Every week, my wife and I see one or two movies. We’re part of a movie club at AMC theaters, and we get access to up to four movies per week (who needs to see that many, right?!). Ever since we began dating in high school, movies have been a part of what we do together. It got me to thinking about the ways that movies and Bible study groups have some connections.

Leading a Bible study can feel a bit like directing a movie. You’ve got a cast of characters (your group), a script (the Bible), and a mission to inspire, challenge, and maybe even entertain. While Hollywood and Holy Scripture might seem worlds apart, movies offer surprisingly practical lessons for anyone guiding a group through the Word. So grab your popcorn and your Bible—here are three cinematic insights that can transform your Bible study leadership.

1. Every Scene Needs a Director—But Not a Dictator

Think of your favorite movie. Chances are, it had a strong director behind the scenes—someone who shaped the story, guided the actors, and made sure the vision came to life. But great directors don’t micromanage every line or movement. They create space for creativity, collaboration, and surprise. Bible study leaders should take a similar approach. Yes, you’re setting the tone and guiding the discussion, but that doesn’t mean you need to control every moment. Let participants wrestle with the text, ask questions, and share insights. Some of the richest conversations come from unexpected places—just like those unscripted moments that end up being the most memorable scenes in a film.

If you are familiar with the movie The Avengers, one of the final scenes finds Tony Stark (aka Iron Man), lying on the ground after a battle, wishing to visit a shawarma café in New York. That scene was not in the script (Robert Downey Jr. totally improvised it) but the director liked it and left it in the movie. In fact, the director had the exhausted heroes film a final scene eating together in that café! It has become a fan favorite in the MCU.

So be the director who knows when to say “action,” when to let the scene breathe, and when to yell “cut” if things go off track. Your group will thank you for it.

2. Characters Drive the Story—Know Yours Well

Movies thrive on compelling characters. Whether it’s the reluctant hero, the wise mentor, or the comic relief, each person brings something unique to the story. Bible study is no different. Your group is made up of individuals with different backgrounds, personalities, and spiritual journeys—and that’s a gift.

Take time to learn your “cast.” Who’s the deep thinker? Who’s the question-asker? Who’s the quiet one who drops truth bombs when you least expect it? When you know your group well, you can tailor your leadership to draw out their strengths. Maybe the introvert needs a heads-up before being asked to share. Maybe the extrovert needs gentle nudging to let others speak.

Just like a good ensemble cast, your Bible study thrives when everyone has a role and feels valued. And when people feel seen, they’re more likely to engage deeply with the Word—and with each other.

3. The Best Stories Leave Room for Mystery

Ever watched a movie that didn’t tie up every loose end—and somehow, that made it better? The mystery lingered. The questions stayed with you. You kept thinking about it long after the credits rolled.

Bible study should feel like that too. Not every question needs an answer. Not every passage needs a tidy interpretation. Sometimes, the best thing you can do as a leader is say, “I don’t know—but let’s sit with that.” The Bible is rich, layered, and sometimes downright puzzling. Embrace the mystery.

Creating space for wonder and curiosity invites people to keep exploring. It reminds them that faith isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about seeking, trusting, and growing together. And just like a great film, the journey is often more powerful than the resolution.

So next time you prepare to lead Bible study, channel your inner Spielberg or Ava DuVernay. Be a thoughtful director, celebrate your cast, and don’t be afraid of a little mystery. After all, the greatest story ever told deserves a leader who knows how to bring it to life—with grace, wisdom, and maybe a touch of cinematic flair.

Lights, Bible, action.