At The Movies – Indiana Jones and The Raiders of the Lost Ark

(Message 3) “At The Movies” is about connecting our favorite films with faith. This message follows the fictional action-packed adventure of Indiana Jones as he finds the lost Ark of the Covenant and tries to keep it from falling into Nazi hands. #GCAtTheMovies

If you attend Generations and were unable to join us onsite to watch this message, we can provide a password-protected link to the video for a limited time. Please email: atthemovies@generationschurch.com

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Key Scripture:

2 Chronicles 35:2-3 (NLT)

2 Josiah also assigned the priests to their duties and encouraged them in their work at the Temple of the Lord. 3 He issued this order to the Levites, who were to teach all Israel and who had been set apart to serve the Lord: “Put the holy Ark in the Temple that was built by Solomon son of David, the king of Israel. You no longer need to carry it back and forth on your shoulders. Now spend your time serving the Lord your God and his people Israel.

2 Samuel 6:6–7 (NLT)

6 But when they arrived at the threshing floor of Nacon, the oxen stumbled, and Uzzah reached out his hand and steadied the Ark of God. 7 Then the LORD’s anger was aroused against Uzzah, and God struck him dead because of this. So Uzzah died right there beside the Ark of God.

John 3:16 (NLT)

16 “For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.

Revelation 11:16–19 (NLT)

Start talking. Find a conversation starter for your group.

What’s your favorite action/adventure movie, and what do you enjoy most about it?

Start sharing. These questions are to help get your group thinking and to create openness.

In “Raiders of the Lost Ark”, everyone is searching for the Ark of the Covenant. How does this quest in the movie compare to our quest for God’s presence in our lives?
Read 2 Chronicles 35:2-3. What does this passage reveal about the Ark’s significance to the Isrealites? How does it relate to our faith today?
2 Samuel 6:6–7. Why did God strike Uzzah dead? How can we apply this concept of reverence to our relationship with God in our daily lives?
In his message, Troy highlighted the consequences of touching the Ark without permission. How does this emphasize the importance of obedience to God’s commands in our faith journey?
Read John 3:16. What are the consequences of disobedience? How can we pay the price of our disobedience?
In the movie, the Ark is portrayed as having great power. What are some ways in which God’s presence and His Word hold power in our lives? Can you share personal experiences where you felt God’s presence had a significant impact?
Indiana Jones is known for his determination and fearlessness. What are some parallels between Jones’ determination and our journey as Christians? How can we overcome our fears and obstacles in our faith?

Start doing. Commit to a step and live it out this week.

Choose one practical way this week to honor God’s presence and holiness. Examples are an act of service, studying scripture, fasting, and prayer. Share with your group what action step you’re committing to this week.

Start praying. Be bold and pray with power.

Pray for the strength to approach God with reverence and obedience. Praise and thank him for his holiness and his presence in your lives. Confess where you have fallen short and ask for his forgiveness!

Start digging. For further study.