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