We haven’t read the book by the same title, but last weekend, Kathy and I decided to watch National Geographic’s movie adaptation of Bill O’Reilly’s book, Killing Jesus. Throughout the movie, we exchanged many matching raised eyebrow glances. While better than some movies based on the Bible, I was disappointed.
Are we really to believe at the point of Jesus’s baptism in Jordan he was still unclear who he was and what he was to do? And so he follows John’s advice of going into the wilderness so he can maybe hear voices too, like John? Seriously?
In my opinion, this movie was kind of a loose traditional rendering of the story of Jesus, with lots of fabricated material. And while Mr. O’Reilly notes many of his critical reviews are politically motivated, my criticism is biblically motivated.
Obviously, one movie, no matter how long, could never capture the whole story of Jesus. From the four Gospels there’s enough information to make at least five or six long movies. And that’s exactly my point! With so much information available, why speculate or make up things that never happened?
Confused And Uncertain?
In my opinion, this movie missed a great opportunity to show the world the power Jesus Christ dynamically operated in his earthly ministry. Instead of seeing the lame walking, the lepers cleansed, the blind seeing, and the dead raised to life, we see Christ often confused and uncertain. Really?
At a time when Christians are under attack around the world, it would have been very refreshing and inspiring to see a much more powerful portrayal of Jesus Christ. And with the resurrection of Jesus being the cornerstone of Christianity, it would have also been very inspiring to see the resurrected Christ interacting with his followers.
Today, persecution of Christians is indeed evident around the world; in some places it is horrifically brutal, bringing torture and death to men, women, and children. Here in my country, attacks on Christian morals and values continue to escalate. Many of those aided greatly by mainstream media. Even though polls show nearly 80% of Americans consider themselves Christians, most of the media help support and promote opposite values.
What Can We Do? Live Without Fear!
In my opinion, now more than ever, we Christians need to let our light shine brightly.
Speak the truth of God’s Word and help people, without being judgmental.
Love people unconditionally, without compromising the truth.
Refuse to be afraid of what others say or think about what you believe, but instead, have great confidence and trust in God.
And, as we read the Bible for ourselves, it not only inspires us, but we don’t have to guess, speculate, or wonder if a movie got it right. We can see what Scripture clearly reveals about our wonderful lord and and savior, Jesus Christ!
He did die. God did raise raise him from the dead. And he is definitely coming back!
Mike Verdicchio
2015
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