FATHER’S DAY

CONVERSATION GUIDE MAN OF STEEL WELCOME

This Father’s Day, the epic story of Superman is given a new life. It’s a timeless story that can connect us to the ultimate story of heroism, fatherhood, grace, and redemption.

HOW TO USE THIS GUIDE “You will give the people an ideal to Round up the kids and take them to see Man of Steel (PG-13). Then use this Conversation Guide to take another look at the movie’s major themes. In the conversation, you will strive towards. They discover new connections to your own life and God’s Word. will race behind you, they will stumble, LOVE THAT IS STRONGER THAN ANYTHING they will fall. But in time, they will join From the explosive first scenes of Man of Steel, only one unshakable determination stands: you in the sun. a father’s love for his son. Even when Jor-El (played by Russell Crowe) knows the sacrifices will be total and the separation utterly heart-wrenching, he will not be stopped. In time, you will help them accomplish Throughout the film, the incredible love of a father is what makes everything good possible. wonders.” — Jor-El It’s a powerful, self-giving, unrelenting force that becomes an anchor of Superman’s identity and purpose. This love drives hope; this hope drives purpose.

And when spoken, this love gives Superman his ultimate challenge: “You can save them… you can save all of them.”

DAD, ASK YOUR KIDS: 1. What’s the best example of love that you’ve seen? 2. Think about the people you love in your life. How can you love them better? 3. What makes it hard to love people the way Jesus wants us to? 1 UNDAUNTED IN DOING WHAT IS RIGHT

As the story unfolds in Man of Steel, we watch Clark Kent struggle with the reality of who he is “You’re the answer, and what he alone can do. His adopted parents, Jonathan and Martha Kent (played by Kevin Costner and Diane Lane) do all they can, but the mission in front of him is ultimately his and son. You’re the his alone. answer to ‘are He is undaunted in doing what is right. He alone can save the world. But the cost is total — taking on the full assault of an enemy who would stop at nothing to destroy every member we alone in the of the human race. This enemy is someone Superman alone can stop, and only through extreme personal sacrifice. universe?’ ” This is an age-old story, played out powerfully here, but echoing the best of the mission of — Jonathan Kent Jesus in the New Testament. Think of the mirror reflection: From a place far beyond earth, sent by the love of a Father, Superman gives up all to come to live among a people doomed to death. Nurtured by adoptive parents, he stands in for justice and truth, but ultimately steps in to save humanity.

KIDS, ASK YOUR DAD: 1. What is the most powerful part of the story of Jesus?

2. And what would victory over that enemy look like?

3. Since none of us have super hero powers, how can we be everyday heroes for those we love?

GO DEEPER Where Man of Steel begins, the New Testament presses deeper still. A hero who came to save humanity is also one who was there during its creation. He’s more than just a champion against evil, he’s a powerful example of what is good. As a father, you should be striving to live out this example every day. You can be that hero for your son or daughter by giving them unconditional love and support.

1. Read the descriptions taken from the opening chapter of the Gospel of John: John 1:11-14

2. What is John’s Gospel describing here?

3. How could this timeless description could make a needed difference in your life?

Conversation Guide brought to you by: abs.us/movie

© Copyright American Bible Society 2013 *The impact of movies, television and theater on culture is profound, shaping how millions perceive social and moral issues. ABS builds resources for mainstream releases to facilitate culture-reaching conversations, inviting viewers to use themes presented to explore a new or refreshed relationship with Christ. This should not be perceived as direct endorsement or any particular media content. 2