5 Timeless Lessons from the Hit Film ‘God’s Not Dead’
The release of “God’s Not Dead” in 2014 shocked box office watchers and viewers alike, grossing over $60 million in theaters, and highlighting a strong, untapped Christian movie market. In fact, it set off a firestorm of success for so-called “faith films,” proving that audiences still prefer films built on positive values and redemptive themes.
“God’s Not Dead” tells the story of Josh, a college freshman whose belief in the existence of God is challenged by his atheist Philosophy professor. Josh is forced to take a stand and defend his faith, and in the process, discovers some timeless lessons that still impact viewers today.
1. The Word of God is the most powerful tool we have.
Josh uses many resources to defend the existence of God in the film, but his real journey to defending his faith starts with the Bible and his calling as a Christian to “acknowledge Jesus before men” (Matthew 10:32-33). Notably, when Josh doubts his ability to rise to the challenge, his pastor reminds him of the truth found in Luke 12:48, “Everyone to whom much was given, of him much will be required.” Josh then quotes the Bible at different points during his arguments, which no doubt resonates with his classmates—and even his professor. After all, the Bible says that “Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God” (Romans 10:17).
2. Positive relationships mirror Jesus in word and action.
“God’s Not Dead” illustrates how vital it is for our relationships on earth to mirror God’s love. Whether it’s friendship, familial relationships, or even romantic ones, keeping Christ at the center of them all is key to developing positive relationship that promote faith, hope, and love in our lives. And while many of the characters in “God’s Not Dead,” including Josh, suffer from unhealthy relationships, by the end of the movie, they come to realize this important truth.
3. Following Jesus almost always comes at a cost.
Nobody chooses to become a Christian because they want an easier life. The Bible says in John 15:19, “If you were of the world, the world would love you as its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you.” There is simply no sugarcoating it: following Jesus almost always comes at a cost. In the movie, we see that in Josh’s life, in Mina’s life, and in the lives of Josh’s fellow students. Thankfully, the film also reminds us that keeping our eyes on Jesus helps put earthly suffering into perspective. After all, our worldly struggles are only temporary.
4. God always has a plan.
Life can be hard. It would have been easy for Josh to drop the class or to just sign the paper and move on with his life, but he couldn’t ignore the Holy Spirit’s prompting to be bold. And since Josh was obedient to that calling, God did something powerful through him. The fact is that God often uses trials in our lives to accomplish something bigger than we could ever imagine. While all of the characters in “God’s Not Dead” are faced with trials big and small (sickness, losing relationships, persecution, disrupted plans), the fact remains that “God is good,” and in everything, “I can do all things through Christ” (Philippians 4:13).
5. Fellowship with other believers is important.
At different times throughout the film, Josh draws strength and encouragement from other believers. And he’s not the only one. As many of the main characters gather at The Newsboys concert at the end of the film, we’re reminded how powerful it can be to worship, pray, and grow together. Whether at church, at home, or school, being surrounded by people who share your faith or values can be life changing.
Let’s Grow in Faith Together
Faith was never meant to be lived alone.
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