The Role Of Worldviews In Chariots Of Fire

In this paper I will discuss how the two main characters in the film Chariots of Fire (1981) vastly differ in their worldviews. Abrahams, a driven college student who exercises his arrogance and obsession to win at all costs, is a classic idea of the transcendentalism worldview. Phillips, Brown, and Stonestreet (2008) describe this worldview which “prides itself on individual determination and accomplishment” (p.39). In contrast, Liddell, a missionary has a theistic worldview which consists of being a servant of God, relying on Christ and standing by convictions in spite of the pressures of modern man. “Theism calls for man to nurture his world as a steward” (Phillips, Brown and Stonestreet, 2008, p.44). Ultimately, to Liddell, winning is a victory for God and fulfillment of God’s purpose for him. In Chariots of Fire (1981) winning takes two worldview forms in a masterpiece that depicts living for worldly glorification versus God’s glory. The desire to win for a young college athlete, Harold Abrahams becomes the
Sire (2015) offers a wonderful illustration of the theistic worldview that Liddell portrays in the movie. “In whatever Christians do the goal must be to embody and present genuine Christian faith and character! Our success in that is not measured by our success in attracting an audience. That’s not a bad thing in itself, but far from our primary goal to seek first the kingdom of God” (p.87-88). Liddell sought the kingdom of God first by refusing to run on the Sabbath. He would not deny his beliefs for anyone including the Prince of Wales! In beautiful demonstrations through the movie, Liddell comprehends his godly purpose and gives God the glory for the ability to be one of the fastest runners in the world. Liddell proclaims, “If I win, I win for God. To win is to honor Him” (Puttnam & Hudson,