Watch The God Who Wasn't There

The God Who Wasn't There is a thought-provoking documentary film that explores the origins of Christianity, its historical background, and the role of Jesus Christ in Christian beliefs. Released in 2005, the film features prominent scholars and critics of Christianity, including Sam Harris, Robert M. Price, and Richard Carrier. The film opens with a series of videos of American evangelists and preachers, who talk about the saving power of Jesus and how he transformed their lives. However, the narrator challenges these testimonies by asking a simple question: is Jesus a historical figure, or is he a mythical character created by early Christian writers?

To answer this question, the film takes the audience on a journey through the origins of Christianity, tracing its roots to ancient religions and mythologies. The film argues that early Christianity borrowed heavily from other religious traditions, such as the Egyptian cult of Osiris, the Persian god Mithras, and the Greek myths of Dionysus and Hercules.

The film also presents evidence that Jesus may not have been a real person but rather a fictional character created by early Christian writers to serve a specific theological purpose. The documentary cites similarities between the stories of Jesus and other mythical figures, such as Horus, Krishna, and Buddha.

Through interviews with historians and theologians, the film reveals that the story of Jesus Christ may have been a way for early Christian writers to provide a savior figure for their followers and to create a cohesive theology out of diverse religious beliefs.

The documentary also explores the role of religion in American politics and culture, arguing that Christianity has played a significant role in shaping American history and values. The film takes a critical look at the intersection of religion and politics, pointing out the dangers of religious fundamentalism and the need for a secular society.

Overall, The God Who Wasn't There is a compelling documentary that challenges traditional Christian beliefs and presents a new perspective on the origins of Christianity. The film is well-researched and presents arguments and evidence from a diverse range of scholars and experts. While the film may be controversial for some, it is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of religion and its impact on society.