Movie Night Chat

Cinderella Man

2011-01-12T06:41:00.000-08:00

This 2005 films is based on the true story of James Braddock, a heavyweight boxer who lived in New York during the great depression. After an early rise to the top of the boxing world, Braddock hits on hard times – including an injured hand that prevents him from fighting, taking away his only real source of income. A devoted family man, Braddock and his wife enter the greatest fight of their lives – trying to keep the family together against tremendous odds. (Heads Up: James’ manager (Joe) frequently uses offensive language, including pervasive use of the Lord’s name in vain. Also, much of the boxing violence is very realistic and intense.)

DISCUSS:

QUESTION: James Braddock and his wife are clearly devoted to one another and to their children. How does their relationship reflect a Christian view of marriage and family? Contrast their relationship to those who walk away when times get tough. (See "A" Below)
QUESTION: James Braddock had a legitimate need, yet resisted accepting any charity from others or a handout from the government. Even what he took he repaid as soon as he was able. Was this mere pride or did it reflect a strong work ethic? How does his attitude toward accepting charity differ from many in our day? (See "B" Below)
QUESTION: This film contains several demonstrations of heroic self-sacrifice in which one person gives up something for others. Describe your favorites and explain how it reflects the main plot of God’s story. (See "C" Below)

THINK ABOUT IT:

A) The Bible describes marriage as a picture of God’s relationship with His beloved bride, the church. (See Ephesians 5) That’s why traditional marriage vows commit to “love, comfort and keep him/her in sickness and in health; and forsaking all others, keep only to him/her, so long as we both shall live.” I Timothy 5:8 says that anyone who fails to provide for his/her immediate family has “denied the faith” and lives “worse than an unbeliever.” Clearly, unending devotion to a spouse and children are top priorities for every believer. Sadly, many in our generation walk away from these responsibilities over far less adversity than James Braddock faced.
B) Accepting help from others when we are truly in need requires humility. But we should always seek to work for what we receive. The scriptures are filled with admonitions to work hard and carry your own weight, such as when the Apostle Paul instructed early believers “If a man will not work, he shall not eat.” (2 Thessalonians 3:10) He also told the Roman Christians to “let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another.” (Romans 13:8) Those who can work should work, and those who receive from others should pay it back when they are able. When we become comfortable with handouts we can develop slothful habits and the feeling the world owes you something rather than humble gratitude for God’s provision. Hard work is a gift from God because it gives us a sense of dignity and confidence.

C) Each of us has been called to follow Christ’s example by giving ourselves up for others. (See Philippians 2:5-8) Several scenes reflect that attitude in Cinderella man including…(1) James Braddock tells his children that he was full because he dreamed about a big meal, allowing the kids to eat his share. (2) Against every instinct inside of him, James humiliates himself in front of his former colleagues by asking for help to keep his family together. (3) Joe (James’ manager)secretly sold all of this furniture to provide enough money for James to train for another fight .

Les Miserables

2011-01-12T06:24:00.000-08:00

The 1998 film version of Les Miserables stars Liam Neeson as Jean Valjean and Geoffrey Rush as the unforgiving Inspector Javert. Valjean is a former convict who has been rescued to God’s grace by a benevolent priest. The priest challenges Valjean to become a new man and provides the means to start again. Despite his best efforts, however, the relentless pursuit of an unforgiving law keeps a Valjean on the run and disrupts his efforts to care for other victims of a society dominated by cruelty and injustice.

DISCUSS:

QUESTION: After forgiving Jean Valjean for stealing, the priest makes him promise to become a new man and says “You no longer belong to evil… I’ve ransomed you from fear and hatred. And now I give you back to God.” This is clearly the pivotal scene in the story. In what ways does this moment echo the Christian gospel? (See "A" Below)
QUESTION: Jean Valjean’s life clearly portrays the power of grace and forgiveness. What does Inspector Javert’s life portray? (See "B" Below)
QUESTION: In the final scene of the film Inspector Javert says that he lived his entire life trying to keep every rule. He could not grasp the concept of grace. What biblical characters does he bring to mind? (See "C" Below)

THINK ABOUT IT:

A) God does not seek to punish but to forgive. He pays the price to “ransom” us from evil. He then calls us to become new men and women. (See Mark 10:45, John 8:1-12, Romans 6:23, 2 Corinthians 5:17)

B) A life of self-righteousness striving to live according to the cruel taskmaster of the law. (See Romans 3:20, Romans 6:14, Galatians 2:16, Galatians 3:13)
C) The older brother in the story of the prodigal son (see Luke 15:11-32) or the Pharisee and the tax-collector who cried “God, be merciful to me a sinner!” (See Luke 18:9-14)

It's A Wonderful Life

2010-11-19T14:55:00.000-08:00

This wonderful 1946 classic has become a Christmas season tradition for many families. Take a few moments after watching to discuss the implicit message of George Bailey’s life experience. After a lifetime sacrificing his own dreams and ambitions for the sake of others, George encounters a crisis which pushes him to the end of himself. Wishing he had never been born, the angel Clarence gives him what he asks for by showing George what life for others would have been like if not for him. In the end, George realizes just how wonderful life is - all thanks to a little perspective.

DISCUSS:

1. Why did George wish he had never been born? (See “A” below)

2. What was so wonderful about George Bailey’s life? (See “B” below)

3. What is the message of this film? (See “C” below)

4. What Bible passage does the life of George Bailey model? (See “D“ below)

THINK ABOUT IT:

A) Because he was focused on his troubles and on all the things he didn’t get to do.

B) His life became rich by serving and helping other people rather than chasing his own dream.

C) That we have great worth, even if life doesn’t turn out like we expect.

D) James 1:27 says “Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.” (NKJV)

Bella

2010-11-12T06:55:00.000-08:00

This 2006 independent film won the People’s Choice Award at the Toronto International Film Festival and several other awards. Jose is a man with a heartbreaking secret in his past. Nina is a woman with no hope for her future. They become friends and help one another discover the healing power of family relationships and sacrificial love.

DISCUSS:

1. Throughout the film Nina seems a distant personality with a hard edge, as if trying to protect herself from close relationship with others. Yet she quickly warms to Jose and his family. Why does spending time with a loving family help us overcome isolation and pain? (See “a” below)

2. Throughout the story we wonder what happened to cause Jose to abandon his soccer career and live with such a heavy burden of regret. He seems to punish himself until he can find a way to make things right. In what ways do you think his attempts to help Nina are part of his healing? (See “b” below)

3. The opening statement of the movie is “If you want to make God laugh, tell Him your plans.” How does this statement play out in the story told? (See “c” below)

4. Did you find it surprising that Jose rather than Nina raised her child? What might be the significance of this unexpected ending? (See “d” below)

Think About It

a) The scriptures describe a loving home as a mysterious picture of God Himself. (See Ephesians 5:31-32) Even those who have a troubled home are drawn to the mysterious reflection of God’s love found in other nurturing families.

b) While it is impossible to make full restitution for all of our sins and failures (See Ephesians 2:8-9) we are called to become agents of God’s grace in the lives of others which in turn brings meaning and healing in our own lives. (See Matthew 5:16, Ephesians 2:10, Titus 3:8-14, Hebrews 10:24 )

c) This story reflects how God can use even our most painful experiences to accomplish something good. (See Romans 2:28-29)

d) As Jose sits on the beach he looks a bit like our image of Jesus. This is fitting since he plays the part of Christ-like sacrifice by loving Nina, rescuing the child, and giving up his own plans in order to “lay his life down” for another. (See John 15:13, I John 3:16)

Copyright 2010 Inkling Innovations

Marvin's Room

2010-11-05T19:28:00.000-07:00

This 1996 film tells a touching story of two sisters, Bessie (played by Diane Keaton) who has been caring for her bed-ridden father (Marvin) and eccentric aunt for twenty years; and Lee (played by Meryl Streep) who has spent the same twenty years messing-up her life and the life of her two sons. Bessie lived a life of self-sacrifice in order to care for others - experiencing love and true meaning in the process. Lee, on the other hand, ran from responsibility - only to discover that it led to a shallow, conflicted existence. Marvin's Room is about their forced reunion after discovering Bessie has leukemia and may soon die. Have a hanky ready as you watch love break through the conflict to make a powerful statement about the dignity and value of every human life - and the meaning that comes from loving those difficult to love.

DISCUSS:

1. By her actions, what was Bessie's view of personal worth? (See "A" below)

2. How about Lee? (See "B" below)

3. In the end, what did Lee learn? (See "C" below)

4. What does this film say about the worth of the individual? (See "D" below)

THINK ABOUT IT:

A) That all people are worthy and should be treated with dignity - even those who can't care for themselves.

B) That we should look out for ourselves only, and accept people who fit into our plan.
C) That even though it may be scary, we find true meaning when we put the needs of others ahead of ourselves.
D) That we are worthy based upon who we are, not based upon what we do.

The Green Mile

2010-07-18T12:36:00.000-07:00

This 1999 film tells the story of death row prison guard (played by Tom Hanks) and a gentle giant named John Coffey who has been falsely accused of rape and murder. John Coffey turns out to be a Christ-like figure as he takes upon himself the suffering of others, heals those in pain, and eventually dies taking the punishment for another man's sin. (Caution: This film is rated "R" for strong language and disturbing violence.)

DISCUSS

The main character (played by Tom Hanks) suffers the intense pain of a severe urinary tract infection. The warden's wife is dying from cancer. How do these illnesses provide an allegory of our fallen world? (See "A" Below)
John Coffey is a giant who could overpower the guards and try to escape, but he doesn't. How does his attitude and behavior echo Christ? (See "B" Below)
How does the manner in which John Coffey heals others reflect Christ's work on our behalf? (See "C" Below)
One guard (Percy) and one prisoner ("Wild Bill") show themselves to be particularly evil and unrepentant. In the end John Coffey makes sure each is punished for his persistent wickedness. Does this reflect or undermine Christian teachings? (See "D" Below)

THINK ABOUT IT

A) Every member of the human family, including those who live a good life, are touched by disease and mortality. Disease and death entered our experience as a result of the Fall. (See Romans 5:12)
B) The scriptures describe Jesus Christ as one who behaved as "a lamb to the slaughter" despite having the power to command legions of angels. (See Isaiah 53:6-7, Matthew 27:38-44)
C) Like Christ, he took the pain or disease of others upon himself. "He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities... By his stripes we are healed." (See Isaiah 53:4-5)
D) Jesus Christ redeems those who repent but judges all who persist in their sin. (See Revelation 21:6-8)

Marriage Date Movie

2010-07-13T07:09:00.000-07:00

Use this chat guide for a date-night with your spouse. Select a favorite romantic film to buy or rent. (For best results, let her choose!) Get the kids to bed and then slip into something "comfortable" before watching the movie in the privacy of your bedroom. Then take turns answering the following questions. Before going to sleep give one another a very long kiss goodnight!

DISCUSS

BOY MEETS GIRL: Every great romantic story has a "boy meets girl" moment when two individuals find themselves drawn to the other. What was that moment for the guy in the story? For the girl? For you?
OBSTACLES: Name several obstacles keeping the couple apart. Was the biggest obstacle external (i.e. another person) or internal (i.e. clashing personalities, fear)? What obstacles(s) did the two of you overcome to meet and marry?
MYSTERY: The Apostle Paul called spousal intimacy "a great mystery" because when "two become one" they create a picture of Christ's marriage to the church. (See Ephesians 5:33) Did any actions/choices by the guy in the story model selfless love? How about the actions/choices of the girl? What actions/choices has your spouse made that make you feel loved?
INTIMACY: The most exciting moments of intimacy occur when both individuals seek to please the other rather than themselves. Did selfless giving or selfish taking characterize the couple in the film? Describe one way you would like to better meet your mate's needs in daily life and during physical intimacy.

Lord of the Flies

2010-06-29T12:11:00.000-07:00

In this disturbing yet profound story a group of well-educated, well-behaved boys from an elite school find themselves stranded on a deserted island after a plane crash. With no adults to take charge, the boys must establish a system of order so that they can work together toward survival. As the story unfolds, they become ill-disciplined and violent. Ralph, the kind and natural leader, is rejected and attacked. The chubby outsider (Piggy) fears for and eventually loses his life. This group of well-behaved children turns into a pack of savages by subverting order, embracing cruelty and killing the weak. If not for the timely intervention of a rescue team, they would have continued toward eventual self-destruction. The message at the core is one of evil in our world - and more troubling - in our hearts. Please note that the 1990 version is rated "R" for intensity and language. The 1963 is closer to the original novel if you can track down a copy.

DISCUSS:

Were the boys good or bad at the beginning of the story? (See "A" below)
Why did some of the boys become so cruel/evil later in the story? (Bee "B" below)
Did the evil come from outside or inside the boys? (See "C" below)
In what ways does this story illustrate James 1:14-15? (See "D" below)

THINK ABOUT IT:

A) They had the potential for either, but seemed well behaved.
B) Because there were no adults to keep them from doing bad things.
C) They influenced one another, but the basic bent toward evil was within each of them..
D) We are fallen human beings. Despite great potential and capacity for good, each of us finds himself/herself prone toward sin and destruction.

Disney Princess Movies

2010-06-18T09:33:00.000-07:00

Most little girls love the Disney Princess movies. And for good reason. They all reflect part of the ultimate love story found in the gospel and emphasize important themes on what it means to be a child of God and Christ's beloved. Use the following questions and scriptures to point your little princess toward God after watching the princess movie of her choice.

DISCUSS

Describe the girl's life at the start of the story. Is she happy? Does she wish for something more or better? What? (See "A" below)
What danger does the girl face? Is there someone who wants to harm her or make her unhappy? What kind of obstacles (problems) must be overcome? (See "B" below)
What magical things happen to help make the girl's dreams come true? (See "C" below)

THINK ABOUT IT

A) Read I Peter 5:8 and discuss how our real world has a villain named Satan who deceives us and creates other obstacles to keep us away from our happily-ever-after destiny with God.
B) Read I Corinthians 15:55-57. God defeated the villain with the "magic" (actually, the miracle) of Jesus' resurrection from the dead. Now we can escape the darkness of sin and "marry" the Son of the King!
C) Read Revelation 19:7. Little girls hope for "happily-ever-after" with a handsome prince because it points them to the true story where God invites us to live happily-ever-after as His bride.

Ratatouille

2010-06-15T10:52:00.000-07:00

This 2007 Disney/Pixar film captures the good, bad and ugly of our love affair with food. The main character of Ratatouille is a rat named Remy who turns out to be a great chef. Unsatisfied with the garbage the rest of his family consumes, Remy craves the kind of variety, delicious smells and endless combinations of flavors available in human kitchens. He eventually becomes the culinary brains behind a clumsy, awkward young cook. The two create many wonderful recipes on their way to rebuilding the reputation of

France

’s once great restaurants.

DISCUSS:

Read Matthew 6:9-13 aloud together and discuss how these versus inform a proper perspective of relating to food? (See "A" below)
What are some of the unhealthy attitudes and actions various characters display in this film? (See "B" below)
How can we align our own habits with what God intends for us? (See "C" below)

THINK ABOUT IT:

A) As created beings we are dependent upon God to provide for us - including the air we breathe, the food we eat and the water we drink. That's why Jesus taught us to depend upon Him for what we need ("Give us this day our daily bread") and to seek strength in resisting temptation to over-indulge ("lead us not into temptation").
B) The Master Chef Gusteau has a giant belly suggesting he spent his life overindulging in food - possibly leading to his early death. (Over Eater) On the "skin-and-bones" end of the scale is the snooty critic Anton Ego who portrays an attitude of superiority and arrogance. Rather than receive God's gift of food with gratitude, he rejects anything that doesn't meet his personal taste standards. (Picky Eater) Remy’s brother Emile eats anything and everything without regard for the look, smell or taste. In one scene, Remy expressed disgust when his brother eagerly eats a bit of trash without a clue what it is. Emile justified his lack of taste, suggesting there are limitless food possibilities once you learn to “muscle your way past the gag reflex.” (Obsessive Eater)
C) We can pause to give thanks before eating to acknowledge our dependence upon God and our gratitude for His life-sustaining gifts. We can also eat what is placed before us to acknowledge we receive what comes rather than demand our way. Finally, we can participate in a periodic fast from unhealthy foods to discipline our stomachs rather than allowing them to rule our lives.

Copyright - 2010 Inkling Innovations

The Lord of the Rings Trilogy

2010-04-22T10:49:00.000-07:00

J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings series is considered the greatest fantasy series ever written. It bubbles over with themes that grow out of the author's devout Christian faith. While Peter Jackson's film trilogy doesn't capture all of the depth or charm found in the books, they do provide a launching point to discuss themes important to believers. The central story features Frodo Baggins, a good natured hobbit thrust into a grand adventure to destroy the ring of doom in order to free Middle-earth from domination by the forces of evil. He encounters many challenges along with way, including the addictive allure of the ring itself. In the end, Frodo and his faithful companion Sam overcome overwhelming obstacles to fulfill their part in a grand story. Find Kurt Bruner's podcasts about Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings HERE.

DISCUSS:

Frodo's friend, the wizard Gandalf, possesses magical powers used to protect and defend justice. What kind of being does Gandalf seem to reflect from the real world? (See "A" below)
Possessing the ring for an extended period of time turned a hobbit named Smeagol into a pitiable, obsessed Gollum. It begins to have similar influence on Bilbo Baggins and on Frodo. What kind of influences in our world does the ring seem to reflect? (See "B" below)
The world of Middle-earth seems to be a dark, ominous place. But there are moments of delightful relief and heroic self-sacrifice. How do both fit a Christian view of reality? (See "C" below)

THINK ABOUT IT:

A) Tolkien created the wizards of Middle-earth as supernatural beings similar to angels in the real world. Of course, we can't see angels - but they possess powers and must submit the use of those powers to the authority if the good Creator (as does Gandalf) or submit them to the evil revel (like Saruman).
B) The ring of power shows the de-humanizing influence of submitting ourselves to anything other than God - be it drugs, alcohol, power, sex or any number of alluring vices. Read I Corinthians 6:12 to discover why we must guard ourselves against such addictive influences.
C) Christianity is not naive when it comes to evil. We recognize that we live in a world dominated by dark forces serving God's enemy - the devil. But we also find hope in the redemptive power of Christ's sacrifice. (See Romans 6:23)

© Inkling Innovations 2010

The Chronicles of Narnia

2010-04-22T09:56:00.000-07:00

All seven Narnia stories by C.S. Lewis are essential for helping shape a child’s spiritual imagination with Christian themes. Reading the books or listening to the Focus on the Family Radio Theatre versions are the best way to experience the full series. The Walden/Disney film version of the The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe can also be used as a launching point for great discussions. In this story, four English children enter the world of Narnia through an old wardrobe in the professor’s attic. They meet many mythical creatures in a world ruled by a cold, heartless “Queen” known as the White Witch. There is a rumor that the great Lion (Aslan) is on the move and that the children have arrived to fulfill an ancient prophecy that Narnia will be freed from slavery to the Witch. As the story unfolds, one of the four children (Edmund) betrays the residents of Narnia and Aslan offers himself to pay the boy’s penalty – which leads to a wonderful surprise in the end. Find Kurt Bruner's podcast titled "C.S. Lewis Interview Part One" discussing Narnia HERE.

DISCUSS:

Edmund's festering attitude and appetite for sweets drives him into the deceptive clutches of the White Witch. How does Edmund's betrayal echo a Christian view of the fall of humanity? (See "A" below)
The Witch is the one who has made it "always winter and never Christmas" in Narnia. Who does she seem to personify from our world? (See "B" below)
Aslan is a mysterious being throughout much of the story. The inhabitants of Narnia have long anticipated his arrival - but have never actually seen him. Who do you think Aslan reflects in our world? (See "C" below)

THINK ABOUT IT:

A) Read Genesis 3, Romans 3:23 and Romans 6:23 which tell us that all humanity carries a disease called "sin" that includes the consequence (penalty) called death.
B) The White Witch reflects many of the characteristics of Satan, including the power of deception and her role as illegitimate ruler who enslaves people. Read biblical passages that describe how Satan works (Luke 4:1-13, John 8:44, I Peter 5:8) and discuss whether you think the White Witch reflects similar patterns.
C) C.S. Lewis tried to imagine what Christ would be like if he entered a world of talking animals. Like Jesus, Aslan is the rightful king who has come to overthrow the power of evil through the "deep magic" of heroic self-sacrifice. (See John 3:16)

The Exorcism of Emily Rose

2010-03-08T10:18:00.000-08:00

Based upon a true story, this film shows a minister on trial after trying to help a college-aged girl (Emily Rose) break free of what appears to be demonic possession. The clergyman is accused of negligent homicide because he used spiritual intervention in place of psychiatric treatment. His defense attorney, an unbeliever, faces the difficult challenge of proving the existence of demons. (Caution: This film is NOT appropriate for younger viewers as it deals with a true story involving possible demonic activity. This is not a feel-good movie for casual viewing and should only be viewed with older teens mature enough to discuss the reality of Satan vs. the power of Christ.)

DISCUSS:

Medical and psychiatric experts claimed that Emily's symptoms suggest epileptic seizures rather than demonic activity. If you were a member of the jury, would you have found their arguments convincing? Why or why not? (See "A" below)
After learning of several scary incidents in the lawyer's life, the minister suggests she herself may be under spiritual attack. Do you believe Satan manipulates people in this way when they are doing something that threatens his agenda? (See "B" below)
The prosecuting attorney claims to be a religious man, yet he repeatedly dismisses the possibility of supernatural activity. The defense attorney claims no faith, yet seems open to the priest's story. Which more closely reflects a spiritual worldview vs. a purely material view of the world? (See "C" and "B" below)

THINK ABOUT IT:

A) The symptoms of demonic possession described in the Bible are very similar to an epileptic seizure. (See Mark 9:14-27) It seems that both physical or supernatural causes can trigger the same symptoms.
B) Jesus said that the Devil’s primary weapon against us is deception. (John 8:44) If he can get us to believe a lie and live according to that lie he has gained control over us.
C) C.S. Lewis said that Satan is equally happy with two errors: (1) Thinking too much about demons, or (2) Thinking they don’t exist at all. Which error is more common in our generation?
D) In Ephesians 6:10-18 Paul told believers that we battle against spiritual forces. In John 8:31-32 Jesus said that our primary weapon against Satan’s deceptive power is holding to the truth. Go further by listening to a podcast featuring a debate between Lucifer and Michael by going HERE.

The Golden Compass

2010-03-08T10:00:00.000-08:00

The Golden Compass is about a pre-adolescent girl name Lyra living in a world similar to ours but different in many ways. She stumbles into an epic battle between those on the side of her Uncle Asriel (the academic and scientific world) and a powerful group called “the Magisterium.” As the adventure unfolds, Lyra becomes embroiled in a battle against those who claim allegiance to the “Authority.” This film is adapted from the first of three books in the His Dark Materials trilogy by Philip Pullman, an author who claims the goal of undermining Christianity.

DISCUSS:

In Lyra’s world everyone’s soul is called a “daemon” and it appears in an animal form that reflects the person’s basic personality. What animal form would your soul take if visible? (See "A" Below)
Lord Asriel refers to someone called “The Authority.” Asriel has a conflict with members of “The Magisterium” who support the Authority. Who do you think this “Magisterium” is supposed to represent in our world? (See "B" Below)
Why would Mrs. Coulter and the Magisterium cut children away from their daemons (souls)? (See "C" Below)
In what ways does The Golden Compass imply Christian beliefs are the problem rather than the solution? (Listen to the His Dark Materials podcast episode by going HERE)

THINK ABOUT IT:

A) The word “deamon” sounds like “demon” but carries a different meaning. A “daemon” is an ancient word describing beings who bridge the physical and spiritual realms.

B) The Golden Compass is the first of a three-book series in which author Philip Pullman portrays a war against God by those who reject any authority so everyone can rule his or her own life. He overtly claims to hate Christianity and the church. His books call God “The Authority” and the church “The Magisterium.” Lord Asriel represents the elite members of the academic and scientific communities. Pullman’s stories pit them against one another with “God” as the villain.

C) Philip Pullman claims that religion cuts people off from their true nature by placing them under the authority of an illegitimate God. But Christians know that rebellion against a loving God cuts us off from his life-sustaining goodness. (Read Genesis 3, Matthew 5:5, Matthew 11:29, I Peter 5:5)

Amazing Grace

2010-03-08T09:29:00.000-08:00

This epic film tells the true story of William Wilberforce – an 18^th century British politician who led a very unpopular movement to end the slave trade. Wilberforce was motivated by a deep Christian faith and spiritually mentored by John Newton – a former slave ship captain turned minister and author of the famous hymn Amazing Grace. During his long battle Wilberforce overcomes many obstacles including powerful political enemies, the economic might of the slave-trade industry and failing health.

DISCUSS:

William Wilberforce was born into a life of wealth and achieved political power at a young age. Do you think this would make it harder or easier to embrace Christian faith? Harder or easier to speak out against injustice? (See "A" Below)
The stress of his battle against the slave trade caused Wilberforce serious health challenges. His marriage to Barbara helped restore his health and enabled him to continue his battle. Why does the practical love of family infuse health and balance in our lives? (See "B" Below)
After his conversion to Christianity Wilberforce seriously considered leaving politics to enter pastoral ministry. Others, including his “old preacher” John Newton, advised William to stay in politics and fight slavery. Many Christians think politics a less “spiritual” career than ministry. Do you agree or disagree? Why? (See "C" Below)
The abolitionist movement was primarily led by Christians who were unpopular at the time for “forcing their religious views on others.” Does this remind you of any movements in our day? (See "D" Below)

THINK ABOUT IT:

A) Jesus said that it is harder for a rich man to humble himself and believe than a poor man. (See Matthew 19:16-26) He also taught a parable showing it is rare for a man of status to risk his own comfort and influence for the sake of those less fortunate. (See Luke 10:25-37)
B) The Bible says that husbands and wives complete one another and together they picture the saving truth of the gospel (See Ephesians 5:31-32). Research shows that married men tend to live longer, healthier and more successful lives than single men. Clearly God designed marriage and family as a life-giving gift to His children.
C) William Wilberforce wrote a popular book titled Real Christianity presenting a compelling case for Christian belief. He also said that God had called him to pursue two great battles in life, starting with the abolition of the slave trade.
D) Many compare the abolitionist movement to the pro-life movement since both are rooted in the dignity of human life. There is also a modern movement to rescue women and children from “slavery” of prostitution. But any effort to defend the defenseless and comfort the oppressed puts our faith into action. (See James 1:27)

A Christmas Carol

2009-10-16T11:16:00.000-07:00

The 2009 Disney 3D animated version of A Christmas Carol is a bit scary for small children, but a wonderful experience for the rest of the family. There is more message in this story than we often realize. It is not just about a guy who didn’t like Christmas. It is a tale of repentance and redemption. Ebenezer Scrooge is a powerful symbol of the choice each of us must make in life - either to follow our selfish, sinful nature or submit to God and reflect His image in our attitudes and actions. (If you wish to use a radio drama rather than film version of this story, the Focus on the Family Radio Theatre adaptation of this story is excellent!)

FAMILY DISCUSSION:

QUESTION: Was Scrooge made in the image of God? ANSWER: Yes, but he certainly didn’t live like it!
QUESTION: In what ways did Scrooge show he had a sinful heart? ANSWER: He was selfish, stingy, mean, etc. - all of which show the dark side of people.
QUESTION: After he realized he was wrong, what did Scrooge do? ANSWER: He turned away from the wrong toward the right. He repented – which means to turn around.
QUESTION: During his dream Scrooge felt badly about the consequences of his past actions and regretted his self-centered lifestyle. Is that the same thing as repentance? ANSWER: No. Feeling badly is not the same thing as turning around and heading in the right direction.
QUESTION: How does the story of Scrooge echo the good news of the gospel? ANSWER: We all make sinful choices that hurt ourselves and others. But God gives us the grace to repent and turn around, allowing us to experience God’s fellowship and joy rather than the dark isolation of selfish living.

More on Scrooge: Download the ARTICLE titled A Candle Lit by Kurt Bruner for further reflection. You can also find his podcast discussing the story HERE.

© 2009 Inkling Innovations

Contact

2009-10-16T10:52:00.000-07:00

In this film, the main character (played by Jodi Foster) is a scientist on a quest to find intelligent life beyond earth. Once contact is made, the people of earth create a machine which allows her to travel across the galaxies and communicate directly with alien beings. There is a scene in the film while the main character is traveling through space and becomes overwhelmed with the beauty and majesty of space - to the point that she can’t even speak. Zero in on this scene and ask the following discussion questions...

DISCUSS:

Question: What view of God does Jodie Foster’s character represent? Answer: The view that without proof, we can’t believe in God
Question: Why did she become overwhelmed at the splendor and majesty of space? Answer: Because she was experiencing something greater than herself.
Question: What passage of scripture speaks to what she experienced while traveling through space? Answer: Psalm 19 says that the heavens declare the glory of God!
Question: What is the truth she refused to accept? Answer: That the order and beauty of our universe is evidence of a Creator God.

More on Contact: Download an ARTICLE about Contact from one of Kurt Bruner’s books for further reflection. You can also find his podcast about the film's key themes by clicking HERE.

The Truman Show

2009-08-23T09:56:00.000-07:00

Truman (played by Jim Carrey) is unaware that he is living on a giant television set and his every action is being broadcast to the world. Every person in his life is an actor or actress, every scene a prop, every discussion a scripted set-up to see how he will respond. As Truman begins to realize that there is something wrong with his world he seeks to discover whether or not there is a world beyond the one in which he is trapped. Another key character is the producer of the Truman show (played by Ed Harris) who manipulates Truman’s surroundings to make him think it is reality - when in fact it is all a grand deception. To find Kurt Bruner's podcast about this film go HERE.

DISCUSS:

How does Christof mirror what we know of Lucifer? (See "A" below)
In what ways are we like Truman? (See "B" below)
Read Jesus’ words in John 8:44 and then John 8:32. What did you observe in this film reflecting these realities? (See "C" below)

THINK ABOUT IT:

A) Christof manipulates Truman into believing and living a lie.
B) We sense that there is a reality beyond our immediate experience, and that there is more to reality than what we see. But we must overcome the obstacles of deception to reach our true home.
C) In a military campaign, the element of surprise gives a major advantage. Spiritual warfare is the same since those who are tempted, abused or oppressed know it - but the deceived don’t know it. Deception is our enemy’s primary weapon used to gain a strategic advantage in our lives. We can learn from Truman by refusing to suppress the suspicion that we are made for more and by following clues that point us toward our true purpose – living what Jesus called “life to the full.”

Download and print this chat guide HERE.

Dead Poets Society

2009-08-20T16:26:00.000-07:00

Mr. Keating (played by Robin Williams) is a wonderful teacher who uses unconventional methods to awaken his student’s minds to poetry, beauty and a passion for life. But he does so based upon a view of the world which says that we should pursue life to the full while we are alive because when it’s over, it’s over. His primary theme is “Carpe Diem - Seize the Day!” One young student named Neil fully embraces Mr. Keating’s philosophy, giving him the courage to defy his overbearing father. But doing so ends in tragedy when Neil’s Carpe Diem dream is taken away. Hear Kurt discuss highlights of this film on his podcast HERE.

DISCUSS:

What view of God and eternity does Mr. Keating present? (See "A" below)
What is the problem with this view? (See "B" below)
What book of the Bible speaks to the same issue? (See "C" below)
Deep down, do you think Neil’s father loved his son? (See "D" below)
Why did Neil take his own life? (See "E" below)
Do most people achieve their Carpe Diem dreams in this life? (See "F" below)

THINK ABOUT IT:

A) The view that there is no God or life after death.
B) In truth God who gives purpose/meaning in and beyond this life.
C) In the book of Ecclesiastes Solomon describes life “under the sun” (which means “apart from God”) as meaningless.
D) Yes, but he was an imperfect and overbearing man.
E) He had embraced a philosophy that says there was no meaning to life unless we are able to do what we want – so he lost hope.
F) No, but they still have meaning and a God-given purpose in life.

Download and print this chat guide HERE.