My final post in the Movie Ministry Series delves into the many direct comments and actions of faith in Disney films. This compilation of scenes in these films can make up a lengthy movie watch list perfect for your quarantine entertainment. While we can see inherently biblical themes in nearly every Disney movie, we will look at some that very obviously point straight to God and the Bible. So without further adieu the list of Biblical mentions:

1. The Emperor’s New Groove (1:03:49) Kronk’s Shoulder Angel: “Now, now remember guys; from above the wicked shall receive their just reward (Psalm 94 reference).” In two different scenes Kronk had to choose between listening to his shoulder Angel and shoulder Demon. In both cases he chooses “the path of righteousness” instead of “the path that rocks!” In my opinion they are one and the same because righteousness rocks!
2. Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1:00:28) – Snow White’s prayer to God before bed: “Bless the seven little men who have been so kind to me. And, and may my dreams come true. Amen. Oh yes, and please make Grumpy like me.” Throughout the movie, Snow White is ever kind and loving to absolutely everyone including those that don’t like her and even those that attempt to take her life. The kiss that breaks her spell and makes her dreams come true can elude to Christ as the Prince and she as the Bride or the Church. When the Prince comes to her, he raises her from her coffin and takes her with him to his castle which is depicted as a land in the sky, but is known to us as heaven.
3. Avengers: Age of Ultron (1:17: 55) – Ultron’s two twisted scripture references:
   (1)Wanda: “How could you?” Ultron: “How could I what?” Wanda: “You said…we would destroy the Avengers, make a better world.” Ultron: “It will be better.” Wanda: “When everyone is dead?” Ultron: “That is not…. The human race will have every opportunity to improve.” Pietro: “And if they don’t?” Ultron: “Ask Noah.” (Genesis 8:9-10:32) Wanda: “You’re a madman.” Ultron: “There were a dozen extinction level events before even the dinosaurs got theirs. When the earth starts to settle, God throws a stone at it.  And believe me, he’s winding up.”       (2) Ultron quotes Matthew 16:18, “Upon this rock, I will build my church.”, and puts his device to destroy the world in the church in the center of the village. Ultron represents a character meant for good to protect the earth, but like everything man makes, he turns out twisted and marred by his own nature. His twisting of scripture while being twisted himself indicates a double negative that actually sets the accurate story as good and true.
4. Lilo & Stitch (0:23:39) Lilo’s prayer/wish to God: “It’s me again. I need someone to be my friend. Someone who won’t run away. Maybe send me an angel! The nicest angel you have.” You could say this movie is hot and cold in terms of good and bad behavior. While both main characters deeply struggle with the “bad” parts of themselves, both recognize their fatal flaws and consistently strive to reconcile them. Both of them look for fulfillment and ultimately find it in the match that God seemed to intend all along: ohana.
5. The Jungle Book (1:11:14) Bagheera quotes scripture: “Greater love hath, no one than he who lays down his life for his friend (John 15:13).” This quote straight out of the New Testament is uttered when Baloo the bear risks his life for his little friend Mowgli. While he doesn’t actually die, it gives Disney the chance to sneak in the light of Christ.
6. Iron Man (0:15:20) The latest and most advanced missile that Tony presents to the American army is named “the Jericho” after the biblical battle in which God destroys the city walls of the enemies of Israel (Joshua 6:15-20). Likewise, Stark’s intention with his weapon of mass destruction is to dissuade any enemies of America from even thinking about “coming out of their caves.” In his demonstration, Stark stretches out his arms and at the firing of the Jericho the mountains melt like wax (Micah 1:4; Psalm 97:5; Nahum 1:5). While this portion of the movie seems to indicate that Tony is God, the rest of the movie, and with that the rest of Iron Man’s story in the MCU, that image is torn down and replaced with a more humble and sacrificial Tony Stark, worthy of the title of martyr.

It has been a pleasure researching and writing this series throughout the semester. If someone in future EMOC classes wishes to continue it, I would love to see the content they bring. During this time of uncertainty we can look to these movies and commend their characters for their actions of faith during their uncertain times. If you finish all of these movies before you’re allowed out of your house, allow me to point you to The Spaghetti Order. If you haven’t already heard of it, this list puts the entirety of MCU into perfect story order. I believe all movies in this series contain multiple biblical themes and characters to encourage Christians in their more ordinary everyday life. Thank you and enjoy.

The Spaghetti Order: https://vocal.media/geeks/the-perfect-order-to-watch-the-marvel-cinematic-universe-mcu-movies