The movie Godspell goes a long way in exemplifying the description of the kingdom of God by Jesus by the use of parables and, most importantly, how he led a good life, one that reflects on the will of God. It also gives a good example of discipleship as it draws from the works of John the Baptist, the apostle Peter, and Judas, among others.
Just as the parables were used by Jesus to simplify his teachings about the kingdom of God to the multitudes, the movie utilizes such to present the dynamics of the gospel and how it was taught not only by Jesus but also by his followers, such as John the Baptist. To begin with, by Jesus requesting John to baptize him, he indirectly teaches about the need to be humble regardless of one’s standards in life. John the Baptist refusing the request could be viewed as high respect to the authority other than disobedience. The movie hence presents Jesus as a humble leader and John the Baptist as a humble servant as well.
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In the first part of the movie, the parable of the widow and judge, the parable of Lazarus, the parable of the sower, that of the prodigal son, and the Good Samaritan, among others are presented. The parable of the widow and judge is a reflection of God’s unending mercies and his just nature, especially when we cry out to him. That of the prodigal son reflects on how ready God is to receive any sinner, regardless of their transgression. The parable of the sower presents the word of God, which is preached to all indiscriminately. The possibility to grow and thrive is majorly depended on one’s heart and their willingness to accept the gospel. On the parable of Lazarus, the movie uses it to show the need to value all humanity, regardless of their level in life. Evidently, the parables used in the movie, in one way or another, teach about the kingdom of God, the nature of God, and the character of man that either ensures he or he does not inherit the kingdom.
In the second part of the film, the adulterous woman is represented to Jesus. Although it was true that she should be stoned according to the laws of Moses, they that brought him to Jesus wanted to test him. In the same episode, Jesus' temptation by Satan is presented. Both undertakings represent Jesus as an individual who was able to resist temptations at all costs. It is also a representation of the influence that Satan has on Christians and those who believe in God.
The last supper, the Garden of Gethsemane and peter betrayal of Jesus are a representation of how Christians today could be pulled down by major temptations. Peter’s loyalty was tested, and he failed the test. In the movie, hence, he is portrayed as a fearful individual who, although he knew Jesus, was afraid of the consequences that followed if he confessed that he was his disciple. Closely related to the actions of peter after the last supper, close to the end of the movie, Judas betrays Jesus. He is presented as an ungrateful disciple who does not appreciate the leadership of the master. Jesus’ reaction to Judas’ actions is that of disbelief. Instead of blaming him, he accepts his fate and states that it had to happen for the promises of God to be fulfilled.
References
Greene, D. (1973). Godspell [Film]. United States: Columbia Pictures.
