Last month, the film The Whale was nominated for three Academy Awards. While the movie may be getting acclaim for its artistry, it’s yet another recent work that takes aim at Christianity. Other films that do the same thing include The Wonder and Women Talking.  

This is nothing new, of course. However, there has been a notable shift in Hollywood from film portrayals that, for the most part, mock Christianity, to films that portray Christianity as a force of evil, an oppressive ideology that restricts individual self-expression and authenticity, and enables bigotry and hate.  

This villainization of the faith distorts the truth. Plenty of Christians have been guilty of evil, bigotry, and oppression, always against the way of Jesus. However, when Christianity is lived consistent with its worldview, it becomes a liberating force, bringing freedom, life, and flourishing to individuals and entire societies.