A letter in response

Volume 26 of Christian Renewal dated Nov. 21 2007 has an interesting story, “Why Christians should watch “The Mask of Zorro”. Brian Douglas refers to similarities between the deeds done by Zorro and the deeds done by our savior Jesus Christ. I believe that he thinks he is doing well by this and surely he is not trying to lead anyone astray. In his article Brian Douglas is giving the impression that we can see how the first Zorro portrays what Jesus did while on earth and the second Zorro portrays Christ’s return, or at least that is the way I read it. We should be warned, however, not to learn from dumb images (in this case a movie) but instead turn to scripture, which makes it clear that God’s word is sufficient for us.

LORD'S DAY 35 of the Heidelberg Catechism states:
Q. 98: But may images not be tolerated in the churches as "books for the laity"?
A. No, for we should not be wiser than God. He wants His people to be taught not by means of dumb images1 but by the living preaching of His Word. 21 Jer 10:8; Hab 2:18-20. 2 Rom 10:14, 15, 17; 2 Tim 3:16, 17; 2 Pet 1:19.

Habakkuk 2:18-20: Of what value is an idol, since a man has carved it? Or an image that teaches lies? For he who makes it trusts in his own creation; he makes idols that cannot speak. Woe to him who says to wood, 'Come to life!' Or to lifeless stone, 'Wake up!' Can it give guidance? It is covered with gold and silver; there is no breath in it. But the LORD is in his holy temple; let all the earth be silent before him.

2 Peter 1:19: And we have the word of the prophets made more certain, and you will do well to pay attention to it, as to a light shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts.

So much for learning from the lies and deceits of Hollywood. Now let’s see some comparisons alluded to in this article. Zorro being portrayed as a hero first pretends that he is a friend of the governor. Jesus on the other hand never pretends to be a friend of those who hate him; instead Jesus stands before the High Priest, the Scribes and Pharisees, before Caiaphas and later in the desert before Satan never denying that he is the son of God.

Zorro changes his clothes and dons a mask so as not to be recognized and takes the law into his own hands. Jesus on the other hand never betrays his identity but obeys all the rules and even repairs the damage done by Peter when he cut of the ear from Malchus.

There is much more which can be said about this, again we can see how sly Satan is using movies to try and mislead believers.

Mark 13:22 For false Christs and false prophets will appear and perform signs and miracles to deceive the elect—if that were possible. Let us be ever watchful and not think that we are strong enough to withstand these temptations instead it would be better if we were to spend the time in scripture instead of the movies and learn from what God has given us in his word rather than twist fantasies to make them look like truth.

1 Corinthians 10:12 So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don't fall!

[signed]