Passion of the Christ

[devilof76]

I'd say to each their own on that. I personally think the cross is idolatry and have seen people praying to it which reaffirms my personal opinion. But that's just my opinion.

I've never understood the objection to idolatry, but that's because I'm an unrepentant pagan.

Or reaffirmed just what the man went through so that those who already believed could have their sins forgiven.

Yes, but how would answer the charge that it's still idolatry? I know Christianity isn't as strict as Islam, but they don't allow any depictions of Mohammed whatsoever. Isn't that the consistent approach?

 

[MaulFan]

I wonder how many people the movie made into believers.

Without delving into my beliefs, it definitely had a real impact on me and what I believed in. I'm a visual person, and for me what Mel depicted speaks volumes more than written word or even a painting could truly capture.

 

[thenammagazine]

Yes, but how would answer the charge that it's still idolatry? I know Christianity isn't as strict as Islam, but they don't allow any depictions of Mohammed whatsoever. Isn't that the consistent approach?

IMO, praying to an object instead of directly to God, beit water, dirt, a sculpture, a saint, etc., is idolatry. Really though, it depends on what flavor you prefer your Christianity. It's been so convoluted over the centuries that it's really like Baskin Robbins.

I think Weiland said it best, "I don't believe in yours or yours, I just believe it's all the same."

 

[devilof76]

So the issue is in how the representation is treated, not in the fact that the representation was made in the first place? That makes sense. Someone would have to worship the movie for their actions to be considered idolatrous.

Without delving into my beliefs, it definitely had a real impact on me and what I believed in. I'm a visual person, and for me what Mel depicted speaks volumes more than written word or even a painting could truly capture.

Me too. I came out of it with a much more solid (and sympathetic) understanding of the event.

 

[MaulFan]

If you don't already have it and enjoy the film, this book is really great.

https://search.barnesandnoble.com/T...2373623/?itm=6&USRI=The+Passion+of+the+Christ

Being into photography, I especially liked it, the selection of images makes the book carry the power of the film, but being still shots, it also allows you to reflect upon the moments longer than them flashing by in the movie.

The score is also an awesome collection of music too, and I mean the Debney score, there's a music inspired by CD that's ok but the film score is really moving.

 

[thenammagazine]

So the issue is in how the representation is treated, not in the fact that the representation was made in the first place? That makes sense. Someone would have to worship the movie for their actions to be considered idolatrous.

Again, depends on your POV. Muslims believe that ANYTHING created like that is idolatry (though they bow toward a meteor in Mecca). Staunch protestants also believe that anything representing religion in that aspect is idolatry which is why early protestant churches were bare of things like crosses, stained glass windows, etc. Catholics, on the other hand, revel in it, from kissing rosaries and praying to saints, to kneeling and "crossing" to the crucifix before taking your seat in a pew. Again, it's moreso, what's your favorite flavor? Some extreme Pentecostals would claim that even our action figures are idolatry given how much we care for them and spend on them (though lots don't hesitate to sport the bling).

 

[Darklord Dave]

Okay, this thread has taken a turn that isn't really the purview of this forum.

Thread closed.

And as Original Poster - I meant V!C.