My favorite Christian movies

Usually when people describe a movie as “Christian” it is produced by Evangelical Christians in order to promote a Christian agenda- an example of Christ Above Culture. For example, Facing the Giants, which was produced by a church in Georgia. I was surprised that I actually liked that movie (although it was rather “preachy” it really spoke to me).

Some movies are only Christian because they mention Christian stories or are about Christians, but are not necessarily promoting a high view of Christ. Sometimes they even redefine Christ for the purpose of telling the story. This is more Christ of Culture. Although this perspective is usually vilified, it is important to remember that the best use of Niebuhr’s categories is not to say, “which one should I be?” but “which should I be and when should I be it?” This is the sense in which I mean, “my favorite Christian movies” in this post. These movies redefine Christ in ways that I feel drew me closer to him.

Dogma
For a long time all I knew about this movie was that Kevin Smith had to apologize for it and add a guarding statement to the beginning. When I actually watched it I could join him in his critique of the church (it still applies even though I am a protestant). Although his views on Scripture are off and Theology Proper as well, I don’t go to movies to learn those things. In a sense, seeing the corruption of the church made me appreciate the grace of God for his church even more. In that sense I grew closer to Christ as a result.

The Last Temptation of Christ
I remember the protests that happened (and probably still do) over this movie. I eventually sat down and watched it- and was glad I did. Although the movie’s Christology is adoptionistic, it really reminded me that Christ was sincerly tempted, just like I am. For Jesus, the temptation was for a life of ease and peace with a family who loved him. Instead of giving into this temptation, Jesus chose the cross. That is good news!

Saved
Although I never attended a Christian school, I had a few friends who did. Whoever wrote this movie did too. This is a great movie to show the problem of the ingrown church and how destructive it can me. It motivates me to keep working with the church, even if it is a mess.