Bad Christian "Art"

Are you sure you know what "the Gospel" means? 

I was shown this picture once early on in my ministry experience. The person that showed it to me was really excited for what they found. They proclaimed with jubilee that, "This was the Jesus they followed!" While I appreciated the sentiment and their excitement for Jesus, I couldn't help but notice multiple contradictions with what was being conveyed in the "art"--and I use that term loosely.

The first thought I had was, "Where did Jesus have access to a gym in 1st century Israel?" and "Look at those quads."

I was then confused by the many theological issues with the painting. 

• Are we to assume that Jesus actually didn't die and broke the cross because he didn't miss biceps and triceps day? 
• If Jesus doesn't actually die, then what's the point of the resurrection?
• Why would Jesus preach to his disciples about denying yourself, taking up your cross and following him?
• Isn't this kind of depiction of Jesus who is attractive and physically strong exactly what the Romans desired? Then why would they put him on a cross?
• What do we do with all of the scriptures that talk about a lamb that was slain? Not only do the scriptures discuss a weak animal, but even more so a young & weak animal. Jesus is called a weak baby animal to show the character of God when God is in the flesh.
• What about all of the parables about the Kingdom of God being like really small and insignificant things like seed, or yeast, or a lost coin?
• How do we reconcile the moment when Peter strikes a guard who is helping to arrest Jesus and Jesus actually rebukes Peter, not the guard?

I could go on...but I won't.

When I look at art like this, I don't see any weakness at all. I don't see any vulnerability or humiliation. I don't see any of the Christ hymn from Philippians 2:5-11 where Jesus takes the position of a slave and humbles himself unto death. It's then and only then, after the crucifixion that God exalts him to a place of honor. Jesus doesn't get to that place of honor because he's embodied worldly strength. It was he who said, "My Kingdom is not of this world." He gets there precisely because he is obedient to death on a cross.

Paul then encourages the church in Philippi to carry on this same attitude of Christ, which is not a place of [worldly] victory, might, and strength. The way of Jesus is upside down from the way the world and culture operates. But when we miss that and see images like the one above, it affects our understanding of the Gospel and our attitudes and actions as we live out the Gospel. Let me ask again,

Are you sure you know what "the Gospel" means?

If the Gospel resembles the image above and all of the theological implications that come with it, then we may misunderstand the overarching narrative of the Scriptures. But, I have Good News (did you see what I did there? Gospel literally means "Good News"). 

I started with bad art, so let's show you some good art. The Bible Project is a deep well of artistic presentation when it comes to the Bible and Biblical concepts. They have an incredible series on the Gospel that you should make time to look through. 

But for now, if you're looking for a quick recap, you should definitely check out this video on the Gospel. Stay alert and beware of false gospels even in the artistic expressions of Jesus. Ask yourself, "Does this truly portray the heart and character of God in Christ that I see in the Scriptures?"

Peace be with you.

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