How to Share Your Faith Using National Treasure: Book of Secrets
If only history class were as exciting as Ben Gates' (Nicholas Cage's) adventures in National Treasure: Book of Secrets! As Gates is drawn into unlocking the hidden historical secrets surrounding his family's past, the pace quickens and the suspense mounts. His dangerous, action-packed quest takes him across the globe and to the center of power.
At one point Gates characterizes his quest as the search for "the greatest treasure of all time." Could a "book" really be a priceless treasure? And could a book really unlock a truth that could impact the world?
As Christians, we have the answers to those questions! And they don't involve National Treasures' fictional "President's Book of Secrets"! Our real book of great treasure is the Bible, and the real world-changing truth that unfolds within its pages is God's plan of salvation and the work Jesus accomplishes in the hearts of those who place their trust in Him and seek to walk with Him each day.
The Bible's dynamic and life-changing power is described in Heb 4:12:
For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires.
The Apostle Paul describes the Word's transforming power in our lives this way:
There's nothing like the written Word of God for showing you the way to salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. Every part of Scripture is God-breathed and useful one way or another - showing us truth, exposing our rebellion, correcting our mistakes, training us to live God's way. Through the Word we are put together and shaped up for the tasks God has for us. (2 Timothy 3:15-17, The Message)
The Bible reveals God's plan for restoring man's relationship with Him, forces us to face our failings and shows us how to live in God's power and for His purposes. Doesn't that sound like it fits the description of a real "book" with the power to transform the world?
So as National Treasure: Book of Secrets comes up in your conversation with your friends, look for ways to move the conversation toward the real book that is a priceless treasure - the Bible, and a truth that can shake their world forever - the Good News of the Gospel. Here are some ideas to help you get started:
Find out if your friends thought the movie National Treasure: Book of Secrets made it believable that such a book could actually exist.
What written document from history do you think has had the most profound, world-changing impact? In your mind, does the Bible appear at or near the top of the list?
In what ways do you think the Bible has changed the world? In what ways has the Bible changed your personal world?
Ask your friends if they believe the Bible is the inspired Word of God? Share what you believe. For help with this, check out the Soul Fuel article The Most Dangerous Book.
As evidenced in National Treasure: Book of Secrets, a book penned long ago, can hold truths that impact the world. Make sure your friends understand the truths found in the most impacting book of all time: The Bible.
________________________________________________________________
Jane Dratz works for Dare 2 Share Ministries in Arvada, Colo., a ministry committed to energizing and equipping teens to know, live, share and own their faith in Jesus. For more information on Dare 2 Share Ministries, please visit www.dare2share.org. Send feedback to [email protected].