Finding Faith and Wisdom in Sci-Fi Narratives
Summary
What a joy to gather together on this “Star Wars Sunday” as we launch our Treks and Stars series, exploring the intersection of beloved sci-fi stories and the deep truths of our faith. While I may not be a lifelong Star Wars or Star Trek expert, diving into these stories has revealed how powerfully they echo the universal human search for meaning, hope, and wisdom. Star Wars, in particular, is rich with themes of good versus evil, the struggle for balance, and the ever-present “force” that connects all things—a concept that, while not explicitly Christian, invites us to reflect on the spiritual realities that undergird our lives.
One of the most compelling aspects of Star Wars is its portrayal of the force—not as magic, but as a universal energy that is available to all, and which requires intentionality to access. The saga’s wisdom figures, like Obi-Wan Kenobi and Yoda, serve as mentors who guide others toward deeper understanding, much like the role of spiritual mentors in our own lives. The stories remind us that fear is often the root of darkness, but that we are not powerless; we can choose to lean into hope and faith, even when shadows threaten to overwhelm us.
As Christians, we recognize that the universe is not a battleground of two equal forces, but is held together by the infinite power of God. Evil is real, but it is not co-equal with God; it is a shadow, an absence, ultimately defeated through Christ. This understanding frees us from dualistic thinking and invites us to live with hope, knowing that the light is always greater than the darkness.
The wisdom tradition in scripture, especially in Proverbs, calls us to be seekers of understanding. “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge”—a reverence for God is the foundation of all true wisdom. We are encouraged to ask, to seek, to be curious about the mysteries of life and faith. God is not distant or unapproachable; rather, God longs to give wisdom generously to all who ask.
Mentorship and authentic relationships are vital in this journey. Just as the Jedi have their mentors, we too are called to seek out those who can guide us, challenge us, and walk with us as we grow in faith. In a world where authentic connection is rare, intentionally pursuing these relationships can be transformative. As we come to the communion table, we remember that Christ invites us into a deeper relationship, offering us hope, freedom, and the promise that we are never alone.
Key Takeaways
- The “force” in Star Wars serves as a metaphor for the spiritual reality that connects all things, inviting us to consider the presence of God’s sustaining power in our lives. This force is not magic, but a source of strength and hope available to all who seek it with intention and openness. Our faith calls us to recognize and lean into this divine presence, especially in times of uncertainty. [17:39]
- Fear is a universal human experience, but it is also the root of darkness and suffering. The choice before us is whether to invest in fear or to respond with curiosity and hope. By acknowledging our fears and choosing to seek wisdom and understanding, we open ourselves to transformation and the possibility of living in the light. [19:24]
- Christian faith rejects the idea of dualism—of two equal and opposing forces of good and evil. Instead, we affirm that God is the creator and sustainer of all, and that evil, while real, is ultimately limited and defeated. This perspective empowers us to live with confidence and hope, knowing that the shadows we encounter cannot overcome the light of Christ. [22:41]
- Wisdom is not something we stumble upon by accident; it is something we must seek intentionally. Scripture, tradition, reason, and experience are all avenues through which God imparts wisdom, but we must be willing to ask, to listen, and to learn. God is generous with wisdom, longing for us to approach with curiosity and humility, trusting that we will be guided and sustained. [41:58]
- Authentic relationships and mentorship are essential for spiritual growth. In a culture marked by isolation and transactional connections, seeking out those who can walk with us, challenge us, and nurture us in faith is a profound act of courage and intentionality. These relationships create space for vulnerability, accountability, and the sharing of wisdom that shapes us into the people God calls us to be. [48:17]
Youtube Chapters
[00:00] - Welcome
[14:20] - Why Treks and Stars? A Confession
[15:20] - Discovering the Beauty in Sci-Fi Stories
[17:39] - The Force: Hope, Faith, and Universal Connection
[19:24] - Fear, Darkness, and the Human Condition
[21:17] - Star Wars, Faith, and the Question of Dualism
[22:41] - Christian Perspective: God’s Sovereignty Over Evil
[25:34] - George Lucas and the Mystery of Faith
[26:38] - Spiritual Curiosity and the Role of Tradition
[27:58] - Wisdom Figures: Obi-Wan, Yoda, and Prophets
[36:01] - Proverbs: Gathering Wisdom for Life
[41:09] - Wisdom Cries Out: God’s Generosity
[43:50] - Seeking Wisdom: Scripture, Tradition, Reason, Experience
[45:48] - The Power of Mentorship and Authentic Connection
[51:02] - Communion: Hope, Freedom, and the Light
[58:51] - Announcements and Blessing
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide: Treks and Stars – The Force, Wisdom, and Authentic Connection
---
### Bible Reading
Proverbs 1:1-7, 20-22 (NRSV)
> The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel:
> for learning about wisdom and instruction,
> for understanding words of insight,
> for gaining instruction in wise dealing,
> righteousness, justice, and equity;
> to teach shrewdness to the simple,
> knowledge and prudence to the young—
> let the wise also hear and gain in learning,
> and the discerning acquire skill,
> to understand a proverb and a figure,
> the words of the wise and their riddles.
> The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge;
> fools despise wisdom and instruction.
>
> Wisdom cries out in the street;
> in the squares she raises her voice.
> At the busiest corner she cries out;
> at the entrance of the city gates she speaks:
> “How long, O simple ones, will you love being simple?
> How long will scoffers delight in their scoffing
> and fools hate knowledge?”
James 1:5 (CEB)
> If any of you needs wisdom, you should ask God, whose very nature is to give to everyone without a second thought, without keeping score. Wisdom will certainly be given to those who ask.
---
### Observation Questions
1. According to Proverbs 1, what is the starting point for gaining wisdom and knowledge?
2. In the sermon, what role do mentors like Obi-Wan and Yoda play in the journey toward understanding? [[17:39]]
3. How does the book of Proverbs describe the way wisdom is offered to people?
4. What does James 1:5 say about God’s attitude toward those who seek wisdom?
---
### Interpretation Questions
1. The sermon says, “Fear is a primary response that we have to something new...but then we have to choose. What are we going to do with that fear?” How does this connect to the biblical idea of “the fear of the Lord” as the beginning of wisdom? [[19:24]]
2. The pastor points out that, unlike Star Wars’ dualism, Christian faith teaches that evil is not equal to God’s power. How might this understanding affect the way someone faces darkness or challenges in life? [[22:41]]
3. The sermon describes wisdom as something that “cries out” and is available to all who seek it. What does this suggest about God’s desire for us to grow in understanding? [[41:09]]
4. The pastor shares a story about intentional mentorship and authentic relationships. Why might these relationships be so important for spiritual growth, according to both the sermon and the Bible? [[48:17]]
---
### Application Questions
1. The “force” in Star Wars is described as a metaphor for God’s sustaining presence. When you face uncertainty or fear, what helps you remember and lean into God’s presence instead of giving in to anxiety? [[17:39]]
2. The sermon says, “Fear is often the root of darkness, but that we are not powerless; we can choose to lean into hope and faith.” Think of a recent situation where fear was your first response. How did you handle it? Would you do anything differently now? [[19:24]]
3. The pastor challenges the idea of dualism and says, “Evil is real, but it is not co-equal with God; it is a shadow, an absence, ultimately defeated through Christ.” How does this truth change the way you approach struggles or “dark” times in your life? [[22:41]]
4. Proverbs and James both say that wisdom is available to those who ask. When was the last time you intentionally asked God for wisdom about a specific decision? What happened? [[41:58]]
5. The sermon highlights the importance of seeking out mentors and authentic relationships. Is there someone in your life you admire for their faith or wisdom? What would it look like to ask them to meet for coffee or conversation? [[48:17]]
6. The pastor says, “The greatest poverty that exists in Northern Virginia is authentic relationship.” Do you agree? What steps could you take this month to build a deeper, more authentic connection with someone in your church or community? [[48:17]]
7. The sermon encourages curiosity and humility in seeking wisdom. What is one area of faith or life where you feel curious or have questions? How can you pursue answers or growth in that area this week? [[43:50]]
---
Closing Prayer Suggestion:
Invite the group to pray for courage to seek wisdom, for openness to authentic relationships, and for God’s presence to guide them through both light and shadow.
Devotional
Day 1: God Holds All Things Together—Evil Is Not Equal to God
The Christian understanding is that while evil is real and present in the world, it is not an equal or opposing force to God. Instead, God is the creator and sustainer of all things, and evil is merely the absence of God, ultimately limited and defeated through Jesus Christ. This perspective invites us to resist the temptation to see life as a battle between two equally powerful sides, and instead to trust in the infinite power and goodness of God, even when we walk through the shadows of fear or suffering. [23:46]
Colossians 1:16-17 (ESV)
"For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him. And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together."
Reflection: Where in your life do you tend to see evil or hardship as an equal force to God’s goodness, and how might you shift your perspective to trust that God is truly holding all things together?
Day 2: The Beginning of Wisdom Is Reverence for God
True wisdom begins with a deep respect and reverence for who God is—the creator, sustainer, and author of life. Recognizing our place as part of God’s creation, and not the center of it, opens us to learn, grow, and receive wisdom that shapes every other decision we make. This humble posture allows us to hear wisdom’s call and to let our understanding of God guide our actions and choices. [36:41]
Proverbs 1:1-7 (ESV)
"The proverbs of Solomon, son of David, king of Israel: To know wisdom and instruction, to understand words of insight, to receive instruction in wise dealing, in righteousness, justice, and equity; to give prudence to the simple, knowledge and discretion to the youth—Let the wise hear and increase in learning, and the one who understands obtain guidance, to understand a proverb and a saying, the words of the wise and their riddles. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction."
Reflection: In what ways can you cultivate a deeper reverence for God today, and how might that change the way you approach decisions or challenges?
Day 3: God Freely Gives Wisdom to Those Who Ask
God’s very nature is to give wisdom generously to all who seek it, without hesitation or keeping score. We are invited to approach God with our questions, our uncertainties, and our need for guidance, trusting that God is not only approachable but eager to draw near and provide the wisdom we need for life’s decisions. Prayer and honest conversation with God become the first steps in seeking this divine wisdom. [41:58]
James 1:5 (ESV)
"If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him."
Reflection: What is one area of your life where you need wisdom right now, and will you take a moment today to ask God specifically for guidance in that area?
Day 4: Seek Wisdom Through Intentional Relationships
We grow in wisdom not only through study and prayer, but also through intentional relationships with others who have walked the path of faith before us. Mentoring relationships—where we can be honest, vulnerable, and accountable—are a vital way to learn, be nurtured, and experience authentic connection. These relationships require courage and intentionality, but they offer hope, growth, and a deeper experience of God’s grace. [48:56]
Proverbs 13:20 (ESV)
"Whoever walks with the wise becomes wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm."
Reflection: Who is someone in your life you admire for their faith or wisdom? Can you reach out to them this week to begin a deeper, more intentional conversation or relationship?
Day 5: Curiosity and Humility Open Us to God’s Mystery
A posture of curiosity and humility allows us to lean into the holy mystery of God—acknowledging that there is more to faith and life than we can fully understand or explain. Rather than settling for rote tradition or rigid doctrine, we are invited to ask questions, seek understanding, and experience God in new ways through scripture, tradition, reason, and experience. This openness leads us to deeper faith and a greater sense of hope. [26:38]
Romans 11:33 (ESV)
"Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments and how inscrutable his ways!"
Reflection: What is one question about God or faith that you’ve been hesitant to ask? How might you bring that question to God or a trusted mentor this week, trusting that curiosity can lead you closer to the holy mystery?
Quotes
There's also this theme in Star Wars around this idea of balance, right? The Jedis who represent the balance of the force of light and the empire who represent the force of darkness. We have a Darth Vader here in the back of the sanctuary. Again, things pastors don't normally say, right? The empire is the dark side. There's this realization that they're standing. Thank you. Thank you. Very threatening. Good. For those of you online, there's literally David Larea in costume back there. Yeah, there we go. Very good. So through the larger arc of these stories, we learn that no one is either fully on the light or the dark side, but instead that a person can tap into either and has to be intentional about choosing where they're going to invest, what part of who they are they're going to feed, what truths they're going to nurture. [00:18:25] (59 seconds)
And in Star Wars, it becomes clear that fear is the root to the dark side, right? Fear that leads to anger, fear that leads to hate, fear that leads to suffering. Well, that's a truth of the human condition, isn't it? That's just a truth of the human condition. Fear is a primary response that we have to something new, to change, to often to intersections in our lives where it's something we didn't expect. Fear is a normal and natural first response, but then we have to choose. What are we going to do with that fear? Are we going to invest in it? [00:19:24] (35 seconds)
I think that's what's happening in all of Star Wars. That faith and this belief in the possibility of hope is the only positive route for the future. It's the only way that we can build something good. That belief in something bigger than ourselves and that that something is good is the only way we move well into the future. [00:20:54] (23 seconds)
We have the seemingly innate need for there to be equally opposing good and bad guys, but that really comes more from Plato than it does from scripture. But too often, Christians fall into it. Scripture makes clear that God is infinitely powerful, that God is the creator and the sustainer of all there is. Evil is real, but it's limited. It's defeated by God through Jesus Christ. [00:24:04] (24 seconds)
And so in this life, we will, like I said, experience shadows of evil. Yay, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, right? Death has been defeated. All we will experience in this life is a shadow of death, but shadows can scare us, can't they? You've heard me say before, the shadow of a dog, right, with gnarling teeth that can scare us. But can the shadow of a dog actually bite us? No. [00:24:28] (27 seconds)
He says that he wanted to introduce young people to a spiritual life, and so he wanted to create a new myth that would get them curious about spiritual truths that are bigger than they are. In his own words, here's what he says. I see Star Wars as taking all the issues that religion represents and trying to distill them down into a more modern and accessible construct. [00:25:41] (26 seconds)
God is the author and the creator and the sustainer and the provider of all that there is, the alpha and the omega, the beginning and the end, and that changes everything about every other decision we make. Let the wise hear it, Proverbs says. Let the wise hear it. Let us learn knowledge. Let's be prudent. [00:40:47] (23 seconds)
Chatbot
-
I'm an AI bot trained specifically on the sermon from May 05, 2025. Do you have any questions about it?