SPIDER-MAN (2002)

Directed by: Sam Raimi
Written by: David Koepp
Studio: Columbia Pictures
Starring: Tobey Maguire, Willem Dafoe, Kirsten Dunst
Rated: PG-13

About the film:
After being bitten by a genetically altered spider, mild-mannered Peter Parker develops superhuman abilities. The world at large begins to distrust him rather than embrace him as a hero. While Parker tries to figure out how to capitalize on his new powers, a second freak accident occurs, turning a scientist into the evil Green Goblin who wreaks havoc upon the town.

Movie Quote:
“With great power comes great responsibility.”
Uncle Ben (Cliff Robertson) in Spider-man (2002)

Bible Quote:
“From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked.”
Luke 12:48b (NIV)

Commentary:
Parker’s uncle Ben is trying to teach the youthful Peter a lesson that will be vital for him to learn. All men may be equal in the eyes of God, but in terms of abilities, strengths, or long suits, we are not equal. As we sojourn in this world, we may find ourselves among a few who excel in a given area. When we do, we should be asking ourselves how we might use our ability (or power) to its best advantage – not merely for our benefit, but for the benefit of all.

In the Old Testament, God chose a handful of men as his prophets to communicate His will to the people. In the gospel period, Jesus Christ was on this earth, revealing God’s truth and ministering to the hearts of God’s people. Today, we are the ones to whom God has given the power and authority to act in His name.

We are called to be part of the body of Christ. As a part of that body, we have a responsibility to use the power we’ve been given to function in the role to which we’ve been called. As with our physical body, should one limb or organ fail to perform its function, the whole body suffers as a result.

We’ve been given much for which to be thankful. We may express our thankfulness by doing what God would have us do with the power and abilities He’s granted us. The body of Christ will be stronger for it.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Prior to the quoted scripture, Jesus tells his disciples a parable. What is the meaning of the parable in context of Luke 12:48 and how does it relate to the film?
2. Peter can be seen as an illustration for a born again believer. What are the similarities? What are the differences?

Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com