What is Postmodernism?
Postmodernism simply defined is a movement or set of movements that have grown out of the modernism movement. Hence the term "post" means coming after or later.
Currently, this term is becoming more widely used by philosophers, social scientists, art critics and theologians to describe our culture, contemporary art, economics, and our present social conditions. In short, it is many times used to describe the way that most of the world is currently thinking.
The Evolution of Postmodernism
To understand the postmodern movement it is useful to become familiar with the modern movement and the pre-modern movement. Pre-modern cultures, or societies, were based on a religious or sacred worldview, or paradigm. In pre-modern times, people tended to live at the mercy of their environs, or their guiding spirits, religions, and/or gods. During the 18th century in Europe, pre-modern times gave way to modern times. The great watershed in European history is the 18th century enlightenment when the key intellectuals of Europe emphasized the need to base a "modern" society on a more secular world view that theorized, or idealized, concepts of rationality and progress through the emerging sciences and the scientific method. As a result, most people came to believe that we live in a modern secular society that is "better" than earlier societies because of our modern scientific advances, such as those in medicine, engineering, pedagogy, and other sciences.
More recently, however, various thinkers, or post-modernists, have emerged who have critiqued these notions born of the enlightenment. These thinkers have been more skeptical about the claims of modernity and science. Further, these post-modern thinkers are critical of modernist who promulgate "high" cultural forms of art, music, literature, etc. because they say they are elitist and sterile.
Post-modern thinkers, who are far too diverse to provide a singular characterization, are busy critiquing and attacking the most fundamental assumptions of those who still subscribe to enlightenment principles as well as to elitist conceptions of art. Post-modern thinkers don't generally want to return to a society based on religious dogma, nor do they want a society based too exclusively on the dogma of science and technology or high culture artists. Many post-modern thinkers think of themselves as more radically skeptical and democratic than the old "modernist" intellectuals so they often tend towards libertarian models of society with less big government and bureaucracy and towards popular culture art forms. Post-modern thinkers generally don't believe in capitalism nor do they believe in socialism, both of which are modernist ideals. However, any characterization of post-modernist thinkers as a sort of political movement with a coherent philosophy is a crude over-simplification.
Post-modern thinkers can be found in many diverse fields and they have often been chastised by traditionalists (i.e., modernists) who see post-modernists as contributing to the "crisis of uncertainty" within Western societies. Critics of post-modernism emphasize that post-modernism have led to an erosion of tradition, of history, of cultural or national identity.
However, post-modernist retort by pointing out that Western societies are actually entering a new stage in history because of the momentous economic and political changes in capitalism, a new form of globalization that is the product of advanced communication, and production technologies that making the world a smaller place. All of these forces work to conflate the notion of time, reconfigure the notion of cultural identity (leading to the possible formation of multiple identities), and erode the foundations of the old nation-state model of societies.
Gabrielson, T., Scott, C., Sloan, K., and González, C. (2001), Postmodernism 101: A Crude Introduction. Retrieved April 22, 2005, from University of Texas at Austin, Education in the postmodern Web site: http://www.edb.utexas.edu/faculty/scheurich/proj6/pags/pm101_1.htm
What is the Postmodernism Movement After?
The postmodernism movement is born of the idea that human reason should not be held as the main source of finding truth. It is skeptical of society giving reason a privileged position over other ways of finding truth because it can lead to depriving other mediums of the truth from being heard. It contends that modernism has put too much emphasis on human reason as a way of finding truth and by doing this created a bias against other cultures that resulted in their views and beliefs being ignored or not put on the same plane. The postmodernist desires and hopes to level the playing field and make sure that all cultural and minority beliefs are given a voice in public discussion.
It states that there are other ways of discovering truth other than human reason such as feeling, experience, stories, metaphors and intuition. The postmodernists are more open to finding truth through feeling and experience. They believe that truth is relative (with no absolutes) and accept and respect all beliefs as true and equal.
Why We Should Care
Postmodernism has some good things that it brings to the table such as the idea that the truth can be found in more ways than solely on human reason (a good reminder to us all) and an increased concern to value all opinions and accept everyone. Yet, what we are beginning to see is that truth with a capital "T" (or fact) is getting lost or snuffed out with a new belief that truth is relative.
The relativist belief is that there is no objective absolute truth. What this does is it elevates opinions and feelings to an equal plain with truth (many times with the objective to not offend anyone). It is true that all viewpoints should be on the same playing field and equal, but they should not be converted to truth just because someone thinks it so.
"Truth" under this premise can become what one wants it to be even if it goes against logic and reason. Hence the statement, "Something can be true for you, but not true for me" comes to play. The danger is that we can blur reality and lose many of the principles that have helped our society thrive through the ages. For instance, it has been reported that many professing Christians now claim not to believe in absolute moral values.
How Do We Reach a Postmodern world?
By understanding the world we live in we can more effectively reach it for Christ. If we are still thinking like modernist we will be living in a world that no long exists and we will be baffled by why the same things that worked 50 years ago are no longer working today. We must learn to accept the world we live in and find the ways that will work to reach it. Just like a missionary who goes overseas studies the culture of the country he is going to we must become familiar with how our world is thinking.
Yet, we must be careful not to conform Christianity to our culture but rather find ways to conform our culture to Christianity. We must never let go of what we believe in but rather we must find creative ways to present what we believe in to a ever-changing world.
So, if our culture speaks the language of methaphor, experience, story, and intuition then we must present the truth in this way. For example the use of films like The Matrix, Star Wars, The Lord of the Rings, etc. are creative ways to engage a postmodern culture. The Arts, Theatre, media, reflective listening and respect are also very effective avenues to pursue. In conclusion, the more we study our culture the more we will learn what makes them tick, what interest them and how they most like to be engaged.
Sunday, July 8, 2007
About Me
Eddie Zacapa was born in Santa Clara, California. He has worked with Campus Crusade for Christ for many years and was the founder of The Next Step Ministries. He conducts discipleship workshops with churches and para-church ministries throughout the Bay Area. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Journalism from San Jose State University and a Bachelor of Science degree in Bible and Theology from San Jose Christian College.
He currently attends and serves as a Small Group Director at Western Hills Church in San Mateo, California. He is also a Domestic Violence Counselor with Family and Children Services. Eddie and his wife, Rachel, live in Mountain View, California. They have one child, and two turtles.
He currently attends and serves as a Small Group Director at Western Hills Church in San Mateo, California. He is also a Domestic Violence Counselor with Family and Children Services. Eddie and his wife, Rachel, live in Mountain View, California. They have one child, and two turtles.
Press Release
New Book Highlights Allusions to Bible Story
**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**EDITORS: For review copies or interview requests, contact:Promotional Services DepartmentTel: 888-728-8467Fax: 812-961-3133Email: pressreleases@authorhouse.com(When requesting a review copy, please provide a street address.) SAN JOSE, Calif. –
The trio of "The Matrix" films captivated audiences not only with their stunning special effects, but also with the engaging plot line, which delved into complex issues many have pondered. In a new book that explores the Christian themes of the "The Matrix," Matrix Reflections: Choosing Between Reality and Illusion, Eddie Zacapa offers an intriguing analysis of this popular blockbuster series.
By illustrating Christian allusions prevalent throughout the "The Matrix" films, Matrix Reflections draws from dialogue in the script and the events in the story to draw a parallel between these movies and Christian theology. Intended to motivate the reader to reflect on spirituality, faith and the deeper meaning of life, Zacapa’s book is designed to spark new thought and contemplation.
The author divides the book according to major themes related to the Christian idea: "The Question," "The Decision," "The Identity," "The Purpose," "The Battle" and "The Savior." Within these sections Zacapa explores 38 reflections by using scenes from the movies, Scripture passages and personal analysis. At the end of each section is what Zacapa calls "The Red Page," which lists a series of thought-provoking questions to help the reader further understand the point at hand.
Although Matrix Reflections does not attempt to interpret "The Matrix," it does explore the theology that Zacapa writes drives the storyline and encourages readers to think about how it applies to their own lives. He also purposefully does not cover all the references to Christianity so that the reader will be challenged to dig deeper into this story and the stories of the Bible.
A modern look at an ancient theology, Matrix Reflections helps readers convert this popular movies series into a learning tool to further their personal spirituality.
Zacapa is active in the Christian community in the San Francisco Bay area. The small group director for Western Hills Church in San Mateo, Calif., he also conducts evangelism and discipleship workshops. He earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism from San Jose State University and a bachelor’s in Bible and theology from San Jose Christian College. Zacapa is also a domestic violence counselor with Family and Children Services. He currently resides in Mountain View, Calif.
###
**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**EDITORS: For review copies or interview requests, contact:Promotional Services DepartmentTel: 888-728-8467Fax: 812-961-3133Email: pressreleases@authorhouse.com(When requesting a review copy, please provide a street address.) SAN JOSE, Calif. –
The trio of "The Matrix" films captivated audiences not only with their stunning special effects, but also with the engaging plot line, which delved into complex issues many have pondered. In a new book that explores the Christian themes of the "The Matrix," Matrix Reflections: Choosing Between Reality and Illusion, Eddie Zacapa offers an intriguing analysis of this popular blockbuster series.
By illustrating Christian allusions prevalent throughout the "The Matrix" films, Matrix Reflections draws from dialogue in the script and the events in the story to draw a parallel between these movies and Christian theology. Intended to motivate the reader to reflect on spirituality, faith and the deeper meaning of life, Zacapa’s book is designed to spark new thought and contemplation.
The author divides the book according to major themes related to the Christian idea: "The Question," "The Decision," "The Identity," "The Purpose," "The Battle" and "The Savior." Within these sections Zacapa explores 38 reflections by using scenes from the movies, Scripture passages and personal analysis. At the end of each section is what Zacapa calls "The Red Page," which lists a series of thought-provoking questions to help the reader further understand the point at hand.
Although Matrix Reflections does not attempt to interpret "The Matrix," it does explore the theology that Zacapa writes drives the storyline and encourages readers to think about how it applies to their own lives. He also purposefully does not cover all the references to Christianity so that the reader will be challenged to dig deeper into this story and the stories of the Bible.
A modern look at an ancient theology, Matrix Reflections helps readers convert this popular movies series into a learning tool to further their personal spirituality.
Zacapa is active in the Christian community in the San Francisco Bay area. The small group director for Western Hills Church in San Mateo, Calif., he also conducts evangelism and discipleship workshops. He earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism from San Jose State University and a bachelor’s in Bible and theology from San Jose Christian College. Zacapa is also a domestic violence counselor with Family and Children Services. He currently resides in Mountain View, Calif.
###
Christian Message in The Matrix
Matrix Trilogy Loaded with Allusions to Christianity
If we take a closer look at The Matrix Trilogy we can begin to find the threads that present the Christian message. Christian metaphors are prevalent throughout the films and provide the appropriate ingredients for the retelling of the Christian Bible story.
The first major emphasis in the films is on the question, "What is the Matrix?" The answer to that question provides Morpheus and his group the truth about their world, their purpose, their destiny and hope. They come to realize that they live in a computer-generated dream world constructed by the machines (Artificial Inteligence) to control them. Once unplugged they begin to see the world as it really is and discover that their purpose is to destroy the Matrix and unplug others from the computer-generated dream world.
We also have a question that gnaws at us as human beings. It is the question regarding our existence and purpose. "What is the meaning of life?" or "Why do I exist?" are a few ways the question is asked. Everyone has asked themselves this question at some point in their lifetime. And just like in the Matrix films the answer to that question also brings us closer to knowing the truth about our world, our purpose, our destiny and our hope.
What is the Matrix for us? It is a world where we can believe that we can be our own God and live a self-directed and self-centered life. Where there are only our rules and our wants. The Matrix is an illusion created to keep us under control: under the control of sin, selfishness and the popular ways of the world. It is a system that we are plugged into that leads us to a lifestyle of self-indulgence, instant gratification and pleasure. Where everything revolves around us and how it makes us feel. It is a place where truth and Jesus are not welcome.
When we come to find the answer to The Question we find that we live in a fallen world in which we are slaves to sin and selfishness and that God has a plan to rectify this problem. We find that we matter to someone. We find a Creator who has a plan to fix the problem of our world; to save and redeem our fallen world. In this plan we find promise and a sense of belonging. We begin to understand that the reason we exist is because God created us to love us and he wants to have a relationship with us.
The second major theme in the Matrix films is on making a decision to know and follow the truth. When Neo meets Morpheus he is given a choice to take a blue pill and believe whatever he wants to or take the red pill and find out the whole truth or reality. He has to make a decision that will define the rest of his life. He cannot go back to his old life once he takes the red pill. The same is true for us. To find the truth we must be willing to pay the cost. We cannot take a peek behind the curtain and then decide if we want to believe or not. We must be willing to die to our old life in order to exerience "the real." In the end we must, like Neo, choose between living a life in ignorance or in the truth.
A third theme found in the film is on discovering our identity. A very significant moment in the film was when Neo said, "My name is Neo." At this moment he corrects Agent Smith, who refers to him as Mr. Anderson, and identifies with his new name and new identity. The result of this identification is that he catapults into the air and breaks free of Agent Smith as he pummels him into the ceiling and then leaps unbelievably out of the way of the oncoming train that was supposed to lead to his death.
When we begin to believe the truth about ourselves in relation to Christ we begin to likewise discover all we are capable of accomplishing in Him. Neo found the truth and the truth set him free from the Matrix. It also allowed him to experience a new birth into a reality that would lead him to a transformation.
Jesus tells us, "I am the way, the truth, and the life" (John 14:6). If we search diligently for the meaning of our existence and God, we end up coming face to face with the truth, Jesus Christ. This truth sets us free from the bondage to sin and the world’s pull on us. It awakens us to a new life with Christ as our mentor and friend. As he enters our life we begin to find our identity in who we are in relation to him and his plan for us.
The message of purpose is also prevalent in the Matrix films and is the fourth major theme. The idea that there is a reason for why we are here and for everything that happens in life is very much a part of The Matrix Reloaded plot line. We also find that characters like the Keymaker, Morpheus, Trinity and Neo all have a strong sense of purpose in their lives. They know why they are on this earth and are willing to fulfill their purpose and if needed die for it.
The same occurs when we find the truth of Jesus Christ and identify with him. We begin to discover our purpose. As Christians we realize that God had a plan to save the world through his Son. We begin to realize that we are called to be a part of something bigger than we could have ever imagined, a cosmic plan of God to redeem the fallen world. Our purpose becomes clear. We must play a part in the cosmic plan of God. Just as Neo knew that he had to unplug as many as he could and bring an end to the Matrix dream world.We must in a similar way unplug people from the system of the world and bring them to the truth.
The fifth major theme in the films is the idea that there is a battle between the forces of evil and good. The sentient programs are the enemy in the Matrix films. We are told that they "can move in and out of any software still hardwired to their system." They are the gatekeepers, the ones in positions of power, whose aim is to suppress the truth at all costs.
Who are the gatekeepers for us? We must come to understand our enemy and all his schemes. Scripture tells us that our battle is not against flesh and blood. We are told that it is against the "the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms" (Ephesians 6:12).
According to scripture our battle is not with human beings but the powers of this dark world. There is another force at work, the spiritual forces of evil. And these forces find their allegiance with Satan. Satan is the enemy of God. He is a fallen angel from heaven who chose to rebel against the dream of God. He is the first to betray his ideals for his own selfish notions. He is the lord of selfishness. He is the ruler of this world; the master of illusions and the great deceiver. He will use all means possible (people in positions of authority, society, peers, etc.) to deceive us in order to exchange the truth for the lies he wants us to believe. His purpose is to thwart God’s greater purpose and to take us away from the message of truth.
As Christians we must prepare ourselves for the enemy and his attacks. We must carry with us the armor of God (Ephesians 6:13-18) and remember that the weapons that we have to fight with are enormously powerful and can destroy strongholds (2 Corinthians 10:4).
The sixth major theme in the Matrix Trilogy is the message of a Savior. In the midst of the world’s problems there comes the belief that there is someone who can help us. A leader who can liberate us from our many chains and set us free. A messiah who can rescue us and give us hope. For Zion, Neo is that person. In the end, he fulfills all the prophecies. He saves Zion and ends the war against the machines.
What Neo reminds us of is the message of the Gospel. That we need a savior and messiah to rescue us from the many chains that we have set up in our lives; to be set free to experience life more abundantly and truthfully. The Messiah brings us a message of hope and an invitation to seek the real answers in our life. Where it counts. We must remember that we cannot fulfill our life's purpose without the Messiah.
To delve deeper into these major themes in the Matrix films buy the book Matrix Reflections: Choosing between reality and illusion by Eddie Zacapa.
If we take a closer look at The Matrix Trilogy we can begin to find the threads that present the Christian message. Christian metaphors are prevalent throughout the films and provide the appropriate ingredients for the retelling of the Christian Bible story.
The first major emphasis in the films is on the question, "What is the Matrix?" The answer to that question provides Morpheus and his group the truth about their world, their purpose, their destiny and hope. They come to realize that they live in a computer-generated dream world constructed by the machines (Artificial Inteligence) to control them. Once unplugged they begin to see the world as it really is and discover that their purpose is to destroy the Matrix and unplug others from the computer-generated dream world.
We also have a question that gnaws at us as human beings. It is the question regarding our existence and purpose. "What is the meaning of life?" or "Why do I exist?" are a few ways the question is asked. Everyone has asked themselves this question at some point in their lifetime. And just like in the Matrix films the answer to that question also brings us closer to knowing the truth about our world, our purpose, our destiny and our hope.
What is the Matrix for us? It is a world where we can believe that we can be our own God and live a self-directed and self-centered life. Where there are only our rules and our wants. The Matrix is an illusion created to keep us under control: under the control of sin, selfishness and the popular ways of the world. It is a system that we are plugged into that leads us to a lifestyle of self-indulgence, instant gratification and pleasure. Where everything revolves around us and how it makes us feel. It is a place where truth and Jesus are not welcome.
When we come to find the answer to The Question we find that we live in a fallen world in which we are slaves to sin and selfishness and that God has a plan to rectify this problem. We find that we matter to someone. We find a Creator who has a plan to fix the problem of our world; to save and redeem our fallen world. In this plan we find promise and a sense of belonging. We begin to understand that the reason we exist is because God created us to love us and he wants to have a relationship with us.
The second major theme in the Matrix films is on making a decision to know and follow the truth. When Neo meets Morpheus he is given a choice to take a blue pill and believe whatever he wants to or take the red pill and find out the whole truth or reality. He has to make a decision that will define the rest of his life. He cannot go back to his old life once he takes the red pill. The same is true for us. To find the truth we must be willing to pay the cost. We cannot take a peek behind the curtain and then decide if we want to believe or not. We must be willing to die to our old life in order to exerience "the real." In the end we must, like Neo, choose between living a life in ignorance or in the truth.
A third theme found in the film is on discovering our identity. A very significant moment in the film was when Neo said, "My name is Neo." At this moment he corrects Agent Smith, who refers to him as Mr. Anderson, and identifies with his new name and new identity. The result of this identification is that he catapults into the air and breaks free of Agent Smith as he pummels him into the ceiling and then leaps unbelievably out of the way of the oncoming train that was supposed to lead to his death.
When we begin to believe the truth about ourselves in relation to Christ we begin to likewise discover all we are capable of accomplishing in Him. Neo found the truth and the truth set him free from the Matrix. It also allowed him to experience a new birth into a reality that would lead him to a transformation.
Jesus tells us, "I am the way, the truth, and the life" (John 14:6). If we search diligently for the meaning of our existence and God, we end up coming face to face with the truth, Jesus Christ. This truth sets us free from the bondage to sin and the world’s pull on us. It awakens us to a new life with Christ as our mentor and friend. As he enters our life we begin to find our identity in who we are in relation to him and his plan for us.
The message of purpose is also prevalent in the Matrix films and is the fourth major theme. The idea that there is a reason for why we are here and for everything that happens in life is very much a part of The Matrix Reloaded plot line. We also find that characters like the Keymaker, Morpheus, Trinity and Neo all have a strong sense of purpose in their lives. They know why they are on this earth and are willing to fulfill their purpose and if needed die for it.
The same occurs when we find the truth of Jesus Christ and identify with him. We begin to discover our purpose. As Christians we realize that God had a plan to save the world through his Son. We begin to realize that we are called to be a part of something bigger than we could have ever imagined, a cosmic plan of God to redeem the fallen world. Our purpose becomes clear. We must play a part in the cosmic plan of God. Just as Neo knew that he had to unplug as many as he could and bring an end to the Matrix dream world.We must in a similar way unplug people from the system of the world and bring them to the truth.
The fifth major theme in the films is the idea that there is a battle between the forces of evil and good. The sentient programs are the enemy in the Matrix films. We are told that they "can move in and out of any software still hardwired to their system." They are the gatekeepers, the ones in positions of power, whose aim is to suppress the truth at all costs.
Who are the gatekeepers for us? We must come to understand our enemy and all his schemes. Scripture tells us that our battle is not against flesh and blood. We are told that it is against the "the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms" (Ephesians 6:12).
According to scripture our battle is not with human beings but the powers of this dark world. There is another force at work, the spiritual forces of evil. And these forces find their allegiance with Satan. Satan is the enemy of God. He is a fallen angel from heaven who chose to rebel against the dream of God. He is the first to betray his ideals for his own selfish notions. He is the lord of selfishness. He is the ruler of this world; the master of illusions and the great deceiver. He will use all means possible (people in positions of authority, society, peers, etc.) to deceive us in order to exchange the truth for the lies he wants us to believe. His purpose is to thwart God’s greater purpose and to take us away from the message of truth.
As Christians we must prepare ourselves for the enemy and his attacks. We must carry with us the armor of God (Ephesians 6:13-18) and remember that the weapons that we have to fight with are enormously powerful and can destroy strongholds (2 Corinthians 10:4).
The sixth major theme in the Matrix Trilogy is the message of a Savior. In the midst of the world’s problems there comes the belief that there is someone who can help us. A leader who can liberate us from our many chains and set us free. A messiah who can rescue us and give us hope. For Zion, Neo is that person. In the end, he fulfills all the prophecies. He saves Zion and ends the war against the machines.
What Neo reminds us of is the message of the Gospel. That we need a savior and messiah to rescue us from the many chains that we have set up in our lives; to be set free to experience life more abundantly and truthfully. The Messiah brings us a message of hope and an invitation to seek the real answers in our life. Where it counts. We must remember that we cannot fulfill our life's purpose without the Messiah.
To delve deeper into these major themes in the Matrix films buy the book Matrix Reflections: Choosing between reality and illusion by Eddie Zacapa.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is Matrix Reflections About?
The book provides a creative approach to addressing the illusions we all face in our lives. It challenges us to choose between reality and illusion. As is in the Matrix films, there is a Great Illusion or "The Matrix" that is also addressed and exposed in the book. And like in the films the answer to "the Question" brings answers that pertain to our world, the way we percieve it and our purpose in it.
Q: Are the Matrix films Christian films?
No. The Matrix films are meant to make viewers think about the Big Questions of life and explore philosophy, spirituality and science. They are films that are influenced by many different religions such as Buddhism, Hinduism, and Christianity and many different philosophers. The Wachowski brothers in an interview stated that the films were meant to stir up conversation about all of the above topics in order to get closer to the answer to the Big Questions of life. Moreover, the films can be used as a tool to present the Christian worldview.
Q: Will the book look deeper into the film?
Yes. The book will help in understanding the films better. There are a lot of Christian influences that will be explained. For instance, it is interesting that Neo's original name, Thomas Anderson, has a deeper meaning. Thomas was the name of one of the disciples who is known as "Doubting Thomas" and Anderson when translated means "Son of Man."
Q: What is "the Question" for us?
Most people have asked themselves, "Why do I exist?," or "What is the purpose of my life?"
In the Matrix films, "the Question" is... "What is the Matrix?" In the answer to that question the characters find out the truth about their world, their purpose, their destiny, and hope. The same is true when we find the answer to the question,"Why do I exist?"
Q: Can the book be used as a tool for Evangelism?
Yes. The book is a great tool to share the gospel. It is written in a way that encourages the reader to seek and discover the truth and ask questions. It is subtle in its approach and not preachy. The questions at the end of each section are useful for evangelism and encouraging spiritual discussion.
Q: How is the Matrix Reflections different from other books on the film?
Matrix Reflections is the only book that is presented as a devotional or set of 38 reflections/meditations. This format encourages the reader to explore and reflect on the truth on their own; allowing for self discovery. The book also creatively presents the gospel (without seeming preachy).
The book provides a creative approach to addressing the illusions we all face in our lives. It challenges us to choose between reality and illusion. As is in the Matrix films, there is a Great Illusion or "The Matrix" that is also addressed and exposed in the book. And like in the films the answer to "the Question" brings answers that pertain to our world, the way we percieve it and our purpose in it.
Q: Are the Matrix films Christian films?
No. The Matrix films are meant to make viewers think about the Big Questions of life and explore philosophy, spirituality and science. They are films that are influenced by many different religions such as Buddhism, Hinduism, and Christianity and many different philosophers. The Wachowski brothers in an interview stated that the films were meant to stir up conversation about all of the above topics in order to get closer to the answer to the Big Questions of life. Moreover, the films can be used as a tool to present the Christian worldview.
Q: Will the book look deeper into the film?
Yes. The book will help in understanding the films better. There are a lot of Christian influences that will be explained. For instance, it is interesting that Neo's original name, Thomas Anderson, has a deeper meaning. Thomas was the name of one of the disciples who is known as "Doubting Thomas" and Anderson when translated means "Son of Man."
Q: What is "the Question" for us?
Most people have asked themselves, "Why do I exist?," or "What is the purpose of my life?"
In the Matrix films, "the Question" is... "What is the Matrix?" In the answer to that question the characters find out the truth about their world, their purpose, their destiny, and hope. The same is true when we find the answer to the question,"Why do I exist?"
Q: Can the book be used as a tool for Evangelism?
Yes. The book is a great tool to share the gospel. It is written in a way that encourages the reader to seek and discover the truth and ask questions. It is subtle in its approach and not preachy. The questions at the end of each section are useful for evangelism and encouraging spiritual discussion.
Q: How is the Matrix Reflections different from other books on the film?
Matrix Reflections is the only book that is presented as a devotional or set of 38 reflections/meditations. This format encourages the reader to explore and reflect on the truth on their own; allowing for self discovery. The book also creatively presents the gospel (without seeming preachy).
Buy the book
buy the BOOK
The book Matrix Reflections is available to order at most bookstores including Borders, Barnes and Noble and Berean bookstores. The book is also available online at the below stores.
e-book:
You can purchase a copy of Matrix Reflections: Choosing between reality and illusion e-book from authorhouse.com for $3.95.
Paperback:
The paperback version of the book Matrix Reflections: Choosing between reality and illusion is now available to purchase from authorhouse.com, amazon.com, and barnesandnoble.com.
The book Matrix Reflections is available to order at most bookstores including Borders, Barnes and Noble and Berean bookstores. The book is also available online at the below stores.
e-book:
You can purchase a copy of Matrix Reflections: Choosing between reality and illusion e-book from authorhouse.com for $3.95.
Paperback:
The paperback version of the book Matrix Reflections: Choosing between reality and illusion is now available to purchase from authorhouse.com, amazon.com, and barnesandnoble.com.
Reviews
MATRIX REFLECTIONS BOOK REVIEWS
"Reflections is powerful. I was sucked in and taken back to the theater seat where the epic techno storyline, the deep themes and characters caught my generation off guard. Eddie channels the power in their story into a journey of transformation that reflects classic Christian spirituality."
Keoke King, Metro Director, Campus Crusade for Christ
"Movies have become the language of our day and Eddie has carefully translated the truths of Jesus in our common vernacular...this book is for anyone who has the heart to bring Jesus in their world, but lacks the translator to do so."
Joe Schimmels, Lead Pastor, Blue Sky Church, Loveland, CO
"This book will cause a person to examine their perspective and understanding of how the world works. It makes you think and challenges beliefs and traditions by clearly presenting the truth in a creative way. I would recommend this book to anyone who is seeking to understand how to make sense out of life."
Dave Medders, Director, The Foundation For Christian Discipleship and Campus Ventures
"It has a definite youth feel and is totally relevant! It will challenge students to think deeper."
Charlton Scullard, Pastor of Student Ministries, Twin Oaks Church, San Jose, CA
"I think Matrix Reflections is excellent. I think it will be great for small groups (especially youth, college and young adults who are familiar with the movie) to go through. I really like how, as a believer, it gave me new perspectives on looking at the reality (truth) of life … how living life without Christ is like living in the matrix. We have been unplugged and our job is to be used by God to unplug others from the matrix.
Kyle Hiroshima, Administrative Pastor, Western Hills Church, San Mateo, CA
"Reflections is powerful. I was sucked in and taken back to the theater seat where the epic techno storyline, the deep themes and characters caught my generation off guard. Eddie channels the power in their story into a journey of transformation that reflects classic Christian spirituality."
Keoke King, Metro Director, Campus Crusade for Christ
"Movies have become the language of our day and Eddie has carefully translated the truths of Jesus in our common vernacular...this book is for anyone who has the heart to bring Jesus in their world, but lacks the translator to do so."
Joe Schimmels, Lead Pastor, Blue Sky Church, Loveland, CO
"This book will cause a person to examine their perspective and understanding of how the world works. It makes you think and challenges beliefs and traditions by clearly presenting the truth in a creative way. I would recommend this book to anyone who is seeking to understand how to make sense out of life."
Dave Medders, Director, The Foundation For Christian Discipleship and Campus Ventures
"It has a definite youth feel and is totally relevant! It will challenge students to think deeper."
Charlton Scullard, Pastor of Student Ministries, Twin Oaks Church, San Jose, CA
"I think Matrix Reflections is excellent. I think it will be great for small groups (especially youth, college and young adults who are familiar with the movie) to go through. I really like how, as a believer, it gave me new perspectives on looking at the reality (truth) of life … how living life without Christ is like living in the matrix. We have been unplugged and our job is to be used by God to unplug others from the matrix.
Kyle Hiroshima, Administrative Pastor, Western Hills Church, San Mateo, CA
Introduction
The Matrix films touched millions of viewers not just because they had great state-of-the-art special effects, but also because the films breathed of a great story that made a statement about life, spirituality and our postmodern culture. This book taps into that story and explores these themes deeper.
Larry Wachowski, one of the directors of the Matrix Trilogy, said of the purpose behind the Matrix films, "We are interested in mythology, theology, and to a lesser extent, higher-level mathematics… All are ways human beings try to answer bigger questions, as well as the Big Question. If you’re going to do epic stories, you should concern yourself with those issues … We wanted to make people think, engage their minds a bit." 2
Matrix Reflections honors the purpose behind the Matrix films as it engages us, challenges us and bring us closer to the answers to the intrigue of the films and to the Big Question. It takes us to a place where we can reflect on spirituality, faith and the deeper meaning of life. It is a book designed to take us on a journey to encounter the truth in our lives. It allows us to choose for ourselves whether we want to take the blue pill or the red pill. It's totally up to the reader how deep down the rabbit hole he or she wants to go.
Wachowski said that mythology, theology, and higher-level mathematics are all "ways human beings try to answer the bigger questions." In this book the focus will be on Christian theology. There are many Christian allusions in the film that will be explored and discussed. Christian theology played a big part in the making of the Matrix films. Certainly it was not the only ingredient in making the film, but surely it was highly influential in the success of the film and is worthy of further examination.
The first film in the series, "The Matrix," grossed over $170 million in the United States alone and over $460 million worldwide.
There is no doubt that the films have generated a lot of philosophical and spiritual interest—as well as financial—from a postmodern culture that is clearly intrigued with the film. There are some major themes that many of us identify with. These themes include the QUESTION, the DECISION, the IDENTITY, the PURPOSE, the BATTLE, and the SAVIOR. These predominant themes in the films will be explored through a number of meditations.
It should be made clear that this book’s objective is not to interpret the directors’ intentions behind the Matrix films. It is to explore the theology behind the film and prompt us to think about how it applies to us as individuals. For this reason, the book has been laid out in a format that is conducive to contemplation and reflection. Every portion or part of the films that has to do with Christian theology will not be examined or studied. The focus is only on the parts that are most relevant to the purpose of this book.
The reflections (38 spiritual imperatives in all) can be read in any sequence, though it is recommend the first reading to be done in sequential order. Thereafter, the table of contents can help determine which pages may be most beneficial for you. The idea is to not read too many reflections at one time but to contemplate on the readings.
Another way this book can be read is with the study questions found at the end of each section. These can help the reader go deeper and reflect more on the readings. This page is designated as the red page because it challenges the reader to make a decision for truth. If you do not want to read them you can just skip past them.
The third way this book can be used is as a tool for a group discussion or Bible study. It can serve as a tool to explore the theological issues in the film and/or serve as a catalyst for the presentation of the Gospel. Feel free to use this in a small group setting or Sunday school class. You may want to have the participant(s) read one section a week and then go over the questions together in the group.
Enjoy, and prosper.
Larry Wachowski, one of the directors of the Matrix Trilogy, said of the purpose behind the Matrix films, "We are interested in mythology, theology, and to a lesser extent, higher-level mathematics… All are ways human beings try to answer bigger questions, as well as the Big Question. If you’re going to do epic stories, you should concern yourself with those issues … We wanted to make people think, engage their minds a bit." 2
Matrix Reflections honors the purpose behind the Matrix films as it engages us, challenges us and bring us closer to the answers to the intrigue of the films and to the Big Question. It takes us to a place where we can reflect on spirituality, faith and the deeper meaning of life. It is a book designed to take us on a journey to encounter the truth in our lives. It allows us to choose for ourselves whether we want to take the blue pill or the red pill. It's totally up to the reader how deep down the rabbit hole he or she wants to go.
Wachowski said that mythology, theology, and higher-level mathematics are all "ways human beings try to answer the bigger questions." In this book the focus will be on Christian theology. There are many Christian allusions in the film that will be explored and discussed. Christian theology played a big part in the making of the Matrix films. Certainly it was not the only ingredient in making the film, but surely it was highly influential in the success of the film and is worthy of further examination.
The first film in the series, "The Matrix," grossed over $170 million in the United States alone and over $460 million worldwide.
There is no doubt that the films have generated a lot of philosophical and spiritual interest—as well as financial—from a postmodern culture that is clearly intrigued with the film. There are some major themes that many of us identify with. These themes include the QUESTION, the DECISION, the IDENTITY, the PURPOSE, the BATTLE, and the SAVIOR. These predominant themes in the films will be explored through a number of meditations.
It should be made clear that this book’s objective is not to interpret the directors’ intentions behind the Matrix films. It is to explore the theology behind the film and prompt us to think about how it applies to us as individuals. For this reason, the book has been laid out in a format that is conducive to contemplation and reflection. Every portion or part of the films that has to do with Christian theology will not be examined or studied. The focus is only on the parts that are most relevant to the purpose of this book.
The reflections (38 spiritual imperatives in all) can be read in any sequence, though it is recommend the first reading to be done in sequential order. Thereafter, the table of contents can help determine which pages may be most beneficial for you. The idea is to not read too many reflections at one time but to contemplate on the readings.
Another way this book can be read is with the study questions found at the end of each section. These can help the reader go deeper and reflect more on the readings. This page is designated as the red page because it challenges the reader to make a decision for truth. If you do not want to read them you can just skip past them.
The third way this book can be used is as a tool for a group discussion or Bible study. It can serve as a tool to explore the theological issues in the film and/or serve as a catalyst for the presentation of the Gospel. Feel free to use this in a small group setting or Sunday school class. You may want to have the participant(s) read one section a week and then go over the questions together in the group.
Enjoy, and prosper.
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