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A new animated movie about Jesus’ life is coming to cinemas across the country on 4 September, and it’s a ripper.

Light of the World tells the story of Jesus from the ministry of John the Baptist through to Christ’s death, resurrection and ascension. But unlike anything else we are aware of, the narrative is told through the perspective of the Apostle John, who is portrayed as a young man in his teenage years. (John is widely believed to be the youngest apostle, but the Bible doesn’t tell us how old he was during Jesus’ ministry.)

The movie is especially designed for younger viewers. A young John is a clever choice to help children become enthralled with and love Jesus. But Light of the World is certain to thrill people and families of all ages. We know, because we have seen it.

The film is light-hearted, humorous, intriguing, uplifting, and hope-filled. It does an incredible job of telling a 2,000-year-old story in a remarkably fresh and beautiful way. Don’t miss the trailer plus my (Warwick’s) grandson’s response to the movie below.

Bringing Biblical Characters to Life on the Big Screen

The film’s creators have taken biblical information about John (e.g., he was quick-tempered (Mark 3:17), had a particularly close relationship with Jesus (John 13:23), and came from a fishing family in partnership with Peter and Andrew (Luke 5:9–11), and created characters brimming with their unique personalities.

Yes, it uses artistic licence. But the characters feel so realistic and… human (even for a 2D animation!). Most importantly, Jesus is portrayed as strong, righteous, gentle, kind, and empathetic to human pain, suffering, death (and grief at His own coming crucifixion). Read a full review of the movie here.

Jesus weeping after John the Baptist has been arrested and killed. Image: Light of the World.

Despite being God and the Messiah, the film shows that Jesus is accessible to everyone. So accessible, in fact, that viewers are invited to begin or renew a relationship with Him.

This is not surprising. The film’s creators have been involved with the sensational Superbook series, and “The Salvation Poem” – played at the end of each Superbook episode – also appears at the end of Light of the World. You might know these words:

“Jesus, You died upon a cross

And rose again to save the lost.

Forgive me now of all my sin

Come be my Saviour, Lord, and Friend.

Change my life and make it new

And help me, Lord, to live for You.”

Light of the World is a powerful evangelistic and discipleship opportunity for the Australian Church. We highly recommend that you, your family and church find a local cinema screening the movie and invite young and old, believers and those yet to believe, to this captivating retelling of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection.

There’s a movie poster to share and print at the bottom of this page.

Kids LOVE Light of the World!

My (Samuel’s) children (aged six and eight) loved this film. We (and our wives) did too! It has already brought at least one mother to tears. I (Warwick) watched it with two of my grandchildren (aged six and ten), and they both loved it! Cody Michell, our colleague, loves the film too. Read his article here.

The movie is God-glorying art that will minister to millions of hearts.

The film is rated PG, so parental guidance is recommended for children. I (Samuel) talked with my young children about the scenes portraying evil entering the world through Adam and Eve and the crucifixion scene. Light of the World does a wonderful job of presenting these sections, and it became an important family discussion and teaching time.

We pray that Light of the World ignites a passion for the Son of God in individuals and families worldwide. It truly is light-filled art for the glory of God. Let’s make the most of this opportunity to see the gospel on the big screen when it releases on Thursday, 4 September!

Yours for Messiah Jesus who died upon a cross, and rose again to save the lost,

Samuel Hartwich and Warwick Marsh

Download a shareable and printable movie poster below.

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Image via Light of the World.