Blessed2Bless by Steve Klusmeyer
The Passion of The Christ
by Steve Klusmeyer - 3/2/2004
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Experiencing The Passion
Last week we saw The Passion of the Christ, not once, but twice. In case you've been stranded on a desert island or lost in an underground cave for the last few months, The Passion is the movie that opened in theaters across the USA on February 25. The movie stars Jim Caviezel as Jesus and was directed by Mel Gibson. Already it promises to be one of the most controversial and, at the same time, popular films of all time. And the controversy and questions surrounding The Passion will not end with its debut week.Unlike other movies that are only seen, The Passion is an in-your-face film that is meant to be experienced. Following are a few thoughts I took away from the theater.
First of all, I'm not sure what I was expecting, but the images that captivated my attention went far beyond those thoughts. I was not only drawn into the historical setting and into the personal lives of the characters; I was also taken behind the scenes, allowed to see the struggle and the purpose for the events that would unfold.
Next, many viewers just won't get it. If you have never heard the crucifixion story before or just don't believe it is true, you will probably leave the movie with far more questions than answers. The Passion does not deal with the story behind the story. You must possess at least a vague familiarity with the events of the first four books of the New Testament in the Bible or you will leave with only images of a good man being beaten over and over and over again for no apparent reason.
If you know the story and believe that it is true, the movie should strengthen your faith. The message of love and faith is certainly there; but it is evident that the message includes redemption and sacrifice . . . the willingness of the Christ to take upon himself the punishment for all the sins of mankind. The triumph of good over evil is unmistakable.
Another observation, the emotional response of the audience was not the same as had been described in news reports. There were some tears and silence, but not of the level that had been reported at other showings. I must admit that I felt more emotion during the second viewing than the first. I think a possible reason for the response I observed was that we were in a theater with 500 plus people who were mostly from our church . . . people who were familiar with the story and who knew what was going to happen. Being close to the buckle of the Bible belt may have eliminated some of the shock factor that viewers in other parts of the country experienced.
Responding to The Passion
If you are a non-Christian, you may be unsure of how to respond to The Passion. You will probably wonder if what you have seen is true or if it is just more Hollywood fluff. I believe the movie is an accurate account of the suffering and crucifixion of Jesus. Some artistic license was taken to allow a smooth flow of the story; but nothing shown contradicts the Bible or is unfeasible for the historical setting.One flashback in the film shows Jesus using his finger to draw a line in the sand. The Passion has also drawn a line. After seeing the film, viewers will be forced to make a decision about Christ. They must either accept the premise that Christ died a brutal, bloody death to save mankind or they must dismiss it as foolishness. Several links listed below will help you in your search for the truth about The Passion.
If you are a Christian, the ball is in your court. As mentioned, I believe The Passion will raise far more questions than answers. Everyone, whether they have seen the movie or not, is already talking about their feelings and what they have heard. As a Christian, you have the answers to the questions that are being asked. However, this may require some study and research on your part. Peter said, Be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.
Understanding The Passion
Did the Passion leave you with more questions than answers? Get answers to 10 common questions.So you've seen the Passion. Now what? Learn more.
What's up with the ugly baby? Read Mel Gibson's explanation.
What is the meaning of other symbolism in the movie? Like the snake, the flies, the dove, and other things . . . find out.
What happens after the Passion? Learn more.
Haven't seen the Passion? Find out why you should.
Read an interview with Mel Gibson.
Discuss the Passion with other viewers.