The California pastor's film explores the Christmas story through Old Testament prophecy and New Testament fulfillment.
What looks to be another quality Christian film for Christmas comes from a somewhat unexpected source: Dr. David Jeremiah's Turning Point Ministries. The San Diego-area pastor, well-known from radio and television broadcasts of his sermons, is taking a stab at portraying - and explaining - the wonderous birth of the Savior in the docudrama Why the Nativity?
Written and directed by Turning Point's Chief Creative Officer Paul Joiner, the film features more than 100 cast members acting out "the most pivotal moment in human history - the birth of Jesus Christ," as a synopsis rightly puts it. Young actors Rose Anaya and Logan Polson star as Mary and Joseph in this feature-length production that includes scenes like the couple's journey to Bethlehem, the Magi following the star, and the birth of Christ.
Based on a book by Jeremiah entitled Why the Nativity? 25 Compelling Reasons We Celebrate the Birth of Jesus, the film endeavors to answer the most thought-provoking questions around the miracle event, like why a virgin birth, why in such humble circumstances, and why both poor shepherds and wealthy wise men came to worship the babe? In a statement on the film's website, the octogenarian pastor says he is looking forward to its release.
"I'm excited for this opportunity to bring the true story of Christmas to the world's stage in an unprecedented and unparalleled fashion."
Judging by the trailer, production values of the film - particularly the sets and wardrobe - seem to be high-level, and the filming locations in rural San Diego County look quite believable as a Holy-Land stand in. Why the Nativity? will release November 24th, on Pastor Jeremiah's website, where you can stream it for free. Until then, the aforementioned trailer will give you a better sense of what to expect.