Directed by: Sidney Franklin
Written by: Talbot Jennings, Tess Slesinger, Claudine West
Studio: MGM
Starring: Paul Muni, Luise Rainer, Walter Connolly
Rated: PG-13
About the film:
A poor Chinese farmer takes a wife and together they begin to scrape out a meager existence. As their fortunes increase, the farmer loses sight of what helped lead him to his success.
Movie Quote:
"The soul of a great nation is expressed in the life of its humblest people."
Screen caption in The Good Earth (1937)
Bible Quote:
“So get rid of all uncleanness and the rampant outgrowth of wickedness, and in a humble (gentle, modest) spirit receive and welcome the Word which implanted and rooted [in your hearts] contains the power to save your souls.”
John 15:12 (Amplified)
Commentary:
Humility or meekness is often a much-maligned quality that is not given its proper due by people who don’t recognize or understand its power. The scriptures state that a person willing to adopt a humbleness of mind will be rewarded. A great nation is one that is comprised of such people and led by a ruler who will similarly subjugate his own ego to follow a higher standard or truth.
Unfortunately, a person’s humility or meekness is sometimes mistaken for weakness, cowardliness or uncertainty. Our human tendency is to be drawn towards those A-type personalities whose charisma and take-charge attitude often mask the fact that they are being blinded by their own egos and desires.
It is not a sign of weakness to refer to a map when traveling to an unfamiliar location. By following a map’s directions, we can move forward with confidence and be assured of successfully reaching our goal. The challenge of safely navigating through life is no different. When we, humbly or meekly, allow God to direct our steps, we are given a strength and power that enables us to prevail in any situation. When our nation’s leaders do the same, the fruit of following that wisdom becomes evident for all to see.
Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. What led to Wang Lung’s initial success and how well did he handle the obstacles that were placed before him?
2. What is meant by “the soul of a nation” from the movie’s quote? To what does that refer?
Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com
Monday, April 19, 2010
Thursday, April 15, 2010
DAN IN REAL LIFE (2007)
Directed by: Peter Hedges
Written by: Pierce Gardner, Peter Hedges
Studio: Touchstone Pictures
Starring: Steve Carell, Juliette Binoche, Dane Cook
Rated: PG-13
About the film:
A widower who has taken his three children on a family vacation meets a woman who sparks his romantic interest. The problem is… she’s already dating his brother.
Movie Quote:
"Love is not a feeling. It’s an ability."
Dan Burns (Steve Carell) in Dan in Real Life (2007)
Bible Quote:
“A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.”
John 15:12 (KJV)
Commentary:
Love is often confused (as it is in this film) for a feeling. People who desperately desire love tend to mistake it for the first tingling sensation they receive. Lust, infatuation, fear, even hunger have all been confused at one time or another for man’s concept of love. The great reality of love is far richer and goes much deeper than any “feeling.”
Dan is superficially correct. Love is an ability. But he stops short at arriving at the truth. For although God granted all of us the ability to love, many of us never achieve it. Love is, above all else, a free-will choice. Each of us has the ability to choose to love or choose not to love. We can also choose to accept love or choose to reject it.
God defines love in a simple and straightforward manner. “And this is love, that we walk after His commandments.” (2 John 1:6) It is a choice that we make. It may not be signaled with a tingling sensation; it may not come in on floods of emotion; it may not even be reciprocated. But love, as God defines it, is the crux of creation. It is the meaning for our existence. And knowing that love is a choice that we make… applicable to any relationship we choose to enter… should change the way we approach those relationships.
Feelings come and go. Love can and should be a constant… in our hearts… in our minds… and in our lives.
Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Is there such a thing as “love at first sight?” Why or why not?
2. If love is not a “feeling,” what causes the feelings we experience and how do we protect ourselves from their effects?
Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com
Written by: Pierce Gardner, Peter Hedges
Studio: Touchstone Pictures
Starring: Steve Carell, Juliette Binoche, Dane Cook
Rated: PG-13
About the film:
A widower who has taken his three children on a family vacation meets a woman who sparks his romantic interest. The problem is… she’s already dating his brother.
Movie Quote:
"Love is not a feeling. It’s an ability."
Dan Burns (Steve Carell) in Dan in Real Life (2007)
Bible Quote:
“A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.”
John 15:12 (KJV)
Commentary:
Love is often confused (as it is in this film) for a feeling. People who desperately desire love tend to mistake it for the first tingling sensation they receive. Lust, infatuation, fear, even hunger have all been confused at one time or another for man’s concept of love. The great reality of love is far richer and goes much deeper than any “feeling.”
Dan is superficially correct. Love is an ability. But he stops short at arriving at the truth. For although God granted all of us the ability to love, many of us never achieve it. Love is, above all else, a free-will choice. Each of us has the ability to choose to love or choose not to love. We can also choose to accept love or choose to reject it.
God defines love in a simple and straightforward manner. “And this is love, that we walk after His commandments.” (2 John 1:6) It is a choice that we make. It may not be signaled with a tingling sensation; it may not come in on floods of emotion; it may not even be reciprocated. But love, as God defines it, is the crux of creation. It is the meaning for our existence. And knowing that love is a choice that we make… applicable to any relationship we choose to enter… should change the way we approach those relationships.
Feelings come and go. Love can and should be a constant… in our hearts… in our minds… and in our lives.
Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Is there such a thing as “love at first sight?” Why or why not?
2. If love is not a “feeling,” what causes the feelings we experience and how do we protect ourselves from their effects?
Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
MR. DEEDS (2002)
Directed by: Steven Brill
Written by: Tim Herlihy
Studio: Columbia Pictures
Starring: Adam Sandler, Winona Ryder, John Turturro
Rated: PG-13
About the film:
Longfellow Deeds is a simple man from a small New England town who not only inherits a fortune but also controlling interest in a huge multi-media conglomerate. He travels to the big city where his small town ways make him easy pickings for the ruthless, unethical and self-serving people that he encounters there.
Movie Quote:
"It's hard to soar with the eagles when you're surrounded by turkeys."
Mr. Deeds (Adam Sandler) in Mr. Deeds (2002)
Bible Quote:
“He who walks with the wise grows wise, but a companion of fools suffers harm.”
1 Corinthians 15:33 (NIV)
Commentary:
Deeds may be a simple man but simple men often have a way of seeing things most clearly. Deed’s quoted comment is not only amusing but ultimately rings true. Like it or not, we are affected by those with whom we choose to associate. Hanging around with a bunch of flightless “turkeys” can easily keep us from realizing our true potential as eagles.
We are, from an early age, exhorted to “choose our friends wisely.” As we mature, we come to realize the wisdom of that advice. There has been many a man (or woman) with a once promising life that was ruined due to their falling in with the wrong crowd. Most of the worst decisions we make are a result of the peer pressure being applied upon us from unwise companions.
Fortunately, the converse is also true. When we choose to fellowship with those who demonstrate positive or admirable traits - this association tends to rub off on us as well. We can learn from and can be guided by their example; we can be encouraged by their successes; and we can be inspired by their character. We can soar in this life… with a little help from our friends.
Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Who in the Bible erred as a result of the company he or she kept?
2. What are the benefits of fellowshipping with like-minded believers? How is this reflected in the film?
Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com
Written by: Tim Herlihy
Studio: Columbia Pictures
Starring: Adam Sandler, Winona Ryder, John Turturro
Rated: PG-13
About the film:
Longfellow Deeds is a simple man from a small New England town who not only inherits a fortune but also controlling interest in a huge multi-media conglomerate. He travels to the big city where his small town ways make him easy pickings for the ruthless, unethical and self-serving people that he encounters there.
Movie Quote:
"It's hard to soar with the eagles when you're surrounded by turkeys."
Mr. Deeds (Adam Sandler) in Mr. Deeds (2002)
Bible Quote:
“He who walks with the wise grows wise, but a companion of fools suffers harm.”
1 Corinthians 15:33 (NIV)
Commentary:
Deeds may be a simple man but simple men often have a way of seeing things most clearly. Deed’s quoted comment is not only amusing but ultimately rings true. Like it or not, we are affected by those with whom we choose to associate. Hanging around with a bunch of flightless “turkeys” can easily keep us from realizing our true potential as eagles.
We are, from an early age, exhorted to “choose our friends wisely.” As we mature, we come to realize the wisdom of that advice. There has been many a man (or woman) with a once promising life that was ruined due to their falling in with the wrong crowd. Most of the worst decisions we make are a result of the peer pressure being applied upon us from unwise companions.
Fortunately, the converse is also true. When we choose to fellowship with those who demonstrate positive or admirable traits - this association tends to rub off on us as well. We can learn from and can be guided by their example; we can be encouraged by their successes; and we can be inspired by their character. We can soar in this life… with a little help from our friends.
Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Who in the Bible erred as a result of the company he or she kept?
2. What are the benefits of fellowshipping with like-minded believers? How is this reflected in the film?
Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com
Saturday, April 10, 2010
REPO MAN (2010)
Directed by: Miguel Sapochnik
Written by: Eric Garcia, Garrett Lerner
Studio: Universal Pictures
Starring: Jude Law, Forest Whitaker,
Rated: R
About the film:
In the future, medical technology has become so advanced that critically-ill patients can have expensive mechanical parts transplanted in them to prolong their life. The problem is when the patient falls behind in their payments, the company sends a “repo man” to recover their property.
Movie Quote:
“If you want to change who you are, you have to change what you do.”
Remy (Jude Law) in Repo Man (2010)
Bible Quote:
“Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.”
Acts 2:37-38 (KJV)
Commentary:
No one likes to change. And yet, we all must. If we want to have any hope of improving our lot in life and receiving the fullness of God’s promise to man, we must first undergo a fundamental change… to go from a man or woman dead in sins and without God in this world to a born again believer filled with power from on high and able to manifest that power in this world.
Becoming born again of God’s spirit is one of the easiest changes we’ll ever go through. God and his son have already accomplished the hard work. But there’s much more to a Christian walk than simply the pedigree that God bestows upon us. To live as an ambassador for Christ requires a major change in our thinking and our behavior. Changing our “old man nature” is a 24 hour – 7 days a week exercise. But the rewards of our success are immeasurable. By changing what we do, we indeed have the ability to change who we are.
Because our salvation is fully paid for, we need not fear a spiritual “repo man.” Our spiritual change is once and forever. Our mindset therefore must be to walk worthy of God’s calling. Knowing that we have been chosen of God, we should conduct ourselves in a manner befitting that remarkable reality.
Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Why do we resist change if change is a necessary part of life? What can we do to lessen our resistance?
2. Who in the Bible demonstrates a dramatic change in their manner or thinking? What can we learn from them?
Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com
Written by: Eric Garcia, Garrett Lerner
Studio: Universal Pictures
Starring: Jude Law, Forest Whitaker,
Rated: R
About the film:
In the future, medical technology has become so advanced that critically-ill patients can have expensive mechanical parts transplanted in them to prolong their life. The problem is when the patient falls behind in their payments, the company sends a “repo man” to recover their property.
Movie Quote:
“If you want to change who you are, you have to change what you do.”
Remy (Jude Law) in Repo Man (2010)
Bible Quote:
“Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.”
Acts 2:37-38 (KJV)
Commentary:
No one likes to change. And yet, we all must. If we want to have any hope of improving our lot in life and receiving the fullness of God’s promise to man, we must first undergo a fundamental change… to go from a man or woman dead in sins and without God in this world to a born again believer filled with power from on high and able to manifest that power in this world.
Becoming born again of God’s spirit is one of the easiest changes we’ll ever go through. God and his son have already accomplished the hard work. But there’s much more to a Christian walk than simply the pedigree that God bestows upon us. To live as an ambassador for Christ requires a major change in our thinking and our behavior. Changing our “old man nature” is a 24 hour – 7 days a week exercise. But the rewards of our success are immeasurable. By changing what we do, we indeed have the ability to change who we are.
Because our salvation is fully paid for, we need not fear a spiritual “repo man.” Our spiritual change is once and forever. Our mindset therefore must be to walk worthy of God’s calling. Knowing that we have been chosen of God, we should conduct ourselves in a manner befitting that remarkable reality.
Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Why do we resist change if change is a necessary part of life? What can we do to lessen our resistance?
2. Who in the Bible demonstrates a dramatic change in their manner or thinking? What can we learn from them?
Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com
Thursday, April 8, 2010
THE SOLOIST (2009)
Directed by: Joe Wright
Written by: Susannah Grant
Studio: DreamWorks SKG
Starring: Robert Downey Jr. Jamie Foxx
Rated: PG-13
About the film:
Journalist Steve Lopez discovers a homeless man with a musical gift and works to bring him to the attention of an appreciative world. But the man’s mental illness proves to be an obstacle that causes Lopez to reconsider what he is doing and why. More importantly, he grows to recognize his share of responsibility for the troubled man.
Movie Quote:
“I’ve learned the dignity of being loyal to something you believe in; of holding onto it, above all else. And above all else, of believing, without question, that it will carry you home.”
Steve Lopez (Robert Downey Jr.) in The Soloist (2009)
Bible Quote:
“Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.”
Revelation 2:10 (KJV)
Commentary:
Steve Lopez learns a thing or two during his association with Nathaniel, a mentally ill, homeless but quite talented musician. Being true to something… anything… takes work. At some point along the way, we will all be tempted to take the easy route or make the expedient choice by setting our principles, integrity, or beliefs aside because of stiff opposition to them.
Being faithful or loyal to one’s principles or beliefs brings a certain weight or heft to one’s walk. There’s a noble, dignified quality that is associated with those who quietly refuse to bow down to or cave in to pressure or tempting pleasures. Our beliefs ultimately define us. If we choose only to believe when it is convenient (or when there is no opposition to those beliefs) what are we really saying about ourselves?
Being true to one’s beliefs or being faithful and loyal to that which we believe in carries its own reward. It strengthens us, even though we may appear weak. It sustains us, even though we may appear to be failing. It brings us the victory, even though we may appear to be defeated. We must remember that the battles we fight are spiritual ones. And the rewards are eternal.
Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. What did Steve Lopez learn about himself during the course of the film?
2. How can we strengthen our resolve when tempted to let go of our beliefs due to pressure being applied from outside sources?
Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com
Written by: Susannah Grant
Studio: DreamWorks SKG
Starring: Robert Downey Jr. Jamie Foxx
Rated: PG-13
About the film:
Journalist Steve Lopez discovers a homeless man with a musical gift and works to bring him to the attention of an appreciative world. But the man’s mental illness proves to be an obstacle that causes Lopez to reconsider what he is doing and why. More importantly, he grows to recognize his share of responsibility for the troubled man.
Movie Quote:
“I’ve learned the dignity of being loyal to something you believe in; of holding onto it, above all else. And above all else, of believing, without question, that it will carry you home.”
Steve Lopez (Robert Downey Jr.) in The Soloist (2009)
Bible Quote:
“Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.”
Revelation 2:10 (KJV)
Commentary:
Steve Lopez learns a thing or two during his association with Nathaniel, a mentally ill, homeless but quite talented musician. Being true to something… anything… takes work. At some point along the way, we will all be tempted to take the easy route or make the expedient choice by setting our principles, integrity, or beliefs aside because of stiff opposition to them.
Being faithful or loyal to one’s principles or beliefs brings a certain weight or heft to one’s walk. There’s a noble, dignified quality that is associated with those who quietly refuse to bow down to or cave in to pressure or tempting pleasures. Our beliefs ultimately define us. If we choose only to believe when it is convenient (or when there is no opposition to those beliefs) what are we really saying about ourselves?
Being true to one’s beliefs or being faithful and loyal to that which we believe in carries its own reward. It strengthens us, even though we may appear weak. It sustains us, even though we may appear to be failing. It brings us the victory, even though we may appear to be defeated. We must remember that the battles we fight are spiritual ones. And the rewards are eternal.
Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. What did Steve Lopez learn about himself during the course of the film?
2. How can we strengthen our resolve when tempted to let go of our beliefs due to pressure being applied from outside sources?
Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
FROST/NIXON (2009)
Directed by: Ron Howard
Written by: Peter Morgan
Studio: Universal Pictures
Starring: Frank Langella, Michael Sheen
Rated: R
About the film:
Disgraced former president Richard Nixon agrees to be interviewed by TV personality David Frost in what would become an historical event. As the event draws near both participants come to realize the significance and importance of this interview… not only for themselves but also for a nation at odds with itself.
Movie Quote:
“The unhappiest people of the world are retired – no purpose. What makes life mean something is purpose – a goal, a battle, a struggle.”
Richard Nixon (Frank Langella) in Frost/Nixon (2009)
Bible Quote:
“Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.”
James 4:14 (KJV)
Commentary:
A life without purpose can’t be called much of a life at all. If we are to look back on our life as we draw near to its end, what do you suppose will provide the most satisfaction for us? Far too many of us may be surprised to find that the endeavors that took up most of our time are, in retrospect, rather insignificant.
A purpose for living provides two main benefits. First, it gives us a goal to strive for; a direction in which to follow. We need not wander aimlessly through life wondering why we are so discontent. Secondly, it provides us with a benchmark for success. With nothing to accomplish, a wasted day is merely another link to a wasted life. Having a purpose gives us a measurement for success… reasons to rejoice… and a life that has meaning.
Coming up with a purpose in life is no small task… and men who try to figure one out for themselves often discover too late that their self-constructed purpose for living grows into a disappointing reality – successful or not. We can be thankful that God has provided a purpose for us. He formed, made, and created us with a purpose in mind. When we are faithful to that, our lives will live on and have meaning forever.
Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. What is man’s purpose in this life that God has given us?
2. How are the qualities of ego and pride represented in the two characters? What decisions do they make that are based upon them?
Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com
Written by: Peter Morgan
Studio: Universal Pictures
Starring: Frank Langella, Michael Sheen
Rated: R
About the film:
Disgraced former president Richard Nixon agrees to be interviewed by TV personality David Frost in what would become an historical event. As the event draws near both participants come to realize the significance and importance of this interview… not only for themselves but also for a nation at odds with itself.
Movie Quote:
“The unhappiest people of the world are retired – no purpose. What makes life mean something is purpose – a goal, a battle, a struggle.”
Richard Nixon (Frank Langella) in Frost/Nixon (2009)
Bible Quote:
“Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.”
James 4:14 (KJV)
Commentary:
A life without purpose can’t be called much of a life at all. If we are to look back on our life as we draw near to its end, what do you suppose will provide the most satisfaction for us? Far too many of us may be surprised to find that the endeavors that took up most of our time are, in retrospect, rather insignificant.
A purpose for living provides two main benefits. First, it gives us a goal to strive for; a direction in which to follow. We need not wander aimlessly through life wondering why we are so discontent. Secondly, it provides us with a benchmark for success. With nothing to accomplish, a wasted day is merely another link to a wasted life. Having a purpose gives us a measurement for success… reasons to rejoice… and a life that has meaning.
Coming up with a purpose in life is no small task… and men who try to figure one out for themselves often discover too late that their self-constructed purpose for living grows into a disappointing reality – successful or not. We can be thankful that God has provided a purpose for us. He formed, made, and created us with a purpose in mind. When we are faithful to that, our lives will live on and have meaning forever.
Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. What is man’s purpose in this life that God has given us?
2. How are the qualities of ego and pride represented in the two characters? What decisions do they make that are based upon them?
Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com
Monday, April 5, 2010
ANGELS & DEMONS (2009)
Directed by: Ron Howard
Written by: David Koepp, Akiva Goldsman
Studio: Columbia Pictures
Starring: Tom Hanks, Ewan McGregor
Rated: PG-13
About the film:
The Vatican again turns to noted symbologist Robert Langdon to help solve a crisis that involves four kidnapped Cardinals, a stolen container of destructive anti-matter, and the legendary group known only as the Illuminati.
Movie Quote:
“Science and religion are not enemies. There are simply some things that science is just too young to understand.
Camerlengo Patrick McKenna (Ewan McGregor) in Angels and Demons (2009)
Bible Quote:
“Do we then make void the law through faith? God forbid: yea, we establish the law.”
Romans 3:31 (KJV)
Commentary:
The observation made by one of the characters in Angels & Demons is a valid one. Throughout the years there have been those who regard scientific knowledge and religious faith to be diametrically opposed one to the other. Such a mindset limits our understanding in both categories. Science is nothing more than a systematic approach to acquiring knowledge – the study of the world around us using a methodology requiring observation, experimentation, and measurement. As such, science is not an enemy to faith… it is simply another means by which our faith can grow.
All of God’s creation can and should be scientifically studied. God, as creator of this world and all else, established the physical laws which govern its rule. Such laws are observable, and can be tested and measured. And seeing as how God has been around much longer than man and his scientific knowledge, it is little wonder that our science often “discovers” truths that God revealed to us thousands of years earlier.
One of the keys to scientific study is to share one’s findings, thus enabling others to build upon the work of all those working in the same field. If we want to learn all there is to know about a subject, it only makes good scientific sense to include in our studies, a study of the knowledge God has already made available to us through His Word.
Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. What are some of the “modern day” scientific discoveries that God provided foreshadowed knowledge of in the Bible?
2. Like science, art can also be seen as a help or a hindrance to one’s faith. What are some of the examples of art being used for either purpose?
Written by: David Koepp, Akiva Goldsman
Studio: Columbia Pictures
Starring: Tom Hanks, Ewan McGregor
Rated: PG-13
About the film:
The Vatican again turns to noted symbologist Robert Langdon to help solve a crisis that involves four kidnapped Cardinals, a stolen container of destructive anti-matter, and the legendary group known only as the Illuminati.
Movie Quote:
“Science and religion are not enemies. There are simply some things that science is just too young to understand.
Camerlengo Patrick McKenna (Ewan McGregor) in Angels and Demons (2009)
Bible Quote:
“Do we then make void the law through faith? God forbid: yea, we establish the law.”
Romans 3:31 (KJV)
Commentary:
The observation made by one of the characters in Angels & Demons is a valid one. Throughout the years there have been those who regard scientific knowledge and religious faith to be diametrically opposed one to the other. Such a mindset limits our understanding in both categories. Science is nothing more than a systematic approach to acquiring knowledge – the study of the world around us using a methodology requiring observation, experimentation, and measurement. As such, science is not an enemy to faith… it is simply another means by which our faith can grow.
All of God’s creation can and should be scientifically studied. God, as creator of this world and all else, established the physical laws which govern its rule. Such laws are observable, and can be tested and measured. And seeing as how God has been around much longer than man and his scientific knowledge, it is little wonder that our science often “discovers” truths that God revealed to us thousands of years earlier.
One of the keys to scientific study is to share one’s findings, thus enabling others to build upon the work of all those working in the same field. If we want to learn all there is to know about a subject, it only makes good scientific sense to include in our studies, a study of the knowledge God has already made available to us through His Word.
Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. What are some of the “modern day” scientific discoveries that God provided foreshadowed knowledge of in the Bible?
2. Like science, art can also be seen as a help or a hindrance to one’s faith. What are some of the examples of art being used for either purpose?
Friday, April 2, 2010
ALICE IN WONDERLAND (2010)
Directed by: Tim Burton
Written by: Linda Woolverton
Studio: Walt Disney Pictures
Starring: Mia Wasikowska, Johnny Depp, Helena Bonham Carter
Rated: PG
About the film:
19-year-old Alice returns to the strange place she once knew as Wonderland only to find the odd denizens there filled with anticipation of a long-awaited fulfillment of a prophecy in which she is to play a major part.
Movie Quote:
“The only way to achieve the impossible is to believe it is possible.”
Charles Kingsleigh (Marton Csokas) in Alice in Wonderland (2010)
Bible Quote:
“He replied, ‘Because you have so little faith. I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.’"
Matthew 17:20 (KJV)
Commentary:
Alice’s father has stumbled upon what is arguably the greatest secret to success in the universe. Woven into the fabric of creation as an immutable law is this simple key: Believing equals receiving.
The fact that this law works for Christian and non-Christian alike, it has been adopted by many who write self-help, how-to-succeed manuals: (The Power of Positive Thinking, The Law of Attraction, The Secret, etc.) Whatever moniker today’s authors care to put on it, the principle remains the same as when God first created it.
Of course, there are two kinds of believing. Positive believing (believing for health, prosperity, success) will reap positive results. Negative believing (fearing illnesses, poverty, failure) will reap negative results. Eradicating fear and other negative thoughts from our minds and replacing them with thoughts and visions of victory will go a long, long, way to our realizing the desires of our hearts.
But believing is not a passive activity, nor is it for the lazy or timid. Believing requires that we take action in line with our beliefs. The greater our believing, the bolder our actions may become. Believing also has rules. Our believing must be in accordance with what God says is available for us to believe. When we believe Him, and His promises to us, all things really do become possible.
Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Why do we sometimes find it hard to believe what God says is possible? How do we strengthen our believing?
2. Through much of the film Alice insists she is not the Alice of the prophecy. Why and what changed her view? How does that relate to the roles we play in the body of Christ?
Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com
Written by: Linda Woolverton
Studio: Walt Disney Pictures
Starring: Mia Wasikowska, Johnny Depp, Helena Bonham Carter
Rated: PG
About the film:
19-year-old Alice returns to the strange place she once knew as Wonderland only to find the odd denizens there filled with anticipation of a long-awaited fulfillment of a prophecy in which she is to play a major part.
Movie Quote:
“The only way to achieve the impossible is to believe it is possible.”
Charles Kingsleigh (Marton Csokas) in Alice in Wonderland (2010)
Bible Quote:
“He replied, ‘Because you have so little faith. I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.’"
Matthew 17:20 (KJV)
Commentary:
Alice’s father has stumbled upon what is arguably the greatest secret to success in the universe. Woven into the fabric of creation as an immutable law is this simple key: Believing equals receiving.
The fact that this law works for Christian and non-Christian alike, it has been adopted by many who write self-help, how-to-succeed manuals: (The Power of Positive Thinking, The Law of Attraction, The Secret, etc.) Whatever moniker today’s authors care to put on it, the principle remains the same as when God first created it.
Of course, there are two kinds of believing. Positive believing (believing for health, prosperity, success) will reap positive results. Negative believing (fearing illnesses, poverty, failure) will reap negative results. Eradicating fear and other negative thoughts from our minds and replacing them with thoughts and visions of victory will go a long, long, way to our realizing the desires of our hearts.
But believing is not a passive activity, nor is it for the lazy or timid. Believing requires that we take action in line with our beliefs. The greater our believing, the bolder our actions may become. Believing also has rules. Our believing must be in accordance with what God says is available for us to believe. When we believe Him, and His promises to us, all things really do become possible.
Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Why do we sometimes find it hard to believe what God says is possible? How do we strengthen our believing?
2. Through much of the film Alice insists she is not the Alice of the prophecy. Why and what changed her view? How does that relate to the roles we play in the body of Christ?
Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com
Thursday, April 1, 2010
THE SWORD IN THE STONE (1963)
Directed by: Wolfgang Reitherman
Written by: Bill Peet
Studio: Walt Disney Pictures
Starring: Karl Swenson, Rickie Sorenson, Sebastian Cabot
Rated: G
About the film:
The animated adventure of a young boy named Wart who wants to be the squire of a knight. He is guided by a powerful wizard named Merlin who knows that Wart (eventually to be known as Arthur) will grow to become the future king of Camelot.
Movie Quote:
“Knowledge and wisdom is the real power.”
Wart (Rickie Sorenson) in The Sword in the Stone (1963)
Bible Quote:
“The fear (respect or reverence) of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding.”
Proverbs 9:10 (KJV)
Commentary:
Knowledge, wisdom, and understanding are desirable qualities indeed… especially when concerning spiritual matters. God be praised, they are readily available to anyone willing to expend the effort to obtain them. One shall lead to the other and they all lead to “real power.”
Getting them is as easy as putting a jigsaw puzzle together. Metaphorically speaking, each piece of the puzzle would equate to a separate piece of knowledge. The wisdom is simply the act of using the pieces as they were designed to be used – applying the knowledge (or pieces) appropriately. Understanding is seeing the big picture become clear as more and more pieces of knowledge become connected through the application of wisdom.
Spiritually, God has given us knowledge through His Word. When we apply that knowledge, we walk in wisdom. As we walk in wisdom, according to the truth (or knowledge) of His Word, our eyes of understanding will be opened as we shall know and manifest the exceeding greatness of His power.
Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Why was Arthur the one person who could pull the sword out of the stone? What lessons can we learn from this to apply in our own lives?
2. Merlin taught Wart by turning him into different animals. How did this help him? What can we learn by observing the animal kingdom?
Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com
Written by: Bill Peet
Studio: Walt Disney Pictures
Starring: Karl Swenson, Rickie Sorenson, Sebastian Cabot
Rated: G
About the film:
The animated adventure of a young boy named Wart who wants to be the squire of a knight. He is guided by a powerful wizard named Merlin who knows that Wart (eventually to be known as Arthur) will grow to become the future king of Camelot.
Movie Quote:
“Knowledge and wisdom is the real power.”
Wart (Rickie Sorenson) in The Sword in the Stone (1963)
Bible Quote:
“The fear (respect or reverence) of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding.”
Proverbs 9:10 (KJV)
Commentary:
Knowledge, wisdom, and understanding are desirable qualities indeed… especially when concerning spiritual matters. God be praised, they are readily available to anyone willing to expend the effort to obtain them. One shall lead to the other and they all lead to “real power.”
Getting them is as easy as putting a jigsaw puzzle together. Metaphorically speaking, each piece of the puzzle would equate to a separate piece of knowledge. The wisdom is simply the act of using the pieces as they were designed to be used – applying the knowledge (or pieces) appropriately. Understanding is seeing the big picture become clear as more and more pieces of knowledge become connected through the application of wisdom.
Spiritually, God has given us knowledge through His Word. When we apply that knowledge, we walk in wisdom. As we walk in wisdom, according to the truth (or knowledge) of His Word, our eyes of understanding will be opened as we shall know and manifest the exceeding greatness of His power.
Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Why was Arthur the one person who could pull the sword out of the stone? What lessons can we learn from this to apply in our own lives?
2. Merlin taught Wart by turning him into different animals. How did this help him? What can we learn by observing the animal kingdom?
Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com
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