study guide - Sony Pictures

Transcription

STUDY GUIDE
SCRIPTURE GUIDE
SAFE: 8”W X 10.5”H
TRIM: 8.5”W X 11”H
BLEED: 8.75”W X 11.25”H
12-7-10 SPT 11000-36
Project: Walking on Water Online Study Guide
File Name:11000-36-Walking on Water SG_07
Crew Overview
Nic McLean (Director)
Bryan Jennings (Producer, Writer: concept)
Cast Overview
Luke Davis
Tyler Hallen
Bryan Jennings
C.J. Hobgood
Damien Hobgood
Tom Curren
Bethany Hamilton
Matt Beacham
Using This Discussion Guide
Intended for use after viewing the film, this study guide provides
catalysts for biblically based discussion of various themes found
in Walking on Water. The guide features three themes from the
movie and is structured in such a way that groups can choose to
discuss the entire guide at once or can focus on one or two
themes at a time.
Copyright Information
• Scripture taken from the New International Version (NIV) Copyright
© 1973, 1978, 1984 by the International Bible Society.
Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved.
• Scripture quotations marked NLT are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation,
copyright 1996, 2004. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Wheaton,
Illinois 60189. All rights reserved.
Film Overview/Note to Group
When Bryan Jennings, a former professional surfer, was a teenager, one of his childhood heroes took him on
a life-changing trip to Hawaii. There, Bryan not only greatly developed his surfing skills, but also grew in his
understanding of faith, realizing that he wasn’t alone as he tried to navigate uncertainties concerning both his
family life and his purpose. Bryan vowed that he would one day pay it forward – he would take two young
surfers (a.k.a. “groms”) on a trip around the world. And he did. Walking on Water is the documentary of that
unforgettable journey.
Before the trip begins, Bryan must locate the perfect candidates for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and he
soon finds those candidates in 12-year-old Luke Davis and 14-year-old Tyler Hallen, two energetic surfers with
dreams of professional careers. Over the next few months, Bryan, Luke and Tyler travel to legendary surfing spots
in Hawaii, Peru, Australia, France, South Africa and Indonesia, spending countless hours in the water and exploring
their destinations’ cultures, all while soaking up everything with contagious exuberance.
SCRIPTURE GUIDE
SAFE: 8”W X 10.5”H
TRIM: 8.5”W X 11”H
BLEED: 8.75”W X 11.25”H
12-7-10 SPT 11000-36
Though the amazing surf and exotic locales are thrilling aspects of the trip, Bryan knows that this journey holds
potential for even greater significance in Luke’s and Tyler’s lives. Almost immediately, Bryan becomes a mentor to his
young protégés, investing in them so that they, too, can learn to invest in others. Whether facing the stark reality of
poverty in a Peruvian village or hearing the inspirational testimonies of South African youth, Luke and Tyler have the
unique opportunity to develop their understanding of relationship and community on a global scale.
The young men have another unique opportunity – that of meeting several top surfers, including Tom Curren,
Bethany Hamilton, the Hobgood brothers and Matt Beacham, each unashamedly testifying to the importance of
building a foundation of faith and to the power of trusting in God amidst life’s difficulties. As the film draws to a
close, Luke and Tyler reminisce about their newly broadened perspectives on surfing, life and faith. Tyler’s summary
captures the trip’s essence: “The waves were really good, but the relationships were even better.”
SCRIPTURE GUIDE
SAFE: 8”W X 10.5”H
TRIM: 8.5”W X 11”H
BLEED: 8.75”W X 11.25”H
12-7-10 SPT 11000-36
Theme One: Investing in Others Through Mentoring
Guiding Scripture: Psalm 145:4 (NIV): “One generation will commend your works to another;
they will tell of your mighty acts.”
Scriptures Referenced
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Deuteronomy 34:9 (NLT): “Now Joshua son of Nun was
full of the spirit of wisdom, for Moses had laid his hands
on him. So the people of Israel obeyed him, doing just
as the Lord had commanded Moses.”
Psalm 78:4 (NLT): “We will not hide these truths from
our children; we will tell the next generation about the
glorious deeds of the Lord, about his power and his
mighty wonders.”
Psalm 145:4 (NIV): “One generation will commend your
works to another; they will tell of your mighty acts.”
Proverbs 22:6 (NIV): “Train a child in the way he should
go, and when he is old he will not turn from it.”
John 14:26 (NIV): “But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit,
whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you
all things and will remind you of everything I have said
to you.”
Philippians 2:3–4 (NIV): “Do nothing out of selfish
ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others
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better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only
to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.”
1 Thessalonians 5:11 (NLT): “So encourage each other
and build each other up, just as you are already doing.”
2 Timothy 2:2 (NLT): “You have heard me teach things
that have been confirmed by many reliable witnesses.
Now teach these truths to other trustworthy people
who will be able to pass them onto others.”
Titus 2:6–7 (NIV): “Similarly, encourage the young men
to be self-controlled. In everything set them an example
by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity,
seriousness.”
1 Peter 4:11 (NIV): “If anyone speaks, he should do it
as one speaking the very words of God. If anyone
serves, he should do it with the strength God provides,
so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus
Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and
ever. Amen.”
Scenes to Review
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Bryan’s Introduction (00:00:30–00:01:48, Chapter 1)
First Leg of the Trip – Hawaii (00:08:33–00:10:30, Chapter 3)
Tom Curren and Al Merrick – Hawaii (00:14:04–00:16:12, Chapter 3)
The Next Generation of Surfers – Peru (00:18:28–00:22:40, Chapter 4)
Giving Back – Peru (00:22:42–00:25:22, Chapter 4)
Discussion Questions
Bryan Jennings certainly understands the importance of mentoring, his own life having been impacted by someone
who took the time to invest in him when he was a teen. And that single, powerful childhood experience has shaped
Bryan’s life, instilling in him a desire to see God’s transformative work among the current and up-and-coming
generations of surfers.
SCRIPTURE GUIDE
SAFE: 8”W X 10.5”H
TRIM: 8.5”W X 11”H
BLEED: 8.75”W X 11.25”H
12-7-10 SPT 11000-36
Scenes to Review
Bryan’s Introduction (00:00:30–00:01:48, Chapter 1)
First Leg of the Trip – Hawaii (00:08:33–00:10:30, Chapter 3)
• How does Bryan’s introduction to the film convey the way in which mentoring has made an impact in his life?
What does he say about his experience as a teenager?
• During the Hawaii scene, Bryan says that it feels like Luke and Tyler are becoming his little brothers. How is their
growing bond a testament to the power of mentoring?
• Even though Hawaii is only the first stop, how are Bryan, Luke and Tyler already bonding? And how will that bond
contribute to a greater sense of fulfillment on the trip?
• Throughout the film, the soundtrack is vibrant and relevant. What is the significance of Switchfoot’s “Awakening”
playing during the surfing scenes in Hawaii?
Take a moment to read Psalm 78:4 and 145:4 (see Scriptures Referenced).
• How do these verses relate to the concept of mentoring? What do they say about the importance of imparting
wisdom to future generations?
• In what ways does Bryan fulfill the message of these passages? How is his work with Luke and Tyler an example
of one generation commending God’s works to another?
While in Hawaii, Bryan introduces Luke and Tyler to Tom Curren (three-time world surfing champion) and Al Merrick
(Curren’s lifetime surfboard shaper). In addition to shaping Tom’s boards, Al has shaped and inﬂuenced Tom’s
life through mentorship, and theirs is a friendship that testifies to the power and importance of investing in other
people’s lives.
SCRIPTURE GUIDE
SAFE: 8”W X 10.5”H
TRIM: 8.5”W X 11”H
BLEED: 8.75”W X 11.25”H
12-7-10 SPT 11000-36
Scene to Review
Tom Curren and Al Merrick – Hawaii (00:14:0–00:16:12, Chapter 3)
• Tom describes a mentor as someone who gives without expecting anything in return. What do you think of this
definition? Do you agree or disagree, and why?
• At one point, Al says, “The youth is actually looking for something real.” What does he mean? How does his
understanding of youth contribute to his ability to mentor?
• In addressing Bryan’s mentorship with Luke and Tyler, Tom says that Bryan is planting a seed that will
continue to grow. How does that relate to Bryan’s experience as a teen?
• How about you? Have you ever experienced the power of mentoring? What are some practical ways to get
involved with mentoring and to invest in others’ lives?
Read Deuteronomy 34:9; Proverbs 22:6; and Titus 2:6–7
(see Scriptures Referenced).
• How does Deuteronomy 34:9 represent a biblical precedent for mentoring? What was the relationship
between Moses and Joshua and why was it important for the Israelites?
• What instruction do Proverbs 22:6 and Titus 2:6–7 give in terms of leading by example? How does Bryan
serve as a leadership example for Luke and Tyler?
After Hawaii, Bryan, Luke and Tyler head to the coast of Lima, Peru, where they meet up with two of Bryan’s
good friends and fellow surfers, Matt Beacham and John Chuman. While there, John discusses the importance
of investing in the next generation of surfers, and Bryan and Matt are blessed by the kids’ enthusiasm, realizing
that mentoring can be a two-way street.
SCRIPTURE GUIDE
SAFE: 8”W X 10.5”H
TRIM: 8.5”W X 11”H
BLEED: 8.75”W X 11.25”H
12-7-10 SPT 11000-36
Scene to Review
The Next Generation of Surfers – Peru (00:18:28–00:22:40, Chapter 4)
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Why does John have a heart for the next generation of surfers? What does he say about the importance of
instilling values in young surfers to impact the future?
How are Carlos Mario and Cristobal (the two young Peruvian surfers) similar to Luke and Tyler? What are their
hopes and dreams for their futures?
What does Matt Beacham say about the kids’ behavior in the water? How does it impact both him and Bryan
as they spend time with these upbeat and enthusiastic young surfers?
Have you ever found yourself in Bryan and Matt’s place, where you were surprisingly blessed by an
experience in which you were hoping to be the blessing? What happened?
Read Philippians 2:3–4 and 1 Thessalonians 5:11
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How does the Philippians passage relate to this scene? To the way Bryan, John and Matt invest in the young
surfers? To the way the young surfers edify the people around them?
What are some ways that we can fulfill the command in the Thessalonians passage to “encourage each other
and build each other up”?
Toward the end of their time in Peru, Luke and Tyler accompany John when he delivers necessary supplies to
a less fortunate community. As the young men share fellowship with the villagers, they realize that God’s love
transcends all barriers, and they leave the community with a fresh perspective on gratitude. In the following
Optional Scene to Review, mentorship becomes faith in action, and the boys see firsthand that it is better to give
than to receive.
Optional Scene to Review
Giving Back – Peru (00:22:42–00:25:22, Chapter 4)
As you conclude this theme discussion, read John 14:26; 2 Timothy 2:2; and 1 Peter 4:11 (see Scriptures
Referenced). Think about the importance of mentorship and what it really means to invest in another person’s
life. Consider the role of mentorship in your own life, and spend some time discussing the Holy Spirit (John
14:26), a mentor always available to us.
SCRIPTURE GUIDE
SAFE: 8”W X 10.5”H
TRIM: 8.5”W X 11”H
BLEED: 8.75”W X 11.25”H
12-7-10 SPT 11000-36
Theme Two: Establishing a Foundation in God
Guiding Scripture: Proverbs 3:5–6 (NLT): “Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own
understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.”
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Psalm 34:8 (NIV): “Taste and see that the Lord is good;
blessed is the man who takes refuge in him.”
Psalm 37:5–6 (NIV): “Commit your way to the Lord; trust
in him and he will do this: He will make your
righteousness shine like the dawn, the justice of your
cause like the noonday sun.”
Psalm 119:9 (NIV): “How can a young man keep his
way pure? By living according to your word.”
Proverbs 3:5–6 (NLT): “Trust in the Lord with all your
heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek
his will in all you do, and he will show you which path
to take.”
Proverbs 19:21 (NLT): “You can make many plans, but
the Lord’s purpose will prevail.”
Ecclesiastes 12:13 (NLT): “Fear God and obey his
commands, for this is everyone’s duty.”
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Matthew 7:24–25 (NIV): “Therefore everyone who
hears these words of mine and puts them into practice
is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The
rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew
and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because
it had its foundation on the rock.”
Romans 3:23 (NIV): “For all have sinned and fall short
of the glory of God.”
Romans 6:23 (NIV): “For the wages of sin is death, but
the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
Colossians 3:10 (NLT): “Put on your new nature, and be
renewed as you learn to know your Creator and become
like him.”
Scenes to Review
• WCT Opening Contest – Australia (00:28:30–00:32:10, Chapter 5)
• The Hobgood Brothers – France (00:35:08–00:37:20, Chapter 6)
• The Real Hero – Indonesia (01:00:52–01:02:36, Chapter 8)
Luke and Tyler dream of becoming professional surfers, but they don’t necessarily realize the potential
dangers of such a demanding and lucrative lifestyle. So, when Bryan gives them glimpses of life on the World
Championship Tour (WCT), he also gives them a chance to hear from people who have navigated professional
surfing by establishing a firm foundation in God.
During the Australia leg of the trip, the WCT is hosting its opening contest of the year, and Bryan takes Luke and
Tyler to meet one of their surfing heroes, Damien Hobgood. Damien candidly discusses his road to the WCT – his
elation at earning a coveted spot only to discover that his professional success (and a dream come true) didn’t
fill the void in his heart and life.
SCRIPTURE GUIDE
SAFE: 8”W X 10.5”H
TRIM: 8.5”W X 11”H
BLEED: 8.75”W X 11.25”H
12-7-10 SPT 11000-36
Scene to Review
WCT Opening Contest – Australia (00:28:30–00:32:10, Chapter 5)
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How does C.J. Hobgood describe the demands of a professional surfer on the WCT? Why does he say that Luke
and Tyler may decide that the WCT isn’t a good fit for them?
Damien says that making the WCT should have meant happiness, but he found that he was emptier than
before. In Damien’s case, why does his dream feel empty?
“I think if you’re living this life for yourself, there’s always going to be that void.” How does Damien’s statement
relate to the process of establishing a foundation of faith?
When Damien discusses the joy of surfing (the kind of joy he experienced when he first started), how does a
faith foundation – a purpose, so to speak – renew that sense of joy?
Read Psalm 119:9 and Proverbs 19:21 (see Scriptures Referenced).
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What does Psalm 119:9 say about making sure our dreams, desires and purpose are rooted in God?
How does purity result from living according to God’s word?
How is Proverbs 19:21 an encouragement to spend time building a relationship with God – and building a
foundation in God – before making our own set of plans?
In France, Bryan, Luke and Tyler reconnect with C.J. and Damien Hobgood for an amazing time of surfing and
fellowship. As the professional surfers demonstrate for Luke and Tyler the feasibility of a healthy work-life balance,
they also discuss the importance of having a firm belief in God, of knowing that life is meant to be lived with God’s
unwavering presence and strength.
Scene to Review
The Hobgood Brothers – France (00:35:08–00:37:20, Chapter 6)
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In regards to faith, C.J. says that sometimes kids are better off than adults. How is a child’s ability to trust an
excellent precursor for establishing a faith foundation?
What does Damien say about the importance of a foundation in the Lord? How can that foundation be a source
of purpose and determination for people, especially the youth?
How does the process of going back to the basics of faith (as Damien mentions) help remind us of the things
that are truly important in this life?
How is a foundation of faith a source of strength? Have you ever experienced a time in your life when your faith
kept you grounded and focused?
Take some time to read Psalm 34:8 and Matthew 7:24–25
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How does Psalm 34:8 describe the Lord? Given this description, why are people hesitant to build a faith
foundation in Him? What prevents us from trusting in His goodness?
Matthew 7:24–25 is a classic passage about building our “houses” on a solid foundation as opposed to shifting
sands. What message is Jesus conveying with this image?
SCRIPTURE GUIDE
SAFE: 8”W X 10.5”H
TRIM: 8.5”W X 11”H
BLEED: 8.75”W X 11.25”H
12-7-10 SPT 11000-36
As they visit the Mentawai Islands off Indonesia, Luke and Tyler spend time with Tom Curren, Bethany Hamilton
and Matt Beacham. Tom talks about the professional surfing lifestyle and cautions against its potentially damaging
nature, and Matt addresses people’s need for a hero, stating plainly that there is just one real Hero, and that He
came to make us right with God.
Scene to Review
The Real Hero – Indonesia (01:00:52–01:02:36, Chapter 8)
• Why is it important for up-and-coming surfers to hear their role models (e.g., Tom Curren) say that nothing
compares with being right with God?
• Several surfers in the film comment on the potentially damaging lifestyle associated with professional surfing.
How does faith in God help people navigate those pitfalls?
• How does Matt Beacham’s explanation of Romans 3:23 (see Scriptures Referenced) point to the importance of
having a faith foundation?
• Romans 6:23 (see Scriptures Referenced) furthers the story started in Romans 3:23. Have you experienced this
gift of God through the real Hero – Jesus Christ?
Read Psalm 37:5–6 and Proverbs 3:5–6 (see Scriptures Referenced).
• Psalm 37:5–6 says, “Commit your way to the Lord.” How does this decision greatly impact our faith foundation,
and why is it often so difficult for us to do?
• What are some ways that we can make the message of Proverbs 3:5–6 a reality in our lives? How can we
overcome the stumbling blocks that prevent us from trusting God?
To conclude this theme discussion, read Ecclesiastes 12:13 and Colossians 3:10 (see Scriptures Referenced).
As you finish your discussion about the importance of establishing a foundation in faith, think about how that
foundation affects every aspect of life – from purpose to security to identity. Consider how this blessed assurance
can make (or has made) the difference in your life.
SCRIPTURE GUIDE
SAFE: 8”W X 10.5”H
TRIM: 8.5”W X 11”H
BLEED: 8.75”W X 11.25”H
12-7-10 SPT 11000-36
Theme Three: Overcoming Adversity with Faith
Guiding Scripture: Romans 8:28 (NLT): “And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of
those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.”
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Deuteronomy 31:8 (NLT): “Do not be afraid or
discouraged, for the Lord will personally go ahead
of you. He will be with you; he will neither fail you nor
abandon you.”
Deuteronomy 33:27 (NIV): “The eternal God is your
refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms.”
Psalm 16:8 (NLT): “I know the Lord is always with me.
I will not be shaken, for he is right beside me.”
Psalm 46:1–3 (NIV): “God is our refuge and strength,
an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not
fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall
into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and
foam and the mountains quake with their surging.”
Isaiah 61:3 (NLT): “To all who mourn in Israel, he will
give a crown of beauty for ashes, a joyous blessing
instead of mourning, festive praise instead of despair.
In their righteousness, they will be like great oaks that
the Lord has planted for his own glory.”
Jeremiah 29:11 (NLT): “‘For I know the plans I have for
you,’ says the Lord. ‘They are plans for good and not
for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.’”
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John 14:27 (NIV): “Peace I leave with you; my peace I
give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not
let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”
Romans 8:28 (NLT): “And we know that God causes
everything to work together for the good of those who
love God and are called according to his purpose
for them.”
2 Corinthians 12:9 (NIV): “My grace is sufficient for you,
for my power is made perfect in weakness.”
Philippians 4:11–13 (NIV): “I have learned to be content
whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in
need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned
the secret of being content in any and every situation,
whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or
in want. I can do everything through Him who gives
me strength.”
1 Peter 5:7 (NLT): “Give all your worries and cares to
God, for He cares about you.”
Scenes to Review
• Cheyne Cottrell – South Africa (00:39:37–00:41:22, Chapter 7)
• Mossel Bay – South Africa (00:48:40–00:55:54, Chapter 7)
• Bethany Hamilton – Indonesia (01:03:28–01:07:26, Chapter 9)
Isaiah 61:3 (see Scriptures Referenced) paints a beautiful portrait of the way that God cares for the wounded:
He gives them beauty for ashes, a blessing for mourning and praise for despair. Though tragedy is, unfortunately,
a reality of life in this fallen world, God “causes everything to work together for the good of those who love [Him]”
(Romans 8:28, see Scriptures Referenced).
Throughout their travels, Bryan, Luke and Tyler meet people who have overcome tremendous obstacles by turning
to their faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. In South Africa, Cheyne Cottrell and his family are living testimonies
to God’s healing power. Though devastated by tragedy, Cheyne explains how he found that healing power by pouring
out his heart to his Savior.
SCRIPTURE GUIDE
SAFE: 8”W X 10.5”H
TRIM: 8.5”W X 11”H
BLEED: 8.75”W X 11.25”H
12-7-10 SPT 11000-36
Scene to Review
Cheyne Cottrell – South Africa (00:39:37–00:41:22, Chapter 7)
In discussing the difficulty of losing a loved one, Lucinda (Cheyne’s mother) says, “When you lose someone
suddenly, you really learn that your relationship with the Lord is everything.”
• What do you think of Lucinda’s observation regarding responding to loss? How can tragedy actually serve to
strengthen our relationship with the Lord if we rely on him?
• How does Cheyne describe his reaction to his father’s death and the subsequent grief? How is Cheyne’s
response a wonderful example of trusting God amidst hardship?
• What does Lucinda say about remembering that God has a plan for everyone, including those who have passed?
How does this advice offer hope to those facing adversity?
• Has there ever been a time in your life when your faith in God sustained you through a trial? If so, how did you
know that God had helped you weather the storm?
Read Deuteronomy 31:8 and Psalm 46:1–3
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What characteristics does Deuteronomy 31:8 ascribe to the Lord? What do these characteristics reveal about the
nature of God and His desire to be our refuge?
Why does Psalm 46:1–3 contain a list of harrowing events? What purpose does this hyperbole serve in
emphasizing the importance of trusting God during difficulty?
During the latter part of their time in South Africa, Bryan, Luke and Tyler visit Mossel Bay, an area that is home to
young surfers who have bonded over their shared interest in surfing and their faith in God. The children of Mossel
Bay have seen everything from poverty to disease to death, but their faith sustains them, giving them hope amidst
potentially overwhelming adversity.
Scene to Review
Mossel Bay – South Africa (00:48:40–00:55:54, Chapter 7)
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Bryan mentions that surfing keeps the children of Mossel Bay from the gangs, drugs and petty crimes of their
communities. Why is surfing a deterrent for this behavior?
What do you think of the children’s testimonies? How do both surfing and faith allow them to focus on their
blessings rather than the problems that surround them?
Surfer CT Taylor says, “I have learned from the kids here in Africa that you need to have childlike faith and it seemed
to be such a simple thing that I probably complicated my whole life…every kid in the world needs belonging, they
need purpose and that is what God has set in place in their hearts. The township kids here who have the Lord living
and dwelling in them have found their place. So even though they have nothing so to speak, they have everything.”
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What does CT mean when he says that the kids “have nothing so to speak,” but that they actually “have
everything”? How has God given these children purpose and belonging?
How are the children able to find such joy amidst the suffering they see and endure on a regular basis?
What do their joyful attitudes say about their faith in God?
SCRIPTURE GUIDE
SAFE: 8”W X 10.5”H
TRIM: 8.5”W X 11”H
BLEED: 8.75”W X 11.25”H
12-7-10 SPT 11000-36
Read Psalm 16:8; Philippians 4:11–13 and 1 Peter 5:7
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What message is found in both Psalm 16:8 and 1 Peter 5:7? How do these verses encourage us to partner with
God when facing or experiencing adversity?
How does Philippians 4:11–13 represent the attitude of the Mossel Bay children? What can we learn from their
positive outlook and apply to our lives regarding perseverance?
In 2003, surfer Bethany Hamilton lost her left arm in a shark attack. While the actual attack garnered significant
media attention, it was Bethany’s courage – her decision to return to the water – that gave her the opportunity to
share her testimony with countless people.
During the Indonesia portion of the trip, Bethany joins Bryan, Luke, Tyler and a few other friends for a boat trip to the
surfing paradise of the storied Mentawai Islands. There, Bethany’s triumphant story is highlighted as an example of
overcoming adversity with faith.
Scene to Review
Bethany Hamilton – Indonesia (01:03:28–01:07:26, Chapter 9)
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At one point, the background audio is a series of clips from previous interviews. What does Bethany say in these
interviews that demonstrates her incredible perseverance?
Matt Beacham talks about God’s plan to give people meaning and purpose. How is Bethany’s life an example of
discovering true purpose through adversity?
Bethany says that she decided to give her problems to God, and that He’s taken care of everything.
How does God’s strength free us of worry and fill us with comfort?
How can Bethany’s story inspire us to give everything to God? How can we achieve the peace and joy that
Bethany so clearly exhibits despite the tragedy of her past?
Take a look at Jeremiah 29:11 and Romans 8:28 (see Scriptures Referenced).
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How does Bethany’s attitude represent her belief in the promise of Jeremiah 29:11? What does this verse
suggest about the trials and tribulations that we all endure?
What promises does Romans 8:28 contain? How do those promises offer encouragement to have faith despite
adversity? To trust that God has everything in hand?
As you conclude this theme discussion, read through Deuteronomy 33:27; John 14:27; and 2 Corinthians 12:9
(see Scriptures Referenced). Think about what these verses have to say concerning the topic of overcoming
adversity with faith. Consider, too, the way that faith plays a role in your life, providing strength in difficulty and peace
amidst uncertainty.
SCRIPTURE GUIDE
SAFE: 8”W X 10.5”H
TRIM: 8.5”W X 11”H
BLEED: 8.75”W X 11.25”H
12-7-10 SPT 11000-36
Final Thoughts
Throughout the film, it’s evident that Bryan and his surfing friends have a unique passion for God’s creation.
In the following Scenes to Review, take some time to enjoy God’s creation with these surfers as they revel in
the beauty of God’s handiwork in South Africa and Indonesia.
Scenes to Review
Jeffreys Bay (J-Bay) – South Africa (00:45:21–00:48:39, Chapter 7)
Mentawai Islands – Indonesia (00:56:00–00:58:12, Chapter 8)
• In the J-Bay scene, the music is Josh Garrels’ “Break Bread.” What is the significance of this song as the
surfers come together for J-Bay’s first big swell of the season?
• Cheyne monitors global weather conditions to predict the best swells of the season – how does this
demonstrate the different and profound ways that creation is linked together?
• How do these scenes capture the surfers’ enthusiasm for the water? What does their enthusiasm suggest about
their passion for creation in its entirety?
WALKING
ON WATER
This and other scripture-based study guides available at
www.AffirmFilms.com/guides
© 2008 Walking on Water, Inc. All Rights Reserved. © 2010 Layout and Design Sony Pictures Home Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved.
SCRIPTURE GUIDE
SAFE: 8”W X 10.5”H
TRIM: 8.5”W X 11”H
BLEED: 8.75”W X 11.25”H
12-7-10 SPT 11000-36

study guide - Sony Pictures

Transcription

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