Daniel Davis

Jesus Christ – Lord of Life. - And the Pop Culture?

Definition: Christian literature in general seems self explanatory, yet I will venture a definition.  Writings that convey, evoke, or articulate spiritual themes with regards to the Holy Trinity as revealed through the Bible to be the ultimate authority and good.  This genre has taken most every form, from fiction novel, to scriptural studies; drama to poetry, and recently it has caught the eye of American popular culture. 

Example: The Passion of the Christ – a film by Mel Gibson released February of 2004

Representational Genre: Dialogue in Greek and Aramaic with English subtitles and written narration in the opening.

Audience Appeal:  If nothing else America is a spiritually curious country.  This particular kind of film allows the audience (which is primarily, but not exclusively Christian) a glimpse at what it may have been like at the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.  This subject matter has historically been contained in the walls of church buildings and community performances.  But none can deny the presence of Jesus Christ popular culture.  Whether it be Jesus Christ Superstar or South Park, which take a more modern, irreverent view of Christ, or more recently the Gospel of John and The Passion of the Christ, the American public has been faithful in their interest in the person of Jesus Christ. 

Narrative Genre: Tragedy/Romance: The film allows the audience to witness the brutality of Roman justice, and is forced to watch an innocent man tortured and hung on a cross.  It is almost entirely a tragedy, but for the last 30 seconds of the film in which Jesus is resurrected. 

Identifiable highlights of genre in example:  in fitting with tragedy, it, “ends with the resolution of the problem and the restoration of justice, often accompanied by the death, banishment or quieting of the tragic hero.”  Christ is crucified, which was his tragic, yet triumphant destiny. 

Related examples: Left Behind series, The Purpose Driven Life, the Prayer of Jabez, the Gospel of John, Judas (made for TV)

Discussion:

Four out of the top ten books on the New York Times bestseller list have strong spiritual themes.  The Passion of the Christ is the #7 on the all time top grossing box office records.  Why do you think that America embraces such religious and controversial themes?

What role do you believe Christian literature and art has played in history?  Do you believe that it still serves a purpose in our culture today?

Do you see any evidence of a spiritual revival or awakening in America in light of the recent commercial success?