Letter From The Editor’s Desk: Jesus in Popular Culture: Society’s Relationship to Him.
Hebrews 13:8 KJV 8 Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and today, and forever. 9Be not carried about with divers and strange doctrines. For it is a good thing that the heart be established with grace; not with meats, which have not profited them that have been occupied therein. Matthew 24:35 KJV “Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away.”
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I was sitting drinking coffee and flipping through TV looking for a good movie to watch. I understand why people like reality videos. Although I like a good comedy, thriller, or mystery movie, I prefer faith-based, biblical, nonfiction, and documentary movies, with absolutely no ghost, demonic or witch stories. In addition, I am a great art lover of various cultures. While searching for a good movie, I saw many movies about Jesus portrayed in all types of ways: thrillers, romance, mystery, sci-fi aliens, and more.
Certainly! Jesus has been a subject of fascination and inspiration in popular culture for many years. This letter from the editor is a review of how Jesus has been depicted in movies, literature, music, and other forms of popular culture, and what this says about our society’s relationship to him.
Once, I received a gift of a large oil print of “The Last Supper”. All the people at the table were African American notable civil rights persons portrayed as the 12 disciples breaking bread and drinking wine with Jesus. The artwork was creative and very well done. I uphold with high regard some of the civil rights leaders in the picture. I am sure some of them were on assignment from heaven but still, they were not the original 12 disciples.
The Last Supper is a ritual Jesus commanded that all believers observe. It is now called “Communion”. Eating bread and drinking wine in remembrance of Jesus’ completed work on the cross is practiced at least once a month in churches all around the world. It is a common ritual but is still scarce and holy. I could not accept the picture because I was not going to put it on my wall. The person told me their mother didn’t accept it either. Really?
I have been told throughout the years to be careful about putting items in my house like pictures, movies, statues, etc because they could have been involved in unholy spiritual rituals. They attract demons. There are many people who have stories to tell about this subject. These items can cause spiritual problems in your house. I’m not an expert on that topic so we won’t get into that but you get the point.
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Movies:
Jesus has been portrayed in numerous films throughout the years, ranging from biblical epics to contemporary interpretations. Some notable portrayals include “The Passion of the Christ” (2004), directed by Mel Gibson, which depicted the crucifixion and focused on Jesus’ suffering. Other films like “The Last Temptation of Christ” (1988) and “Jesus Christ Superstar” (1973) presented more unconventional interpretations of Jesus, challenging traditional depictions and exploring human aspects of his life.
Literature:
In literature, Jesus has been depicted in various forms, from retelling biblical narratives to fictionalized accounts. Works like “The Da Vinci Code” by Dan Brown sparked controversy by suggesting alternative interpretations of Jesus’ life. Other authors, such as Fyodor Dostoevsky in “The Idiot” and Nikos Kazantzakis in “The Last Temptation of Christ,” used Jesus as a literary device to explore philosophical and moral themes.
Music:
Jesus has been a recurring theme in music, spanning genres from gospel and hymns to rock, rap, and even heavy metal. Artists like Johnny Cash, Bob Dylan, and Kanye West have all explored Jesus’ influence and teachings in their music. Songs like “Amazing Grace” and “Jesus Walks” demonstrate the enduring impact of Jesus on popular music and how his message continues to resonate.
Art:
Jesus has been a central figure in visual arts for centuries. From classical religious paintings to contemporary works, artists have depicted Jesus in various styles and contexts. Iconic paintings such as Leonardo da Vinci’s “The Last Supper” and Michelangelo’s “The Creation of Adam” capture Jesus’ significance in religious art. Modern artists have also reimagined Jesus in different cultural and social contexts, reflecting evolving societal attitudes.
The depictions of Jesus in popular culture can reflect society’s views, values, and interpretations of his teachings. They often mirror the social and cultural climate of the time, showcasing the evolving relationship between individuals and their faith. These portrayals can challenge traditional religious narratives, spark discussions, and even provoke controversies, highlighting the ongoing interplay between religious beliefs and secular interpretations.
It’s important to note that the depiction of Jesus in popular culture varies widely, and interpretations can be subjective. Different artists and creators bring their own perspectives, biases, and intentions to their portrayals, resulting in a diverse range of representations. Many of these works are produced based on the artist’s beliefs in God which you may or may not agree with.
It is this author’s opinion that believers should be careful and selective about “Jesus” creative works as Jesus commands us to be Holy because he is Holy. 1 Peter 1:16 KJV “Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.” Proverbs 9:10 KJV “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding.”
Fearing the Lord is Wisdom. We should stick to the bible. I think reducing Jesus to entertainment and aliens diminishes the true narrative of the bible. This present culture devalues the scarce diety and the gift of Salvation of Jesus Christ because of freedom of expression and the internet.
As a result, society reflects insane violent crimes and the decreasing value of “truth” and integrity as demonstrated among many public figures, celebrities, and leaders. The revolving relationship of society with Jesus Christ is prophesized in the bible. 1 Timothy 4:1 KJV “Now the Spirit speaks expressly, that in the latter times, some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils;”
In conclusion, the portrayal of Jesus in movies, literature, music, and art provides a lens through which we can examine society’s evolving relationship with Jesus and the unveiling of the bible’s prophecy. These “Jesus” based creative works throughout generations reflect both the timeless fascination with Jesus’ life and teachings and the ever-changing cultural and social dynamics of the world.
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A CALL TO SALVATION:
John 3:16 “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”
Romans 10:9-10 9That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. 10For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness, and with the mouth, confession is made unto salvation.
John 3:5-6 5Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. 6That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. 7
