Is the Jesus of this movie one of high Christology (very divine and Godlike) or a low Christology (very human) or both? Explain and back up your answer with evidence.
Overall, I think that the representation of Jesus in the movie Jesus Christ Superstar was that of low Christology. There are some scenes however that depict a higher Christology. One of these scenes was at the end. Jesus appeared in this �Superstar� number wearing a white robe. For the most part of the movie Jesus was seen to be more human. He seemed to be having a relationship of some kind with Mary Magdalene. She would touch his face like someone she was in love with. Jesus allowed it. Jesus� rage demonstrated in the temple was extremely human. He was also very overwhelmed in the scene with the poor and ill people crowding all around him. Jesus in the movie said to Judas �Surely you're not saying we have the resources to save the poor from their lot? There will be poor always, pathetically struggling.� I do not think that this film gave the best representation of Jesus but the film was made to show the more human side of Jesus.
List three major beliefs of Jesus you see clearly in this movie? What are the major beliefs you see clearly Jesus teaching and living? List each (a, b, c) and back up each with evidence from what Jesus says and does from the movie.
The three major beliefs that Jesus expressed in this movie were: do not judge you neighbor, love those that hurt you, and do not command God to perform a miracle.
When Judas begins criticizing Mary Magdalene because of how she is treating Jesus, who is very tired. She is singing to Jesus, stroking his face. Judas thinks that Jesus should not associate with those types of people. Jesus �If your slate is clean, then you can throw stones. If your slate is not, then leave her alone.�
Jesus had a very strong relationship with Judas. Judas cared very much for Jesus even though he would hand him over to be crucified. Jesus at the Last Supper forgives Judas. This is not documented in any Gospel. But this is showing the more human and forgiving side of Jesus.
Herod and Pilate both command Jesus to perform a miracle. They say do a miracle and you will be let free. Jesus stands silently while Herod sings for Jesus to �Prove to me that you're divine�. Jesus knows �You shall not put the Lord you God to the test� Mt 4:7. I think that the temptations to perform miracles are like the temptation narrative in Matthew 4. Jesus remains silent not giving into these temptations.
