What movie would a non-churched
person be more likely to go to—a so-called
“Christian” movie, or a movie made about
Christ by a Hollywood icon?
The answer is obvious. That’s why it is extremely important to not promote “The Passion of the Christ” to your friends and acquaintances in association with your church or your Christian faith. Rather, promote it on the basis of its art & drama, its controversy, its historical account, its entertain-ment value, and especially on the basis of your personal viewing experience. In other words, fuel the fire of interest that already exists as a result of Hollywood’s advertising and media coverage.
Your word of mouth is your most dangerous weapon - with it you can pour fuel on the fire of interest that surrounds the movie, or you can pour water on this fire by making “The Passion” appear to be a “Christian movie” or worse yet, an “evangelical outreach.” Yes, we are Christians, attend a certain church and believe the person of Christ and His message is central, but that is information that will be more appropriate to share later.
The goals are to . . .
- Draw as many people to the movie as possible.
- Help them to explore the questions it arouses.
First, encourage as many people as possible to see the movie. Use your word of mouth—your most powerful weapon. Here are some good and some not so good conversation openers.
Right: Hi Julie! Last night we saw “The Passion of the Christ” by Mel Gibson. What an incredible movie. It left me completely stunned for five minutes! Have you seen it?
Wrong: Hi Julie! Have you heard about the movie “The Passion of Christ”? As a Christian, I thought it had some pretty convicting material! You should see it.
Right: Hey Stan, have you heard about that controversial movie called, “The Passion of Christ” by Mel Gibson? You’ve gotta see it…it’s absolutely incredible! I couldn’t believe how realistic it was, etc.
Wrong: Hey Stan, our church is trying to help as many people as possible to see this movie called, “The Passion of the Christ.” Do you want a free ticket?
Once people have seen the movie, many will be looking for your help as a follower of Jesus. That’s the time to say more. Until then, be careful to say nothing that would label this a “Christian” or a “Church” movie. Let’s get them to the movie first!
Second, engage them in a conversation about what they saw, how the movie left them feeling, about questions that they might have. Tell them about an excellent web site you found that talks about the movie and its content: www.thelife.comYour church may also have some special services or discussion groups about “The Passion” that your friends might be interested in attending with you.
