MPA Rating:for thematic elements throughout.

Excellent!

Moviemaking Quality:

Primary Audience:

Genre:

Length:

Year of Release:

USA Release:

August 27, 2015 (select)
August 28, 2015 (wide—1,135 theaters)
September 4, 2015 (wider—1,526 theaters)
September 25, 2015 (wider—1,900+ theaters)
DVD: December 22, 2015

Why is the world the way it is? If God is all-knowing, all-powerful, and loving, would He really create a world like this? (filled with oppression, suffering, death and cruelty) Answer

Discover God’s promise for all people—told beautifully and clearly from the beginning. Discover The HOPE! Watch it on Christian Answers—full-length motion picture.

Are you going to Heaven? Are you SURE you know the answer this extremely important question? Or have you made some common wrong assumptions? Find out now!…

Positive—I am absolutely… speechless. I have seen many of the Kendrick brothers’ films, “Courageous,” “Facing the Giants.” But never have I seen a movie so powerful and so uplifting since “God’s Not Dead.” Powerful performances (some even humorous) and a true, straightforward message about the power of prayer and the patience that comes through prayer. As I sat in the theater, I couldn’t help but overhear people praising God over and over.
Without giving too much away, all the emotional strings were pulled in this movie: joy, anger, sadness. Two hours later, I’m still in awe of how amazing this film was. I wish this movie was available for viewing in more theaters (only ONE theater in my area, out of dozens, was showing this). If it’s in your area and you only go to one movie this year, this is IT. Tell your friends, tell your neighbors! I can’t wait for the DVD release!
My Ratings: Moral rating: Excellent! / Moviemaking quality: 4½

Positive—This is an outstanding movie. It will move your heart, and it certainly gives the glory to Jesus. I doubt there was a dry eye in the house. Everyone applauded at the end. Just go see it!!!…
My Ratings: Moral rating: Excellent! / Moviemaking quality: 5

Positive—This was a timely message at a period in history when it feels as if all is lost. I found the movie to be inspirational, steady moving and really enjoyable. I loved the jump rope competition. Some very cool moves! My favorite part was the end—a call for God to lift up a generation of warriors who will fight on their knees. We need it bad.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Excellent! / Moviemaking quality: 5

Positive—Great movie and a very timely one. I am also a believer that there is power in prayer. Does He who formed the ear not hear? He does! Thanks for a wonderful movie.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Excellent! / Moviemaking quality: 5

Positive—SEE THIS MOVIE! I would not have a concern, except for the youngest of children, because of the issues the reviewer brought up about adultery, alcohol, etc… I really liked the way Miss Clara was an enthusiastic follower of Jesus, and her dedication to prayer wasn’t made light of by the directors—but it was not, it was respected and to be admired. It is always nice seeing characters from other Kendrick movies make an appearance—not sure why Beth Moore was on the movie poster when she had really two sentences of dialog, and it was not a profound turning point in the movie.
I did like the way the subject of prayer was dealt with BUT most specifically, Miss Clara’s teaching on GRACE. It was spot on and was one of the most powerful lessons of the movie. Felt the ending was somewhat rushed—but loved the lessons of why prayer was needed, the importance, and the humble submission to Jesus in prayer—a recognition of our daily need for grace and strengthening—they were perfect. GO SEE THIS! With your spouse, a possible spouse, and friends. GO!
My Ratings: Moral rating: Excellent! / Moviemaking quality: 4

Positive—Ok, we all need a Miss Clara in our lives. This Miss Clara will inspire you to be serious about your prayer life. This movie was totally inspiring and one of the best Christian movies in a bit. With great music from Mandisa, Toby Mac, Building 429, John Waller, Steve C. Chapman and more.
I cannot say enough. Churches, see this movie—and start praying. We all need to be a Miss Clara in this world we live in.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Excellent! / Moviemaking quality: 4½

Positive—Really enjoyed this film! It showed what many people have experienced-Grace and the POWER of Prayer. Prayer seems so simple to do that I sometimes forget how powerful it really is.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Excellent! / Moviemaking quality: 4½

Positive—I was praying for this film since I saw the first trailer months ago. I attended this movie on opening night with my wife and disciples from my church. What a blessing!! We were all encouraged to take serious spiritual inventory of ourselves. We were challenged to intercede for others and mentor others in their journey of prayer and holy living.
The characters were authentic and believable. I saw myself in the film! It was inspiring to participate in the worship experience of watching the film. We cried, prayed, laughed, shouted and praised Jesus for His amazing grace!! I recommend this film to all people, both believers and unbelievers. The prayers of the righteous are powerfully effective!!!… I commend the Kendrick Brothers and their vision in knowing what the body of Christ needs at this time… a call to prayer!!!
My Ratings: Moral rating: Excellent! / Moviemaking quality: 4½

Positive—Karen Abercrombie [Miss Clara] is just absolutely amazing.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Excellent! / Moviemaking quality: 4½

Positive—This movie is a wake up call to America for a revival! It is an outstanding testament of what God’s divine intervention will do in a person’s life if they will accept him into their hearts! By far the greatest picture these two brothers have done thus far! Awesome job guys for a job well done!
My Ratings: Moral rating: Excellent! / Moviemaking quality: 5

Positive—Just watched this on opening night. As expected, it was a blessing to watch and be challenged in the faith in the area of prayer. This film follows a lot of the same main story points as the previous films, which is a good thing—like the 4 Gospels. I pray they stick to this format.
BTW, I challenge you to go back and watch the other films, especially if you have never seen them: “Flywheel,” “Facing the Giants,” “Fireproof” and “Courageous.” Good story telling, entertaining, funny, inspiring and convicting. My wife and I prayed in the car after the movie. My only complaint about this movie would be that it doesn’t have the action and intensity of the previous films. I pray this film stirs up Christians to be serious about their prayer lives. May God also draw people who don’t know the God of the Bible to see and be saved.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Excellent! / Moviemaking quality: 5

Positive—I think this is the best movie I have seen in a long time. The actors and story line was incredible. Everyone involved in this movie should be so proud of what they have accomplished to do by inspiring, and sending a message of what needs to be in everyone’s life. God and Jesus Christ. Thank for making this movie and touching my heart.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Excellent! / Moviemaking quality: 5

Positive—Excellent in so many way! Great acting by all. Great script and production. Best Christian film and best movie in general in a LONG time. Laugh out loud many times. Moving portrayals by the mother and father. Some of the most profound moments are comedian Michael Jr. speaking the truth with love to the father and Miss Clara mentoring the mother. The daughter and her friend add so much with their expressions. Excellent cast. Excellent film.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Excellent! / Moviemaking quality: 5

Positive—Another well done movie from the Kendrick Brothers. The storyline is relevant to many issues in our society today and shows how we can become distracted by worldly pursuits, rather than focusing on our relationship with God. This movie inspired me to pray about everything in my life, challenged me to release my battles to the Lord and encouraged me to be diligent and faithful in my prayers for others. The powerful, heartfelt prayers of Miss Clara, beautifully portrayed by Karen Abercrombie, still echo in my soul. What a refreshing message to hear!!
My Ratings: Moral rating: Excellent! / Moviemaking quality: 4½

Positive—Some Christians do not understand how powerful prayer is. This was an AWESOME faith-based movie that explains it in a way everyone can understand it. If anyone goes to see this movie needs to ask God to explain it to them if they do not understand. If you are not a Christian or do not believe in God you will not understand this move. This is perfect timing for a movie like this, due to all the negative things that are going on in our world today.
Christians need to stand tall on their knees praying for God to guide us each day and to pray for all our family, friends. and the peace of Jerusalem. I am a product of the power of prayer, and when God touched me, God showed me who was praying for me. In saying that, all I can say to you is prayer is very powerful, and the people you are praying for will be blessed.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Excellent! / Moviemaking quality: 5

Positive—This movie “War Room” has really helped me to pray more with God, and to just take the time to pray about my family and the whole world and people who I know. Another thing I learned was that prayer is very important, and it’s a powerful weapon. You know, God is listening to what you’re praying, and I know He will answer you. This movie “War Room” really touched me and strengthened my faith. I am very happy that I got to see this movie when it came out in theaters.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Excellent! / Moviemaking quality: 5

Positive—I really enjoyed the movie, “War Room.” I must say that it was very realistic. Some comments are being made about a scene of alcohol use and attempted adultery. Those things are a part of the realistic world that we live in. That scene was a part of the movie to stress a point. Her husband was a liar, a thief, selfish, mental abuser and child/wife neglecting man who did not make God his number one priority. The husband and wife were both greedy and worldly and did not make God their number one priority. This is just as sinful as the alcohol and attempted adultery.
It was one of the best movies I have seen in a long time. The humor and the seriousness of the movie was well balanced. It made me laugh and cry. The actors and actresses played their parts very well. See all »
My Ratings: Moral rating: Excellent! / Moviemaking quality: 5

Positive—As if you needed another positive comment, but I want to add that this movie was very well-written, and the acting was spectacular. The movie rotated entirely about marriage and praying for marriage, and the movie succeeded as cinematic art. I was interested throughout the whole movie. It disappeared quickly from my local theater, so I had to drive farther, but it was worth the drive.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Excellent! / Moviemaking quality: 4½

Positive—This was a very inspiring, well made film within the faith-based movie genre. Our theater was sold out and, at the end, the place erupted into applause. It is encouraging to see this kind of support for these films, and the more we support them, the better they will become. The acting was similar to what we have come to expect from these faith-based films. Some of it is very good, and some is stiff and very amateur. What could have made this film much better was a script change.
My husband and I both agreed that the ending was much too sugar-coated and not realistic enough, diluting the potential for a stronger message. Early in the film Tony says that they can barely afford their beautiful home. After his confession, he is required to repay the $19,000, and he loses the company car then takes a job at half the pay. What is missing here is that they should have had to sell their house for a much more humble home (buying Miss Clara’s home would have made sense for example and added a sweet twist to the story with Miss Clara’s prayer room becoming Elizabeth’s), having to sacrifice more than just the loss of his car and his job. See all »
My Ratings: Moral rating: Excellent! / Moviemaking quality: 4

Positive—As a Christian man in his 40’s who likes action movies like Terminator and Avengers, I thought this movie was going to be the Bore Room. After all, I knew there would be no car chases, no explosions, and no super villains. I thought to myself, how could a movie about prayer possibly be any good? I reluctantly went to see it, though, because it was my wife’s birthday, and she wanted to see it. If it were left up to me, I would have waited for it to come out on DVD. I’m glad I didn’t however, because to my surprise, not only was it good, it was actually very good! It had great comedic moments, and a great story line. Even though it’s a PG movie, I would recommend that you can even take the kids.
If you’re looking for a place where you can have a great family night, the movie theater with “War Room” on the screen comes highly recommended!
My Ratings: Moral rating: Excellent! / Moviemaking quality: 4½

—I went to see this today with my 16 year old grand-daughter who recently accepted the LORD. It is now my favorite movie. I also just responded to a well know secular film critic who does not like the Christian nature of the film, but that is what I like the most. This movie addresses what is a problem in most of our homes, including Christian ones. I pray that it will make warriors out of Christians, and Christians out of those who do not know the LORD.
As the founder of a ministry for abused men and women, I can confirm that what is depicted in this film is not fiction… it is very real. Jesus IS the answer to each of our problems, but we cannot just tell hurting people that… we have to show them how HE is the answer, and that may mean getting down and getting dirty to help them (No, I do not mean in a sinful way, by doing the things they do, but I mean really caring about those the world rejects.).
This film has a lot of humor in the right places and had the audience laughing several times, but, more important, I am sure it has many tears in praise to our LORD over what HE can do in the lives of those who use… The PRAYER ROOM!
My Ratings: Moral rating: Excellent! / Moviemaking quality: 5

Positive—This is exactly the kind of movie I would like to see much more of in theaters! The movie's cast were all amazing, and it's a beautiful story from start to finish. My husband and I loved “War Room,” and we're encouraging all our family and friends to go see it.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Excellent! / Moviemaking quality: 5

Positive—It is so refreshing to see a GOOD MOVIE with a good story line, with a good moral foundation for today’s upside down world. The movie has the perfect recipe for the secret success of a happy family. They don’t teach this in public schools. Great acting. Thank you for making this movie so ALL of my family could view it.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Excellent! / Moviemaking quality: 5

Positive—Best movie I have seen in years. I paid and saw movie 2x in one day. I have never done this before. Thank you film producers!
My Ratings: Moral rating: Excellent! / Moviemaking quality: 5

Positive—If America will take heed to the message in this movie, that we need to believe in the power of prayer and trust in God for the answers for all the problems we face, our nation will be strengthened, united and blessed.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Excellent! / Moviemaking quality: 5

Positive—me and my wife saw this on Labor Day. We loved it—just a wonderful story and message on prayer.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Excellent! / Moviemaking quality: 4½

Positive—Great movie, shows the power of prayer, a place to pray, and we all should establish a life of praying. Best movie I have seen from the Kendrick brothers. I thought the others were great, but this one tops them all. Love it!!!
My Ratings: Moral rating: Excellent! / Moviemaking quality: 5

Positive—Good, heart-touching video. Not as good as “Fireproof” or “Facing the Giants,” but still a good one to watch.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Offensive / Moviemaking quality: 4

Positive—I can relate to this character called Elizabeth. It is hard when you are hurting to see the good in people and even give mercy and grace to them. It is true that we are fighting a battle in the spiritual world that we live in.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Excellent! / Moviemaking quality: 5

Positive—This was a powerful film. At the end of the movie, I was already planning to clear out my own “War room”. It was wonderful to see the evidence of God’s grace in their situation and the power of forgiveness and prayer. I cannot wait to own the film.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Excellent! / Moviemaking quality: 5

Positive—“War Room!” is Awesome! I have been to see the movie twice, and plan to buy the DVD when it comes out! This movie should win an Oscar® for the year, I have told everyone that I have come in contact with, to go see the movie. It sends a great message out in so many ways. I was so uplifted both times that I viewed it! It’s definitely a great movie for the entire family.
I come from a family background of truly believing in the power of prayer, the move of God, and this movie touches all aspects of life. The timing is perfect for all that is going on in our world. I saw nothing negative about this movie, prayers from the heart will reach the heart!! There needs to be more movies released like this one! Raise them up Lord! Raise them up!!
My Ratings: Moral rating: Excellent! / Moviemaking quality: 5

Positive—This movie was AWESOME!!!… Encouraging to the fullest, it will help to understand how to forgive, love the unlovable, put our full trust in the Lord, as he wants us to not how we think we should. Prayer moves God; it doesn’t tell him what to do, because he already knows what is best for us. He is an ALMIGHTY GOD that knows ALL things.
It is hard to forgive, the longer we sit on it, the more it will eat up your soul, but when we CHOOSE to forgive, as we see in the movie, it turns things around. GOD CHOOSES TO FORGIVE US, EVEN WHEN WE DON’T DESERVE IT!! PRAISE JESUS!!
My Ratings: Moral rating: Excellent! / Moviemaking quality:

Positive—Amazing… must see movie… if we would spend time on our knees in prayer who knows what this world would look like… we as followers of Jesus need to support these family Christian films… please go see WAR ROOM… it will change your life for the better!!!…
My Ratings: Moral rating: Excellent! / Moviemaking quality: 5

Positive—May every Christian support this film to get the message of the Gospel out and the Lord’s spiritual warriors going forth with powerful prayer.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Excellent! / Moviemaking quality: 5

Positive—Overall, both my wife and I felt the movie did a great job in encouraging people to pray, study the word and then apply it to every aspect of their life. When we got home we had to seriously look at our own prayer lives and where prayer fitted in with what we consider important in our spiritual growth and understanding God’s purpose for our lives. The movie also made it clear who are enemy is and the tools he uses to try and discourage us from following God.
I loved the part where Elizabeth, after praying, spent time just listening to God. In John 10:27 (NIV) it states, My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. What other religion can claim that kind of intimate relationship with their god or gods? The producers accomplished a lot in the two hour running time of the movie.
My only disappointment was that the movie failed to realistically show the consequences of sin. Forgiveness was handled beautifully, but I kept thinking that people might walk away with the idea that everything will work out just fine when we turn our lives over to Christ. We get to keep the expensive house, a new job will be offered to us, we don’t even have to apply anywhere, our children will instantly forgive us for the damaged we may have caused them, and as long as we admit to our employer that we stole, lied, and defrauded them that God will remove any really serious consequences. Biblically, that is seldom so. Although God can turn what was mean’t for evil into something good we are still responsible for our choices.
Still, a great movie, well acted, well written, with a great message, and a real challenge for us to place God first. Congratulations. I would recommend this movie to anyone desiring a closer relationship with God.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Excellent! / Moviemaking quality: 4½

Positive—It’s very inspiring, touching and has very good sense of humour. It builds Christian values and discipline, the importance of prayer to those who forget what it is all about. I am so glad they made this movie. I highly recommend it… It’s a must see movie…
My Ratings: Moral rating: Excellent! / Moviemaking quality: 5

Positive—This movie is a great tool for a marriage workshop. How could we get materials to do a marriage workshop? I personally loved the movie and our entire Church is going to watch it. I am a prayer leader at my Church and have already taken some of the prayer team to the movie and had a discussion after the movie. …Keep the movies coming !
My Ratings: Moral rating: Excellent! / Moviemaking quality: 5

Positive—I asked a friend to go to “War Room,” and she said “I don’t like war movies” Another friend said they thought it was about Churchill’s war room. However, each said after seeing it, it was one of the best movies they’d ever seen. The casting was perfect. Only one comment… You must change the title. Though Christians understand its meaning, we want the secular people to see it, too. Can you re-title it and then re-issue it… it’s so excellent. Thanks for encouraging us that prayer “moves the Hand of God.”
My Ratings: Moral rating: Excellent! / Moviemaking quality: 5

Positive—I thought “War Room” was an excellent film. It really help me with my Spiritual Journey to make sure that I stay hot and not warm. I also learned I am not in control, and I can’t change people, to pray about things and leave it to GOD to fix it, because I can't no matter what I do. Also, after watching the film, my husband and I talked at home for about 2 hours about our issues and Spiritual Journey. We now have a better understanding. I truly want to say thank you, and may GOD Bless everyone that was involved in this movie, It really made a different in our lives.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Excellent! / Moviemaking quality: 5

Positive—I loved “War Room.” I had been praying to the Lord to teach me to pray more effectively. I wanted to be more like Daniel and King David, who had very good communication with God. So this was an answer to prayer for me. After I saw War Room, I saw Alex Kendrick’s speech on youtube.com about the 3 Battles and was very impressed that he seemed to be a very committed follower of Jesus Christ. Then I heard about the Bible Study that I could buy at Lifeway.com “Battle Plan for Prayer.” It includes a book, Bible study book, and 2 DVD’s that have a total of 8 sessions on how to pray more effectively. I have learned a lot so far, and had more answered prayers since. It talks about what makes our prayer more effective and also less effective. This is what I was looking for!
Thank you Alex for all you do and may God Bless You! I am giving “War Room” DVD’s out to people whom I think would be willing to have people over to their house and watch it, or even share with their church, and develop a prayer ministry.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Excellent! / Moviemaking quality: 5

Positive—Saw it Christmas day. Excellent! Will buy it for myself and as gift. An instrument of God to return our nation back to God. Our Media is so vulgar and Immoral that I Grinch and often change the channels or turn the TV off altogether. Now magic sorcery, Ouija, horoscopes, etc. R on every channel. What is sowed into society is reaped. Killing, vengeance, greed, disrespectful children, etc.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Excellent! / Moviemaking quality: 5

Positive—I started a women of change group for women, only on Monday nights, with married women and women who are dating, for us to stop trying to change men and work on us as women. I’ve never seen this movie before, so when I suggested that all the women put a letter to God in to a private place in your closet, one young lady stated to me did you see “War Room” I said no, she said I won’t say anything else, just look at it.
I ordered the movie, my husband and I watched the movie and Oh my God, was God talking to me or what, I was Ms. Clara, being stubborn, wouldn’t listen to God on praying for my husband, I’m asking God to help me, I will be turning my home office into my War Room.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Excellent! / Moviemaking quality: 5

Positive—Love this movie; it is now on my have to get movies. I had a grandma my prayed all the time; she had a 10 page list of people that she prayed for. Anyway, this movie I rented and watched two times in a row.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Excellent! / Moviemaking quality: 5

Positive—The movie was extremely encouraging. I could not contain myself at times. The spirit was so high. I do agree that the outcomes could have been very different, as it is sometimes in real life. Nevertheless, we must hold to our faith, even if the situation does not initially seem to turn out on our behalf. The wife was ready to give up, but she held on. It may take years before we see the positive result we are looking for. But trusting God over the long run, I believe, will be our blessing like we never dreamed it could be.
I am currently waiting for the answer to a prayer I’ve prayed for over ten years. I confess I do get frustrated sometimes, but I remind myself that not only does God love me, but he promised to answer my prayer. So I suck it up and get back on the trail of faith. I am so thankful for a movie clearly advocating godliness. Thank you
My Ratings: Moral rating: Good / Moviemaking quality: 5

Positive—Let me preface this review by saying that this movie is not trying to present the only right solution to all relationship problems. There are some situations such as an abusive one where a person needs to just get out. In many ways, “War Room” is the typical fare from the Kendrick Brothers that a lot of people, myself included have enjoyed. One serious scene that was very well done was the scene where Elizabeth, the main character discovers how little she knows about her 10 year old daughter. One of the best funny scenes involves a conversation about eating chips in the closet.
The story played out as realistically as a movie can. Obviously, in real life, sometimes things do go badly wrong, but a movie generally has to have a happy ending. The only negatives I noted are a few scenes that felt like they’d been recycled from their previous movies and a strange scene where Elizabeth is going through her house shouting at the devil.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Good / Moviemaking quality: 3

Positive—Really enjoyed this movie. It was something all families can learn from. It was a great story line, great message, great acting, great ending… we need more movies like this. Awesome family movie, adult movie—overall great job !
My Ratings: Moral rating: Excellent! / Moviemaking quality: 4

Positive—This movie has changed the way I look at my husband and my marriage. After watching it, all I want to be is a blessing to my husband, and his family. I will give all my problems to the Lord, because it all belongs to him, and him alone. Thank you for saving my marriage.

Positive—This movie has totally changed my life. It taught me what I was doing wrong in my prayer life. It taught me how to fight in the Spirit. I saw where I had been fighting wrong for so many years. This movies stirred up the warrior in me and has totally changed my life, and I’m going to take the role of Miss Clara, and, once God teaches me, I’m going to share with other people. I thank God for allowing this movie to be made, because it helped his daughter get her fight back.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Excellent! / Moviemaking quality: 5

Positive—What a great movie for ANYONE going thru hard marriage challenges.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Excellent! / Moviemaking quality:

Positive—Have watched this movie almost five times, but I can’t stop watching it, because even after a stressful day I just watch it. It has taught me to pray for my relationship and living a stress free life, leaving God to do His will in my life, because when you trust the power of prayer, things work out. Also praying for God’s grace always. What I have to say, this movie was purposely for me. Thanx. Anyone finding problems in his/her relationship, this is the best movie to watch. I really love it.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Excellent! / Moviemaking quality: 5

Positive—I think they did an excellent job portraying many aspects of Christian living. First, that people get caught up in the mundane and fast track of life. When we are preoccupied with ourselves—we lose focus of God and our relationship becomes lukewarm… Everybody needs someone in the faith to encourage and walk alongside them—like Ms. Clara—the mentoring that took place not prevalent these days.
People are looking for this one film to speak to every issue relating to prayer—you can’t focus on the necessity and power of God and prayer without the prayers being answered. It would be confusing to do that Also, I think we all are products of our culture even though we are believers we are skeptical about the ability of God to answer prayers. Elizabeth had to get more real estate to sell… no one movie will do it all—It did it’s purpose—showed us that our relationship with God is important—and that God is interested and involved in our everyday concerns and desires!
There is a battle for control of us—Ephesians 6 tells us we are in a spiritual fight daily—the movie taught us that we can be more victorious when we pray… And if we are getting more unanswered than answered prayers, we may need t examine our motives/desires and see if they line up with God’s Word
My Ratings: Moral rating: Excellent! / Moviemaking quality: 4

Positive—This movie changed my life; I have always believed in GOD and Jesus. But I have had struggles with issues and marriage, and I was going through a separation. I watched this movie because GOD wanted me to see it; he put it in my path! The first time I went to the theater, I was alone. The next night, I had to go again, so I took a friend also in need, paid her way. I went home cleaned out my closet. I began to follow Elizabeth’s steps, Clara’s steps, GOD’S steps… Later that week I returned to the movie theater again, this time with yet another friend in need… there are so many…
Within 2 weeks “of praying for myself and my husband,” he came home. I told him I had a movie I wanted to watch with him. When it got to the about to cheat scene! His eyes got as big as a deer in the headlights! You see, he had done exactly the same thing and got exactly the same reaction… picking! What a sign from GOD and a testimony story that not only does prayer work! GOD is very much alive and well and HE IS watching! He will bless you if you ask, he is listening! Prayer does work, but you must do it! It is another sign of truth, that GOD is real and HEAVEN is real and so is HELL!
If your marriage is in trouble, get this movie, do what it says and believe in the Lord! Thank You to the story writers and producers and creators if this film and the actors that so perfectly portraits the message from GOD to us all! Don’t stop making movies! Thank You GOD for everything! Raise Up Lord! Amen!
My Ratings: Moral rating: Excellent! / Moviemaking quality: 5

Neutral

Neutral—I finally saw this on DVD, and, while for the most part its great, I am concerned about the message it gives people. ***SPOILER*** In the end, it makes it seem like anything you pray for comes true. Cheating husband stops, stealing from companies means no prison time, your life goes perfect, your job goes perfect, family is all perfect. In other words, God is a genie who grants you anything you want no matter what.
Now, we do know nothing is impossible with God, of course. And I realize it’s a movie about uplifting and your happiness. But the Bible does not say God is a genie and everything you pray for has a yes in return. Sometimes it’s maybe, sometimes it’s a wait and sometimes it’s a no.
This movie may make newer Christians think they are doing something wrong because their prayers are not getting yes answers. And it may turn them off to God if they get the impression he’s a genie, but they don’t get what they want.
It may also make people think if your husband cheats, he will never do it again if he realizes he was wrong. Or if you commit fraud at where you work, your boss will forgive you and let you off the hook.
With those points aside, it was a great movie and inspirational and making you think how much prayer matters. And how hard you should be praying. There is power in prayer!
My Ratings: Moral rating: Excellent! / Moviemaking quality: 4

Negative

Negative—…I am a Christian who thought this was a dangerous movie, because the implication is you can control God with prayer, and he will control others. This bad doctrine helped me become suicidal when (the murderer and rapist) I was married to at the time wasn’t changing. I put oil on the door posts, prayer cloths under his pillow, was being told NOT TO JUDGE, that’s not in the Bible either (another bad doctrine that makes people crazy) that was in the movie, too.
True intercession is a man that will TELL THE TRUTH, not go in the closet and pray. That’s what numbers of people in churches did for this murderer when he needed to be locked up. This is why so many people in churches are dumbed down. …See all »
My Ratings: Moral rating: Good / Moviemaking quality: 3½

Negative—I did view the movies after several people recommended it. I was watching and almost fell asleep. It was nothing like I thought it would be. It was another feel good message that offered no depth. I agree that things change in prayer. But I also believe in a time where people are looking for “How to”. This movie, in my opinion, offers false hope. I have been called to prayer and intercession at a high cost. I have lived in my prayer closet for @ 17 years. It’s not that simple. See all »
My Ratings: Moral rating: Average / Moviemaking quality: 3

Negative—My wife and I have been going through many difficult trials over the past few years of our 21-plus years of marriage, and the current set of trials have been the most difficult of all. While I totally agree that prayer is powerful and aligns you with God's will, sometimes even the most pure and honest of prayers that you hope for will not be answered. As a husband, I have prayed for the past 11 years for God to provide me a job that would allow my wife to stay at home with our kids. Well, 11 years later, my kids are grown, my wife is still having to work full time and be the bread winner and no family-wage job for myself.
You would think something so pure as this—which is even Biblically based for a man to provide for his family and the wife to be at home to raise the children—would be answered. This, along with long bouts of unemployment, surgeries, bankruptcy and even unfaithfulness in the marriage, have all played pivotal moments in our marriage even when we were both praying individually and as a couple.
These films, while wonderful in concept, do not deal with the directness of actual life consequences (like what would have happened had this praying wife's prayers not been answered before the end of the movie? Had her husband, Tony, cheated on her and then, after being fired from his job, had gone to prison? What would have happened had they lost their home due to lack of income?
That the wife, Elizabeth, just said the heck with it all and ran off had her own emotional or physical affair? These are the real trials and consequences of life that hit us even when we do pray and pray fervently but do not receive the answers to the prayers that we send to God. God will work the ugliness and sin of life and, if we turn to Him, He will start to work things through for His good. I guess I am just jaded to the easiness of this movie and how quickly and completely these prayers are answered in such a short amount of time and how everyone lived happily ever after.
This isn't real life, this is a made up movie with wishful thinking that prayer works that fast and prayers are answered according to your desires.
My Ratings: Moral rating: / Moviemaking quality:

Negative—I’m thinking this movie and “Fireproof” are feel good movies. They may help the immature Christian who is going through a rough patch to make it through another day. I felt vindicated watching this and was hoping that if my ex, who is a Christian, ever saw it that she would get a clue what might of happened if she would have stuck around. However, reality is that not everyone’s marriage gets healed, no matter how hard or how correctly a person prays. Mine wasn’t.
I’ve heard of people’s marriages being healed. But, Christians are allowed to make poor decisions. The Bible is filled with examples of poor decisions. The good news is that the Father can make good things come from poor decisions. God is fully able to change a wayward spouse’s mind by trials and tribulation. Faith is knowing that God can do anything, but you also have to trust Him even when He does not answer us the way we think He should. I would love it if every prodigal spouse came to their senses.
Anyway, I’m not trying to bum anyone out or make anyone’s faith fail, but, in my experiences, this is not realistic. I hope your marriage is saved. God bless.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Excellent! / Moviemaking quality: 4

Negative—I have a concern with Elizabeth rebuking Satan, though the scene is powerful, I don’t believe it’s biblical, even the archangel Michael didn’t rebuke Satan, instead he said “The Lord rebuke you” in Jude 1:9. Satan, first of all, is not omnipresent like God is, he can’t be in all places at all times, he’s just a fallen angel, so it’s a pointless exercise to rebuke him and to teach others to do so is not right; though I know we get spiritual attacks, but from other evil spirits/demons.
I think in the movie they misunderstand James 4:7-8—we must resist Satan and draw near to God, and He will draw near to us, not confront or command Satan. Satan may be cunning, manipulative and powerful his power doesn’t compare with God’s power, that’s why we lean on God, we draw near to Him and when we do Satan will have no power or authority over us except that which God gives him (Job 1:12). Let’s rather draw near to God and put our trust in Him—the battle really is not ours, it is the Lord’s.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Better than Average / Moviemaking quality: 4

Introduction To Matthew

The New Testament has its roots in the Jewish laws and prophecies of the Old Testament. Therefore, it is very appropriate that the Gospel of Matthew comes first among the Gospels: it was written to portray Jesus as the promised Messiah. Jesus is referred to as the “Son of David” nine times in this Gospel (Matthew 1:1; 9:27; 12:23; 15:22; 20:30-31; 21:9, 15; and 22:42). Since Matthew was writing to the Jews who were in great expectation for the kingdom promised in the Old Testament to appear (Daniel 7:22 and Acts 2:16-18), he used the word “kingdom” more than fifty times. Also, the phrase “kingdom of heaven” is used thirty-three times and is not found anywhere else in the New Testament. The genealogy listed in Matthew 1 shows Jesus as the Son of David, which would have to be made clear for any knowledgeable Jew to accept Jesus as the Christ.

Authorship

a. Internal evidence: There is no internal evidence to suggest Matthew was the author. The call of Matthew and his subsequent banquet for Jesus are recorded in Matthew 9:9-10, but there is nothing in the account to suggest that Matthew did or did not write it. However, it is clear as one studies this Gospel that the author was writing from a Jewish perspective.
b. External evidence: There is such an abundance of external evidence to prove that Matthew was the author of this Gospel that it cannot be ignored. There is no biblical reference to Matthew being martyred, and the extra-biblical references that we have about him say he ministered in Judaea for fifteen years (might be supported by Acts 1:26, 15:2; with Galatians 2:1-2), then in Ethiopia and other lands. Whatever the case, we have no reason to believe that Matthew was not still alive toward the end of the first century. Certainly, his family, or converts, lived well into the second century where we have abundant references to Matthew as the author of the first Gospel. If the commonly accepted view among the early church of Matthew’s authorship had not been true, it would no doubt have been challenged by those who were closely associated with the apostle. However, no record of any such challenge exists, only references to Matthew as the author.
In A.D. 130, Papias said, “So, Matthew composed the oracles in the Hebrew language and each one interpreted them as he was able.” Also, Irenaeus (A.D. 180), Origen (A.D. 230), and Eusebius (A.D. 330) all made reference to Matthew as the author of the first Gospel.
Based on seemingly universal belief among the early church of Matthew’s authorship and no biblical evidence to the contrary, it can be supposed that Matthew was indeed the author. It is certainly permissible to refer to this writing as Matthew’s Gospel for the purpose of distinguishing it from other Gospel accounts.
I have made a deliberate attempt to show that the evidence for this decision is based on evidence not found in the inspired Word of God, and this conclusion should be received with that in mind.

Date of Writing

a. Internal evidence: Again, there is no internal evidence in this Gospel to establish the date it was written. Many have thought that the prophecies in Matthew 24 show that this Gospel was written before A.D. 70, when Jerusalem and the temple were destroyed by the Romans. Their reasoning is that if the destruction of Jerusalem had already taken place, it would be reflected in the writer’s account. However, the Gospel writers wrote with a noticeable detachment that refrained from interpretation or application. Therefore, it is not certain from Matthew’s rendering of Jesus’ prophecy in Matthew 24:1-2 that this account was written before the destruction of the temple in A.D. 70.
b. External evidence: The facts we have access to outside the Bible do not conclusively establish the date of writing either. The date this Gospel was written has been traditionally accepted as being A.D. 37. However, Irenaeus, who wrote in approximately A.D. 180, says that Matthew wrote his Gospel when Peter and Paul were preaching in Rome. That would date this Gospel around A.D. 61.
There also exists a book called “The Epistle of Barnabas” that Bishop Lightfoot has placed as being written during the reign of Vespasian (A.D. 70-79), given statements made within the epistle. In this epistle, the writer quoted from Matthew 22:14 and introduced the quote by the phrase “as it is written,” which was and is the customary way of referring to Scripture. This would date Matthew’s Gospel before this “Epistle of Barnabas” and would place a limit on that date of no later than A.D. 70.
It is important to note that the authenticity of Irenaeus’ statement and the whole “Epistle of Barnabas” have been questioned by many scholars, so that there is no consensus of opinion on them. The time at which Matthew wrote this Gospel can only be placed between A.D. 37 and the end of the first century.

About the Author

a. Internal information: Matthew is mentioned by that name only five times in the Bible (Matthew 9:9, 10:3; Mark 3:18; Luke 6:15; and Acts 1:13). He is referred to in other references to the twelve apostles, or the “eleven” as they were called in Acts 1:26. He is called Levi in Mark 2:14; Luke 5:27, and 29. He apparently changed his name from Levi to Matthew, as Saul changed to Paul.
Matthew was a publican, or tax collector, for the Roman government (Matthew 9:9, Mark 2:14, and Luke 5:27), which was a position despised by Jews (Matthew 9:10-11). Matthew was also a Jew, and that made his affinity with the Romans a traitorous act in the eyes of the Jews.
Mark 2:14 calls Matthew the son of Alphaeus. Luke 6:15-16 calls two other apostles (James and Judas) the sons of Alphaeus also. It is possible that the name Alphaeus was a common name and that these men were not related. It is also possible that Matthew was the brother of James and Judas just as it appears.
We can suppose that Matthew was “well off” financially, as were all publicans (usually by dishonesty), and as Luke 5:29 would suggest.
There is not recorded for us even one word that Matthew spoke. As with most of the twelve apostles, Matthew personally missed many of the actions of Jesus that he reported in his Gospel [e.g., Jesus raising Jairus’ daughter from the dead (Mark 5:37-43), and Jesus being transfigured (Matthew 17:1-2), etc.].
It can be guessed that Matthew, being one of the twelve apostles, stayed in Jerusalem (Acts 8:1) for at least fourteen years (Acts 15:2 with Galatians 2:1-2) and was a part of the governing head over the church at Jerusalem (Acts 15:2).
b. External information: The external information about Matthew is limited. Dake stated that tradition says Matthew preached in Ethiopia, as well as other lands, and did not die a martyr’s death.