Just saw The Passion of The Christ!

Unbelievable. Amazing. Uncomfortable. Breathtaking.

Tonya and I saw Mel Gibson's upcoming movie today. We were with about 1000 other pastors and church leaders for the pre-release screening at Saddleback Church.

Like today's moderator Lee Strobel said, this movie is almost to describe. YOU MUST GO SEE IT! It comes out February 25th. It does have an "R" rating, BUT DO NOT LET THAT STOP YOU. It will change your perspective on the most important story ever told. Yes it is graphic, very graphic. Hence the "R" rating (don't take children under 12 or 13). You will be effected. Bring tissue, lot of tissue.

I just kept saying in my mind, I put Jesus on the cross, He's thinking of me right now, that whip to the back should have been mine.

Mel was there. Strobel interviewed him. Mel has a deep faith and feels an amazing calling to do this movie. They have experienced much spiritual warfare but already many have come to Christ by being involved or seeing a screening of this movie.

THIS WILL BE A VERY EFFECTIVE EVANGELISTIC OPPORTUNITY FOR OUR CITIES AND COUNTRY IF...

... IF THE CHURCH GETS BEHIND IT.

There are tons of materials to help families and churches use this movie as an opportunity to share their faith. See my recent post on the sites where churches can go for more information.

I think every Christian in America should go see this film in the opening week because...

1. It will give you new insight in an accurate account of what Jesus did for YOU,
2. It will be an avenue for a more intimate relationship with your savior,
3. It will send a message that Christians do care what is put into movie theaters

Then, every Christian should take a non-believer back with you to see it again.

We at Here's Life Inner City will send info to our 300 church partners encouraging them to see and use the film to share the message of Jesus to their neighbors.

If we all get behind this opportunity, what an Easter we will have!

Pray for the film. Pray for Mel. Pray for the millions of people that will see this movie and have questions about who Jesus is. Pray for church's to get involved and be ready to help answer these millions of peoples questions.