Tolkien’s faith continues to inspire readers and audiences around the world. As people watch his biopic, Tolkien here are two useful topics of discussion for individual or group use.
See the film then discuss, reflect and pray together.
Part 1: Finding Fellowship
DISCUSS
- At the heart of the film are Tolkien’s close friendships with his schoolmates. How do they transform his life? What talents and qualities do his friends bring out in him?
- What are some of the most significant friendships in your life, and how have they changed you? How can we support and encourage our friends to be their best selves?
- Tolkien’s closest friendships were tested by war: how can our relationships endure under fire? What makes friendship so precious during tough times?
- What might we learn about true friendship from Tolkien’s life and work? What ingredients help make our relationships deep and lasting?
- Why do you think it’s important that faith is lived out in community? Which parts of the Bible make this clear? How can churches be communities of true fellowship?
REFLECT
In a moment of quiet, reflect on this verse together. “By this everyone will know that you are My disciples, if you love one another.’ (John 13:35).
PRAY
Dear God, thank you for the gift of friendship. Jesus chose to have friends around him during his time on earth, so we know that none of us are meant to journey alone. Help us encourage and love our friends, just as you’ve loved us. Amen.
Part 2: Unexpected Journeys
DISCUSS
- Did you learn anything new from the film about how Tolkien’s life inspired his stories? Did anything particularly surprise or move you?
- How did Tolkien’s imagination help him to deal with – and transform – the painful parts of his life? Which stories bring you hope in hard times?
- How might our own imaginations help us see the world more clearly – and make it better? What role does imagination play in your faith journey?
- What was it about Tolkien’s Middle Earth stories that struck a chord with readers? Who do you think we’re so drawn to tales about good overcoming evil?
- Tolkien’s faith helped shape the stories he told. How might the themes of his books, and of his life, reflect God’s bigger story – including the hope we have as believers?
REFLECT
In a moment of quiet, think about the stories you love most. How might they reflect God’s truth and goodness? If you would like to, share your thoughts with a friend or the rest of the group.
PRAY
Dear God, thank you for the power of stories to comfort and inspire us. We love stories because you made us to be part of a greater design. Please capture our imaginations with your story of hope for our world. Amen.
Visit the official Tolkien movie site.
