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March 2004 Table of Contents
Special Feature
Don't Expect "The Passion of the Christ" To Change the World
By Mac McConnell
What to do with the controversy over the movie The Passion of The Christ?
Before the film's release there is already controversy. It seems to range from the language choice, to anti-Semitism, to "Mel Gibson has lost it." Perhaps most interesting of all are the people who have not seen the movie at all but are weighing in, feeling compelled to offer their opinion. Which is of course not their opinion at all, but the opinion formulated from fragments of information which they have heard from someone who heard something. This is the classic gossip trail. I can't help but suggest this is akin to the rumors and tales of Jesus that were circulating during His earthly lifetime.
I have recently experienced (one does not just "see" this movie) "The passion of The Christ" at an invitation- only screening on January 21st. But, even before I was often asked, "Have you heard about Mel Gibson's movie?", this was typically followed up with, "I heard." When queried, none "who heard" had heard from someone who experienced the film. I confess there was great temptation to join the fray and add my two cents worth, or at least to form opinion based on zero solid evidence. So it is when we join the problem without seeking solutions or at least verifying the evidence. We have a propensity to form opinions and create pigeonholes apparently to feel more secure in the unknown. Here are some observations.
1. Has Mel Gibson lost it? How many have actually talked to Mel, or even talked to someone who has talked to Mel? No one I have talked to that says, "Mel is a wacko", or "he has lost it", or "he has had a dramatic conversion", yada yada, has any first hand experience. But, prior to the screening of the film, Mr. Gibson was present for an interview. I can now safely form an opinion, at least with respect to his candor and demeanor during the interview. In his words, he was compelled to make this film. In his words, he did not grasped the power of the film until he viewed it in its entirety. If Mel did not grasp its power until he saw, neither can we. Mel did not behave like a super star or millionaire. He behaves as a man convicted to work out his salvation with the unique gifts and talents he has from God. What a concept.
2. The language of the film I experienced was archaic Aramaic with some apparent Latin. The film was subtitled to some extent, which curiously did not detract. The strangeness and harsh consonants of the language added enormously to the film's credibility. Not once did I think Jesus would not say that or sound that way. It is a non-issue, unless you can't read, then you won't be reading this either.
3. Anti-Semitism: This is a peculiar appendage to the film. It is becoming synonymous with "The Passion of The Christ." It rings out on talk shows and it's becoming an angry banner even since just a hint of the film's existence. I joined many to quickly defend the film as not so, even when I had not seen the film. Oops, me too. Creating an opinion without evidence is just a knee-jerk reaction. What may be most important is not to defend the film as non-anti-Semitic, but to keep a sympathetic heart that will promote dialogue. The film is classified as historically accurate. Jews were involved. Jews were determined to rid themselves of this (His) threat to their lifestyle. Some Jews. Very few Jews. Fanatical Jews. Not all Jews. And, of course there is no Jew living today responsible for anything 2000+ years ago. There will be many Jews that will claim anti-Semitism about this film. They will feel justified. They will believe it is, and they will be passionate about their beliefs. But, just as history documents, some Germans were leading the charge for the holocaust. It was not all Germans. Some, fanatical; but not all, and certainly not any living amongst us today.
4. The cry of anti-Semitism actually should be avoided by any Jew. If Jesus was not the Christ then actually He was a blasphemer, claiming to be God in the flesh, and worthy of execution. Then the historical account of crucifying Jesus was just simply accurate, and the Jews that led the charge were correct and justified in seeking His death. History documents that they used Roman law to carry out the execution with the supposed intent to defray their culpability. Regardless, if they do not believe Jesus was the Christ, the Messiah, then no charge of anti-Semitism can be attached to this murder mystery. They were simply obeying their own law.
5. If Jews continue to claim anti-Semitism they are admitting something monumental. The only way this film can be anti-Semitic would be to conclude that Jesus is the Christ. But, again, defending the film will probably not give opportunity for dialogue.
So, what to do when discussing the film? First, experience the film. There is no adequate description. Our language fails to provide appropriate adjectives. It is the ultimate reality "show." After the viewing "The Passion" the groans and moans only came close to quantifying the emotional response. I have heard many say, "I hope the Catholics see this." Or, I hope the unchurched see this, Or." so on. First and foremost, just see the film. There really is no way to describe it. No way to discuss it. No reason to talk about it until you see it. More than anything, Christians need to see this film. Pastors need to see this film. Families need to see this film. Only then will anyone have the right and evidence to have a conversation about the film. Then when someone wants to discuss the film, just find out if they have seen it. If not, suggest they do. If there is resistance, why not offer them a money-back guarantee. And, not to worry-they won't ask you to divvy up. Even if they do, God will provide.
Mostly, don't expect this film to change the world for Christ's sake. That is our job. Pray this film will change you.
Mac McConnell
www.BiblicalActor.com
Email: mac@BiblicalActor.com
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