Faith in Film, Narnia vs. Lord of the Rings

I have written about this comparison before, but tonight we will take an in-depth look at the themes featured in "The Chronicles of Narnia" and "The Lord of the Rings."

Both of these books/film series are based on works by famous Christian authors, C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien, respectively. That has made them wildly popular in the Christian community. But both have very different approaches to the material and different goals for what they hope to accomplish with their stories.

Lewis is more recognized for his non-fiction Christian writings, such as "Mere Christianity." With "The Chronicles of Narnia," he creates a wonderful fictional world that serves as an allegory for his personal beliefs. In fact, it's fairly clear that "The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe" is a direct allegory for Jesus Christ. That is a point that Tolkien, who was Lewis' friend and contemporary objected to. Tolkien criticized Lewis' use of religious references in his stories, which were often overtly allegorical.

Tolkien, on the other hand, was more interested in creating a richly rewarding story. He is known for his many stories developed around Middle Earth, a world that he created. Many Christians have tried to see the allegorical references in his work, particularly in "The Lord of the Rings" series.

One famous theory is that the story is an allegory for World War II with Sauron playing the role of Adolf Hitler. Tolkien dismissed this idea, saying he prized applicability to allegory. This probably means none of his work was meant to be allegorical, but there are some other theories. Some feel it represents his disdain for industrialization. I, personally, think you can see elements of the end times.

Another common position taken by Christians is that the story offers a strong presentation of the Gospel, including having a central "Christ Figure." Often this is seen as Gandalf. I have a problem with that because, while there are certain character elements that back up that assertion, it doesn't hold up. Gandalf talks about being unable to overcome the temptation of the ring and being able to overcome evil on his own, which clearly wouldn't be true of a Christ figure. I actually agree with a theory offered by pastor Israel Gonzales that Gandalf is closer to an Elijah figure. He is more like a prophet.

But what you can say is that there are plenty of Christian principles in "The Lord of the Rings." Tolkien admitted that much, saying the work was reflective of his beliefs. "The Lord of the Rings is, of course, fundamentally a religious and Catholic work; unconsciously so at first, but consciously in the revision. That is why I have not put in, or have cut out, practically all references to anything like 'religion' to cults or practices in the imaginary world. For the religious element is absorbed into the story and the symbolism."

I think we see that in the ring of power, which represents the temptation and lust for power that can affect us all. A central theme in the work is dealing with temptation in all its forms. That is a theme shared by "The Chronicles of Narnia." This is a big part of our faith.

1 Corinthians 10:13 says, "No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it."

This leads me to the other big theme I take away from "The Lord of the Rings," and that is the importance of bearing with one another in all times. This is best exemplified by the relationship with Sam and Frodo. They are there for each other, lift each other up, and help each other over come the tough times of temptation.

An essay I read on the "Lord of the Rings" uplifts the importance of Sam in telling Frodo's story. "Frodo is on a mission to bring back redemption for Middle-Earth, and he succeeds in his quest in great part due to the help afforded by Sam. Could there indeed have been a Frodo without a Sam is a question that cannot be easily answered."

God allows roadblocks and temptations to cross our paths, but he also provides us a way to overcome those impediments. Sometimes it's the people he's put in our lives that become our way out. I don't mean that those people provide our salvation, on Jesus Christ alone can do that, but rather they help us carry our burden and lighten our loads. That is why we are instructed throughout the Bible to meet together and to "build each other up."

1 Thessalonians 5:10-11 says, "He died for us so that, whether we are awake or asleep, we may live together with him. Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing."

That is why it is important for all believers to be part of a fellowship. It's so we can help bear one another's burdens in love and can grow through the sharing of faith. As it says in Proverbs 27:17, "As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another."