Recently, a documentary about the struggles of several Christian churches jumped to the number one spot on iTunes’ documentaries categories. The documentary follows three churches that defied the government orders and regulations during the pandemic.
Churches nationwide had their basic operations wholly interrupted during the pandemic due to the social distancing rules issued by governmental bodies. While some churches caved to the government’s demands and adapted to online streaming or socially distanced services, others sought to preserve the authentic congregational experience of worshipping God in person.
The documentary has exploded in popularity, evidently resonating with the conservative Christian community. The film follows the experiences of Grace Community Church in Los Angeles, Fairview Baptist Church, and GraceLife church. The latter two churches are both based in Canada. The obvious correlation between these churches is their location in hyper-liberal areas, which faced particularly restrictive lockdown orders.
According to a synopsis of the film, several pastors who rejected the government restrictions faced possible imprisonment for trying to keep their churches open and exercise freedom of religion. “When governments use Covid edicts to restrict the gathering and worship of the Church, three pastors facing the risk of imprisonment re-open their churches in the face of a world that has chosen to comply.”
Reportedly, the film also ties the pandemic struggles with other historical conflicts between the Church and government. “This feature-length documentary, The Essential Church, explores the struggle between Church and government throughout history. It takes us to multiple countries and parallels today’s conflict with those from the past who sacrificed their lives for their beliefs,” the synopsis continued. “Journey with them as we rediscover why the Church is essential and how their stand remains true from a scientific, legal, and, most importantly, Biblical perspective.”
So far, the film has received raving reviews from those who have viewed the movie. “The film itself was superbly done. All the right notes were hit. We appreciated the link to the persecution of our church fathers as it is important to look to them for insight and guidance,” said one review.
“When it was finished the room was filled with tears and applause. People were truly encouraged and emboldened in their commitment to stand bold in this world for Christ’s church,” another person said after having watched the film.
The movie’s website instructs visitors to support the documentary through the power of prayer. “The Essential Church” was produced by Grace Productions, a department in Grace Community Church, that produces Christian content to spread the Holy Gospel worldwide.
“Prayer is always our number one answer. No one is more powerful than our God and your prayers to Him, help encourage and strengthen us. Second, we would love for you to tell others about The Essential Church documentary. We want this to be an encouragement to Christians and all people around the world that our God is sovereign and in control over all things. Finally, if you feel led to donate to Grace Productions, this will help us continue to produce God-honoring content for years to come.”
The Essential Church is the NUMBER ONE MOVIE in the documentary category on iTunes 🥳🙏
Watch it there or streaming on SalemNOW! pic.twitter.com/8DoWf4jb9t
— Jenna Ellis (@JennaEllisEsq) October 5, 2023
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