A Pixel Parable Bible Talk – “Finding Nemo”

Here’s a Bible Talk you can lead with the DVD player as your visual aid. Get out that color-filled copy of “Finding Nemo” to have a creative, interesting and faith building discussion!

Have you ever been separated from someone you love? Has your child ever been lost or have you lost someone precious? What did that feel like?

The film Finding Nemo is the story of a fish, Nemo, who is captured, and his father’s journey against incredible odds to save him. This film illustrates a love of a father for his son, and his commitment to never stop searching until he brings him home. The movie’s message resonated with the viewing public when it was first released and is reflected in the following:

Finding Nemo won the 2003 Academy Award for best animated film.
The film grossed $864 million dollars worldwide.
The DVD is the best selling animated feature of all time as of 2006.
The DVD is also the best selling DVD of all time with over 40 million sold as of 2006.

The theme in Finding Nemo is a great parallel of God’s amazing love for his creation. The Bible tells us of how much God loves his children, how his love can overcome our fears, and how we need to surrender and let God have control. Let’s look at some clips from the film that help illustrate these great truths from God’s word.

1. God loves us and wants to bring his lost children home. Play DVD clip – Chapter 17 to 57:35

What was so compelling about Marlin’s love for his son that motivated the sea creatures to share the “good news” with each other?

Read Luke 15:3-7

In the parable, what motivates the shepherd to go searching for one lost sheep when he still has 99 saved ones? Why does he want to celebrate with his friend and neighbors when his lost sheep is found?

How did it feel when you first realized that God wanted you and was searching for you? What lengths did God go to in order to bring you from out of darkness in to his light?

2. God’s love gives us courage and hope. Play DVD clip 57:35 to 1:00:33

What transformed Nemo from being sad and afraid to becoming bold and excited?

Read I John 4:16-18

The Bible says that God is love, period. What are some examples when God has been the very definition of love in your life?

Perfect love drives out fear. Why is fear so debilitating? What are some fears that people have that stop them from being loved by God? How does God’s love for us help us overcome fear and make us bold?

3. We must surrender our will to let God have control. Play DVD clip – Chapter 1:08:53 to 1:13:33.

Why was Dorie so calm and relaxed while Marlin was stressed out and worried?

Read Proverbs 3:5 and Isaiah 50:10

What are some examples of situations that worry and stress you out?

Why is it hard to trust God and let him have control of difficult situations?

What are the benefits of surrendering our will to God’s will?

Conclusion:

Finding Nemo contains scenes that are parables about how much God loves us. He searches for his lost children, his loves drives out our darkest fears, and he blesses us when we surrender to his will. Will you let God find you?

Dan LaFever