I have heard pastors and church people criticize The Bible Series on the History channel. Not me.
Sure, there have been a few inaccuracies. In the Bible Series, a lamb shows up on Mt. Moriah, but in the Bible, it was a ram. In the Bible Series, King Cyrus fed Daniel to the lions, but in the Bible, it was King Darius. And, of course, the Jesus in the real Bible probably looked more like an olive-skinned Middle Eastern laborer than a white Midwestern alternative rocker.
So what?
I’m sure it was far less dangerous to work with a lamb than with a ram, and there probably was not enough time to introduce two kings during Daniel’s life so they merged events from the reigns of Cyrus and Darius. I have no idea why the Jesus actor is European. But, the point of God providing for Abraham and God protecting Daniel was loud and clear. And, so far, the New Testament scenes have clearly communicated the message of Jesus without compromise.
So, I’m not complaining or criticizing. Here are six reasons I’m glad The Bible Series is being shown, even though it (the TV series) is neither infallible nor inerrant.
1. People who don’t read the Bible are watching The Bible Series.
2. People who watch The Bible Series are starting to read the Bible.
3. Producers and entertainment power brokers who see the success of The Bible Series will be open to producing more of the same in the future.
4. People are talking about, tweeting about, and blogging about The Bible Series and Bible stories more than ever.
5. Families are watching The Bible Series together, and are discussing Bible stories.
6. It’s sure better than watching Swamp People, Celebrity Wife Swap, or 60 Minutes.
7. Because Samson and John the Baptizer have awesome dreads. (Number 7 is from my friend Neli Atiga in Singapore.)
Thank you, Mark Burnett and Roma Downey for taking a risk and giving us The Bible Series.