STAR TREK: THE WRATH OF KHAN (1982)

Directed by: Nicholas Meyer
Written by: Jack B. Sowards
Studio: Paramount Pictures
Starring: William Shatner, Leonard Nimoy, Ricardo Montalban
Rated: PG

About the film:
Captain Kirk, feeling old and useless, gets a surprise as his old nemesis, Khan, returns with an aim to exact his revenge. Kirk gathers the old crew of the Enterprise and once again goes where no man has gone before in an attempt to stop Khan’s threat and save the Federation once again.

Movie Quote:
“Live long and prosper.”
Spock (Leonard Nimoy) in Star Trek: The Wrath of Kahn (1982)

Bible Quote:
“Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth.”
1 John 1:2 (KJV)

Commentary:
Who knew that Mr. Spock’s classic line from Star Trek had biblical roots? Indeed, this is God’s greatest desire… that above all things we, His beloved children, would prosper and be in health as we live long and fruitful lives. What father doesn’t want that for his child?

Throughout His Word, God gives us instruction on how we might achieve such a desired result. In Ephesians we read, “Honor your father and mother” – which is the first commandment with a promise – “that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.” God cannot say something if it isn’t true. A long and happy life is a reward of obedience.

As far as prosperity is concerned, 2 Corinthians holds a fundamental principle of a life that is more than abundant: “Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously.” God promises that as we give we shall receive. It is one of three spiritual keys to financial prosperity: Work heartily as to the Lord; live within one’s means; and share abundantly.

Live long and prosper… it’s more than a catch phrase… It’s God’s heartfelt desire for our lives.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. If it is God’s will that we prosper, why do many Christians suffer from financial difficulties? (Consider the latter part of 3 John 1:2)
2. Another quote from the film comes at a time of sacrifice as a character reflects “The needs of the many outweigh the needs of the few.” Is that a spiritual accurate belief? Why or why not?

Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com