SIGNS (2002)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot.com