'God's Not Dead: A Light in Darkness' to Bring Unity to 'Chaotic' World, David A.R. White Reveals (Exclusive)

By Leah Marieann Klett
God's Not Dead
"God's Not Dead: A Light in Darkness" stars David A.R. White as Pastor Dave and John Corbett as his estranged brother, Pierce. The film hits theaters March 30, 2018. The Gospel Herald

The third installment of "God's Not Dead," titled "A Light in Darkness," focuses on the timely themes of reconciliation, forgiveness, and unity, cast member and producer David A.R White has revealed.

During a recent set visit earlier this month in Little Rock, Arkansas, The Gospel Herald learned that the forthcoming film, hitting theaters March 30, 2018, features an entirely different storyline than the first two "God's Not Dead" films.

While part one and two of "God's Not Dead" took place in a classroom and courtroom, respectively, "A Light in Darkness" follows "Reverend Dave as he is released from prison to a flurry of controversy. The growing social unrest leads to Dave's church being burned down, a fire with tragic results," according to the film synopsis.

"Devastated, Dave is launched on a painful spiritual journey as he fights against the university trying to keep him from rebuilding his church, and as his belief that "God is good all the time" is put to the test. Along the way, Dave enlists the help of his estranged atheist brother who will support Dave in his legal fight, but also challenges him to recognize that sometimes fighting doesn't require defeating those we disagree with, but rather finding a way to heal, and to rebuild," it continues.

White explained that with every "God's Not Dead" film, Pure Flix, the Christian entertainment company behind the franchise, attempts to both address hot-button issues currently affecting society and spark necessary conversations.

"[The films are] based on what's happening in our society right now," he said. "If you watch the first two, you see all these court cases that were happening at the time. That's our hope, that it's current and relevant."

This film, in particular, will examine the age-old question, "Why does God let bad things happen to good people?"

"To answer those question organically and from truth is hopefully what all of these movies have been about," White said. "I think by showing both sides...we're trying to bring these conversations out, and we're trying to bring them out in a real, organic truth. That's what we're seeking, is the truth."

In a society riddled with division and social unrest, White hopes "God's Not Dead: A Light in Darkness" can help foster spirit of unity and compassion.

"The film is about forgiveness, it's about love, it's about bringing to light healing," White said. "You look at the evening news, and there's a lot of chaos going on in society and in our country. There's so much fighting, there's so much anger, you can't watch the news and be happy -- not that you could never -- but moreso now than ever."

"I think this movie is relevant for that, and hopefully...both sides of the aisle can go and watch this story about two brothers that really don't like each other -- which could really be the symbolism of America -- and [after seeing] healing, and forgiveness, and hope and love, could walk out being encouraged," he concluded.

Also featured in the film are actors John Corbett ("My Big Fat Greek Wedding") who plays Pastor Dave's estranged brother, Pierce; and Jennifer Taylor, Pastor Dave's new love interest, Meg. Additionally, Ted McGinley (Thomas Ellsworth), Academy Award-winning actress Tatum O'Neal (Barbara Solomon) and Benjamin Onyango (Reverend Jude) are part of the cast. The film is being produced by Michael Scott, David A.R. White, Brittany Yost, Alysoun Wolfe and Liz Travis.

  • [Exclusive Interview] A revelation within the brink of life and death — Meg Leung’s mission in Christian art

    Meg Leung (梁麗橋), an artist with a lifelong love for watercolor painting, sees her art as more than a means of expressing her inner world; it is a bridge connecting her to God. Her artistic journey has revealed God’s perfect plan and inspired her to communicate the power of faith through her wor

  • Transgenderism a fundamental human right? Hong Kong public disagrees, survey finds

    A 2024 survey from the Society for Truth and Light (明光社)'s Center for Life and Ethics Research reveals that respondents from various backgrounds prioritize personal safety and fairness when it comes to transgender issues. When laws involve moral judgments, most respondents believe courts should not make the decisions. The study also indicates that religious believers share similar views with non-religious respondents, reflecting that many churches may rarely address gender topics in depth.

  • Discipleship and Evangelism: Walking the Path of the Great Commission

    Like an ever-flowing spring, the gospel refreshes dry, parched lands and needs our unwavering passion and steadfast faith to transform lives and bring renewal. The "flame in our hearts" calls Christians to keep their faith and love for the Lord ablaze, representing the work and power of the Holy Spirit, driving us to proclaim God's glory boldly.

  • North America Chinese Evangelical Seminary year-end report highlights significant ministry progress

    As the year draws to a close, Rev. James Liu, President of the Chinese Evangelical Seminary North America (CESNA), reflected on the seminary’s remarkable growth and ministry development over the past year. Dedicated to providing theological education to Chinese Christians, CESNA continues to uphold its mission to remain faithful to the gospel and nurture believers. This year’s achievements span academic, ministerial, and outreach endeavors, fostering spiritual growth and advancing missionary wo