Watch The Real Jesus Christ

The Real Jesus Christ is a thought-provoking documentary that explores the life and teachings of Jesus of Nazareth, the founder of Christianity. Released in 1999, the film is directed by independent filmmaker Timothy Eaton and features interviews with some of the world's foremost experts on religion and biblical scholarship, including John Dominic Crossan, Robert Eisenmann, and Piers Gibbon.

At the heart of the film is the question, "Who was the historical Jesus?" Rather than focusing on the religious aspects of Jesus, the film seeks to uncover the true identity of the man behind the myth. It takes a scholarly approach, scrutinizing historical documents and textual evidence to provide a clearer picture of Jesus as a historical figure.

The film begins by examining the political and social context of Jesus' time. It explores the complex world of first-century Palestine, where Jewish and Roman authorities competed for power, and many people suffered under their rule. Through interviews with scholars and on-location footage, the film paints a vivid picture of the world in which Jesus lived and preached.

The film then turns to Jesus himself, exploring his teachings, his relationships with his disciples, and his eventual execution. It uses a combination of expert analysis and dramatic reenactments to bring Jesus' story to life, weaving together historical facts and the teachings of the Gospels.

One of the film's strengths is its ability to present different interpretations of Jesus' life and teachings. Some experts argue that Jesus was a revolutionary figure who sought to overthrow the Roman occupation of Palestine. Others see him as a religious leader who emphasized the importance of love and compassion. The film does not take sides, but rather presents these different points of view in a balanced and respectful manner.

Throughout the film, the three expert scholars provide insightful commentary on the life and teachings of Jesus. John Dominic Crossan is a prominent New Testament scholar who has written extensively on the historical Jesus. Robert Eisenmann is a professor of Middle Eastern religions and archaeology who has studied early Christianity and its roots in Judaism. Piers Gibbon is an anthropologist and filmmaker who has made several documentaries on religion and spirituality.

Their comments are supplemented by interviews with other experts, including archaeologists, historians, and theologians. Together, they offer a comprehensive and insightful look at the life of Jesus and its impact on the world.

The film concludes with a reflection on the enduring legacy of Jesus' teachings. It argues that Jesus' message of love and compassion remains as relevant today as it was two thousand years ago. By examining the historical Jesus, the film seeks to deepen our understanding of his life and teachings, and to inspire greater appreciation for his enduring legacy.

Overall, The Real Jesus Christ is a compelling and engaging documentary that offers a unique perspective on the life and teachings of Jesus. It is informative, thought-provoking, and respectful, and is a must-see for anyone interested in the history and significance of Christianity.