The Highway Forums General Discussion Theology Discussion Forum The Passion movie and the 2nd Commandment

Fred,

There is a measure of truth to what you say in regard to the film being useful in that it will provide an opportunity in some cases for evangelism. It is also true, just in case you haven't noticed, <img src="/forum/images/graemlins/rofl.gif" alt="" /> that I am 100%, completely, unabashedly, adamantly opposed to this film for several reasons. BUT... if a situation arose, such as you mentioned, re: an unbeliever asked me to go see the film with him/her, I would certainly go. There are some very specific circumstances where I think it is allowable for a Christian to go see this movie, which does not violate the adage, which btw, is hardly extreme but clearly taught in Scripture: "You don't have to jump into the sewer to know that it stinks!" <img src="/forum/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" /> Where this truth applies is when someone has information about something that is sinful, untruthful, harmful, etc., that has come from a reliable source, then it would be just plain stupid to engage in that thing for the purpose of experiencing, learning, etc., to gain first-hand experience.

Applying this to the present discussion of "The Passion of Christ", there have been numerous individuals, reliable, godly, doctrinally sound, righteous in life individuals who have previewed this movie as part of their job, as one responsible for the souls of a flock, etc., and reported what they saw and have given their assessment of it. Therefore, it would be prudent and wise for someone who hasn't seen the film to take seriously the warnings and condemnations which have come forth from these men and women who are of good report. It is my opinion, that to ignore these reports and choose to see the film JUST TO HAVE FIRST-HAND EXPERIENCE for oneself is akin to "playing with fire". So, there may be exceptions that apply and that would warrant some to go see this film. But the general rule and the adage certainly is applicable to the majority of professing Christians.

For yet another reliable source that provides a biblical and accurate report concerning this film, see Richard Bennett's and Virgil Dunbar's article here: "The Passion of Christ": Mel Gibson's Vivid Deception.

In His Grace,