Jesus Christ Superstar Worksheet

Is the Jesus of this movie one of high Christology (very divine and God-like) or one of low Christology (very human) or both? Explain and back up your answer with evidence.

This Jesus is one of low Christology. He performs no miracles in the movie, even though they were hinted at. He seems to have somewhat of a relationship with Mary Magdalen. He exhibits anger at Judas over Mary Magdalen and also at the people selling things in the Temple. He is overwhelmed by the people who want to be healed in the desert. He doubts himself almost constantly even saying there is no way he'll be remembered. The Resurrection is also left out of the movie. All this leads me to believe that in this movie Jesus is portrayed as more human than divine.

List three major beliefs of Jesus you see clearly in this movie. What are the major beliefs you see clearly Jesus teaching and living? List each and back up each with evidence from what Jesus says and does from the movie.

A. Jesus believes in justice. He discourages fighting at the beginning and in the Garden of Gethsemane. He scolds the disciples and Judas for looking down upon Mary Magdalen. He tells Caiaphas not to bother the crowd and try to quiet them on Palm Sunday. He tells Simon the Zealot Jesus is not here to fight. He stops the defiling of the Temple. He asks for the forgiveness of his killers. Jesus pushes for justice in all these instances.
B. Jesus believes God has a plan for us all. At the beginning he says, "IF you knew the path we're riding, you'd understand it less than I." He tells the disciples to cherish him while he's there; he knows his path is to die. He says "My time is almost through" knowing that his path is soon to end. He knows Peter will deny him and Judas will betray him. He knows his path is set as he prays in the Garden of Gethsemane. Jesus knows his path and others, and knows what must happen.
C. Jesus believes in being practical. He knows none of the disciples have the right to criticize Mary Magdalen in light of their own sins. He knows there are too many poor to save them all. He knows Caiaphas can't stop the praises of Jesus. He knows people think he's a military leader as he tells Simon the Zealot the truth. He knows he can't heal everyone. He knows he himself must die. Jesus is very practical throughout the entire movie.