I really enjoy watching documentaries. I enjoy learning about history, and sometimes watching a show is easier when tackling complex topics. I enjoy several topics and time periods, including health, nature, space, world history, travel, and more.
Plus, watching documentaries makes my exercise time more fun!
I enjoy seeing parts of the world I will likely never visit in person, including archaeological sites, museums, and artifacts. It is interesting to hear various viewpoints on a wide variety of topics. I learn so much.
Lately, I have been watching Bible documentaries on the Dead Sea Scrolls and the history of Jerusalem. With Easter around the corner, I have also been watching some documentaries about Jesus.
Of course, I don’t agree with every documentary, and I always watch with a healthy dose of skepticism. Sometimes I “argue” the opposite side, and sometimes, I learn something new.
Naturally, I am aware of biases. I can watch two different shows on the same topic and the hosts can reach completely different conclusions. While it is important to consider what other people think, it is vital to always check what the Bible actually says—it is and has the final Word.
Recently, I watched a docuseries on supposed Bible myths. The host was an “expert” but she kept presenting outlandish theories. It was as if she misinterpreted the entire pile of evidence to support her own views. She skipped the scriptures that prophesied Babylonian captivity as judgment for Judah’s sin, for example.
It angered me because it seemed she was abusing her authority to push her own agenda. She only picked certain verses and misquoted them. Then, she misinterpreted her versions of the quotes. She cherry-picked the historical data and archaeology, too!
This is dangerous for several reasons. We can’t make the Bible say what we want. It addresses all sorts of sin and tough issues. There are stories of heartbreak and victory. We have to take it as a whole and see the bigger picture.
Often, we are left with questions that require faith. But that’s okay. We can trust God’s character and His Word. We don’t have to have all the answers to walk by faith.
I’m sure there are people who watch these types of shows to learn about God or the Bible without actually reading the Bible for themselves. Sadly, they may walk away with a faulty view of God and/or who God says they are.
A couple of days ago, I watched an interesting documentary on the holy week— it focused on evidence and events from Palm Sunday leading up to Good Friday.
It was cool to see a map of ancient Jerusalem, the overwhelming size of the Temple compared to the community, and where the holy week events might’ve taken place. Overall, I thought it was helpful.
Still, all of these documentaries are missing one key point. I don’t know if it is intentional or just short-sighted… Perhaps the hosts don’t really know God? At any rate, they neglect to see the Bible events from His point of view. They miss the God factor!
If we only interpret events and research from our limited human perspective, we will miss God’s heart! He gave us the inspired words of the Bible because He longs for us to know Him and understand His love.
God’s ways and thoughts are so much higher than ours. We cannot possibly comprehend the full magnitude of Who He is. But thankfully, Jesus bridged the gap! When I understand all that Jesus went through, I can see how much God loves me.
It wasn’t the nails that kept Jesus on the cross—it was His great love for us. Before we were ever born, He thought of us and did what was needed so we could be together.
Documentaries certainly have a place. If done well, they can provide valuable insights. But we need to be discerning, especially with Bible documentaries. Learning about God and knowing Him personally are two very different things.
Thankfully, we can go directly to the Source! Because of Jesus’ death and resurrection, we have instant access to the Maker of the entire universe! He is always with us and intercedes for us, too. We also have the Bible to read and the Holy Spirit living in us.
Because of Jesus, we can boldly go about our day with joy and peace knowing God loves us beyond measure. We can rest in His mercy and live in His grace knowing we have forgiveness for our sins. We can have confidence in God’s faithfulness, knowing He always keeps His promises! Thank You, Jesus!
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Dear Jesus, thanks for Your loving sacrifice and the free gift of salvation. I could never repay You, but I can live in Your grace with gratitude. Help me walk in the freedom You died to give me. In Your Name, Amen
Questions: What types of documentaries do you like? Do you have any special plans for Easter?
Tasks: Make a list of all the ways you perceive God working in your life. Document His love! For example, this can be seen through thoughtful gifts, kind deeds, and encouraging words. Share your insights with a trusted friend.
