Resources > Ask Jeff Frequently Asked Questions About The DaVinci Code Posted by CCC CyberMinistries on Apr 28, 2006, 17:38

Frequently Asked Questions About
'The Da Vinci Code'

1. I’ve seen the book in stores, and heard lots of people talking about it, but what is this "Da Vinci" thing all about?

   Since its release in 2003, The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown has sold 40 million copies, and a motion picture version will hit theaters May 19.  The plot deals with surprising discoveries of the “true” facts about Jesus and Christian history. The book asserts that Jesus was not the divine Son of God, but a mere man whose true mission and identity have been distorted.

   Though largely suppressed throughout history, the real story (according to Dan Brown’s book) of Jesus was that he and Mary Magdalene were married; she bore His children; Jesus desired that she be the leader of the church; their descendants survive to this day; the teachings of Christ were hijacked and revised by power-hungry men like Peter; millions throughout history have been misinformed about what Christianity truly is; and finally, these secrets have been known by a select few (such as Leonardo DaVinci, who attempted to present these facts to the world through “clues” incorporated into his paintings).

2. As a Christian, why should I care about a book or movie that is — after all — just fiction?

   Some have questioned why Christians are voicing objections to what is essentially a fictional story. The concern raised by numerous clergy and Christian scholars stems from the author’s claim — on the very first page — that The Da Vinci Code is based on “fact.” Though the book is a novel, its content demeans and distorts the core teachings of the Christian faith. For Christians, if the truth about our Savior isn’t worth defending, what is?

3. This book hasn’t really shaken my faith; but I wonder, how solid is the evidence for the Bible and Christianity?

   Answer: The evidence in support of Christianity is overwhelming, and we believe is more than sufficient to satisfy any honest inquirer. In the New Testament, 2 Peter 1:16 (NKJV) asserts that Christianity is not based on "fables." Jesus Christ’s coming was predicted in the ancient Jewish Scriptures, and His life and teachings are accurately recorded in the New Testament. The evidence confirming Jesus’ miraculous deeds, His crucifixion at Passover and subsequent physical resurrection have persuaded countless seekers, meticulous thinkers and rigorous historians. Apologists (those who rationally defend the Christian worldview) have amassed much historical data and credible research from a number of disciplines pointing to the conclusion that, yes, Christianity indeed rests on solid historical foundations. 

4. A friend of mine who has read The Da Vinci Code asked, "Why would it matter if Jesus had been married?" Since our faith is the most important thing, would it really have mattered?

   Answer: It is important to remember that our views about Jesus should not be in conflict with what the Bible clearly teaches about Him.  Any one is free to believe anything, but we must ask, “What is your authority? What basis do you have for your conclusion?”

   Dan Brown has written that Jesus was married and the Bible has been corrupted. But scholars from numerous Christian backgrounds have responded by pointing out, “The evidence shows otherwise.” In the Bible (a book shown to be trustworthy by many compelling lines of evidence), we find that Jesus’ mission was not procreation, but salvation. Establishment of marriage, family and an earthly home were not Jesus’ purposes.

   Galatians 4:4 (NIV) tells us why Jesus was born:  "But when the time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under law." Why should we believe an assumption about Jesus that is non-biblical and without any evidence? In reality, Jesus didn’t need Mary Magdalene, because He already has a bride. The New Testament book of Romans (chapter 7) states that believers are espoused, engaged to be "married" to Jesus. Saved, forgiven, redeemed believers from all of history make up Jesus’ perfect "bride," not a fallen human. As far “faith” being the most important thing — remember that one's beliefs should be shaped in light of God’s revelation, not man’s speculation.  

5. How should I effectively respond to The Da Vinci Code?

   Answer: In a variety of ways. To begin with...for goodness sakes don't do what some Christians are doing and act like the book and movie are the most awful things to show up in culture! To be honest they are both good and exciting. You have to realize that Jesus and the Bible are going to be just fine. Nothing is going to come along that is going to discredit the "truth" so from that stand point Christians should relax. What I am hoping is that people who call themselves followers of Christ will take the opportunity and with some degree of integrity respond and help provide some answers to people who find themselves spiritually searching as a result of the book and film. That is what the resources on the website are about...giving you the tools to respond.