ONCE UPON A TIME… WHEN WE WERE COLORED (1995)

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)

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)

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)

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

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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

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)

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)

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)

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)

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

MARY POPPINS (1964)

Directed by: Robert Stevenson
Written by: Bill Walsh, Don da Gradi
Studio: Walt Disney Pictures
Starring: Julie Andrews, Dick van Dyke, David Tomlinson
Rated: G

About the film:
Two lonely English children, whose parents are too busy with their own lives and interests to pay them much attention, wish for a nanny to arrive that will fill the gap in their lives. Their wish comes true. The magical Mary Poppins is practically perfect in every way. Upon her arrival, she immediately begins to reorder the house and the priorities of the people that live there.

Movie Quote:
“Never judge things by their appearances – even carpetbags.”
Mary Poppins (Julie Andrews) in Mary Poppins (1964)

Bible Quote:
“You are looking only on the surface of things. If anyone is confident that he belongs to Christ, he should consider again that we belong to Christ just as much as he.”
2 Corinthians 10:7 (NIV)

Commentary:
Mary Poppins reproves her two young charges when they fall into a trap that most of us have visited on more than one occasion.

It is natural to make assumptions based upon first or superficial impressions. But we are instructed by God not to react with our natural man sensibilities. Rather, we are to adopt the patient wisdom and understanding of our spiritual Father who, according to the Scriptures, looks on the heart.

The most meaningful part of an individual is not to be found in his outward appearance. John the Baptist would have never made the cover of GQ and yet Jesus praised him as being the greatest man ever born of woman (Matthew 11:11). Jesus himself was rejected by many because he did not fit their image of what the long-anticipated Messiah should look like.

Let us not rush to judgment based upon appearances for appearances can deceive. It takes time and effort to really get to know what’s in a person’s heart. Our next brother or sister in Christ might very well be the last person we’d expect.


Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. The film illustrates the need for parents to balance their professional life with their family life so neither gets neglected. How can this be accomplished? How are one’s priorities to be structured?
2. When we judge by appearances, we generally make poor judgments. What are some examples from the film?

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot.com

THE MAN IN THE IRON MASK (1998)

Directed by: Randall Wallace
Written by: Randall Wallace
Studio: United Artists Corporation
Starring: Leonardo DiCaprio, John Malkovich, Jeremy Irons
Rated: PG-13

About the film:
The evil Louis XIV rules France with an iron fist and a cold heart. The famous Three Musketeers have long since retired, disillusioned by the king they once served so honorably. But when they learn that the king has imprisoned his twin, they forge a daring plan to rescue all of France from the tyrant who is seated on the throne.

Movie Quote:
“But we all had a common dream. That one day we would serve a king worthy of the throne.”
Athos (John Malkovich) in The Man in the Iron Mask (1998)

Bible Quote:
“They will make war against the Lamb, but the Lamb will overcome them because he is Lord of lords and King of kings – and with him will be his called, chosen and faithful followers.”
Revelation 17:14 (NIV)

Commentary:
Like Athos, we know all too well the disappointment of following a leader who fails to live up to expectations. Greed, lust, and fear are just some of the human frailties that have caused many great men to falter and fail.

When a leader succumbs to his weaknesses, those who follow him and have trusted in him for guidance, strength and stability can be shaken to their core. They can begin to doubt the assurance and conviction they once held regarding even the most fundamental of their beliefs.

Regardless of the actions of the men with whom we choose to stand, the foundation of our faith does not falter. This is because we do not build our hope upon what men may say or do. Our hope is built upon promises made by the one true God who cannot tell a lie. He tells us that there is a king coming who is worthy of his throne. We may begin serving him today by accepting him as our Lord and adopting his ways as our own.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. What was the mental and emotional condition of each of the Musketeers at the beginning of the film? How did they get like that? What caused them to change?
2. Near the end of the film, as the cornered Musketeers charge into the battalion of armed soldiers, why were the soldiers unable to shoot straight? What does this teach us about facing our obstacles and adversaries?

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot.com

MADAME BOVARY (1949)

Directed by: Vincente Minnelli
Written by: Robert Ardrey
Studio: Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer
Starring: Jennifer Jones, James Mason, Van Heflin, Louis Jordan
Rated: Not Rated

About the film:
French author Gustave Flaubert is on trial for indecency due to the publication of his book, Madame Bovary. In order to prove the moral lesson the story contains, he narrates the tale to the court. It is a story of an adulteress and the lives she destroyed.

Movie Quote:
“To declare that men have absolute power over truth is blasphemy – and the last illusion. Truth lives forever. Men do not.
Gustave Flaubert (James Mason) in Madame Bovary (1949)

Bible Quote:
“For the Lord is good and His love endures forever; His faithfulness continues through all the generations.”
Psalms 100:5 (NIV)

Commentary:
Whatever we may think of Flaubert, he speaks the truth. What we think and what we declare does not affect the permanence of truth. Truth is a reality that exists beyond the manipulations of man.

The truth is – truth cannot be controlled. It can be studied. It can be taught. It can be obeyed or it can be ignored. But the minute it starts being manipulated, it stops being truth.

Once God establishes truth, it endures whether we believe it or not. The key to receiving all the promises of God is not found in our futile attempts to squeeze the truth into our flawed or sinful lives but rather in our ability to change ourselves to line up with His eternal, unchanging truth.

For our benefit, God has committed His eternal truth to a written Word that we can study, apply or otherwise use as a standard or template for our lives. We may not have absolute power over truth… but when we are armed with the truth we are given a power that will always ensure us a victory.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. What is truth? How can we hope to gain an understanding of truth?
2. What is the relation between truth and morality? How does Madame Bovary’s story help to teach a moral principle of truth?

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot.com

THE LION IN WINTER (1968)

Directed by: Anthony Harvey
Written by: Jams Goldman
Studio: Embassy Pictures Corporation
Starring: Peter O’Toole, Katharine Hepburn, Anthony Hopkins
Rated: PG

About the film:
King Henry II has yet to choose a successor to his throne and all three of his sons desire the power that comes with being king. As his sons and his imprisoned wife Eleanor gather together to celebrate Christmas, each member of the family never stops scheming or manipulating in order to get what he or she wants.

Movie Quote:
“The sky is pocked with stars. What eyes the wise men must have had to see one more among so many.”
Henry II (Peter O’Toole) in The Lion in Winter (1968)

Bible Quote:
“The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands.”
Psalms 19:1 (NIV)

Commentary:
King Henry II, through musing, makes an error that many people have made in his time as well as in ours. The wise men did not see a star that never existed before. They just knew how to read the stars that were there for all to see.

The idea that the Maji followed one star which shone like a beacon, illuminating the manger where Jesus was born, is a fallacy which continues to be believed by many in our day. If it were so, why didn’t this heavenly spotlight attract more people?

The truth is far more illuminating. God placed the stars in the firmament to tell a story… the story of His son. Each star, each constellation, and each planet has spiritual significance attached to it. As the earth rotates, a different part of the story is made visible each night.

The Magi, who, centuries earlier, were taught how to read the stars by the prophet Daniel, were the only ones faithful to continue their study long enough to recognize the celestial birth announcement of God’s only begotten son.

“And God said, “Let there be lights in the expanse of sky to separate the day from the night, and let them serve as signs to mark seasons and days and years. Genesis 1:1-14

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. If God placed the stars and planets in the heavens simply to tell a story, do we need a space program?

2. Henry faced a tough decison... who to name as successor to his crown? What qualities make for a good ruler and did any of his sons possess them?

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot.com

LIAR, LIAR (1997)

Directed by: Tom Shadyac
Written by: Paul Guay, Stephen Mazur
Studio: Universal Pictures
Starring: Jim Carrey, Maura Tierney, Justin Cooper
Rated: PG-13

About the film:
Fletcher, a fast-talking and somewhat unscrupulous lawyer, discovers that he has lost the ability to lie when his long-neglected five-year-old son makes a birthday wish. Unfortunately for Fletcher, his next case has no possibility of winning unless he can bend the truth just a little.

Movie Quote:
“I wish, for just one day, Dad couldn’t tell a lie.”
Max Reede (Justin Cooper) in Liar, Liar (1997)

Bible Quote:
“God is not a man, that He should lie, nor a son of man, that He should change His mind. Does He speak and then not act? Does He promise and not fulfill?”
Numbers 23:19 (NIV)

Commentary:
Max’s wish in Liar, Liar is certainly understandable. How unstable and insecure would life be if we could not trust the one into whose trust we are given? Fathers are supposed to tell us the truth. At the heart of Max’s wish is the desire to believe the person who, supposedly, most loves him. It is a desire we all share.

For us, our belief is justified because our spiritual Father is, in fact, incapable of lying. It is simply not in His divine nature. He is all truth, all light and all love. And He cannot lie. (Titus 1:2)

Because we can trust in His Word implicitly, we can have peace in our hearts and joy in our lives. We have the key to life and happiness. That key is simply called “the truth.”

Because He committed His Word to a written form which we can read, study, and apply, he has given us a foundation of unshakable truth upon which we might build our lives. It is a foundation upon which we may trust without doubt or hesitation. It shall never fail nor disappoint us. The truth shall stand for all time. And we shall prevail as we believe and act upon it.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Why do people lie? What arguments can be made to counter their rationalizations?
2. One of Fletcher’s problems lies in his prioritizing his life. What is the proper priority we should take between the following: a) our jobs; b) our family; c) our relationship with God?

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot.com

LEAN ON ME (1989)

Directed by: John G. Avildsen
Written by: Michael Schiffer
Studio: Warner Brothers
Starring: Morgan Freeman, Robert Guillaume, Lynne Thigpen
Rated: PG-13

About the film:
Joe Clark is selected to be the principal of a run-down, inner city high school. Through sheer determination and a no-nonsense approach to education, he manages to turn the school around. But he makes plenty of political enemies in the process.

Movie Quote:
“Discipline is not the enemy of enthusiasm.”
Joe Clark (Morgan Freeman) in Lean on Me (1989)

Bible Quote:
“Like a city whose walls are broken down is a man who lacks self-control.”
Proverbs 25:28 (NIV)

Commentary:
It is hard to respect anything if there are no rules; no framework; no standard to indicate right from wrong. And yet the minute we identify or agree upon a standard, we automatically initiate the need for discipline to help teach us how to stay within the boundaries of that standard.

God’s Word is the standard of truth. As such, it contains the reproof which helps us to discipline our minds to stay within the framework which He has designed. Far from being an “enemy of enthusiasm,” discipline can be a tool by which enthusiasm is increased.

No one enjoys doing something poorly. If we are taught – via instruction, reproof and correction – how to do something properly… even to the point of excelling at something, our enthusiasm for that skill reaches new heights. It does so because of the discipline which taught us how to excel.

Without discipline, especially self-discipline (which is a learned quality), we become vulnerable to any temptation that comes our way. Temptations do little more than to draw us outside of the standards that define success.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Joe Clark adopts some pretty severe rules in order to accomplish his goals. Was he justified? Can morality and discipline be forced by abolishing human or civil rights?
2. Why did the students who remained in the school respond to Clark’s environment of learning? How is discipline conveyed from teacher to student?

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot.com

LADYHAWKE (1985)

Directed by: Richard Donner
Written by: Edward Khmara, Michael Thomas, Tom Mankiewicz
Studio: 20th Century Fox/Warner Brothers
Starring: Matthew Broderick, Rutger Hauer, Michelle Pfeiffer
Rated: PG-13

About the film:
A young thief is befriended by a Captain and his lady love who have been cursed by a jealous bishop. She is a hawk by day and he turns into a wolf by night. Thus they can never be together as man and wife. The thief, Phillipe, joins them as they travel to confront the bishop and exact their revenge.

Movie Quote:
“I know I promised Lord… never again. But I also know that YOU know what a weak-willed person I am.”
Phillipe (Matthew Broderick) in Ladyhawke (1985)

Bible Quote:
“As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear Him; for He knows how we are formed, he remembers that we are dust.”
Psalms 103:13-14 (NIV)

Commentary:
Phillipe’s relationship with God is both amusing and touching. He speaks to Him as he would speak to a close friend. Perhaps if more of us would follow Phillipe’s lead in his manner of conversing with the Almighty, we might receive more answers to our prayers. Of course, we wouldn’t want to emulate Phillipe in the weaknesses he demonstrates.

God hears us when we pray and when we call out to Him in despair. And He does hold us accountable for our words. After all, God will never break a promise that He has made to us. Why shouldn’t He ask that we do the same?

Of course, He knows that we will occasionally fall short in our believing and in our actions. Instead of condemning ourselves when we do, the proper course of action would be to thank God for His forgiveness and correct our behavior so that we might return to a harmonious connection with God’s Will.

Through our continual efforts to be our best for God, we may reduce the amount of time we find ourselves out of fellowship with Him. By thinking before we speak, meaning what we say, and backing up what we say with believing action, we can grow to be the type of men and women in whom God takes great pleasure.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Phillipe had an unusual personal relationship with God. What biblical personages had similar relationships?
2. Phillipe’s quote was delivered while he was in the act of doing something he promised God he would not do. Does his reliance on God’s understanding and forgiveness excuse his behavior? Why or why not?

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot.com

A KNIGHT'S TALE (2001)

Directed by: Brian Helgeland
Written by: Brian Helgeland
Studio: Columbia Pictures
Starring: Heath Ledger, Paul Bettany, Mark Addy
Rated: PG-13

About the film:
A young commoner takes the guise of a noble knight so that he might participate in jousting competitions. Along the way, he not only wins trophies but also the heart of a lovely lady in waiting. When his disguise is uncovered, he stands to lose everything he had gained.

Movie Quote:
“Hope guides me; that is what gets me through the day and night.”
William Thatcher (Heath Ledger) in A Knight’s Tale (2001)

Bible Quote:
“We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. It enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain.”
Hebrews 6:19 (NIV)

Commentary:
William Thatcher was a man born without means or social standing. He was taken from his home and given to a knight to serve as a squire. But he was not born without hope. His desire was to be lifted from his station so he might be viewed as a man instead of as a piece of property.

A ship without an anchor is a vessel which will not be able to hold its course when the storms hit. Likewise, a man with no hope will continually be subject to the winds of doubt and fear that blow through this world.

Hope is the belief in a future reality that has been promised. The strength of such hope is dependent upon two factors: the believing of the person to whom the promise is made and the faithfulness of the one who has promised.

Our hope, as Christians, is based upon the promises of God. There is no question of His faithfulness. May our believing be strong enough to keep our souls anchored in the harbor of His love.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. How did William’s attitude and mindset help deliver him and lead him to the position he desired?
2. Is there any time that we could be placed in a hopeless situation? Why or why not?

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot.com

KELLY'S HEROES (1970)

Directed by: Brian G. Hutton
Written by: Troy Kennedy-Martin
Studio: Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer
Starring: Clint Eastwood, Telly Savalas, Don Rickles
Rated: PG-13

About the film:
In the midst of World War II, a US lieutenant hears about a hidden cache of gold bars the Nazis were planning to ship out of Germany. He leads his platoon into enemy territory to steal the gold.

Movie Quote:
“Why don’t you knock it off with them negative waves? Why don’t you dig how beautiful it is out here? Why don’t you say something righteous and hopeful for a change?
Sgt. Oddball (Donald Sutherland) in Kelly’s Heroes (1970)

Bible Quote:
“Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.”
Ephesians 4:29 (NIV)

Commentary:
Even people engaged in an ungodly activity can hunger for a godly result. Sgt. Oddball’s comment, whether he realizes it or not, expresses a biblical principle that we would do well to follow.

It does us no good to be around people who do little more than confess negatives. Continually hearing how awful something is; or why something won’t work only serves to prepare us for the failure that is sure to come because of the negativity surrounding it.

Our attitude and what we believe are keys to the successes that we will have in life. To surround ourselves with “negative waves” will lead us to a negative frame of mind which in turn will eventually reap negative results. It is what might be called a “self-fulfilling prophecy.”

It is far more edifying to be around people who will seek ways to build us up and strengthen our believing. Positive works of encouragement and constructive observations on how to improve a situation will help prepare us for the success we desire and as we continue to believe for positive results and continue to work towards that goal, we will eventually reap the fruit of our believing.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. How might we act differently if we thought about the words we speak as being physical objects like darts or bullets?
2. At what points in your life can you say that you were influenced or affected by the words that someone spoke to you?

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot.com

KATE AND LEOPOLD (2001)

Directed by: James Mangold
Written by: James Mangold, Steven Rogers
Studio: Miramax Films
Starring: Meg Ryan, Hugh Jackman, Liev Shreiber, Brecklin Meyer
Rated: PG-13

About the film:
A 19th century man travels to 21st century New York through a time hole near the Brooklyn Bridge. His old-fashioned chivalry is a markedly refreshing change from the other men of this new time. It is a difference that is noticed by a film publicist who must keep an eye on him until he can be returned to his own time.

Movie Quote:
“It’s a great thing to get what you want. It’s a really good thing unless what you thought you wanted wasn’t really what you wanted… Because what you really wanted you couldn’t imagine or you didn’t think it was possible but what if someone came along who knew exactly what you wanted without asking… they just knew.”
Kate (Meg Ryan) in Kate and Leopold (2001)

Bible Quote:
“Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us.”
Ephesians 3:20 (NIV)

Commentary:
The rambling statement that Kate makes is actually quite endearing. It expresses a desire that many of us have felt before. Who among us would not want to be loved by someone who would know, without us telling them, exactly what we needed?

Looking into our hearts, knowing what we desire and then abundantly exceeding our expectations is something God does all the time for the people who love Him. It’s a good thing too, because most of the time we may know what we want, but we are absolutely clueless as to what we really need.

We may think we know but so often, the things we think we want won’t bring us lasting happiness or joy. Indeed, they may not even be good for us. But even if they are, God is not satisfied with what is good for us. He wants what is best for us.

It is a great thing to have a heavenly father whose love for us surpasses our own understanding. Our God is a Father who will continue to give long after our initial want has been met.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. What are the differences between Leopold and this average modern man of today? What could be learned from him?
2. Kate, when we meet her, is extremely cynical. What has made her this way? How can we protect ourselves from becoming cynical?

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot.com

THE KARATE KID, PART II (1986)

Directed by: John G. Avildsen
Written by: Robert Mark Kamen
Studio: Columbia Pictures
Starring: Ralph Macchio, Pat Morita, Danny Kamekona
Rated: PG

About the film:
Daniel accompanies Mr. Miyagi to his home in Okinawa to visit his dying father and becomes embroiled in an old rivalry that will lead to his biggest karate challenge yet. After Miyagi and an old nemesis cross paths, the son of Miyagi’s enemy takes aim at Daniel. This tie, the fight is to the death.

Movie Quote:
“Because Daniel, for man with no forgiveness in heart, life worse punishment than death.”
Mr. Miyagi (Pat Norita) in The Karate Kid, Part II (1986)

Bible Quote:
“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
Ephesians 4:32 (NIV)

Commentary:
We’ve heard the expression, “A punishment worse than death.” Sometimes it is hard to imagine what form that kind of punishment might take. Mr. Miyagi gives us one such example. For a man who cannot forgive, life can be a miserable reality.

In all the annals of time, there’s only been one perfect man. What this means is that all of us living today will have ample opportunity to practice forgiveness. People are not perfect and in our imperfections we will cause others to suffer pain, whether by a deliberate act or by an unintentional, thoughtless comment.

Whenever we are wronged, we are given two choices. We can either forgive the individual who wronged us or we can harbor bitterness in our hearts towards that individual. Since bitterness is a cancer that can poison one’s soul, forgiveness is a far better decision.

Forgiveness has nothing to do with justice, reparation, or judgment. Those are issues best left to God and our civil authorities. God’s main concern for us is what we carry in our hearts. In order to fill our hearts with love, our hearts must first be emptied of all animosity, hatred, and bitterness. Bearing the light of God’s love is far more rewarding than bearing a grudge.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Sato, Mr. Myagi’s old friend and rival, held a bitter grudge for decades due to their mutual affection for the same woman. How did that bitterness affect his life?
2. How was Daniel able to defeat his opponent in the final fight? From what source did he obtain his strength to continue? What lessons does that hold for us in our daily struggles?

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot.com

THE KARATE KID (1984)

Directed by: John G. Avildsen
Written by: Robert Mark Kamen
Studio: Columbia Pictures
Starring: Ralph Macchio, Pat Morita, Elisabeth Shue
Rated: PG

About the film:
A teen from New Jersey moves to California and becomes the target of a group of bullies when he befriends an attractive schoolmate. He seeks help from a local handyman who agrees to teach him the art of karate but the lessons are taught in a highly unorthodox manner.

Movie Quote:
“First learn stand, then learn fly. Nature rule, Daniel San, not mine.”
Mr. Miyagi (Pat Norita) in The Karate Kid (1984)

Bible Quote:
“I gave you milk, not solid food; for you were not yet ready for it. Indeed, you are still not ready.”
1 Corinthians 3:2 (NIV)

Commentary:
Mr. Miyagi is a wise teacher. Instead of immediately teaching Daniel how to punch or block punches thrown at him, he gave him work assignments which strengthened the muscles which he would need as his instructions continued to develop. In no discipline of life do we learn how to do everything in one easy lesson.

That is not to say that we don’t expect it. We live in a world that tempts us with instant gratification. We can hop in a car and travel from 0 to 60 mph in seconds. But we need to recognize that is a misconception to think that all of life is designed in this manner.

Even the automobile example I’ve used is a bit misleading. Before we can expect anyone to reach a level of proficiency when driving a car, we’d naturally expect him to receive training in the use and handling of the vehicle. It is why we have driver education instructors.

Taking the time to learn the fundamentals of any activity is vitally important in succeeding and excelling at that activity. It is true in all areas and disciplines of life… no more so than in the spiritual arena.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Think about the greatest athletes in their fields (Michael Jordan, Tiger Woods, etc.). How good would they have been if they never practiced?
2. Part of Daniel’s success came from his meekness to follow Miyagi’s instruction. What is meekness and how important is it to the building of strength?

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot.com

JOSHUA (2002)

Directed by: Jon Purdy
Written by: Brad Mirman, Keith Giglio
Studio: Artisan Entertainment
Starring: Tony Goldwyn, F. Murray Abraham, Kurt Fuller
Rated: G

About the film:
A man moves into a small town in the US and begins to make his impact known. It soon becomes clear that he may be the personification of Christ himself, come to deliver a message to the people of today. He delivers that message through his example as he begins to rebuild a storm ravaged church.

Movie Quote:
“Sometimes you have to tear something down in order to build it back up.”
Joshua (Tony Goldwyn) in Joshua (2002)

Bible Quote:
“You were taught to put away your former way of life, your old self, corrupt and deluded by its lusts, and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and to clothe yourselves with the new self, created according to the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness.”
Ephesians 4:22-23 (NIV)

Commentary:
Joshua clearly represents Christ in this parable of salvation and renewal. His words which have been quoted here were in response to townspeople questioning his dismantling of a storm-ravaged church building before he begins to restore it. The analogy goes further than that. His words can also apply to our lives.

In order to put on a new suit, one first has to take off what one is already wearing. So it is with our spiritual walk. By the time we believe to be born again of God’s spirit, we will have already developed what the Word of God calls “old” or “natural” man habits.

Although our sins are truly washed away, the habit patterns we’ve built in our lives have left their mark. These habits must be unlearned so we can replace them with the characteristics and behavior befitting of our new standing in Christ.

If we try to “put on” our “new man” without first “taking off” the old, all we are doing is covering our bad or sinful habits and they will eventually reappear to taint any new habits we might be trying to adopt in our lives.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Do you have any “old man” habit that may be preventing you from manifesting the full blessings of God in your life?
2. How did the reactions to Joshua vary from the different Christian denominations that were represented in the film? What was the filmmaker trying to communicate through those reactions?

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot.com

INHERIT THE WIND (1960)

Directed by: Stanley Kramer
Written by: Nathan E. Douglas, Harold Jacob Smith
Studio: United Artists
Starring: Spencer Tracy, Frederick March, Gene Kelly, Dick York
Rated: PG

About the film:
A Southern schoolteacher is on trial for teaching Darwin’s theory of evolution to his students. The trial gets national attention as two high-powered attorneys square off against one another. The film is based upon a true case – the 1925 Scopes trial.

Movie Quote:
“We must not abandon faith! Faith is the most important thing!”
Matthew Harrison Brady (Fredric March) in Inherit the Wind (1960)

Bible Quote:
“And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.”
1 Corinthians 13:13 (NIV)

Commentary:
Matthew Harrison Brady, in his excitement and zeal, misspeaks. Faith is indeed an important thing… but the most important? Only God alone has the authority to make such a declaration. And He has. Of the three qualities listed in the above scripture, God declares that love is to get top billing.

Love is the glue that holds all good things together. Faith without love becomes a selfish, self-serving attribute. Hope without love will dwindle and die. Truth without love becomes judgmental and harsh, lacking both power and authority. God without love is impossible because, as it is written, God is love. (1 John 4:8).

When love is present; indeed when it serves as the motivation for all else, our other virtues become energized and empowered with the ability to reach their fullest effulgence.

“And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.” Colossians 3:14 (NIV)

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. In the film, the trial centers on the debate between creation and evolution. Were the two opposing views argued fairly? What arguments might you have included if you were one of the attorneys?
2. How might we manifest love more effectively in our life? What practical actions could we take?

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot.com

INDEPENDENCE DAY (1996)

Directed by: Roland Emmerich
Written by: Dean Devlin, Roland Emmerich
Studio: 20th Century Fox
Starring: Bill Pullman, Will Smith, Jeff Goldblum
Rated: PG-13

About the film:
When aliens arrive with hostile intentions, the human race must band together to defeat them or face total annihilation. The President of the United States, a cable technician, a crop duster, and a fighter pilot embark on a desperate mission to save the world.

Movie Quote:
“Mankind - That word should have new meaning for all of us today. We can’t be consumed by our petty differences anymore. We will be united in our common interest.”
President Thomas Whitmore (Bill Pullman) in Independence Day (1996)

Bible Quote:
“Then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose.”
Philippians 2:2 (NIV)

Commentary:
Sure, President Marshall’s address is an idealized sentiment. But that doesn’t mean that we shouldn’t strive to live up to it. It is exactly the type of mindset that God wants us to adopt.

In times of crises, we tend to remember this exhortation from God more readily than at times of peace. Certainly, we saw this demonstrated in the days following the terrible events of September 11th. It should be noted, however, that the scriptures do not say our unity is needed only at certain times. It is something for which we should always strive.

The body of Christ is certainly diverse. Born again believers come from different backgrounds, different cultures, and different ethnic groups. Our differences, being physical or otherwise manifested in tangible ways, are immediately seen. Our chief commonality is spiritual and, as such, invisible. For this reason, we must willfully determine to remember who we are in Christ, overlooking that which makes us different and embracing that which makes us one.

“Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” Ephesians 4:2-3 (NIV)

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. What biblical examples illustrate the benefits of being like-minded?
2. Why, if God exhorts us to be like-minded, are there so many different Christian denominations?

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot.com

HOW GREEN WAS MY VALLEY

Directed by: John Ford
Written by: Philip Dunne
Studio: 20th Century Fox
Starring: Walter Pidgeon, Maureen O’Hara, Roddy McDowell
Rated: Approved

About the film:
A simple family in a turn of the century Welsh coal-mining community deals with the hardships and the pleasures that come with their way of life. The film is told through the fond memories of Huw Morgan, the youngest of 6 brothers in the Morgan household.

Movie Quote:
“Everything I ever learnt as a small boy came from my father, and I never found anything he ever told me to be wrong or worthless. The simple lessons he taught me are as sharp and clear in my mind as if I had heard them only yesterday.”
Huw Morgan (Irving Pichel) in How Green Was My Valley (1943)

Bible Quote:
“Only be careful, and watch yourselves closely so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them slip from your heart as long as you live. Teach them to your children and to their children after them.”
Deuteronomy 4:9 (NIV)

Commentary:
Young Huw Morgan benefited from having a loving father who lived up to God’s expectations. The best thing a father can do for his child is to teach him how to live in this world.

Before there was a written Bible, God’s plan of redemption and salvation was given to man to be preserved and protected. For centuries, it was passed from generation to generation as fathers instructed their sons on the ways of God.

Even today, the lessons we learn from our parents and grandparents are priceless. They form the foundation of all we are to become. They can build habits and patterns of thought or action which will not only last for our lifetime but for generations as we, in due time, pass them on to our offspring.

We should never underestimate or undervalue the importance of the wisdom and knowledge of those who have lived longer than we. Nor should we forget our responsibility to pass along our knowledge and understanding to those who will follow us.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. What lessons have you learned from your parents or grandparents that you intend to pass onto your children?
2. Huw had a number of role models to learn from as he grew into a man. Who are your role models and why?

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot.com

HIGH FIDELITY (2000)

Directed by: Stephen Frears
Written by: D.V. Devincentis, Steve Pink, John Cusack, Scott Rosenberg
Studio: Touchstone Pictures
Starring: John Cusack, Iben Hjejle, Jack Black, Tim Robbins
Rated: R

About the film:
A thirty-something record store owner (and consummate list-maker) is told by his girlfriend that she’s leaving him due to his inability to grow and develop as a person. He makes a list of the worst five break-ups in his dating history and then decides to revisit these women to see if he can learn something about himself in the process.

Movie Quote:
“I guess it made more sense to commit to nothing, keep my options open. And that’s suicide... by tiny, tiny increments.”
Rob Gordon (John Cusack) in High Fidelity (2000)

Bible Quote:
“No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money.”
Matthew 6:24 (NIV)

Commentary:
Rob Gordon has reached an age that most of us eventually get to; an age where we begin to reflect upon the choices that we’ve made in the past with the realization that it was those choices that determined our present state of being. Rob’s biggest error was in putting off making any choice that would give his life meaningful direction. That is, in and of itself, a choice... and not a good one.

An uncommitted man lives as a mere shadow. His life is shallow and unrewarding. It is through the commitments made during our lifetimes that we define who we are as individuals and what impact our lives shall have upon others.

While there is nothing wrong with keeping one’s options open or staying flexible so we might respond to new opportunities, that shouldn’t be interpreted to mean that we should never choose a course of action. We choose and as circumstances change, we have the God-given ability to adjust our heading accordingly.

God did not give us free will in order to watch us to atrophy in a continual state of indecision. He want us to set our hearts on the goals we have chosen and pursue them with vigor, energy and a fully persuaded mind. Only then will we receive the success we desire.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Do you know anyone like the employees of Rob’s store? What motivates or drives them? How is Rob different?
2. What scriptures has God given us that speak to the issue of maturing and developing as we grow? How do they relate to this film?

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot.com

HELLBOY (2004)

Directed by: Guillermo del Toro
Written by: Guillermo del Toro
Studio: Columbia Pictures
Starring: Ron Perlman, Selma Blair, John Hurt, Rupert Evans
Rated: PG

About the film:
Rasputin intends to open a portal to hell and summon a demon that will lead the world to the apocalypse but his plans are temporarily thwarted. The baby demon was found and adopted by an expert in the paranormal who raised him to recognize right from wrong. 60 years later, the red devil is now the world’s dominant force fighting against evil but Rasputin has returned to lead Hellboy to the purpose for which he was created.

Movie Quote:
“In the absence of light, darkness prevails.”
Professor Bloom (John Hurt) in Hellboy (2004)

Bible Quote:
“Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness?”
2 Corinthians 6:14 (NIV)

Commentary:
The key to recognizing the truth of Professor Bloom’s quote from Hellboy is to know that God is light. In the absence of God, darkness or evil truly will prevail. The only force more powerful than the evil that exists in this world is the truth of God that dwells in our hearts. We never want to abandon that truth.

Darkness can be suffocating. If you’ve ever gone spelunking or caving and, while in the bowels of the earth, turned off your flashlight, you’d know the truth of that statement. But the minute you turn your flashlight back on, the darkness is gone. Light is always more powerful than the darkness. It is only the absence of light that allows darkness to exist.

So it is with spiritual light and darkness. When God’s light is not present (meaning that we have turned away from Him and His Word), darkness will prevail in our lives. But the moment spiritual light manifests itself through our decision to turn to God and His will, the darkness must flee. It cannot co-exist with light.

The lesson for us is to stay within the light of God’s Word. His illuminating truth enables and empowers us so that we need not descend into the darkness and the many pitfalls that await us there.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. The movie’s main thematic question resolves around choice. Do demons have a choice?
2. The characters place a great deal of emphasis on the power contained in religious relics. Is there validity in this? Why or why not?

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot.com

HARVEST OF FIRE (1996)

Directed by: Arthur Allan Seidelman
Written by: Richard Alfieri, Susan Nanus
Studio: Hallmark Home Entertainment
Starring: Lolita Davidovich, Patty Duke, Tom Aldredge
Rated: PG

About the film:
When three barns are burnt down, a female FBI agent comes to a small Amish community to investigate whether or not a hate crime was committed. The tightly-knit community brands her as being an outsider and is uncooperative at first. A widow whose barn was destroyed befriends her and offers her an opportunity to earn their trust.

Movie Quote:
“Heaping blame on yourself is the easy way to deal with a problem. It weighs you down, stops you in your path, is an excuse to do nothing.”
Annie Beiler (Patty Duke) in Harvest of Fire (1996)

Bible Quote:
“Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ.”
Romans 8:1 (NIV)

Commentary:
Annie Beiler offers some sound advice. The “blame game,” especially when we are pointing the finger at ourselves, does little good. There is no good purpose served by “beating ourselves up” over the mistakes we may have made in the past. In fact, it is detrimental to our growth and health. It prevents us from moving in the direction God would have us go.

We can learn from the mistakes we make but part of that learning must include correcting the mistake and moving on with our lives. Continually dwelling on the mistake will drag us into the past instead of propelling us toward the future.

God’s forgiveness is absolute. As He forgives us, we must learn to forgive ourselves. It would be the same as a prisoner who rejects the pardon of the court and instead chooses to remain locked behind bars.

“Traveling light” through life extends to the emotional “baggage” that we tend to drag behind us. Ridding ourselves of regrets and self-condemnation will free us from the mental “chains” that shackle us to a sin-spotted past. We’ll find that by doing so, we are able to travel further and faster than ever before.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. What can we do to avoid falling into the trap of self-condemnation? How do we forgive ourselves?
2. Much of the film concerns itself with explaining a culture different than the ones familiar to us. As ambassadors for Christ, what techniques might we employ when approaching people from a different cultural background?

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot.com

HAMLET (1996)

Directed by: Kenneth Branagh
Written by: William Shakespeare
Studio: Columbia Pictures
Starring: Kenneth Branagh, Kate Winslet, Julie Christie
Rated: PG-13

About the film:
The prince of Denmark returns home to find his father dead and his mother married to his late father’s brother. Feigning madness, he plots revenge against his uncle.

Movie Quote:
“What a piece of work is man. How noble in reason. How infinite in faculty. In form and moving, how express and admirable. In action, how like an angel. In apprehension, how like a God.”
Hamlet (Kenneth Branagh) in Hamlet (1996)

Bible Quote:
“I will praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.”
Psalms 139:14 (KJV)

Commentary:
Shakespeare may have been onto something. After all, his plays have been adapted for the screen more often than any other English speaking writer. But as brilliant as his works may be, they pale in comparison to the subject of which he writes. It is God Who created us and as a creation, we are indeed something to marvel.

The intricate workings of the human body simply cannot be duplicated by man. The manner in which the entire body is kept fed and nourished; the way in which it is protected from foreign invaders; and how it is so precisely interlaced that each independent part can effectively function in concert and to the benefit of the whole… all this is indicative of the godly design that went into its creation.

Next to His Word, our bodies can arguably be said to be His greatest creation. And it is this wondrous creation which serves as the illustration of how we are to function together as individual members of the unified body of Christ.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. What functions of the human body lead us to believe that is was divinely created?
2. What biblical principles could Hamlet have followed that might have kept his story from being a tragedy?

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot.com

THE GREEN MILE (1999)

Directed by: Frank Darabont
Written by: Frank Darabont
Studio: Warner Brothers
Starring: Tom Hanks, David Morse, Michael Clarke Duncan
Rated: R

About the film:
The guards at a Louisiana prison’s death row come across a convicted murderer with a gentle heart and an unusual power to heal. They become convinced that he is innocent of the crime for which he’s been sentenced to die.

Movie Quote:
“Men under strain can snap. Hurt themselves. Hurt others. That’s why our job is talking, not yelling.”
Paul Edgecomb (Tom Hanks) in The Green Mile (1999)

Bible Quote:
“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”
Proverbs 15:1 (NIV)

Commentary:
Paul Edgecomb, the lead jailer in the film The Green Mile, has learned a thing or two about diffusing stressful situations. He may have learned from experience, but the same lessons can be found in the scriptures.

People who believe that the Bible is merely a book of religious mumbo jumbo are missing out on the greatest source of practical, common sense knowledge that exists in this world. God designed and made man. Certainly He knows the inner workings of how man reacts and behaves in different situations.

Take the verse from Proverbs 15 as an example. Fighting fire with fire, in terms of dealing with anger or wrath, will only add fuel to that fire. Remaining calm and rational when provoked will help diffuse even the most volatile situations.

As we learn and apply the knowledge that God has placed in His Word, we will find that His way of doing things is really the best way to achieve the results we desire. There’s only one way to know for sure. Prove Him now. Prove that His Word is true by walking out upon it.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. The prisoner John Coffey exemplifies the kind of attitude that Paul Edgecomb describes. Why does Coffey make the decision that he does at the end of the film?
2. The film is set on the death row of a prison. What does God’s Word say about capital punishment and justice?

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot.com

THE GREAT DICTATOR (1940)

Directed by: Charles Chaplin
Written by: Charles Chaplin
Studio: United Artists
Starring: Charles Chaplin, Jack Oakie, Paulette Goddard
Rated: G

About the film:
A poor Jewish barber bears a remarkable resemblance to the cruel dictator Adenoid Hynkel in this satire of Nazi Germany. When his resemblance to the dictator affords him the opportunity to address the world, he uses it to speak of the goodness to which man can aspire.

Movie Quote:
“In the seventeenth chapter of St. Luke, it is written that the kingdom of God is within man; not one man nor a group of men, but in all men! In you!”
A Jewish barber (Charles Chaplin) in The Great Dictator (1940)

Bible Quote:
“The kingdom of God does not come with your careful observation, nor will people say, ‘here it is,’ or ‘there it is,’ because the kingdom of God is within you.”
Luke 17: 20b-21 (NIV)

Commentary:
It is rather rare when a film quotes scripture so directly and in such a positive way. But when dealing with such evil, perhaps it isn’t surprising at all. The barber’s comments during his speech are inspiring and hopeful… mainly because he draws from scripture to make his points. His points are not always accurate, but his heart is pure and his intentions are noble.

For instance, in his speech he says that the kingdom of God is in all men. That’s not entirely true. What is a kingdom but a place where a king reigns? Therefore the kingdom of God cannot be within all men… only those to whom God has given His spirit and who have subsequently chosen to follow His ways. Thankfully, He gives it to all who believe.

We who choose to submit ourselves with all humility to our Creator and heavenly Father and willingly exalt His will above our own, it can truthfully be said that the kingdom of God is within us.

As we continue to let His peace rule in our hearts and let Him direct our steps as we journey along the path He has laid out before us, we are the living embodiment of His kingdom because we manifest a small token of the fullness which is to come.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. What does the barber’s innocence have to do with the opportunities that he is given? How has the way he conducted his life helped him during the trying times ahead?
2. The barber’s final speech is an amazing plea for humanity and goodness. What within his speech reminds you of God’s exhortation to us?

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot.com

GONE WITH THE WIND (1939)

Directed by: Victor Fleming
Written by: Sidney Howard
Studio: Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer
Starring: Clark Gable, Vivien Leigh, Olivia de Havilland
Rated: G

About the film:
Scarlett O’Hara, a Southern belle of means, copes with the devastation brought on by the Civil War. But that devastation is nothing compared to the pain caused by losing the man she loves to her cousin Melanie. Based upon the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel by Margaret Mitchell, Gone with the Wind remains an epic piece of filmmaking and storytelling.

Movie Quote:
“As God is my witness, I’ll never be hungry again!”
Scarlett O’Hara (Vivien Leigh) in Gone With the Wind (1939)

Bible Quote:
“I was young and now I am old, yet I have never seen the righteous forsaken or their children begging bread.”
Psalms 37:25 (NIV)


Commentary:
Bless her heart; Scarlett is her own worst enemy as well as her biggest asset. Her strength of believing and conviction is indeed admirable. But her selfishness and stubbornness is not. Her vow before God is less a statement of faith as it is a challenge. If only she knew and followed the scriptures more.

God is not only our witness, He is the reason we need not go hungry. As we trust in Him and His faithfulness to perform all that He has promised, we can repeat Scarlett’s assertion with the same level of conviction she managed to muster, knowing that our heavenly Father would never have the needs of His children go unmet.

Our God is the same God who led the children of Israel out of bondage and sustained them for forty years by providing them with manna from the heavens. He is the one who allowed the multitudes to be fed with five loaves and two fishes, providing so much abundance twelve baskets of leftovers remained. His goodness, grace, and mercy have not diminished with time.

His promise to us is that He will never fail us nor forsake us. He is and continues to be a God who supplies; a God who provides; a God who will withhold no good thing from us. He is our sufficiency.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. What are the qualities to admire in Scarlett? What are the qualities that we would not want to emulate?
2. The Civil War contained men of faith on both sides who believed that God would fight for them. Who was wrong? How do you think God viewed that war?

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot.com