Glad or Numb?

In previous weblogs I have already pointed out that Mel Gibson’s film deviates dozens of times—unacceptably—from the biblical script. But on (perhaps) the most important aspect, I have not yet commented. It concerns the question of whether the movie audience truly hears the EVANGEL of God.

Yes, a Jesus is shown who is tortured and dies a gruesome death. And at the beginning, a quote from Isaiah is shown, stating that He was pierced for our transgressions. But does the audience also hear that because of this Man’s suffering, God will save the ENTIRE WORLD??

For that—and nothing less—is the Evangel of God’s GRACE.

The cross tells us: no enmity is so great, but God’s love is ALWAYS far greater still!
The cross tells us: the price has been paid for you – you ARE His possession!
The cross tells us: whether you believe it or not – this Jesus is YOUR Saviour!

At the end of the film, everyone seems numbed by the sheer violence.
If the film had truly been EVANGEL, people would have left the cinema gripped—
by God’s all-conquering LOVE.

Delen: