STAR TREK THE UNDISCOVERED COUNTRY (1991)

Directed by: Nicholas Meyer
Written by: Nicholas Meyer, Denny Martin Flinn
Studio: Paramount Pictures
Starring: William Shatner, Leonard Nimoy, DeForest Kelly
Rated: PG

About the film:
The Klingon Empire and the Federation are on the verge of signing a peace treaty which will end generations of conflict and warfare. But someone is out to sabotage the accord and the crew of the Enterprise must take action to prevent them from succeeding.

Movie Quote:
“Logic, logic, logic. Logic is the beginning of wisdom, Valeris, not the end.”
Spock (Leonard Nimoy) in Star Trek: The Undiscovered Country (1991)

Bible Quote:
“The fear (respect or reverence) of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: all who follow his precepts have good understanding.”
Psalms 111:10 (NIV)

Commentary:
Spock says that logic is the beginning of wisdom. The Scriptures say that having respect or reverence towards God is the beginning of wisdom. Oddly enough, we don’t really have to choose between the two. The key to understanding how these quotes compliment each other can be found in the opening verse of the gospel of John.

In the beginning was the Word (logos), and the Word (logos) was with God, and the Word (logos) was God. John 1:1 (NIV)

The Greek word logos, which is obviously related to the English word for logic, is used in the scriptures to refer not only to God but also God’s will, God’s son who always did His will, as well as the written Word which was given by God to reveal His will.

Believing in God’s Word is inherently “logical.” As we apply that logic or sound and rational thinking to our lives, we gain wisdom. But as Spock notes, logic is only the beginning. And wisdom is not the end. As we faithfully act with wisdom, over time we will gain something even greater: understanding. We’re given the ability to see the big picture: how all the pieces of knowledge and wisdom fit together to form the grand tapestry of the life which God designed.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. If respect or reverence to God equals logic, where does illogical thinking come from?
2. The peace talks between the Klingons and the Federation are being threatened by an unseen opponent. The peace in our hearts is often similarly disrupted. How might we counter that which prevents us from being at peace?

Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com