The Lion King Message Illustrations

I recently had the chance to watch the live performance of the “Lion King” at the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC with my family.  It was a great performance and reminded me of some great illustrations that we could all use in our messages to students.

Illustration #1: “Run Away”

  • Part of the movie: Right after Mufasa dies, Scar has a conversation with Simba indicating that Simba was responsible for Mufasa’s death.
  • Themes: Forgiveness, Consequences, Mistakes
  • How it can be used in a message:  We are told to run away from our mistakes, to not take ownership, but to deny and run away.  The reality is that past can hurt, not just you but others as well.  However, we can learn from the past as well.  We do not have to run away from them.  God can use them to help us grow and help others.
  • Verses to use: Philippians 4:6-7; Isaiah 41:10; Psalm 118:6; Psalm 23:4; 2 Corinthians 5:17

Illustration #2: “Remember Who You Are”

  • Part of the movie: Adult Simba is confused about what he should do…whether he should return to Pride Rock or not.
  • Themes: Purpose
  • How it can be used in a message: Simba forgot who he was but his father didn’t.  He called Simba to remember who he was.  Once Simba remember, he rightfully took his place and claimed his proper place in the Kingdom as King and ruler of all the animals.  God has a unique plan and purpose in our life, but sometimes we can forget it or not even know who God created us to be.  That is why we need to seek Him to discover what plans He has for us.
  • Verses to use: Matthew 6:33; Proverbs 16:9; Jeremiah 29:11

These are 2 illustrations I found in the Lion King.  Are there more?  I’m sure there are.

If you have used a clip from the Lion King in a message of yours other than these 2, share it below so we can all benefit and learn from each other.

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Tom Pounder

A father of 4, Tom is the Student Minister and Online Campus Pastor at New Life Christian Church in Chantilly, VA. He blogs, vlogs, and podcasts regularly about student and online ministry stuff.

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