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Briscoe, Stuart - The Last Temptation of Christ

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The Last Temptation of Christ
by Stuart Briscoe
Text: Luke 4:1-14
Topic: Why the novel and film The Last Temptation of Christ are controversial
Big Idea: Jesus was never confused about his dual humanity and divinity.
Keywords:Christ, deity of; Christ, humanity of; Christ, incarnation of; Entertainment; Integrity; Movies; Satan; Self-Discipline; Sin; Temptation; Truth.


Introduction:
  • The controversy over the film shows that feelings still run deep about Jesus 1,900 years after he lived on earth.
Novelist and director motivated by desire to understand Jesus.
  • Kazantzakis and Scorsese had spiritual backgrounds highlighted by seeking God.
  • Kazantzakis wrote the novel “out of a deep nostalgia for God.”
  • Scorsese made the film because he was “trying to get closer to God.”
Protesters are offended by film’s theological errors and assumptions.
  • Scripture does not support the film’s assumptions about Jesus.
  • Clear theological errors distort the film’s portrayal of Christ.
  • Protesters may miss the point that the film portrays an imaginary last temptation of Christ.
As historical fiction, Last Temptation falls short in its portrayal of Jesus.
  • Historical fiction must be constrained by the actual historical evidence.
  • The film repeats heresies about Christ’s divinity and humanity.
  • The film’s depiction of a Jesus who struggled with his mission is incorrect.
Focus can emerge from the film’s confused portrayal of Jesus.
  • People who watch the film are likely to be confused and miss the point that Jesus overcame the “last temptation.”
  • People can see the realistic depiction of the pain and horror Jesus suffered and inquire about the kind of person he was.
  • From that understanding, people could focus on why Jesus endured that suffering.
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