This is a Moses story (and it's even hinted at early on...)

Just like Moses led his people to freedom, Rev. Scott leads his group of people literally back to the light.

When the Jewish couple sit on deck at the beginning and talk about what they'll do in Israel the man says something about tours to the mountain where Moses received the Ten Commandments.

This is obvioulsy an indication of what will follow...

And just like Moses, Rev. Scott will not see the "Promised Land" but has to die.

After almost 50 years (!), still one hell of a movie!