Wednesday, March 3, 2004

Movie meant to provoke questions, discussions

I saw this movie Thursday and it literally took my breath away. I encourage those who might be on the fence to see it, if only once, to gain a true understanding of this historically accurate event.

This was a story that needed to be told in a way that goes beyond the Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale most people have created to help mute the brutality of Christ’s suffering.

One thing I walked away with is the deep appreciation of Romans 6:1-2 where Paul talks about grace covering our sins, but then says, “Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase? Absolutely not!”

Why? Because this movie removed any doubt that the grace that covers our sins was cheap or easy to attain. Christ suffered immensely for the right for those who are Christians to stand before a holy God blameless in his sight.

How, then, after viewing this movie can we casually sin, thinking, “I can simply seek forgiveness and it will all be OK”? It is not OK because it is exactly that sin which sent Christ down that long journey of suffering on our behalf. Praise Jesus that he willingly suffered and died for me!

As far as the claims of anti-Semitism, I think a distinction must be drawn between discriminating against someone because of their religious beliefs and those who feel discriminated against simply disagreeing with the content of the message.

I believe that 99 percent of the claims of anti-Semitism can be dismissed as a disagreement with the movie’s message declaring Jesus Christ to be the Messiah.

Those claiming anti-Semitism must honestly ask if their objection is to the truth of the message rather than a real conviction that the goal of the movie is to incite hatred of Jews. Disagreement does not equal discrimination regardless of what the current liberal thinking would have us believe.

It is through our disagreements that we have the opportunity for further learning, understanding and acceptance. If we cry “foul” every time we disagree, we cheapen the cries of those who are truly the targets of real discrimination.

As an aside, though, I am kind of glad that the press made such a fuss over the movie because it really heightened interest in the film, and perhaps some who would not have otherwise seen it will go now out of curiosity and have a life-changing experience.

Lastly, I believe that this movie was not intended to necessarily provide answers so much as to provoke questions in those truly seeking a relationship with God. It is now the responsibility of believers to fan into flame the spark of interest that might have been ignited. I am excited, though, because I see the potential for the Holy Spirit to mightily use this film to help win more of those who are lost.

David Rottschafer

Peachtree City, Ga.