Sermon Illustration

“Chariots of Fire”: Pleasing God

Chariots of Fire is the true story of two British runners competing in the 1924 Olympics. Eric Liddell is a devout Christian and one of the finest runners in the world. Eric's sister, Jennie, wants him to leave competitive running to join the family on the mission field in China. Jennie feels Eric is putting running ahead of serving God, and she questions his commitment.

In one scene, Eric attempts to help his sister see his point of view. Eric announces with a smile, "I've decided I'm going back to China. The missionary service has accepted—"

Jennie interrupts him. "Oh, Eric, I'm so pleased."

Eric continues, "But I've got a lot of running to do first. Jennie, you've got to understand. I believe that God made me for a purpose, for China. He also made me fast, and when I run, I feel his pleasure. To give it up would be to hold him in contempt. You were right; it's not just fun. To win is to honor him."

Content: Rated PG.

Elapsed time: Measured from the beginning of the opening credit, this scene begins at 00:58:24 and lasts about a minute and a half.

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