If I had “Nine Lives” like a cat, one of those lives would be as a documentary filmmaker. Note: That was a joke. I’m aware that reincarnation – even for cats – is not in the Bible. Can’t be too careful these days. People misunderstand things very easily.
I love watching historical documentaries. I frankly wish there were more serious, high-quality documentaries available. And I would love to make some myself. Unfortunately, I don’t have the time or resources to pursue that at this time. Making documentaries isn’t exactly a part-time, “side hustle” kind of thing.
However, on occasion, I’ve taken my love for creating content into my role as pastor. As most of you know, I serve as the pastor of Olney Baptist Church. As such, I have the privilege of being a part of a wonderful church family. And I also have the opportunity to study and to craft sermons and lessons — something I enjoy.
This week, I did something “cool.” Well, hopefully you’ll think it’s cool.
I took my mid-week Bible lesson on Acts 19 and wrote it out word-for-word — like a script. And then I looked up image and video assets online that matched up (at least somewhat) with my script. I even added crowd sound affects and a touch of music at the beginning and end.
The result was a documentary. Well, sort of.
Granted, it’s a very low-budget documentary. And not exactly ready for film or TV distribution, but it’s a documentary nonetheless. And I had fun making it.
I personally find Paul’s missionary journeys incredibly interesting, including his time in Ephesus. You can see the affection he had for the believers in Ephesus both in the epistle he wrote them as well as his emotional farewell to the Ephesian elders recorded in Acts 20.
The story of the riot in Ephesus is particularly noteworthy. It’s a case study in mob psychology and helps explain the motives behind many of those who persecuted Christians in the first century (and beyond).
I hope you will find the video interesting. And I welcome any comments or suggestions you may have.
God bless you.
