Crew Overview

Alex Kendrick (Director; Writer)

Stephen Kendrick (Writer)

Cast Overview
Alex Kendrick (Adam Mitchell)
Ken Bevel (Nathan Hayes)
Ben Davies (David Thomson)
Kevin Downes (Shane Fuller)
Robert Amaya (Javier Martinez)
Renee Jewell (Victoria Mitchell)
Rusty Martin, Jr. (Dylan Mitchell)
Lauren Etchells (Emily Mitchell)
Eleanor Brown (Kayla Hayes)
Taylor Hutcherson (Jade Hayes)
Angelita Nelson (Carmen Martinez)
Donald Howze (Derrick)
Joshua Kendrick (Tyler Fuller)
Anna Marie McWilliams (Amanda)
Ed Litton (Pastor Hunt)

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 Courageous. 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

From the creators of Fireproof, Facing the Giants, and Flywheel comes
Courageous, a powerful film that explores the concept and practice of
biblical fatherhood. Set in Albany, Georgia a town facing the effects

of fatherlessness as evidenced by the increase in gang activity and present,

yet passive fathers four sheriffs deputies strive to serve and protect the
community; unfortunately, their fierce commitment to the job doesnt
always translate to the home front. When tragedy strikes, the men led by
Adam Mitchell (played by writer and director Alex Kendrick) resolve to
infuse their lives with faith and a renewed commitment to fatherhood.
The film opens with an intense sequence in which Nathan Hayes
(Ken Bevel) chases down his stolen car and secures his infant sons safety.
Adam and his partner, Deputy Shane Fuller (Kevin Downes), are the first
responders to the incident, and Nathans heroic actions prompt them to
consider the lengths to which theyd go for their own children. Fittingly,
the next scene sheds light on Adams relationship with his kids the
role of father seems fairly mechanical, and his favoritism toward Emily
(Lauren Etchells) leaves teenage Dylan (Rusty Martin, Jr.) angry and hurt.
But, Adam isnt the only one struggling. Nathan, the latest hire at the Sheriffs department, is trying to teach his daughter, Jade (Taylor Hutcherson)
patience and discretion with dating. For Shane, life after divorce has
complicated his financial situation and created distance with his son, Tyler
(Joshua Kendrick). David Thomson (Ben Davies), a newly minted deputy,
is troubled by the fatherlessness epidemic because of a secret he bears from
college. And Javier Martinez (Robert Amaya), Adams friend, wants to
trust God, but also worries about economic uncertainty.
The men are fixed in their respective holding patterns. And then a tragedy
changes everything.
One day, Adam and his wife, Victoria (Renee Jewell), receive news that
no parent wants to hear: Emily, their 9-year-old daughter, has died in a car
accident. As the Mitchells grieve and Adam laments the time he took for
granted, he realizes that he is still a father. So, with his pastors guidance
and careful study of the Bible, Adam seeks Gods direction for becoming
a courageous, godly father to Dylan. The result is the Resolution, a written
pledge that calls Adam to account. When he presents the document to his
four close friends, they are stirred to take the oath as well.
After a special signing ceremony for the Resolution, the men endeavor
to uphold their vows. David reaches out to the girlfriend and child he
previously abandoned. Nathan forgives the deceased father he never knew.
Adam begins calling out the man in his son. But, trials soon arise, and
Adam, Javier, and Shane face challenges that test their integrity; of the
three, Shane fails, and his consequence serves as a solemn reminder of the
groups increased accountability. Soon after, Adam reflects on his recent
experiences during a moving speech at his church, and he encourages
fathers to stand and take responsibility, to live courageously under
Gods direction.

Theme One: Responding to Tragedy

Guiding Scripture: Romans 5:3-5 (NIV): Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance;
perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because Gods love has been poured out into our hearts through the
Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.

Scriptures Referenced
Psalm 34:19 (NLT): The righteous person faces many troubles,
but the Lord comes to the rescue each time.

Pastor Hunt (Ed Litton) speaks to the Mitchells hearts with the only
truth that can properly and adequately address this tragedy: Jesus lives,
and because of Him, there is hope.

Psalm 147:3 (NIV): He heals the brokenhearted and binds

up their wounds.

Scene to Review

Ecclesiastes 3:1, 4 (NIV): There is a time for everything, and a season

for every activity under the heavensa time to weep and a time to
laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance.

As you watched this scene unfold, how did you respond? Did you have
any sort of emotional, spiritual, or physical reaction to this sudden and
shocking tragedy?

John 3:16 (NIV): For God so loved the world that he gave his one
and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have
eternal life.

In your opinion, why is this scene (i.e. Emilys death) necessary to the
story? Prior to this moment in the film, were there any indicators that
something tragic might occur?

John 16:33 (NIV): I have told you these things, so that in me you may
have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have
overcome the world.

Pastor Hunt delivers a beautiful message at Emilys funeral. How does

he simultaneously acknowledge the depth of the Mitchells pain and
encourage their weary, burdened souls?

Romans 5:3-5 (NIV): Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings,
because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance,
character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame,
because Gods love has been poured out into our hearts through the
Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.

Take some time to think about and discuss the magnitude of Jesus
victory over death. What does His resurrection mean for our human
condition? How is it a Living Hope?

Romans 8:26 (NIV): In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our
weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the
Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans.
2 Corinthians 4:17 (NLT): For our present troubles are small and wont
last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them
and will last forever!
2 Timothy 3:12 (NLT): Yes, and everyone who wants to live a godly life
in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution.
1 Peter 4:12-13 (NIV): Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery
ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange
were happening to you. But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the
sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory
is revealed.

DVD Scenes to Review

Tragedy (00:41:40 00:45:00, Chapter 9)
Difficult Questions (00:45:37 00:50:30, Chapter 10)
Counseling (00:52:30 00:55:10, Chapter 11)
Emilys Dance (00:22:01 00:25:06, Chapter 5)
Adams Side of the Dance (01:13:10 01:16:17, Chapter 15)

Discussion Questions
Tragedy is an unfortunate reality of the human experience in this fallen,
imperfect world. In Ecclesiastes, Solomon writes, There is a time for
everything, and a season for every activity under the heavensa time
to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance
(3:1, 4; see Scriptures Referenced). Solomon affirms that mourning
is necessary and appropriate for a time. Ultimately, though, tragedy
requires a response: to remain in grief or to grow in faith.
When Emily dies in a car accident, Adam, Victoria, and Dylan are met
with unspeakable grief. The deep, pronounced pain of this senseless
tragedy threatens to overwhelm them. During the funeral, though,

Tragedy (00:41:40 00:45:00, Chapter 9)

Read John 3:16; Romans 8:26; and 2 Timothy 3:12

(see Scriptures Referenced).
John 3:16 is often referenced as a verse that explains salvation through
Jesus Christ. How might it also reveal Gods empathy for those who
suffer the death of a child?
Pastor Hunt refers to the human inability to speak to a grieving and
shattered heart. According to Romans 8:26, how does the Holy Spirit
minister to our hearts?
According to 2 Timothy 3:12, Christians are not exempt from trouble.
But, how does faith in Jesus Christ equip believers with a unique
perspective on tragedy and suffering?

In the days following the funeral, the tragedy of Emilys death seems
like a palpable, tangible presence in the Mitchell household. During this
trying time, Adam and Victoria wrestle with regret, guilt, and confusion,
but after an eye-opening interaction with a distant Dylan, Adam must
consider for perhaps the first time how he will ultimately respond
to this tragedy.

Scene to Review
Difficult Questions (00:45:37 00:50:30, Chapter 10)
At the beginning of the scene, Victoria asks difficult, unanswerable
questions, and Adam tells her that they cant dwell in that mentality.
Why does he discourage the practice?
Adam expresses frustration that he didnt say or do certain things when
Emily was alive. Why does tragedy cause such introspection and regret?
How would you describe Adams interaction with Dylan? As that
portion of the scene unfolds, what does Adam start to realize about
his relationship with his son?

Scene to Review
Counseling (00:52:30 00:55:10, Chapter 11)
How does this scene highlight a pastors role in caring for his or her
congregation? What are the benefits of seeking counsel from a respected,
trustworthy, and wise church leader?
Pastor Hunt tells Adam that this tragedy is an opportunity to discover
a comfort and intimacy with God that most people never experience.
Why does the Lord value our trust? How does our decision to trust in
the Lord during tragedy (or other difficulties) foster greater intimacy?
Adam says that he doesnt want to be angry; he wants to heal. Why is this
admission an important step for Adam? How will his desire to heal help
him through his grief?
How about you? Have you ever developed a greater intimacy with
God because you trusted him amidst difficulty? If so, can you describe
your experience?
Read Psalm 34:19 and Romans 5:3-5 (see Scriptures Referenced).

What role does Emilys death play in helping Adam to understand his
role as father? Why might hindsight with Emily prompt Adam to change
his approach with Dylan?

Pastor Hunt says that God doesnt promise an explanation, but He does
promise to walk with us through the pain. How does Psalm 34:19 relate
to this promise?

Take a moment to read Psalm 147:3 and John 16:33

(see Scriptures Referenced).

What does Romans 5:3-5 say about responding to tragedy? Why does
suffering produce perseverance, character, and hope? How do these
things reflect Gods glory in us?

How does the message of Psalm 147:3 offer encouragement to those who
are hurt, grieving, or suffering? How does this verse relate to the theme of
responding to tragedy?
According to John 16:33, where do we find peace amidst the trouble
of this world? Why is that peace vital to our ability to endure hardships
and tragedy?
As Adam continues in the grieving process, he seeks counsel from his
pastor. In a moving conversation, Adam and Pastor Hunt discuss tragedys
role in refining faith and inspiring greater intimacy with God. The men
also address the reality that Adam must choose how he will respond to this
tragedy will he be angry for the time he didnt have or grateful for the
time that he did?

Feel free to watch the following Optional Scenes to Review; they

demonstrate Adams journey from reluctant spectator to active participant
where fatherhood is concerned. This journey wouldnt have been possible
without Adams decision to respond to tragedy with faith in God.

Optional Scenes to Review

Emilys Dance (00:22:01 00:25:06, Chapter 5)
Adams Side of the Dance (01:13:10 01:16:17, Chapter 15)
As you conclude this theme discussion, read 2 Corinthians 4:17 and
1 Peter 4:12-13 (see Scriptures Referenced). Consider the Mitchells
journey as a whole and discuss the role of faith in their lives to help
them find purpose and peace despite tragedy. Perhaps you can even
spend some time in prayer, seeking guidance for current struggles or
thanking God for His faithfulness.

Theme Two: Living with Honor

Guiding Scripture: 1 Corinthians 16:13 (NLT): Be on guard. Stand firm in the faith. Be courageous. Be strong.

Scriptures Referenced

Discussion Questions

1 Chronicles 29:17 (NIV): I know, my God, that you test the heart
and are pleased with integrity.

The Guiding Scripture for this theme Be on guard. Stand firm in the
faith. Be courageous. Be strong (1 Corinthians 16:13) encompasses
several attributes of living with honor. During the course of the film, each
of the main characters has the opportunity to either take responsibility or
lose credibility. For most of these men, honor is a priority. For one, honor
has little meaning.

Psalm 27:1 (NLT): The Lord is my light and my salvation so why

should I be afraid? The Lord is my fortress, protecting me from danger,
so why should I tremble?
Psalm 56:3-4 (NIV): When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. In God,
whose word I praise in God I trust and am not afraid. What can mere
mortals do to me?
Micah 6:8 (NIV): He has shown you, O mortal, what is good.
And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love
mercy and to walk humbly with your God.
1 Corinthians 10:23 (NIV): I have the right to do anything,
you say but not everything is beneficial. I have the right to
do anything but not everything is constructive.
1 Corinthians 10:31 (NIV): So whether you eat or drink or whatever
you do, do it all for the glory of God.
1 Corinthians 16:13 (NLT): Be on guard. Stand firm in the faith.
Be courageous. Be strong.
Philippians 2:12-13 (NLT): Dear friends, you always followed my
instructions when I was with you. And now that I am away, it is even
more important. Work hard to show the results of your salvation,
obeying God with deep reverence and fear. For God is working in you,
giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him.
Philippians 4:13 (NIV): I can do all this through him who gives
me strength.

At Adams house one afternoon, the men discuss the effects of fatherlessness as outlined by the sheriffs report. In debating the reports validity,
they begin to reveal their own experiences with either absent, distant,
mediocre, or hypocritical fathers. David, who has a particular reason
to worry about this disturbing trend, later asks Nathan more about his
scarred, fatherless childhood.

Scenes to Review
Backyard Discussion (00:25:07 00:28:37, Chapter 6)
The Firing Range (01:08:29 01:12:18, Chapter 14)
After hearing Shane, David, and Nathan describe their respective
childhoods, what would you say about the role of honor in their
fathers lives? Was honor important?
Shane reveals that his father was insincere and hypocritical in his faith.
How has this legacy of dishonor continued with Shane? How will it
impact his son, Tyler?
How does the conversation at Adams house carry over to the firing
range? Whats bothering David? Why is he haunted by stories of
Nathans fatherless childhood?

Colossians 3:23 (NLT): Work willingly at whatever you do, as though

you were working for the Lord rather than for people.

Why has it been difficult for David to accept responsibility for his
actions? How does Davids struggle demonstrate the courage it takes
to pursue an honorable lifestyle?

DVD Scenes to Review

Take a moment to read Psalm 27:1 and Philippians 2:12-13

(see Scriptures Referenced).

Backyard Discussion (00:25:07 00:28:37, Chapter 6)

The Firing Range (01:08:29 01:12:18, Chapter 14)
Tests of Character (01:26:04 01:32:28, Chapter 18)
Courageous Decisions (01:32:29 01:40:09, Chapter 19)
The Shootout (01:32:29 01:40:09, Chapter 22)

As David makes the transition into a life of faith, how can he take
comfort in the assurances of Psalm 27:1? How does this verse also
affirm his search for honor?
The end of the Philippians passage says, For God is working in you,
giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him.

 How is this verse relevant to David and his circumstances? Have you ever
experienced either subtle or dramatic changes when God was working on
something in your life?
Why does the decision to live honorably require divine guidance? What
happens if we try to manufacture honor or sustain a life of honor apart
from its Creator?
Almost immediately after signing the Resolution, Javier and Adam are
faced with circumstances that test their integrity and honor. If they want
to maintain credibility and uphold the Resolution, they must find the
courage to make some tough decisions. For Javier, standing up for his
beliefs may cost him his means to provide for his family. For Adam,
the right thing to do may cost him a best friend.

Scene to Review
Tests of Character (01:26:04 01:32:28, Chapter 18)
Adam tells Dylan to seek the Lord and trust Him, even if that means hes
standing alone. How does this advice apply to both Javier and Adam in
the scenes that follow?
What do you think of the timing of these trials? Why do the tests occur
right after the men sign the Resolution? Has that type of spiritual warfare
ever happened to you?
If Javier and Adam want to preserve their integrity, what must each of
them do? Why is the right thing to do sometimes (or even usually) the
hardest thing to do?
At the end of the scene, Dylan overhears Adam saying that he has to do
whats right. How does Adams honor act as a witness to Dylan?
Read Psalm 56:3-4 and Micah 6:8 (see Scriptures Referenced).
According to Psalm 56:3-4, where should we place our trust and how
does that give us courage? How does this verse also remind us of Gods
ultimate authority?
Micah 6:8 is a command to act justly and to love mercy and to walk
humbly with your God. How are Javier and Adam adhering to this
verse if they maintain their integrity?
The following Scene to Review is the continuation and conclusion of the
previous one. Here, Javier and Adam make their courageous decisions and
await the outcomes of their choices. Both men choose the honorable path,
but only Javiers course ends in celebration. Adam must heed his own
advice: Seek the Lord and trust Him, even if youre standing alone. While
Adam does have the support of Nathan and the other officers, the mood
at the station is anything but celebratory.

Scene to Review
Courageous Decisions (01:32:29 01:40:09, Chapter 19)
How does Javier maintain his integrity when faced with adversity? What
does he say to his boss about honoring God above all else? How is Javiers
witness strengthened?
The Resolution holds the men doubly accountable for their actions.
How does this accountability give Javier and Adam the courage they
need to maintain their conviction?
What do Shanes actions and decisions reveal about his approach to and
attitude toward the Resolution? What damage has he caused by being
willing to surrender his honor?
Can you relate to Javiers experience? Or maybe Adams? Has your
integrity ever been put to the test in the workplace, at school, or
somewhere unexpected? What happened?
Read 1 Corinthians 10:23 and Philippians 4:13
(see Scriptures Referenced).
Paul wrote 1 Corinthians 10:23, in part, to encourage Christians to edify
one another. How might this verse serve as an additional warning against
poor judgment?
Philippians 4:13 is brief, yet powerful; can you give examples from your
own life about finding strength in Jesus Christ? About being able to live
honorably through Him?
In a testament to true camaraderie, the following Optional Scene
to Review features the climactic shootout scene at the end of the film.
After developing strong bonds bonds of faith, tragedy, perseverance,
community with each other, Adam, Nathan, and David come together
to contain and arrest some dangerous criminals. More than ever, the
officers do their work with honor: maintaining integrity, providing
backup and assistance, and working to finish the job at hand.

Optional Scene to Review

The Shootout (01:32:29 01:40:09, Chapter 22)
In concluding this theme discussion, take some time to look at
1 Chronicles 29:17; 1 Corinthians 10:31; 16:13; and Colossians 3:23
(see Scriptures Referenced), and consider what each verse says about
honor. Perhaps think about the role of honor in your own life are
there areas in which you could more fully pursue honor with courage
and boldness? Wherever you stand, know that God is the Creator of
honor, and His Word will guide and protect as we pursue His ways.

Theme Three: Building

an Inheritance
Guiding Scripture: Joshua 24:15 (NIV): choose for yourselves this
day whom you will serveBut as for me and my household, we will
serve the Lord.

Scriptures Referenced
Exodus 20:12 (NIV): Honor your father and your mother, so that you
may live long in the land the LORD your God is giving you.
Joshua 24:15 (NIV): choose for yourselves this day whom you will
serveBut as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.
Psalm 103:13 (NLT): The Lord is like a father to his children, tender
and compassionate to those who fear him.
Psalm 112:1-2 (NIV): Praise the Lord. Blessed are those who fear the
Lord, who find great delight in his commands. Their children will be
mighty in the land; the generation of the upright will be blessed.
Proverbs 3:11-12 (NLT): My child, dont reject the Lords discipline,
and dont be upset when he corrects you. For the Lord corrects those he
loves, just as a father corrects a child in whom he delights.
Proverbs 22:6 (NLT): Direct your children onto the right path, and
when they are older, they will not leave it.
Ephesians 6:4 (NIV): Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead,
bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.
Colossians 3:21 (NIV): Fathers, do not embitter your children, or they
will become discouraged.

DVD Scenes to Review

Fatherhood Research (00:55:11 00:57:33, Chapter 12)
Introducing the Resolution (01:04:20 01:07:12. Chapter 13)
Resolution Ceremony (01:18:26 01:22:23, Chapter 16)
Fathers Day Speech (01:55:35 02:01:08, Chapter 24)
An Important Letter (01:22:24 01:24:25, Chapter 17)
A Fathers Promise (01:40:40 01:43:15, Chapter 21)

Discussion Questions
The Bible is clear about its message: In order to be saved, a person
must accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. The acceptance is a personal
decision; it cant be forced or bestowed; it must be actively received. So,
as much a parent might want to, he cannot save his child. However,
a parent has the unique privilege of creating a faith heritage a spiritual
inheritance for his family. And that parent can do everything in his
power to set an example for the next generation.
Emilys death serves as a major turning point for the Mitchell family
in general and Adam in particular. He realizes that fatherhood is an
immense opportunity. For a time, Adam has the chance to guide and
nurture Dylans understanding of faith, of God, and of salvation.
By taking this responsibility seriously, there is a much greater
chance that Dylan will be a man of God.

Scenes to Review

Scene to Review

Fatherhood Research (00:55:11 00:57:33, Chapter 12)

Introducing the Resolution (01:04:20 01:07:12. Chapter 13)

Resolution Ceremony (01:18:26 01:22:23, Chapter 16)

A Fathers Promise (01:40:40 01:43:15, Chapter 21)

Adam tells Victoria that hes accepting the fact that he has to learn to
do the hard things. Specifically, hes considering running with Dylan,
which represents a major change of heart.

As the men pledge their commitment, what aspects of the Resolution

stand out to you? Being a good parent? Caring for your spouse?
Accepting responsibility?

Adam realizes that he must invest in Dylans interests to create

a relationship. Why is this good practice for anyone who might
be struggling to connect with someone else?

Why is it important to hold a formal Resolution ceremony? What

message does that send to the mens wives and children? How does
that contribute to building an inheritance?

When Victoria asks Adam how his research is progressing, he says,

There is so much in Scripture about being a father. I never took
time to look it up.

In the second scene with Nathan and Jade, why does this new approach
work better than the previous discussions about dating that have ended
in arguments and frustration?

How could this concept apply to other roles we assume? Have you ever
studied what Scripture says about being a good mother, brother, sister,
son, daughter, etc.?

Discuss some of the ways that Nathan demonstrates his love for his
daughter. How is this dinner a manifestation of Nathans desire to
build a spiritual inheritance for his children?

In response to Shanes comment, Adam says, Whatever patterns we set for

[our kids] will likely be used for their kids and the generation after that.
We have the responsibility to mold a life.

Read Psalm 112:1-2 and Colossians 3:21 (see Scriptures Referenced).

How does Adams comment explain the importance of building

an inheritance? Why is it important to create good patterns that
children can follow?
In your own words, define the following terms: inheritance, heritage,
and legacy. Do your definitions apply to a spiritual inheritance, heritage,
or legacy? Why or why not?
Read Exodus 20:12 and Ephesians 6:4 (see Scriptures Referenced).
How do these verses address the concept of building a spiritual
inheritance? What does Exodus 20:12 say about generational blessing?
What is the long-term reward?
Ephesians 6:4 is straightforward. How does Adams journey through
the film fit each aspect of this verse? How has Adam and Dylans
relationship grown and matured?
Thanks to Nathans wife, Kayla (Eleanor Brown), the five friends Adam,
Nathan, David, Shane, and Javier decide to sign the Resolution in an
official ceremony. Each man is required to take his own vows, committing
himself to his spouse, children, and responsibilities.
Soon after the ceremony, Nathan tries a new, personal, and intentional
approach to make a connection with Jade. His efforts to show his daughter
how much he loves her are well received.

How does Psalm 112:1-2 relate to the purpose of the Resolution?

What does the passage say about building an inheritance? What is the
eternal inheritance we have with Jesus?
In what ways does Nathan honor the instruction found in Colossians
3:21? If you have children, can you relate to this verse? Have you tried
new approaches with your kids?
At the end of the film, Adam speaks at a Fathers Day service at church.
He delivers a powerful message about the devastation of fatherlessness,
and he traces his own journey from a somewhat perfunctory fixture to
an engaged, proactive father. He pleads with fathers to pursue biblical
fatherhood, and to be the visual representation of the character of
God to future generations.

Scene to Review
Fathers Day Speech (01:55:35 02:01:08, Chapter 24)
Take some time to think about and discuss Adams speech. Feel free
to watch the scene again if you missed any talking points. Were you
impacted by his message? If so, how?
Adam says that a father should seek to win their childrens hearts.
What are some practical ways that fathers could do this? How does
this promote a heritage of faith?
As a father, youre accountable to God for the position of influence Hes
given you. How does this eternal perspective provide accountability
for those who might need it?
At one point, Adam says, The souls of your children have eternal
value a necessary reminder. How does this speak to the theme
of building an inheritance?
Take a moment to read Joshua 24:15 and Proverbs 3:11-12
(see Scriptures Referenced).
Both the Resolution and the film end with Joshua 24:15. What does this
verse say about choosing to honor God? About creating a godly pattern
for future generations?
Why might Proverbs 3:11-12 be a good verse for those who are trying
to learn about how to be a better father? How does this verse apply
to Adams experience in the film?
Feel free to watch the following Optional Scene to Review in which
David finally reaches out to Amanda (Anna Marie McWilliams) in
order to take responsibility for his past and to create a hope for the future.
This scene immediately follows the Resolution Ceremony scene, and this
is Davids attempt to uphold his vows, knowing he may finally meet his
young daughter.

Optional Scenes to Review

An Important Letter (01:22:24 01:24:25, Chapter 17)
As you conclude this theme discussion, read Psalm 103:13 and Proverbs
22:6 (see Scriptures Referenced). Take some time to think about how
these verses and any others that you can think of relate to the theme
of building an inheritance. Perhaps your group members can share some
ideas for parenting, mentoring, and building relationships with an eternal
purpose in mind.

How do Adams and Shanes perspectives of the wheel change from

the first scene to the second? What has happened to cause these
massive shifts in perspective?

Scene to Review
Gods Perfect Timing (00:28:38 00:33:58, Chapter 6)
How does this scene highlight Gods timing and divine intervention?
Javier is a man of tremendous faith; how does God honor Javiers
loyalty and obedience?

Final Thoughts
Feel free to watch the following Scenes to Review and discuss
the questions that follow.

Scenes to Review
Car Chase (00:00:54 00:04:46, Chapter 1)
Jail Visit (01:43:16 01:46:19, Chapter 21)
What is the significance of the wheel analogy? Why is it important
to hold the wheel?

Scenes to Review
Sheriff s Meeting (00:07:36 00:09:49, Chapter 2)
Gang Initiation (00:34:49 00:36:26, Chapter 7)
How does the gang activity in the film add a vivid dimension
to the fatherlessness issue? What compels young men such as
Derrick (Donald Howze ) to join a gang family?

 Pastor Rick Warren

...a message

Courageous
is inspired!

that...could bring
and

hope

healing

Dick Rolfe, The Dove Foundation

to families
everywhere.
Bob Waliszewski, FOTFs Plugged In

...poignant,
heartrending

Excellent!
HHHH

scenes and some

of the funniest
scenes

Kam Williams, Syndicated Columnist

in filmmaking.
Ted Baehr, Movieguide

AVAILABLE NOW
ON

7
SOME MATERIAL MAY NOT BE SUITABLE FOR CHILDREN

SOME VIOLENCE AND DRUG CONTENT

BLU-RAY

AND DVD

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