KNOWING (2009)

Directed by: Alex Proyas
Written by: Ryne Douglas Pearson, Juliet Snowden, Stiles White
Studio: Summit Entertainment
Starring: Nicolas Cage, Rose Byrne
Rated: PG-13

About the film:
When a school opens a time capsule buried by students 50 years earlier, a document is uncovered that appears to accurately predict disasters and tragedies that have occurred in the years since – along with a few that have yet to come.

Movie Quote:
"I thought there was some purpose to all this. Why did I get this prediction if there's nothing I can do about it?"
John Koestler (Nicolas Cage) in Knowing (2009)

Bible Quote:
“But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.”
1 Corinthians 12:7 (KJV)

Commentary:
The frustration felt by Koestler is certainly understandable. To have the knowledge of future events but having neither the wisdom to know what to do nor the power to act upon that knowledge would be more of a curse than a blessing. Aren’t we blessed that we have a God that not only provides us with glimpses into the future but also enables us with the power to shape our own?

Prophecy, which remains available to God’s people today, is one of nine manifestations of the gift of holy spirit. As the cited scripture clearly states, all manifestations were designed by God for a profit. The specific profit or purpose to prophecy is explained in 1 Corinthians 14:3 which declares: “But he that prophesieth speaketh unto men to edification, and exhortation, and comfort.”

A prophecy born of God and spoken forth by a believer will always strengthen, comfort and encourage those for whom the prophecy is intended. While it is not true that a prophecy will always directly refer to future events, it will always contain messages that God wants us to hear, remember, and believe.

The prophecies of God remind us of who we are in Him. They remind us of His care, concern and interest in our lives. They inspire us to live in ways that would be pleasing to Him. They do not frustrate – they bless. They do not condemn us – they comfort us. They do not leave us feeling powerless – they empower us.

Questions to consider while watching the film:

1. Who are the whisperers and to whom can they be compared in the Bible?
2. The final 20 minutes of the film have clear references to biblical prophetic events. What are they and how well do they match the movie’s depiction?