The Gospel is arguably the greatest story ever told, measured by influence. However, many people today find it hard to find any relevant links between the Gospel narrative and their everyday lives.
If we cannot position the Gospel as a solution to a known problem people experience, it will be very hard to grab their attention, and the Gospel will become just another myth.
So, how do we tell stories people want to be a part of?
J.R.R. Tolkien, the author of The Lord of the Rings, argued that the Gospel is the greatest story ever told. According to Tolkien, the Gospel entails a story that embraces the essence of all fairytales. But the Gospel story, says Tolkien, has entered history and the primary real world.
The Gospel, therefore, hasn’t abrogated legends; it has hallowed them, especially the happy endings.
In this week’s blog, we’ll explore an example of how the Gospel storyline plays out in a blockbuster movie.
The Red Pill Gospel
The Matrix was a giant hit when the first movie was released in 1999.
In The Matrix's captivating world, a thought-provoking connection to Christian themes emerges, showcasing how this iconic sci-fi movie subtly echoes the Gospel narrative.
Set in a dystopian future, the film’s intricate parallels with the Gospel highlight the timeless struggle between humanity, faith, and salvation.
The fabricated reality of The Matrix can be seen as a metaphor for the illusions of the fallen world, drawing parallels to the biblical concept of sin blinding people to the truth. Neo, the movie’s main character, is the prophesied savior of the oppressed human race. His journey from uncertainty to embracing his destiny mirrors Jesus’ earthly path and ultimate sacrifice.
The blue and red pills in The Matrix are symbolic elements that can be interpreted in the Christian narrative, mainly through the lens of choice, revelation, and spiritual awakening. The blue pill represents staying in the familiar illusion of the matrix, continuing a life of ignorance and conformity. This choice can be seen as symbolic of the human inclination to remain in a state of spiritual blindness, sin, and separation from God due to free will.
The act of taking the red pill parallels the experience of spiritual revelation in Christianity. Neo’s decision to take the red pill is akin to an awakening—when one’s eyes are opened to a more profound truth beyond the surface reality.
This mirrors the biblical concept of enlightenment, where individuals come to understand the divine truth and their purpose.
The Awakening
Similarly, Christians often speak of a moment of conversion or realization that leads to a new perspective on life, sin, and salvation. Neo’s choice to take the red pill can be seen as a parallel to this process of spiritual awakening and the call to leave behind the old way of life.
The movie is full of references to the Gospel. Agent Smith, a formidable antagonist, represents evil’s pervasive influence. His relentless pursuit of Neo echoes the spiritual battle between good and evil, reminiscent of Satan’s attempts to thwart Christ’s mission.
Like John the Baptist, Morpheus reveals Neo’s prophesied role as “The One,” destined to save humanity from the matrix’s grip. Morpheus can also be interpreted as an analogy to God.
Zion, the last human city, parallels the idea of a promised land, a refuge for those who embrace the truth. This mirrors the Christian concept of a heavenly home for believers.
Neo’s journey culminates in his sacrifice to save humanity, mirroring Jesus’ ultimate sacrifice on the cross.
People loved this film, demonstrating that the Gospel story can be just as powerful for a secular audience.
The original hero’s journey
To Tolkien, the hero’s journey is appealing to humans because it reflects the primary human condition described by the Gospel.
See you next week!
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