THE GREAT DEBATERS (2007)

Directed by: Denzel Washington
Written by: Robert Eisele
Studio: MGM
Starring: Denzel Washington, Denzel Whitaker, Jurnee Smollet
Rated: PG-13

About the film:
Based on a true story, professor and poet Melvin Tolsen organizes and coaches a debate team for Wiley College, a small, Negro liberal arts school. Their phenomenal success leads to an invitation to debate the national champions of Harvard University.

Movie Quote:
“The time for justice, the time for freedom, the time for equality, is always right now.”
Samantha Booke (Jurnee Smollet) in The Great Debaters (2007)

Bible Quote:
And do this, understanding the present time. The hour has come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed.
Romans 13:11 (NIV)

Commentary:
The power of “now” often goes unstated and therefore unrecognized by most of us. It is gone in an instant. Fortunately there is always another “now” to take its place. And the “now” is always overflowing with potential. Procrastination serves nobody but our spiritual adversary and delivers nothing but missed opportunities.

I cannot understand the logic of people who make their New Year’s resolutions and then count down the days until they have to start them. If there is benefit to be had by adhering to the resolution, why not start it “now?”

Every change that ever took place in our lives – be it societal, cultural, or spiritual – can be traced to that single moment in time when we decided to take action to make the change. Embracing the potential of our “now” moments is fundamental to our getting the most out of the lives we’ve been given. God has designed life to give us an endless supply of “now” moments. It is up to us to use them to our benefit – and for the benefit of those around us.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. What were the moments of decision in the lives of these characters? Can you spot their “now” moments and how they handled them?
2. A good debater should be able to argue either side of any issue. Why is this important? How can this lesson aid us in facing those who may disagree with our beliefs?

Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com