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