Have you ever watched a movie, and recognize moments that are references to other films?  Maybe it’s a line of dialogue, or the way the shot is composed, or a particular musical theme.  Of all the Hollywood directors, Quentin Tarantino is the master at remixing films into a completely new experience.

Everything is a Remix Part 2 from Kirby Ferguson on Vimeo.

Now, many of us have watched movies like the Coens’ True Grit, or Star Wars, or Kill Bill, and enjoyed them on the immediate surface level as a “good movie”.  But, the more familiar we are with the referenced films and themes they explore, the deeper our appreciation of the director’s vision and intent.  A serious study of the remixed film can give us insight that we might not have gained just passively watching and eating popcorn.

And this is where the Bible is like a Tarantino film.  As you read through the letters of Peter or the gospel of Matthew, much can be gained and understood from a surface reading.  However, what many people don’t realize is how rich these writings are with references, allusions, and quotations from Old Testament passages that give the new work a foundational depth within the historical mission of God.

Jesus’ use of “Son of Man” calls us back to Daniel 7.  Peter says “by his wounds we are healed” which sends us back to five chapters worth of insight in Isaiah.  Jesus quotes the first and last lines from Psalm 22 while hanging on the cross.  Paul fills his letter to the Roman church with references to creation, exodus, and new creation.  Jesus explains that his mission is all about jubilee, found in Leviticus.

Bible study is important, not just so we can throw around references like a high-minded film student.  No, it’s importance lies in recognizing the historic dimensions of our faith and seeing how comprehensive and complex the working of God in our world truly is.  We marvel at the fact that we, ourselves, have been caught up in the intricate workings of God so that his mission to know us and be known by us can become reality.  And in knowing it, we find our place within the story.