All too often we in the Church have a tendency to overlook mediocre artistry in ”Christian films” and “Christian literature” because of the underlying gospel message behind the story. “As long as the gospel is proclaimed”, goes the line of thinking, “does craftsmanship and creativity really matter?”
We can do better. Movies like the amazing French film Of Gods and Men prove that artistry and a faith message can go hand in hand. The subtle, yet powerful witness of a group of French monks under fire can speak to the heart of someone outside the church far more effectively than movies made by Christians for Christians.
Missionary Jim Elliot once wrote, “Wherever you are, be all there. Live to the hilt every situation you believe to be the will of God.” Let’s “live to the hilt” not only on the mission field, but also in fields of music, film, and literature.
