Abstract The paper describes the way that the film, "Passion of Christ" starts with a painful prayer from Jesus Christ followed by his disciple Judas betraying him. The author believes that the tortures and beatings of Jesus Christ are shown so intensely that they disturb the viewer's emotions. The paper relates the film's slow, gloomy environment as Christ moves along the path to the Mount of Olives. The author thinks that the most outstanding feature of the film is the portrayal of the human nature of the Son of God, which is beautifully expressed throughout the different emotional incidents.
Table of Contents:
Abstract
About the Story
Characterization of People
Characterization of Time
Characterization of Town and Others
From the Paper "The entire movie moves along a single streak of time expect for the events of Jesus' life and his preaching remembered now and then .The sky, the sun and the moon are used to denote transition of time. Jesus Christ is caught on a gloomy night when he offers prayers to God to free him from the evil. Satan appears and signifies the start of evil. Mother Mary also feels that night to be strange and signifying something evil."
Abstract This paper explains that some film critics point out some glaring historical and scriptural inaccuracies in ?The Passion of the Christ?; using Latin might have been an impressive and unusual screenwriting technique, but it lent only a false sense of historical accuracy to the film. The author points out that part of why ?The Passion of the Christ? is passionless is because Gibson does not endeavor to explain the teachings of Jesus or invoke any real sympathy for the man. The paper concludes that the film does deliver a poignantly visceral rendition of the Passion of Christ, even if it does not amount to filmmaking genius and reveals the mind of Mel more than the mind of God.
From the Paper "The cinematography of "The Passion of Christ" is stunning, and along with the acting, offers the film some saving grace. For instance, at the end of the film, after Jesus has been crucified, Mary holds the body of her dead son with Mary Magdalene at her side in a modern amalgamation of Pieta representations in painting and sculpture. The shot is one of the film's most memorable and expertly composed, as if it were a study for a Michelangelo painting. Moreover, after the crucifixion, some brilliant camera work depicts the event as it would be viewed from heaven, in a swirling mass of color. This scene precedes a supposedly cosmic-inspired earthquake that destroys the Jewish Temple. Whether or not the earthquake actually did occur is irrelevant because Gibson was going for meaning and effect."
Abstract This paper is an in-depth exploration of the role of the Apostles after Christ's resurrection. The author details 'The Acts' and its teachings, which marked the beginning of Christianity. The Apostles' goals in the aftermath of Christ's death and resurrection and the roles they played in shaping the development of Christianity is examined in detail. Some of the topics discussed include the sins of the people, the life of Saul, who became Paul, and many of the issues surrounding Baptism and the occurrence of miracles.
From the Paper "As well the apostles are required to help the world understand the teachings of Christ and to encourage them to carry forward the word of the Lord themselves, that is, in order to be converted and Saved. To that end, Peter performs a miracle, and both he and John preach the word of God to the people; as a result, the people begin to sell their possessions and give their lives over to Christ. An enraged Jewish authority then arrest the apostles for their heresies about resurrection and their apparent threat to what the authorities would have felt was their own just and rightful leadership. The apostles proclaimed Christ to be the one true power, and though the authorities were swayed by their "notable miracle" (4:16), they chose to contain their voices by commanding them not to speak, nor teach, the Word of the Lord. Of course, the apostles would return to their teachings in the temple, performing miracles, and would again face conflict with the authorities."
Abstract This paper is an in-depth exploration of the role of the Apostles after Christ's resurrection. The author details 'The Acts' and its teachings, which marked the beginning of Christianity. The Apostles' goals in the aftermath of Christ's death and resurrection and the roles they played in shaping the development of Christianity is examined in detail. Some of the topics discussed include the sins of the people, the life of Saul, who became Paul, and many of the issues surrounding Baptism and the occurrence of miracles.
From the Paper "As well the apostles are required to help the world understand the teachings of Christ and to encourage them to carry forward the word of the Lord themselves, that is, in order to be converted and Saved. To that end, Peter performs a miracle, and both he and John preach the word of God to the people; as a result, the people begin to sell their possessions and give their lives over to Christ. An enraged Jewish authority then arrest the apostles for their heresies about resurrection and their apparent threat to what the authorities would have felt was their own just and rightful leadership. The apostles proclaimed Christ to be the one true power, and though the authorities were swayed by their "notable miracle" (4:16), they chose to contain their voices by commanding them not to speak, nor teach, the Word of the Lord. Of course, the apostles would return to their teachings in the temple, performing miracles, and would again face conflict with the authorities."
Abstract The paper maintains that Stott's book, "The Cross of Christ," is an important book. For those Christians who want to further explore the meaning behind the Cross and behind Christ's death, it is a thought-provoking resource. The paper explains how Stott makes a very good case for the Cross being more than simply important, but rather that it is a vital part of Christianity. Without the Cross, Stott argues that Christianity as we know it would not exist. The paper is of the opinion that after reading this book, it is difficult to argue with this perspective.
From the Paper "John R. W. Stott takes the position that the Cross is essential to Christianity. He makes his convincing argument by dividing the discussion into four parts, discussing the Cross as a symbol, the need for forgiveness, the spiritual benefits that the Cross has provided to believers and finally, on the practical and earthly teachings that the Cross can offer. Stott does not have all the answers on the subject of Christ's Cross. However, the book is a thoughtful and complex study offering suggestions on the subject of the Cross upon which Christ died. The Cross is important, Stott states, because it performs more than the single function of being the method of execution favored by the Romans."
Abstract This book review strongly recommends Thomas Kempis' "The Imitation of Christ" and claims that it is a life-changing book for Christian readers. The paper summarizes the book and discusses some of the issues it addresses, such as self-assessment, resisting temptation and the willingness to change. The author concludes by stating that the book helped him to become more self-reflective and aware of the changes that need to be made in his life.
Table of Contents:
The Benefits of Reading "The Imitation of Christ"
The Importance of Self-Assessment
Resisting Temptation and the Willingness to Change
Personal Relationship to Christ Putting God First and the Willingness to Change
From the Paper "Throughout Kempis's meditations, the focus is on self-reflection and being willing to make changes when needed. The third book of Kempis's writings is different in that the disciple speaks and then the voice of Christ. One of the stories in the Old Testament is about Samuel hearing the voice of God. He is told to ask the Lord to speak to him. The second chapter in the III Book says, "Speak, therefore, Lord, for your servant listens. 'Thou hast the words of eternal life. Speak to me for the comfort of my soul and for the amendment of my life" (Kempis IIIii para. 7). When I read this, I asked myself if I was willing to listen. Am I willing to hear his voice? Sometimes we are so busy that we fail to hear his voice."
Abstract This paper is an in-depth exploration of the role of the Apostles after Christ's resurrection. The author details 'The Acts' and its teachings, which marked the beginning of Christianity. The Apostles' goals in the aftermath of Christ's death and resurrection and the roles they played in shaping the development of Christianity is examined in detail. Some of the topics discussed include the sins of the people, the life of Saul, who became Paul, and many of the issues surrounding Baptism and the occurrence of miracles.
From the Paper "As well the apostles are required to help the world understand the teachings of Christ and to encourage them to carry forward the word of the Lord themselves, that is, in order to be converted and Saved. To that end, Peter performs a miracle, and both he and John preach the word of God to the people; as a result, the people begin to sell their possessions and give their lives over to Christ. An enraged Jewish authority then arrest the apostles for their heresies about resurrection and their apparent threat to what the authorities would have felt was their own just and rightful leadership. The apostles proclaimed Christ to be the one true power, and though the authorities were swayed by their "notable miracle" (4:16), they chose to contain their voices by commanding them not to speak, nor teach, the Word of the Lord. Of course, the apostles would return to their teachings in the temple, performing miracles, and would again face conflict with the authorities."
Abstract The author of this paper attended a Jehovah's Witness service "Memorial for Christ's Death" (akin to a Passover Celebration or Easter Service). In a personal observation, the author notes the social interaction and comments on the differences between members and "outsiders". Details of the service are also included, textually and graphically.
From the Paper "I do feel that the people I met were sincere in their belief that they were practicing God's will, but what was the "hidden agenda". I definitely conformed to the social standard operating procedures regardless of my religion. Their meeting place, the "Kingdom Hall" is subtle thus reinforcing the passive attitude of the attendees. I think way the Witnesses dressed distinguishes them from society. Even though I was clean and presentable I felt different. I think that they present themselves as interested (introducing themselves) and helpful (sharing the hymn book) to convince outsiders that they are a caring organization. If one is convinced that they are an organization to be trusted then perhaps the ultimate goal of converting new recruits can be reached."
Abstract This paper examines the way in which Hemingway uses Christ imagery to characterize Santiago in his novel, "The Old Man and the Sea." The paper explains how Hemingway emphasizes the power of suffering.
From the Paper "On the surface Ernest Hemingway's novella "The Old Man and the Sea" appears to be a rather simple story about an old fisherman and his struggles on the open sea. If one delves deeper into the narrative, however, it becomes apparent that Hemingway's intent is much more complex. Indeed the way in which the author utilizes religious symbolism within the novella works to effectively convey his main theme, namely, man's ability to endure through hardships and the nobility of such struggles."
Tags: hemingway, old man and the sea, santiago, christ, crucifixion, religious, symbolism, suffering, sacrifice, nobility
This paper discusses director Mel Gibson's movie, "The Passion of the Christ", concerned specifically and graphically with the details of the torture and death of Jesus.
Abstract This paper explains that the violent nature of ?The Passion of the Christ? has created a great deal of controversy, but the movie has largely been seen as an accurate portrayal. The author points out that, in terms of New Testament studies, the movie's reach is limited because it contains a relatively restricted look at Jesus' teachings and because the movie has been criticized as anti-Semitic. The paper contends that, perhaps, the movie's greatest impact has been on the culture at large because it has increased interest in Christ's resurrection, and religious groups have taken this opportunity to use the movie for outreach.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Impact on New Testament Studies
Impact on Culture at Large
Conclusion
From the Paper "Gibson's movie has been criticized as being anti-Semitic in nature, an accusation that has an impact on New Testament studies as well as on larger culture. In the movie, Gibson decides to omit the line from John's gospel that shows Caiaphas' inner torment at sending Jesus to the cross. In omitting this line, it can be argued that Gibson's movie is anti-Semitic, as it clearly shows Pontius Pilate's inner conflict with his actions."
Abstract This paper presents a study of the scholarly and cultural ramifications of Mel Gibson's film, ?The Passion of the Christ?. The impact of the film on New Testament studies is considered. The paper discusses the general cultural ramifications of the film.
From the Paper "Any film concerning Christ's passion is a combination of the four Gospels according to Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. Gibson's film is no exception, yet there are some points of emphasis in this particular work that may impact New Testament studies significantly. The first of these is the emphasis on the Jewish nation as sinners, rejecters of Christ and directly guilty for the crucifixion. The second is the emphasis on the brutality of Christ's death in preference to the other elements of the salvation message, such as God's love and Christ's resurrection."
Abstract This paper summarizes and analyzes Mel Gibson's movie "Passion of the Christ", explaining the film's theological, historical and artistic elements. The paper also explains that, while each of these elements are already controversial by themselves, in combination made the film even more prone to controversy.
From the Paper "In the earlier category are moments like that in which Jesus falls and then speaks to his mother telling her that he will make "all things new." This quote is out of context, coming from considerably later in the Bible. The point is not that Jesus actually made all things new at this historical moment, but rather than Gibson wishes the audience to know that the purpose of this suffering is to bring about a state of newness and grace -- and not having time to make a film of the entire history of Christianity, he moves this vital point into the narrative, making it prophetic rather than active."
Abstract This paper presents a description of the piece of art known as "Diptych", which portrays a series of scenes from the life of Christ, beginning with the Annunciation and proceeding through his birth, adoration by the Magi, betrayal, death, ascension, and the final gift of his spirit to the people at Pentecost.
From the Paper "Stylistically, this piece seems both common to its time and yet also enlightening as to its historical moment. There is a certain classical stylization to the flow of the drapery and clothing about the figures which has evolved from the more formless shapes of the earlier middle ages, and hints at an evolving classicism and awareness of form that heralds the oncoming Rennaissance. The characters are in constant contorting motion, and the drapery about them is used to accentuate the angles at which they are caught, and an articulated body is visible below. "In the Gothic figure no such differentiation exists" (Iskold), until the Gothic begins to blend into the Rennaissance."
Abstract This paper explains that there are several ambiguities presented in the metaphysical and the materialist approaches to understanding the universe. The author points out that the basis of Hartshorne's arguments is blind faith, but his presentations are convincing, as he has considered "time" and "necessity" as important factors. The paper states that, through a doctrinal approach, the relation between God and the ?Nature of Christ? may be explained through the understanding that Christ is God himself or at least an extension of him in the form of flesh, and this specifically relates to all His (Christ) divine actions while He was on earth.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Review
Hartshorne's Argument
Immanuel Kant's Contradiction
Evidence from the Bible
The ?Nature of Christ?: Old and New Testaments
The Dualist Perspective
Descartes? Opinion
Ryle's Opinion
H.H. Price's Opinion
Hick's Opinion
Statement of the Problem
Thesis
Scope
Key Words
Terms and their Meanings
Perspectives (Philosophical)
Perspectives (Theological)
Proposal
From the Paper "In Descartes dualist concept, the belief in the existence of the mind and body is essential. Based on this concept, Descartes was able to know where he stood; he knew then that he existed because he could think. Hence, he believed in the following that is popular in contemporary times "cogito ergo sum" or "we think, therefore we are". Descartes apparently has had significant impact on concepts of life after death. However, he faced obstacles in certain explanations, and this is because he could not provide convincing explanation for the relationship between body and mind."
Abstract This paper looks at how British philosopher David Hume posited that reason cannot be the major determinant of moral action and how, instead, reason should only play a secondary role to another primary human faculty, passion. It argues the continuing relevance of Hume's thesis that, despite the current level of scientific knowledge, passion remains the strongest determinant of ethical and moral action. The first part of this paper evaluates Hume's conception of reason as an ability to calculate and to discern causation. The next part of the paper then looks at Hume's definition and categories of conception. In the final section, the paper compares Hume's writings on the secondary role of reason to Peter Singer's principle of utility and shows how passion continues to be the prime motivator human action.
From the Paper "Despite the supposed primacy of reason, however, most people disagree with controversial philosopher Peter Singer's view of "preference utilitarianism," an extreme ethical value system that seeks to replace individual instinctive interests with a "reasoned" concept of the general good. Singer's value system states that one's own interests and ideas matter only when seen in their consequence to everyone else's interests (Singer 15). According to Singer's preference utilitarian, the obligation of an American couple to feed and nurture their own baby is equal to their obligation to feed and nurture a refugee Kurdish child. After all, both children have an interest in eating and growing up. The fact that parents intuitively love their own child more than a child they have never met does not figure into Singer's equation."
