This episode of Mama Bear Apologetics takes you on a journey through the creative landscape of the new Netflix movie “Mary,” directed by D.J. Caruso. Drawing inspiration from the pseudo-evangelical book of James, we dissect how this film reimagines the Christmas story, providing parents with guidance on navigating its differences from biblical accounts. Our goal is to equip you with the insights needed to foster meaningful conversations with your kids about faith, scripture, and the importance of historical and theological contexts.

We consider the creative liberties taken by the filmmakers and how these narrative choices can serve as conversation starters with our kids about faith and scripture. By comparing these portrayals to traditional biblical texts, we invite families to appreciate the strength and courage of Mary and Joseph’s story, often overlooked in Protestant narratives, and reflect on the film’s helpful and harmful perspectives. As the Christmas season unfolds, let’s consider how to engage your children in Christ-centered conversations that rise above the holiday hustle and bustle.

Main Points Covered

• Summary of Netflix’s Mary
• What is the message of the film
• Good and problematic elements of the film
• How to help kids discern the message
• How to reinforce the true message found in scripture

Unfamiliar Vocabulary

• Pseudo-evangelical: The book claims to be written by the brother of Jesus, but in fact is not.
• Apocryphal: Not divinely inspired and filled with historical and theological inaccuracies.

People and Resources Mentioned

• Mary on Netflix
• Matthew 1:21
• Proverbs 3:5
• Psalm 118:8-14
• John 15:5
• Book of Luke
• Book of Matthew
• Isaiah 7:14
• James 1:2-4
• Interview by Mama’s Geeky with Noa Cohen and D.J. Caruso
• The Very First Noel by Exclaim Entertainment
• The Birth of Jesus depicted in the mini-series “The Bible” by Lightworkers Media
• Referenced quotes found

Quotable Quotes