentary:
What leads a man to make the ultimate sacrifice? It is a question that strikes at the heart of Christianity. After all, our Lord and Savior was sent to earth for the sole purpose to sacrifice himself for us. Like Jesus Christ, the seven gunfighters in The Magnificent Seven chose, for reasons of their own, to risk their lives in order to bring freedom to people they didn’t know.

Sacrifice is an unusual thing to explain. The survival instinct within man is strong and unrelenting. And yet, at times, it is available for man to suppress his natural survival instinct in order to give dominance to a stronger force – a force that compels him to give his life in order to save another.

A father knows instinctively that he is capable of giving his life for his child. Anyone who has been blessed with a child knows this. Of course, our God takes this a step further. He allowed his only begotten son to suffer and die in order that he might welcome more of His children to His side. Such love is difficult to fathom. But it is not impossible to understand.

God empowered us through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. He enabled us to free ourselves from the bondage of fear and death. He did this for one reason only. He loves us.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Why did these gunfighters decide to stay and fight for a village that wasn’t theirs?
2. Compare the qualities and attributes of the gunfighters. Did these qualities help to determine whether or not they survived the battle? Why or why not?

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot.com

POINT BREAK (1991)

2010-01-27T15:04:00.000-08:00

Directed by: Kathryn Bigelow
Written by: W. Peter Iliff
Studio: 20th Century Fox
Starring: Patrick Swayze, Keanu Reeves, Gary Busey
Rated: R

About the film:
A young FBI agent infiltrates a gang of bank robbers who seem to enjoy the emotional rush that comes from engaging in daredevil activities. In order to get to the bottom of what is happening, he has to climb to the top of the gang’s machismo actions.

Movie Quote:
“Fear causes hesitation and hesitation will cause your worst fears to come true.”
Bohdi (Patrick Swayze) in Point Break (1991)

Bible Quote:
“For the thing which I greatly feared is come upon me, and that which I was afraid of is come unto me.”
Job 3:25 (KJV)

Commentary:
Fear continues to be the instrument by which most men are defeated. And yet, for a believing man or woman, it is the most irrational state of mind one could possibly adopt. A quick search shows us that God’s Word commands us well over 60 times to “fear not.”

Whenever we fear something, we are in essence telling God that we pay more respect to that which we fear than we do to God who continually tells us that we need not fear. The reason fear defeats us is because it is a form of believing. In the spiritual world, believing has power… even the negative believing which manifests itself as fear.

To drive fear out of our lives, we must replace it with something stronger – Trust. We must build an absolute assurance in our minds that the promises of God are true. By so doing, we can turn our believing around to something which has a positive impact. Trusting or believing God leads to hope and is fueled by love which we are promised will eradicate fear.

“There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.” 1 John 4:18 (KJV)

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. How does fear aid or inhibit success as seen in the context of this film?
2. How does love cast out fear? What properties does love contain that cannot co-exist with fear?

Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com

PINOCCHIO (1940)

2010-01-26T15:39:00.000-08:00

Directed by: Hamilton Lueke, Ben Sharpsteen
Written by: William Cottrell, Otto Englander, Erdman Penner, Joseph Sato, Ted Sears, Webb Smith
Studio: Walt Disney Pictures
Starring: Dickie Jones, Cliff Edwards, Christian Rub
Rated: G

About the film:
A wooden puppet comes to life but desires to become a real boy. With his conscience, Jiminy Cricket, as his guide, he has many adventures on his way to achieving his dream. That dream does not come true easily.

Movie Quote:
“A conscience is that still small voice that people won’t listen to.”
Jiminy Cricket (Cliff Edwards) in Pinocchio (1940)

Bible Quote:
“And after the earthquake, a fire; but the LORD was not in the fire: and after the fire, a still small voice.”
1 Kings 19:12 (KJV)

Commentary:
It’s funny how a small, humorous quote can be filled with such meaning. The still, small voice which Jiminy Cricket called a “conscience” is exactly what God described in His Word when teaching His prophet Elijah the way to recognize His voice. God’s voice was not heard within the strong wind, the fierce earthquake or the roaring fire which He sent before Elijah. It was heard in the sudden stillness that followed.

People who are waiting for bold, booming, majestic declarations from God may spend a lifetime waiting and never experience the sweet fellowship and communion that God desires and enjoys with His children during quiet moments.

And yet, as Jiminy reminds us, even if we attune our ears to hear His voice, listening to it is still a matter of choice. We should aspire to reach the level where, with peace of heart and quietness of soul, we may both hear and listen to what God has to say. And, in addition to that… we should heed it.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. With all the false teachers and false prophets that exist in this world, how can we know beyond certainty that the still small voice we’re hearing is coming from God?
2. Scripture says that foolishness is bound in the heart of a child. How is this represented in the film? How could it have been avoided?

Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com

PATCH ADAMS (1998)

2010-01-25T04:00:00.000-08:00

Directed by: Tom Shadyac
Written by: Steve Oedekerk
Studio: MCA/Universal Pictures
Starring: Robin Williams, Monica Potter, Michael Jeter
Rated: PG-13

About the film:
Based on a true story, the film follows a medical student who adopts a rather unorthodox method of treating the sick. In order to practice these methods, he decides to open his own clinic which breaks down the emotional barrier between patient and doctor.

Movie Quote:
“You’re focusing on the problem. If you focus on the problem, you can’t see the solution. Never focus on the problem.”
Arthur Mendelson (Harold Gould) in Patch Adams (1998)

Bible Quote:
“Without weakening in his faith, he faced the fact that his body was as good as dead – since he was about a hundred years old – and that Sarah’s womb was also dead. Yet he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God.”
Romans 4:19-20 (NIV)

Commentary:
Sometimes, profound statements will be made by secondary or inconsequential characters. Arthur Mendelson had only a few moments of screen time but his words speak volumes.

A successful runner will not, in the middle of his race, look down at his feet and wonder why they’re not moving faster. No, he’ll keep his eyes focused ahead, towards the finish line… towards the victory that awaits him.

God promised Abraham that he would be the “father of many nations.” As he neared the age of 100, he was still childless. His wife, Sarah, was ninety. It would have been easy for them to believe the physical conditions of their aging bodies. They chose instead to keep their minds focused on God’s promise. They received the victory because God kept his promise despite the “physical impossibilities.”

Focusing on the reasons why something can’t be done is often the primary reason why things don’t get done. Victory and deliverance are promised to us. Let us turn our eyes from that which holds us back and focus instead on that which will draw us forward.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Success or victory is largely dependent upon attitude. How is this truth reflected in the film?
2. Scripture says that a cheerful heart is good medicine. Does the film support that truth? How?

Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com

THE PARTY (1968)

2010-01-24T04:35:00.000-08:00

Directed by: Blake Edwards
Written by: Blake Edwards, Tom Waldman, Frank Waldman
Studio: United Artists
Starring: Peter Sellers, Claudine Longet, Marge Champion
Rated: PG

About the film:
When an incompetent Indian actor ruins a day’s shooting, the studio intends to fire him. A clerical error sends him an invitation to an exclusive Hollywood party instead of a pink slip. He arrives and, as his nature is, brings chaos with him.

Movie Quote:
“Wisdom is the province of the aged, but the heart of a child is pure.”
Hrundi V. Bakshi (Peter Sellers) in The Party (1968)

Bible Quote:
“I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.”
Luke 18:17 (NIV)

Commentary:
He may be an incompetent buffoon who destroys just about everything he touches but Hrundi V. Bakshi makes at least one valid observation. Senior citizens as well as the very young possess positive qualities or traits attributable to their age.

Wisdom is simply learned knowledge that has been applied in one’s life. The more one experiences, the broader and deeper his or her wisdom becomes. Children should look to their elders and respect the knowledge and wisdom that comes with age and experience.

At the same time, older generations may continue to learn from the very young. Children do possess qualities which are much to be admired and emulated. Their pureness of heart, the degree to which they trust, and their ability to believe fully without doubt or reservation; these are qualities that we often lose as we grow older.

God wants us to discover them again in our dealings with Him. He wants us to know that we can trust Him implicitly and believe in His Word with all of our heart without fear, worry or doubt. He wants us to approach Him as beloved little children for that is exactly how He sees and how He loves us.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. What is the main reason we lose our pureness of heart as we grow older? How might we recapture it?
2. Why does Jesus say that unless we receive the kingdom of God like a little child, we won’t enter into it? What does he mean?

Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com

ONCE UPON A TIME… WHEN WE WERE COLORED (1995)

2009-12-13T04:24:00.000-08:00

Directed by: Tim Reid
Written by: Paul W Cooper
Studio: Republic Pictures
Starring: Al Freeman Jr., Phylicia Rashad, Paula Kelly
Rated: PG

About the film:
A tightly knit black community must make a decision regarding racial discrimination when one of their own is being persecuted by a white businessman who is in competition with him.

Movie Quote:
“Books are like eggs. You got to crack ‘em open to get anything out of them.”
Miss Maybry (Polly Bergen) in Once Upon a Time… When We Were Colored (1995)

Bible Quote:
“In reading this, then, you will be able to understand my insight into the mystery of Christ”
Ephesians 3:4 (NIV)

Commentary:
Miss Maybry gives a simple yet powerful illustration. Most of the time, in order to get what we want, it’s going to require an action on our part. Sitting and waiting for something to come to us is a sure way to be disappointed in this life.

God has said that He has given us all things pertaining to life and godliness. And He has. They are contained within the pages of the Bible. And yet, even though the Bible is a source of incredible power, if we never open it to read and study what it contains, it is merely a lifeless object – like a battery that is not connected to anything.

We can sit in our cars all day long, but if we never get behind the wheel, turn the key, put the car into gear and press on the gas, we won’t be going anyplace. It takes action on our part for the power of the car to become evident.

The same principle holds true with the Word of God. Only when we read and study the Word – when we believe and claim its promises and then act according to our believing – will the power of God become evident. Our own lives will become testimony to what God will do for those who love Him because we will manifest His power for all to see.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. God often communicates His truth to us by using analogies or comparative illustrations to help us remember them. What are some that come to mind?
2. A major theme to the film is the effects of racial prejudice. Upon what is prejudice based and what is the best way to diffuse it?

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot.com

OH GOD! (1977)

2009-12-11T14:23:00.000-08:00

Directed by: Carl Reiner
Written by: Larry Gelbert
Studio: Warner Brothers
Starring: John Denver, George Burns, Teri Garr
Rated: PG

About the film:
God appears to an assistant grocery store manager and asks him to carry a message from Him to the rest of the world. After a series of mishaps, the film ends with a courtroom scene as God Himself takes the witness stand.

Movie Quote:
Court Reporter: “Do you swear to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth?”
God: “So help me me.”
Judge: “So help you you?”
An exchange between God, the court reporter and the judge in Oh God! (1977)

Bible Quote:
“When God made His promise to Abraham, since there was no one greater for Him to swear by, He swore by Himself.”
Hebrews 6:13 (KJV)

Commentary:
There is a truth repeated throughout the Bible which, when believed, brings comfort and peace to our hearts and minds. This fundamental truth allows us to walk without fear, live in hope, and love with complete assurance. That truth is simply this: It is impossible for God to lie.

Lying is contrary to God’s nature. It is not just improbable… it is impossible. Scripture after scripture attest to the qualities and nature of God. He is all light, all truth, all good, and all giving.

The benefit of this wonderful, rock solid truth becomes evident as we realize that God has given us His written Word. If God cannot lie, the Word He has given must contain truth. From Genesis to Revelation, His Word must be true. In its original form, there would have been no contradictions, no discrepancies, and no errors.

While all that is left to us are translations and versions of the original, many of which have been altered or changed by man’s influences, God has layered His Word with enough truth that a “workman of the Word” can still reach a level of spiritual understanding once attained by the first century followers of Christ. All it takes is diligent study, starting with the premise that since God cannot lie, all of His Word must be true.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. If you could as one question of God and be assured of an answer, what question would it be?
2. If all of God’s Word must be true, how do we explain the contradictions that are contained within the pages of the Bible?

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot.com

O BROTHER, WHERE ART THOU? (2000)

2009-12-10T16:16:00.000-08:00

Directed by: Joel Coen
Written by: Ethan Coen, Joel Coen
Studio: Touchstone Pictures
Starring: George Clooney, John Turturro, Tim Blake Nelson
Rated: PG-13

About the film:
Loosely based upon Homer’s Odyssey and set in the 1920s, three convicts escape from a work crew and set off in pursuit of the loot one of them has stashed away. Oddly enough, during their journey, they become singing sensations and meet up with ‘Babyface Nelson.’

Movie Quote:
“It’s a fool who looks for logic in the chambers of the human heart.”
Ulysses Everett McGill (George Clooney) in O Brother, Where Art Thou? (2000)

Bible Quote:
“He that trusteth in his own heart is a fool: but whoso walketh wisely, he shall be delivered.”
Proverbs 28:26 (NIV)

Commentary:
The erudite Ulysses Everett McGill makes a good point. Logic and emotion are often diametrically opposed to one another.

Logic, as defined by Webster’s, is a system of reasoning… the process by which rational thought is achieved. To reason, one must draw from knowledge originating outside of one’s own self.

We believe in God, but not in response to an emotional reaction or feeling. Such ‘faith,’ when tested, would never be able to stand because it lacks a truly solid foundation. Rather, we know God to exist simply because we logically conclude it to be true. That conclusion is basd upon our study and application of the Word which He has had recorded and committed to us.

The Word of God (itself called ‘logos’ in the Greek language) contains the standard of truth from which logical thought may be built. As we learn and understand more of His Word, our believing is strengthened, our thoughts become sound, and our logic is unmatched. God has provided us with a solid foundation upon which we may build our entire lives. As we do, He promises our lives will be more than abundant.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. O Brother Where Art Thou? is something of a redemptive tale. In what ways is this manifested in the story?
2. Often, the scriptures us the word ‘fool’ to describe someone who turns from God or doesn’t believe and trust in Him. How does that compare to McGill’s description of a fool?

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot.com

NIXON (1995)

2009-12-09T14:37:00.000-08:00

Directed by: Oliver Stone
Written by: Stephen J. Rivels, Christopher Wilkinson, Oliver Stone
Studio: Hollywood Pictures
Starring: Anthony Hopkins, Joan Allen, Powers Boothe, Ed Harris
Rated: R

About the film:
Beginning with the Watergate burglary, this film traces the presidency of Richard Milhous Nixon, the only US President to resign from his office to avoid impeachment proceedings.

Movie Quote:
“Always remember: others may hate you. But those who hate you don’t win unless you hate them. And then you destroy yourself.”
Richard M. Nixon (Anthony Hopkins) in Nixon (1995)

Bible Quote:
“If people do not welcome you, shake the dust off your feet when you leave their town, as a testimony against them.”
Luke 9:5 (NIV)

Commentary:
The film depicts Nixon as a seriously flawed man but even a flawed man can have a moment or two of clarity. His quote is lucid and accurate. It also reflects a truth that has special meaning for us.

We don’t live for God in order to win a popularity contest. Jesus was very direct in his instruction to his disciples. There are those in this world who would rather we never said a single word or performed a single action that would further the movement of God’s Word in this world.

But we do not live to please those of this world. We do what we do to please God and it is His good pleasure that directs us to hold forth His truth to all men.

Not everyone will welcome the good news we have to share. But to respond to hatred or resentment with the same is not the course of action God would have us take. He has given us instruction that we can follow whenever we come across someone who is less than blessed with our presence.

The phrase “shaking the dust from your feet” in Luke 9:5 is an Oriental figure of speech that means to hold no resentment. We are to continually operate from a mindset of love and service. All we can do is to hold forth the truth. The onus to believe is on those who hear our words.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. What character traits of Richard Nixon led to his downfall?
2. The film opens by quoting from Matthew 16:26. How could this verse have helped Nixon? What elements of our lives or actions might we consider changing in light of that scripture?

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot.com

THE NIGHT OF THE HUNTER

2009-12-08T13:50:00.000-08:00

Directed by: Charles Laughton
Written by: James Agee
Studio: United Artists
Starring: Robert Mitchum, Shelly Winters, Lillian Gish
Rated: Not Rated

About the film:
A psychopathic killer pretending to be a preacher woos and weds a bank robber’s widow in hopes to find out where the stolen money is hidden. His plans go awry when the widow’s young children see through his ruse.

Movie Quote:
“Would you like me to tell you the little story of right hand, left hand? The story of good and evil?”
Rev. Harry Powell (Robert Mitchum) in The Night of the Hunter (1955)

Bible Quote:
“The heart of the wise inclines to the right, but the heart of the fool to the left.”
Ecclesiastes 10:2 (NIV)

Commentary:
The Rev. Harry Powell may be a ‘false prophet,’ but his tattooed fingers do refer to a figure of speech that is used throughout the Bible.

It has long been recognized that the Scriptures often figuratively refer to the right hand as being the hand of blessing or God’s favor. By understanding this figure of speech, we can bring added insight to the message that God is communicating through his Word.

When Christ ascended into heaven, it is stated that he sat down at the right hand of God. In the first healing that was recorded in the Book of Acts, Peter ministered to a lame man and took hold of him with his right hand. At various times in God’s Word, the right hand is called the hand of fellowship, the hand of power, and the hand of righteousness.

Of course, this figurative usage does not carry over to the physical realm. There is no sin in being left-handed. God is no respecter of persons. But when reading the Bible, if we stop to consider the figurative usage of certain biblical phrases or colloquialisms, the depth of our understanding and appreciation of God’s truth will grow.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. What is the purpose or biblical meaning of figures of speech? Why does God sometimes use them instead of plainer, more literal phrases?
2. What other examples are in the scriptures of instances where right and left have the figurative meanings of blessing and cursing?

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot.com

THE MUMMY (1999)

2009-12-07T13:00:00.000-08:00

Directed by: Stephen Sommers
Written by: Stephen Sommers
Studio: Universal Pictures
Starring: Brendan Fraser, Rachel Weicz, John Hannah
Rated: PG-13

About the film:
An ancient curse is inadvertently reversed by an archeologist/treasure hunter which brings back the mummified Egyptian priest Imhotep from the dead. As long as he walks the earth, no one will be safe from harm.

Movie Quote:
“We are part of an ancient secret society. For three thousand years we have guarded the City of the Dead. We are sworn at manhood to do anything and everything in our power to stop the High Priest Imhotep from ever being reborn into this world.”
Dr. Bey (Erick Avari) in The Mummy (1999)

Bible Quote:
“None of the rulers of this age understood it, for if they had, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.”
1 Corinthians 2:8 (NIV)

Commentary:
Dr. Bey’s explanation of the group to which he belongs gives the implication of a centuries’ old rivalry between forces of good and evil. It, of course, is a conflict which has spiritually raged as long as man has been on the earth.

Since the beginning of time, God had made known that a redeeming Messiah would be born into the world. It was an event which God’s people greatly anticipated and upon which they based their hope and believing. It was also something which the devil tried to prevent.

By tracing the genealogy of Jesus Christ, we can see the attempts that the devil has made throughout time to end the Christ line and stop the prophecy from being fulfilled. Beginning with the world’s first murder to Herod’s command to kill all infants less than 2 years of age, the devil used every means at his disposal to try to keep Jesus from being born into this world.

Ironically, the Scriptures state that had he known what the sacrifice of Jesus Christ would mean – that it would lead to the ability of all men to become born again of God’s spirit – he never would have had Jesus killed. What a testament to the awesome power that God has made available to us.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. What does the Bible say about resurrection and how does it differ from what is depicted in the film?
2. What motivates the main characters of the story? Why are they compelled to seek for “the book of the dead?”

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot.com

MULHOLLAND DRIVE (2001)

2009-12-06T16:46:00.000-08:00

Directed by: David Lynch
Written by: David Lynch
Studio: Universal Pictures
Starring: Naomi Watts, Laura Harring, Ann Miller, Dan Hedaya
Rated: R

About the film:
A naïve young actress arrives in Hollywood and becomes involved with a mystery when she decides to help an attractive woman with amnesia. Not all is as it appears to be and there’s more than one character that has something to hide in this R-rated, sexually charged thriller.

Movie Quote:
“A man’s attitude… a man’s attitude goes some ways toward how a man’s life will be. Is that somethin’ you agree with?”
Cowboy (Lafayette Montgomery) in Mulholland Drive (2001)

Bible Quote:
“For as he thinketh in his heart, so [is] he.”
Proverbs 21:7a (KJV)

Commentary:
The “Cowboy,” a mysterious character in his own right, manages to hit upon a statement of profound truth. It is something that God continually repeats to us in His Word and something we would be wise to heed.

Attitude is a mental condition. It is not an inherited trait or predetermined state. We have the ability to choose which attitude to adopt in anything that we do. As we tackle a task or responsibility – as we respond to an inquiry or suggestion – as we interface with anyone in this world… the attitude we adopt while we take the action is a choice that we alone make.

If we have an attitude that a task is hopeless or that it may be impossible to succeed, we’re generally proven right. Not because the task is too great but because our attitude influences or even determines the outcome.

By strengthening our believing, trusting in God’s promises, and adopting an “I can do” attitude (as in “I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me.”) we prepare ourselves for success. Even in the face of opposition or resistance, we can endure and triumph if we but refuse to accept anything less than the success God wants us to have.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Self-deception plays a big part in the story of Mulholland Drive. How can we protect ourselves from falling into this trap?
2. What evidence do you have that a different attitude will change the results of the actions we take? What would be the best motivation for any of our endeavors?

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot.com

HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS (2000)

2009-12-05T14:18:00.000-08:00

Directed by: Ron Howard
Written by: Jeffrey Price, Peter S. Seaman
Studio: MCA/Universal Pictures
Starring: Jim Carrey, Taylor Momsen, Jeffrey Tambor, Bill Irwin
Rated: PG

About the film:
This holiday film is a live action version of the classic Dr. Seuss tale about a curmudgeonly creature that so despises Christmas that he sets out to steal it. He succeeds in stealing all the trappings of the holiday season but learns a valuable lesson when he fails in stealing the reason for the season.

Movie Quote:
“You can’t hurt Christmas, Mr. Mayor, because it isn’t about the gifts or the contest or the fancy lights… I don’t need anything more for Christmas than this right here: my family.”
Lou Lou Who (Bill Irwin) in How The Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)

Bible Quote:
“See to it that no one takes you captive though hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the basic principles of the world rather than on Christ.”
Colossians 2:8 (NIV)

Commentary:
True, there’s not much Christian accuracy on display in How The Grinch Stole Christmas but the sentiment expressed by Lou Lou Who comes closest. Christmas is not about the lights or the gifts… but it also isn’t just about having our family around us.

Don’t get me wrong. No one loves this holiday season more than I. But there’s at least one thing that I love more – Truth. While our Christmas traditions may be enjoyable and festive, few of them are based upon an accurate understanding of the birth of Christ.

In fact, many of the Christmas traditions which are recognized and practiced today have their origins in pagan worship, including the decoration of fir trees and even the date used to mark the annual day of celebration.

Still, Christmas Day is a major cultural event so why shouldn’t we use this day to give thanks to God for blessing us with His son? Just so long as we keep the traditions of men in their proper perspective by not exalting them above the truth of God that we can find by studying His Word.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. What other Christmas traditions can be traced to pagan origins?
2. Why must we be on guard against human traditions and the principles of the world? What is the danger to us?

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot.com

MR. SMITH GOES TO WASHINGTON (1939)

2009-12-03T16:25:00.000-08:00

Directed by: Frank Capra
Written by: Sidney Buchman
Studio: Columbia Pictures
Starring: James Stewart, Jean Arthur, Claude Rains
Rated: Not Rated

About the film:
An idealistic Boy Ranger leader is appointed to the US senate and comes face to face with political corruption. With the help of his cynical assistant, he stages a filibuster to stop a bill which will destroy the dreams of thousands of boys.

Movie Quote:
“Great principles don’t get lost once they come to light. They’re right here; you just have to see them again.”
Jefferson Davis Smith (James Stewart) in Mr. Smith Goes to Washington (1939)

Bible Quote:
“The secret things belong to the Lord our God; but the things revealed belong unto us and to our children forever; that we may follow all the words of this law.”
Deuteronomy 29:29 (NIV)

Commentary:
Bless his heart, Jefferson Davis Smith may be an idealist but his ideals are sound and pure. His words could have come straight from the scriptures.

Truth is a constant. It doesn’t ebb and flow. It isn’t here one minute and gone the next. Truth doesn’t get lost… people do.

To help people who are lost (spiritually, emotionally, and morally) God has given us access to the knowledge of the ages. It is knowledge which has been handed down from generation to generation over many centuries. We have access to this knowledge because once given to man by God, it belongs to us and our children. It has been available to every man, woman, and child since God first revealed it.

The principles by which God wants us to frame our doings are the same ones Jesus Christ followed when he walked the earth. They are as valid and as effective now as they were then. This is because they are backed by the same power and promise of the God who first created them.

God’s great principles or truths have not been lost. They are in the same place they always were… in the hearts and minds of men and women who love Him.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Mr. Smith Goes to Washington is a wonderful tale about one man who tries to fight “the system.” What biblical stories focus around that same theme?
2. Moral integrity is a quality much to be admired. It is also easy to lose. How did Smith manage to hold onto his integrity? What can we learn from him that might strengthen our resolve to do the same?

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot.com

MOONSTRUCK (1987)

2009-12-02T15:04:00.000-08:00

Directed by: Norman Jewison
Written by: John Patrick Shanley
Studio: Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer
Starring: Cher, Nicolas Cage, Olympia Dukakis, Vincent Gardenia
Rated: PG

About the film:
A widowed Brooklyn bookkeeper decides that it is time she gets married again but she becomes confused over which guy to join in wedlock: the nice guy who she doesn’t love; or his passionately intense brother who she barely knows. When she and the brother get intimate, all relationships get complicated.

Movie Quote:
“Now maybe, just maybe, a man isn’t complete as a man without a woman.”
Johnny (Danny Aiello) in Moonstruck (1987)

Bible Quote:
“But the woman is the glory of man. For man did not come from woman, but woman from man.”
1 Corinthians 11:7b-8 (NIV)

Commentary:
There’s no maybe about it, Johnny. The Bible is clear in stating that the whole reason for woman’s existence was to complete the man. Had woman not been created, God’s work would have been imperfect and that is impossible.

God made Eve to be a help meet (or fit) for the man. Eve was not created first nor was God’s work completed after making Adam. After each one of God’s wondrous works, which are recorded in the first chapter of Genesis as He restored the world, the scriptures state that “it was good.” However, after making Adam, God declared that it is “not good that the man should be alone.”

As a married man I can attest to the validity of both of the aforementioned quotes. I was a bachelor until I reached the age of 36 and I will be the first to say that I lived a partial life up until the time that I became a married man. My wife completes me and I her. Together we are able to serve the Lord and do His Will more effectively than we could ever achieve as separate individuals.

God describes marriage as a mystery in Ephesians 5, referring to how two people can become “one flesh.” It is difficult to explain to someone who hasn’t experienced it. To those of us who have, it is difficult to imagine living life any other way.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. What are the qualifications one should seek in a marriage partner?
2. What do the infidelities of the characters say about love and about the weaknesses of the human spirit? How can we guard ourselves against sexual temptation?

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot.com

MISSISSIPPI BURNING (1988)

2009-12-01T13:58:00.000-08:00

Directed by: Alan Parker
Written by: Chris Gerolmo
Studio: Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer
Starring: Gene Hackman, Willem Dafoe, Frances McDormand
Rated: R

About the film:
When three young civil rights workers disappear in Mississippi during a voter registration drive, a pair of FBI agents with totally differing styles begin an investigation. They learn that they must first sort through the prevalent racial bigotry that exists in the community before they can hope to uncover the truth.

Movie Quote:
“Hatred isn’t something you’re born with. It gets taught.”
Mrs. Pell (Frances McDormand) in Mississippi Burning (1988)

Bible Quote:
“But whoever hates his brother is in the darkness and walks around in the darkness; he does not know where he is going, because the darkness has blinded him.”
1 John 2:11 (NIV)

Commentary:
Hatred comes in all forms, whether it is the racial prejudice of which Mrs. Pell is speaking or an animosity towards someone for more personal reasons. What all hatred has in common, however, is the fact that it stands in opposition and contrast to the lessons of Christ.

That comes as no surprise. This world tries to “teach” us many things that we would be better off not learning. God does not give lessons in how to hate. The promotion of such a negative and unprofitable waste of energy can only come from a teacher who does not want us to succeed.

We need not take our lessons from this world. We certainly are not to conform to the world’s way of thinking or behaving. We are blessed to have another teacher – a far better one. We have an instructor whose lessons of love, peace, and joy are designed to fill our hearts and guide our steps.

The darkness which blinds people and keeps them from learning the ways that will lead to a better, more productive and happier life is easy to overcome. It must flee the moment someone turns on a light. In God’s classroom, the lights are never dimmed.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Where does hate come from? What is its connection to fear?
2. What is the proper response to hatred that may be directed towards us?

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot.com

THE MISFITS (1961)

2009-11-29T18:39:00.000-08:00

Directed by: John Huston
Written by: Arthur Miller
Studio: United Artists
Starring: Clark Gable, Marilyn Monroe, Montgomery Clift
Rated: PG

About the film:
An aging cowboy meets and falls in love with an ex-stripper and recent divorcee. When she hears of his plans to round up a herd of wild horses in order to sell them to a dog food company, she starts working against him.

Movie Quote:
“The man who’s too afraid to die is too afraid to live.”
Gay (Clark Gable) in The Misfits (1961)

Bible Quote:
“For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love, and of self-discipline.”
2 Timothy 1:7 (NIV)

Commentary:
The line quoted from The Misfits is filled with ironic sadness… and truth. Having a fear of death keeps people from fully enjoying death’s only alternative – life.

Being bound by fear is like being shackled to an 800 pound gorilla. It will totally control one’s life, actions, and decisions. It can’t be out-muscled, reasoned with, or ignored. And yet many people live their lives with this oversized monkey on their backs.

What we must understand is that believing is the key to life. Fear is a form of believing. Fear is believing in reverse. If we harbor fear in our hearts for an extended period of time, the likelihood of our experiencing that which we fear is all but guaranteed.

Of all the things to fear, death is the least logical. First, it is an inevitable event. Death will come to us all, unless Jesus Christ comes before our time has arrived. Second, death no longer has dominion over us. Our Lord and Savior released us from its hold.

Jesus Christ came to earth to set us free. When we learn and believe the truth of what he accomplished for us, death loses its power over us. The shackles are removed and fear is eradicated. The monkey is gone, leaving us free to explore all of life’s possibilities.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. What can we do in the midst of fear to change our believing?
2. What is the meaning of the title? What is a misfit and is it a label that can be assigned to us? Why?

Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com

MR.HOLLAND'S OPUS (1995)

2009-11-28T04:55:00.000-08:00

Directed by: Stephen Herek
Written by: Patrick Sean Duncan
Studio: Hollywood Pictures
Starring: Richard Dreyfuss, Glenne Headly, Olympia Dukakis
Rated: PG

About the film:
A composer/musician decides to take a teaching job to make money until his art can pay his way. That teaching job becomes a career and we wee the impact his life has made on generations of students.

Movie Quote:
“There is not a life in this room that you have not touched, and each of us is a better person because of you. We are your symphony Mr. Holland. We are the melodies and the notes of your opus.”
Gertrude Lang (Joanna Gleason) in Mr. Holland’s Opus (1995)

Bible Quote:
“You yourselves are our letter, written on our hearts, known and read by everybody. You show that you are a letter from Christ, the result of our ministry, written not with ink but with the spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts.”
2 Corinthians 3:2-3 (NIV)

Commentary:
Gertrude informs Mr. Holland of something that we could see all along – that his life made a difference in the lives of others. The funny thing is that often we who are making the impact are the last ones to notice it being made.

The impact of out time on this earth can best be measured by examining the lives of those whom we touch. They will be the evidence that we were here and that we made a difference. They are the legacy we leave – greater than any composition, work of art, or monument that we might make.

The examples of our lives do make a lasting imprint on the hearts of those with whom we connect. The man I am today is largely a result of the people I have let into my life. What I’ve learned from them, directly and indirectly, has enriched me and caused me to grow to heights that would have been impossible without their influence.

They may not be aware of the impact their lives have made upon mine. But the impact is undeniable. I can only pray that the ‘letters’ I leave behind – the ones written on the tablets of human hearts – tell a story worth reading.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Who have been the major influences in your life and why?
2. How does music affect other aspects of our lives? Why is music important?

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot

MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET

2009-11-26T02:52:00.000-08:00

Directed by: George Seaton
Written by: George Seaton
Studio: Warner Brothers
Starring: Maureen O’Hara, Natalie Wood, Edmund Gwenn
Rated: Approved for General Audiences

About the film:
A young girl, raised by her pragmatic mother, does not believe in Santa Claus. When she meets the nice man named Kris Kringle who has been hired to play Santa in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade, she finds herself believing in him despite what she has been taught. Kris takes it as a personal challenge to convince her and her mother that some things are worth believing. It is a challenge that ends up in a New York courtroom.

Movie Quote:
“Faith is believing when common sense tells you not to.”
Fred Gailey (John Payne) in Miracle on 34th Street (1947)

Bible Quote:
“Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.”
Hebrews 11:1 (NIV)

Commentary:
Faith is simply another word for believing and, contrary to the quote from Miracle on 34th Street, “common sense” will almost always line up with the Word of God (which we are commanded to believe.)

I have found that common sense and faith are not necessarily opposing viewpoints. However, there are times when spiritual realities make little sense in this world and thus will give us the impression of being illogical.

At such times, we have a choice. Who are we to believe? Do we believe God who gave us life and the instruction on how to best live it? Or are we to believe solely in the world in which we live and the limited perception we gain from our natural senses?

The key to the more abundant life which God promises us lies in the renewed mind. A renewed mind is a mind trained to think spiritual thoughts and to believe in the promises of God. It is a mind conditioned to discard unhealthy or sinful thoughts in order to focus upon healthy or righteous ones. Since our thinking is what makes us who we are (Proverbs 23:7), such a practice, to my way of thinking, makes for uncommonly good sense.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Is teaching a young child to believe in Santa Claus a healthy or harmful practice? Why?
2. In the context of this fantasy film, what qualities are needed to change a person from a skeptic to a believer?

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot.com

MIAMI RHAPSODY (1994)

2009-11-25T16:03:00.000-08:00

Directed by: David Frankel
Written by: David Frankel
Studio: Hollywood Pictures
Starring: Sarah Jessica Parker, Gil Bellows, Antonio Banderas
Rated: PG-13

About the film:
A young woman has accepted a marriage proposal but begins to have misgivings when she reflects upon the infidelity that runs rampant among her own family members.

Movie Quote:
“I figure marriage is kind of like Miami: it’s hot and stormy, and occasionally a little dangerous… but if it’s really so awful, why is there still so much traffic?”
Gwyn Marcus (Sarah Jessica Parker) in Miami Rhapsody (1995)

Bible Quote:
“Marriage should be honored by all.”
Hebrews 13:4a (NIV)

Commentary:
Finding a positive quote about marriage from the annals of Hollywood is a lot more difficult than you might think. Not so with the Scriptures. Instead of being the butt of jokes or the object of derision, God esteems the marriage relationship quite highly indeed.

Sure, Hollywood loves to tell romantic stories where boy meets girl, boy loses girl, and boy reunites with girl in wedded bliss. But at some point after the “I do’s” get vowed, Tinseltown begins to lose interest in the marriage relationship. It is often depicted as being either a burdensome shackle or a bothersome detail to be discarded in search of “true love.” This is a pity because a strong marriage based on the promises of God is eminently more interesting to watch than the self-destructive, godless versions being formed daily within today’s society and reflected in our culture’s entertainment.

When God is kept at the center of a marriage, the union between that man and woman is so strengthened that severance is virtually impossible. No earthly relationship is perfect, but marriage was designed by God. When we follow His blueprint, success is guaranteed.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. How does God define marriage? What responsibilities does He place upon the man and the woman within the context of their relationship?
2. How has our society’s attitude towards divorce affected our view of marriage? How would God want us to view it?

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot.com

DOUBT (2008)

2009-11-24T15:40:00.000-08:00

Directed by: John Patrick Shanley
Written by: John Patrick Shanley
Studio: Miramax Films
Starring: Meryl Streep, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Amy Adams
Rated: PG

About the film:
A strict nun suspects a parish priest of taking an improper interest in their Catholic school’s newest charge: a twelve-year-old black boy. Her doubt as to the priest’s morality and propriety continue to grow and feed itself as she works to remove him from his office.

Movie Quote:
“Doubt can be a bond as powerful and sustaining as certainty.”
Father Brendan Flynn (Philip Seymour Hoffman) in Doubt (2008)

Bible Quote:
“Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. ‘You of little faith,’ he said, "Why did you doubt?"
Matthew 14:31 (KJV)

Commentary:
As Father Flynn insinuates, doubt can be a powerful bond. It binds us to worry and fear. Doubt is the first chink in the armor of our believing and, if left unresolved in our minds, it will weaken us and leave us spiritually defenseless.

Two people walked on water in the biblical record of Matthew 14. The first was Jesus. The second was Peter who had asked to join him. And he was successful… at first. But when the winds picked up and the water began to churn, he doubted within himself the very thing he was already doing. And he began to sink.

Eliminating doubt requires us to trust in something larger and more powerful than our own eyes. No matter what our senses tell us; No matter what the situation we are in… it is our believing and unwavering faith that enables us to withstand and prevail.

“He who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That man should not think he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all he does.”
James 1:8 (NIV)

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Was Sister Aloysius correct in the way she handled her concerns? How could she have better addressed the issue?
2. When doubt presents itself, how are we to react? What steps can we take to keep our believing strong?

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot.com

THE MATRIX: RELOADED (2003)

2009-11-23T02:52:00.000-08:00

Directed by: Andy Wachowski, Larry Wachowski
Written by: Andy Wachowski, Larry Wachowski
Studio: Warner Brothers
Starring: Keanu Reeves, Laurence Fishburne, Carrie-Anne Moss
Rated: R

About the film:
The second film of the sci-fi trilogy finds the remaining “unplugged” humans fighting for their life and freedom against the machines that have tried to enslave them within a complex computerized matrix.

Movie Quote:
“Because as we both know, without purpose, we would not exist. It is purpose that created us; Purpose that connects us; Purpose that pulls us. That guides us. That drives us. It is purpose that defines us. Purpose that binds us.”
Agent Smith (Hugo Weaving) in The Matrix: Reloaded (2003)

Bible Quote:
“In Him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of Him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of His will.”
Ephesians 1:11 (NIV)

Commentary:
Agent Smith may be the ‘bad guy’ in this film but he shows a remarkable awareness of a fundamental truth. That truth, simply put, is that there is a reason for our existence; a purpose to which we were called.

It doesn’t take faith to understand that there is an order to this world. It simply takes eyes to see. For order to exist there must be structure. With structure comes reason and intelligence and, or course, purpose.

God designed and created this world for a singular purpose. To give a place where you and I could live and grow. He created everything that exists – everything that we can see, smell, hear, taste, and touch – for the expressed purpose of supporting and enriching our lives.

His motivation was simply this: Love. Love is what He desires and it is what He expects from us in return. It makes perfect sense to recognize that love is our purpose or reason to live.

“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.” Mark 12:30 (NIV)

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Why is having a purpose important to our lives?
2. How can we best discover what our purpose is? How can we know beyond any doubt where we are to serve in the body of Christ?

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot.com

THE MATRIX (1999)

2009-11-22T02:59:00.000-08:00

Directed by: Andy Wachowski, Larry Wachowski
Written by: Andy Wachowski, Larry Wachowski
Studio: Warner Brothers
Starring: Keanu Reeves, Laurence Fishburne, Carrie-Anne Moss
Rated: R

About the film:
A computer hacker named Neo discovers that the world he thought he knew is a façade. Machines have built a complex system capable of hiding the true nature of life from the eyes of all but a few renegade men. Neo joins forces with these rebels to fight against the machines who aim to keep all of humanity under their control.

Movie Quote:
“You have to let it all go, Neo. Fear, doubt, and disbelief. Free your mind.”
Morpheus (Laurence Fishburne) in The Matrix (1999)

Bible Quote:
“’If you can?’ said Jesus. Everything is possible for him who believes.”
Mark 9:23 (NIV)

Commentary:
In The Matrix, Morpheus teaches Neo the importance of believing with one’s whole heart. If we could learn only one thing in this world, the principle of believing would be the most important. What we choose to believe is the reality in which we live.

It’s our believing that activates the power of God and as we faithfully apply His truth to our situations of life, we receive the results that He promises. Allowing doubt, fear, worry, or disbelief to take residence in our minds only serves to remove us from that abundant free-flowing stream of blessings that God is always willing and able to give us.

Freeing our minds from disbelief is a deliberate act of the will that requires discipline, study, and a continual effort. “Blind faith” too often fails because that kind of believing is weakened due to the lack of a solid foundation of truth and understanding. A strong faith born of a spiritual understanding based upon one’s study of God’s Word (and one’s proving of His Word through application and practice) is far more rewarding. It is why God so often exhorts us to know and do His commandments.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. If everything is possible, why do we not see more miracles every day?
2. Neo had to grow into his level of understanding and believing. So do we. What techniques can be employed to help us get past our disbelief? What examples from the film support your answer?

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot.com