Are you following THE BIBLE series on The History Channel?
I listened to an interview with a pastor who served as an advisor to the producers. He provided a helpful perspective. The series tries to tell the big, overarching story of the Bible in a relatively brief time frame. The challenge-which events, characters, and stories should be included?
I thought about that question as I watched the first couple of episodes. At first I was surprised, for example, that there was no mention of Isaac and Ishmael beyond their youth, that Jacob and his twelve sons were totally passed over.
Part of it, of course, is Hollywood. Regardless of intent, we need to remember that script decisions are partially ratings-driven. Sponsors and audiences aren’t invisible in the process.
But I thought it was interesting to step back and ask myself why they chose as they did and whether I might have selected differently. I found a couple of minor quibbles—I’m not sure Samson needed so much attention—but overall I could see the reasons for their choices.
I believe many Christians lack a sound big-picture view of the Bible’s story. We study pieces and parts in minute detail, but many believers can’t offer a simple outline of the overall story. If this series helps folks create a more coherent internal narrative, it will fill a big need.
I encourage you to catch up if you missed earlier episodes. Take the story for what it is. Think about (and maybe discuss) which stories and characters should have been included or excluded. Maybe this is an opportunity to get a better picture of the big story God’s trying to tell you.
One more observation—any time a production receives this much attention, there’ll be criticism and controversy. Certainly there are political, personal, economic, social, and religious biases and blind spots.
Personally, I’m choosing to assume best motives on the producers’ behalf. Perhaps I’m being naïve, but I want to learn what I can while understanding that I’m watching a human creative effort. I believe I can do that as long as I maintain an open heart and compare what I see to the truth I know.
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