WATERSHIP DOWN (1978)

Directed by: Martin Rosen
Written by: Martin Rosen
Studio: AVCO Embassy Pictures
Starring: John Hurt, Richard Briers, Ralph Richardson
Rated: PG

About the film:
A young rabbit receives a premonition of his warren’s destruction and, with a small band of friends, sets off in search of a new home. The journey they take is fraught with dangers and terrors of all kinds.

Movie Quote:
“All the world will be your enemy, Prince with a Thousand Enemies, and when ever they catch you, they will kill you.”
Frith (Michael Hordern) in Watership Down (1978)

Bible Quote:
“If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you.”
John 15:19 (NIV)

Commentary:
It is natural to want to be liked. During our formative years, especially in school, popularity is a badge of honor to be held in high esteem. It usually isn’t until we mature a little that we grow to understand how shallow and meaningless the quest for “popularity” can be. There are worthier goals to which we can aspire.

Jesus Christ did not come to earth to “win friends.” He came to win souls. In doing so, he became the most hated man in history. And those who follow him share in the animosity directed towards him.

To fully understand the scripture that is quoted, we must first understand what is being referenced by the word “world.” It certainly can’t mean the physical planet nor can it mean everyone on the planet. To assume either would be illogical.

No, in this case, the world is a figurative reference to he who rules the world. Called “the god of this world” or “the prince of the power of the air,” he is the spiritual enemy who hates us simply because we are loved by God.

The first step to protecting one’s self against an enemy who will attack without warning or provocation is to recognize that he exists. It is why Jesus Christ taught his disciples about unseen spiritual realities. His recorded words, spoken by revelation, will continue to instruct and protect us to the degree that we heed them.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. The rabbits’ search for a new home has many biblical parallels. What are they?
2. What should our response be in the face of hatred directed toward us because of our beliefs?

Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com