To be forthcoming, I went into the movie theater intrigued to learn about Edward Fudge's view of hell and the Scriptures that influenced his newfound conclusions that proved violently unpopular with the religious leaders of his own brotherhood. But his story was familiar. Where had I seen it before? As the plot unfolded, what took center stage for me were the vivid reminders that surprisingly propelled me back in time 2,000 years ago. For I recalled reading in Scripture how the Son of God Himself was confronted by the religious leaders of His day who had "seated themselves in the chair of Moses." As a result, their lust for power and control blinded them from seeing the incarnate Truth Who stood right in front of them or accepting the much simpler message of God's truth. I had often wondered why the Holy Spirit thought I needed to know about the confrontations between Jesus and the religious leaders. Just so I would know that it happened? Or to prepare those who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus for the same thing? "Hell and Mr. Fudge" answered that question.
Along with the Bible itself, the story of Edward Fudge encouraged me to desire God's truth and seek it, knowing that truth will be unpopular with those who have become content to hide behind the ritualized religious systems built around the commandments of men. The best line of the movie came from Fudge's dad, who said, "If the Bible says it, it's true--even if the whole world is against it."
How one feels about God's word has no bearing on its truth. Yet, I was touched at how a young Edward Fudge (played by Cody Sullivan) struggled to embrace a church doctrine that would see a loving God torturing the souls of unbelievers for all eternity. Both Sullivan and Astin brought convincing portrayals of deep emotion that kept me connected. Two solid thumbs up!
