Death. Romance. Loyalty. Survival of the fittest. Government control. All these made the latest film The Hunger Games the third-best opening weekend box office sales of any movie.

“Post-apocalyptic action movie ‘The Hunger Games’ opened with a staggering $155 million at U.S. and Canadian box offices, beating Hollywood's lofty expectations and making history as the third-highest domestic film opening.” [1]

In brief ...

“The nation of Panem has risen out of the war, disaster and the ravaged ruins of what was once known as North America. 74 years ago, the thirteen poverty-stricken districts of Panem rebelled against the wealthy, controlling Capitol. After its crushing victory, the Capitol devised the Hunger Games as an annual reminder to the twelve remaining districts of its authority, and as continuing punishment for the rebellion. Every year, each District must hold a raffle (known as the "reaping") to choose one boy and one girl (ranging from age 12–18) to participate in the Hunger Games, a competition in which each of the twenty-four contestants (known as the "tributes") fight to the death in a televised arena until only one is left alive.” [2]

What draws so many to watch others on the screen participate in battle and bloodshed like the gladiators of the Roman Empire? Why are we enamored with oppressed people rising against evil governments? Something in the human heart understands that there is a cosmic conflict in which all mankind participates. The Bible speaks of these battles.

“For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strong holds” (2 Corinthians 10:3, 4 NIV).

“For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places” (Ephesians 6:12 NKJV).

Preparation for such warfare does not come from gazing at surreal battles created by novel and screenplay writers from Hollywood. Paul tells us, “Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand” (Ephesians 6:13 NKJV). The Bible teaches the post-apocalyptic world will begin at the second coming of Christ and the destruction of this world. Then, after 1,000 years, Jesus will return to make this world new and without sin or evil. There will be no “hunger” for killing others.

The Hunger Games is not worth watching. (For a good resource on reviewing movies with a Christian perspective, go to www.dove.org.) Listening to strong language and observing violence only creates a thirst for more. How much better to listen to the Word of God and learn our battle is not so much outside of us, but a battle within our own hearts. Set down your box office tickets and pick up your Bible. Here you will find the preparation you need for the greatest conflicts you will ever face.

If you would like to learn more about preparing for the coming of Jesus and the events that will transpire before Christ comes, attend one of our upcoming Bible prophecy seminars listed on this website.