Torch, Summer 2006

The vast majority of those who read the book and see the movie will know very little about the issues being raised. Many will believe what they read or see and take it as the truth. This is our opportunity to speak the truth clearly and compassionately — truly to engage the culture with the heart and mind of Christ. But how? There are at least three opportunities for Christians. First, we have the opportunity to make a presentation of the truth about Jesus Christ, the early church, and the scriptures. The Apostle Peter challenges us to “sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts. Always be ready to give an answer for the hope that is within you to everyone who asks” (I Peter 3:15). I think God is lobbing us a softball with the publication of The Da Vinci Code . If a well-known Christian wanted to explain who Jesus really is, I doubt any media outlets would provide airtime unless it were purchased. Even then it is questionable if anyone would be interested enough to tune in. But over the past few months, a number of Christian leaders have been able to explain the truth about Jesus Christ and the early church on national television programs because the traditional view is challenged by The Da Vinci Code . As God’s Spirit works in the hearts and minds of millions of people, we must pray they will be open to the truth. This means all Christians need to be aware of the answers to the questions that are being raised. How well does the average Christian know the truth about these challenges? It’s time to learn! Second, the publication of the book and release of the movie tell us a great deal about our culture. The Apostle Paul gives us an example when he makes himself a slave to everyone in order that he might win them (I Cor. 9:19). His desire is to build a bridge to Jesus Christ for everyone. He goes on to describe how he gets into the hearts and minds of those outside Christ, so that he can better represent Christ and communicate the gospel to them. “I have become all things to all men so that by all possible means I might save some” (I Cor. 9:22). The spiritual underpinnings of The Da Vinci Code reveal the true hunger that only the Bread of Life can satisfy. We must not only know how to exegete the Word but also how to exegete the world for effective ministry. Third, we have the opportunity to demonstrate the power of the gospel. The Apostle Paul reminds us that God “always leads us in triumphal procession in Christ and through us spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of Him” (II Cor. 2:14). With all of the challenges about the person of Jesus, the early church, and the authenticity of the scriptures, the most powerful examples of the truth of Christianity are the transformed lives of the followers of Jesus Christ. As Paul says elsewhere, “You yourselves are our letter” (II Cor. 3:2-3). People may struggle with historical evidence and interpretation, but the truth of the power of Jesus Christ is seen clearly in the new life we live. People today are not necessarily looking for clever arguments; they are looking for authentic lives. When they find them, they will ask what it is you believe that gives you hope and joy in a world of despair. You must be prepared to tell them. Why The Da Vinci Code resonates with so many people in our culture is both a clue and a key. It is a clue in that it tells us a great deal about the spiritual hunger that exists in this Postmodern culture that is desperately looking for truth and not finding it. It is also a key in that it provides us an opportunity to respond with the heart and mind of Christ to the statements made and the questions asked. T Summer 2006 / TORCH 17