The Button

(Disponible en inglés y español)

 

In the center of the stage sits a single, mysterious button—one press and all evil in the world would vanish. The temptation is real. The promise is irresistible. But as two strangers debate whether to push it, a sobering truth emerges: if all who are evil must go, no one would remain.

This powerful 5-minute vignette explores the sinfulness of humanity and the ultimate victory of God through Jesus Christ. Inspired by Romans 3:10, The Button challenges audiences to consider the depth of our need for grace and the hope found only in the Savior’s “very large hand.”

© 2013 by Rusty Harding — Published with permission by DramaShare 

Theme: Sin, redemption, God’s triumph over evil

Cast: 2 m or f

• Person 1
• Person 2

Bible Reference: Romans 3:10

Set:

• bare stage with small table

Sound: wireless mics if available

Song: none

Lighting:

• tight spot on button and table

SFX: none

Props:

• mechanical button as in Staples Easy Button

Costumes: standard

Special Instructions:

• A single light shines down on an a small table in the middle of an otherwise darkened stage.  A large mechanical "button" sits prominently in the middle of the table.

Time: 5

Sample script:

(Two PEOPLE slowly enter and stare at the button anxiously.)

PERSON #1 (awe-struck):
There it is.

PERSON #2 (obviously intrigued):
What is it?

PERSON #1 (surprised):
You mean you don't know?

PERSON #2:
Know what?

PERSON #1:
That's the button.

PERSON #2:
The button?

PERSON #1:
Mm-hm. The button.

PERSON #2:
The button for what?

PERSON #1:
The button that eradicates evil. One solitary push, and all evil, everywhere in the world, will immediately be destroyed.

PERSON #2 (incredulous):
All evil? Everywhere?

PERSON #1:
Yep. And all evil people, as well.

PERSON #2:
Well, then, what are we waiting for?

(Person #2 starts to rush towards the button with outstretched hand. Person #1 suddenly grabs him/her and holds them back.)

PERSON #1 (frantically):
No, wait! You can't!

PERSON #2:
What do you mean? You just said it would eradicate all evil!

PERSON #1:
Yes, I know, but you can't push it.

PERSON #2:
I don't understand. Don't you want to rid the world of violence and crime?

PERSON #1:
Of course I do. Who wouldn't?

PERSON #2:
What about dictators? People like Hitler and Sadaam Hussein?

PERSON #1:
Absolutely.

PERSON #2 (struggling to break free):
Then let me push the button!

PERSON #1 (still holding him/her back):
No! Think about what would happen!

PERSON #2:
All evil would disappear!

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