Is this the Gospel?
This is apparently a popular video and I know a number of churches have performed this drama. I, however, have some reservations. I would be interested in feedback concerning the validity of my discomfort regarding the drama that follows. I give voice to my objections at the bottom of this post.
Perhaps I am a bit of a contrarian, but does this video, beyond the highly questionable propriety of an actor portraying God, make the Lord of salvation seem a bit weak and needy, a bit of a hand-wringer? Does sovereign God Almighty struggle? Does this also seem more of a therapeutic Gospel than the Gospel of the Bible, the call to repent and believe? Where is real repentance found here? Where is the conviction over sin? I see the effects of sin and the sorrow over the results of sin, but this drama does not, I think, portray a heart broken and contrite over sin itself. Though many seem to find solace in this video, I find it to be bit disturbing. But there again, so much of the contemporary American church is markedly man-centered. This video seems to make much of God making much of mankind.
Too, does the Gospel, faithfully exposited, need layers of media, of drama, to clarify the message, or do such layers actually tend to obscure the message? Is Scripture insufficient in clarity and power that we need to jazz it up?
(As an addendum of 10-12-08, I note and question with irony that perhaps in sharing this video wherein an actor portrays God, perhaps I am guilty of the same questionable propriety)
Hi, I could not see the video for some reason.. anyay, it is a pity you might not blog.. you seem to pose a lot of good points etc. So it would be sad not to see your updated blogs. But I guess there is a time for everything under the sun.. So all the best, whatever you decide to do.
just sneaked at it and within minutes it was disappointing. Yes the joy that is expressed was good but there showed no signs of repentance.. no signs of awe.. it’s like it is self focused instead of God focused.. if that makes any sense. I would imagine more of someone on their knees, crying sincerely before God.. someone with a black robe that gets removed after her saying, Lord Jesus, forgive me of my sins. someone in absolute reverence falling again on her knees as God freely forgives her, removes the black robe to replace is with a white unblemished one and then the dancing because of God’s grace.. now that is my view within just a few minutes into the video clip.. I didn’t look at the whole thing as my internet connectivity is limited and I can only use x amount of megabites. But within such a short period I saw no Realness to it.. it was like it tickled the ears of people…
It’s interesting because at the church I just left, we did an imitation of this skit and acted out about 4 times within 3 months!!lol
But your points take me back and I can def. understand what you’re saying.