The 2024 Olympic Games in Paris have begun, bringing together nations in a celebration of sport and unity. However, the opening ceremony has sparked significant controversy and outrage among Christians worldwide. A reenactment of the Last Supper, featuring drag queens and scantily clad performers, has been viewed by many as a blasphemous and disrespectful parody of a sacred Christian moment.

The Controversial Performance

During the opening ceremony, performers recreated Leonardo da Vinci’s famous painting, “The Last Supper.” Instead of the traditional depiction of Jesus Christ and His disciples, the scene was altered to include drag queens and a woman with a plunging neckline and halo-like headdress, symbolizing Jesus. Additionally, a man painted in sparkling blue emerged from a serving tray, adding to the spectacle. This portrayal has been condemned by many as a blatant mockery of Christian beliefs​.

This is not the first time Christianity has been mocked in public displays. For instance, during Brazil’s Carnival, a float depicted Jesus as a member of the LGBTQ+ community, causing similar outrage. These instances highlight a growing trend of disrespect toward religious symbols and figures, provoking strong reactions from believers​.

During various Brazilian Carnival events, there have been controversial representations of Jesus and Christian symbols. These depictions often mix sacred imagery with secular or irreverent themes, leading to public outcry from the Christian community.

Across different countries, there have been numerous instances where art, media, and entertainment have mocked or blasphemed Christianity. These include films, television shows, and art exhibitions that depict Jesus or Christian beliefs in a disrespectful manner.

How Should Christians Respond?

In light of such provocations, it is crucial for Christians to remember how Jesus would have reacted. The Bible teaches us to respond with love and peace, even in the face of disrespect. Here are some verses to guide our response:

Reacting with Peace and Love

Matthew 5:44 “But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.”

Jesus teaches us to respond to opposition with love and prayer. Instead of reacting with anger or hatred, let us pray for those who participated in and supported this portrayal, that they may come to understand the true significance of the Last Supper.

Overcoming Evil with Good

Romans 12:21 “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”

We are called to overcome evil with good. In the face of blasphemy and mockery, let us demonstrate the goodness of Christ through our actions and words.

Using Spiritual Weapons

Ephesians 6:12-13 “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.” Our battle is not against individuals but against spiritual forces.

We must arm ourselves with the full armor of God, which includes truth, righteousness, faith, salvation, and the Word of God.

1 Peter 3:9 – “Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. On the contrary, repay evil with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.”

These scriptures remind us that our battle is not against flesh and blood but against spiritual forces of evil (Ephesians 6:12). We are called to use God’s weapons – truth, righteousness, faith, salvation, the Word of God, and prayer (Ephesians 6:13-18).

Recognizing the Signs of the Times

Understanding the Last Days

2 Timothy 3:1-5 “But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God—having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with such people.”

The mockery of sacred Christian symbols is a sign of the times we live in. As we see these events unfold, it should remind us to draw closer to God and remain steadfast in our faith.

Encouraging Each Other

Hebrews 10:24-25 “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.”

In these challenging times, it’s essential for us to support and encourage one another, strengthening our community of faith.

Drawing Closer to God

These events also serve as a reminder of the times we live in. As we witness increasing mockery and blasphemy, we must draw closer to God, seeking His guidance and strength. The Bible urges us to meditate on His Word day and night (Joshua 1:8), to be vigilant in prayer (Colossians 4:2), and to stay steadfast in our faith.

A Message of Love

Ultimately, love is our greatest weapon. As we navigate these challenging times, let us embody the love of Christ, showing kindness and forgiveness even to those who mock our faith. Love always triumphs over evil (1 Corinthians 13:13).

As Christians, we are called to respond to blasphemy and mockery with love, peace, and prayer. The events at the 2024 Paris Olympics and other similar instances remind us of the spiritual battle we face and the importance of standing firm in our faith. Let us use this opportunity to draw closer to God, encourage one another, and demonstrate the love of Christ to the world. By doing so, we honor our faith and become beacons of God’s love in a world that desperately needs it.

Call to Action

Let’s share this message of love and peace with our brothers and sisters in Christ. Comment below with your thoughts and prayers, and let’s support each other as we navigate these difficult times together. Stay strong in your faith and remember that love always has victory over evil.

With Love and Faith,

JIL