Every once in a while, a Christian-themed movie does really well in theaters. It’s not a common event considering the difference in morals and themes between Christianity and Hollywood. But when you think about it, sometimes a good story just needs to be made into a movie, regardless of its origin.
From Bible stories to unexplainable miracles, these 12 faith-based movies are worth adding to your watch list. Can you think of any others that should be added?
1. The Ten Commandments (1956)
Probably the most obvious (and popular), The Ten Commandments starring Charlton Heston is the highest-grossing Biblical film of all time.
Based on the story of God rescuing the Israelites out of Egypt in the book of Exodus, Heston played Moses, while Yul Brynner played Ramses II. Though the initial release took in $122 million in 1956, that figure totals more than $2 billion in today’s dollars.
2. War Room (2015)
With the tagline “Prayer is a powerful weapon,” War Room examines the toll that a failing marriage can take on a child and how prayer can be a refuge.
Despite a largely unknown cast, War Room grossed nearly $70 million in domestic ticket sales. This was well above expectations for a movie with a $3-million budget.
3. The Passion of the Christ (2004)
By far the most successful Christian film, The Passion of the Christ, grossed more than $611 million between domestic and global box offices.
Directed by Mel Gibson, this film depicts the life and ministry of Jesus, featuring a moving and brutal take of the crucifixion. In fact, Mel Gibson chose to wield the hammer that nails Jesus to the cross. He later said, “It was me that put him on the cross. It was my sin.”
4. Heaven Is for Real (2014)
Heaven Is for Real tells the story of a child’s visit to Heaven during a near-death experience. As the boy’s father explains to others that his son has a miraculous account they must hear, the father begins to experience unexpected abuse from all sides.
Based on a best-selling book, Heaven Is for Real produced more than $91 million in ticket sales.
5. I Can Only Imagine (2018)
I Can Only Imagine is an autobiographical film documenting the life and work of Bart Millard, lead singer in the Christian band MercyMe. Raised in a broken home by a difficult father, Millard would draw on his trials to write the smash hit “I Can Only Imagine.”
The film starred Dennis Quaid, Trace Adkins, and J. Michael Finley and grossed over $83 million.
6. Ben-Hur (1959)
In addition to The Ten Commandments, Ben-Hur is one of the top-grossing Christian-themed movies in cinematic history.
Another hit for the movie star Charlton Heston, this story centers around Judah Ben-Hur, a Jewish prince and merchant living during the time of Jesus. Ben-Hur is falsely accused and persecuted along with his mother and sister.
Throughout his quest for revenge, Ben-Hur encounters Jesus and ultimately witnesses his crucifixion. This event leads Ben-Hur to realize that forgiveness is stronger than revenge.
7. Son of God (2014)
Based on the life and story of Jesus Christ, Son of God is an adaptation of the 10-hour miniseries “The Bible,” directed by Mark Burnett and Roma Downey. From the perspective of the disciple John, this epic biblical movie tells of Jesus’s birth all the way through his ascension into heaven.
If this movie leaves you wanting more, check out the T.V. series that follows directly after called “A.D. The Bible Continues.”
8. God’s Not Dead (2014)
God’s Not Dead pits a Christian student against a college professor who requires students to sign a contract stating that “God is dead.” This encounter leads to debates between the professor and the student where the student’s classmates serve as the moderators.
God’s Not Dead grossed nearly $61 million in box office sales almost ten years ago.
9. Miracles from Heaven (2016)
Based on a true story, Miracles from Heaven tells the tale of a young girl diagnosed with a fatal and incurable disease. Then, after a near-death experience, the girl is seemingly cured.
Starring Jennifer Garner as the devoted and prayerful mother, this film teaches you the courage of pulling through during hard times.
10. The Star (2017)
This family-friendly Christian animated movie follows a small but brave donkey named Beau and his role as the “hero” of the first Christmas.
After breaking free from his owner, Beau finds himself in the home of the newly married Mary and Joseph, grappling with the news of her pregnancy with the future Messiah. After healing from his injury, Beau has plans to escape again and join the royal caravan, but after learning that King Herod’s guard is after Mary and Joseph, he decides to risk everything and help save them.
With the voice talents of Oprah, Christopher Plummer, Kelly Clarkson, Patricia Heaton, and more, this heartwarming film is a must-watch with your kids or grandkids!
11. Facing The Giants (2006)
A story about believing the impossible, Facing the Giants follows the story of Christian high-school football coach Grant Taylor and his underdog team.
After facing setbacks and disappointments with his job and family, Taylor receives a message from an unexpected visitor which forces him to search for a stronger purpose for his team. He challenges his players to believe in God for all things and trust that He can help them face their “giants” of fear and failure.
What follows is a surprising and heartwarming story of God’s faithfulness in the life of Coach Taylor on and off the field.
12. The Shack (2017)
While not a biblically accurate description of God and the Trinity, The Shack is an incredible story of how God walks with us through grief and tragedy.
Main character Mack (Sam Worthington) has struggled his whole life with God despite having a picture-perfect family. After his youngest child’s abduction and presumed murder, Mack spirals out of control in his grief. After receiving a mysterious letter he believes is from God, Mack travels back to the shack where his daughter may have been murdered.
While at the shack, Mack has an extended encounter with a nontraditional view of God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit. There he learns forgiveness, hope, peace, and the power of God in his life.
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When you’re going through trials and suffering, Scripture verses about trusting God in difficult times can be such a comfort. The Bible’s whole narrative is about humanity’s journey in trusting their Creator.
Meditate on and pray through these verses about trusting God in difficult times when you need a reminder about the big picture: God’s story, what He’s doing in the world, His boundless grace and mercy, and how much you matter to Him.
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Brittany Ann is an ECPA bestselling author and founder of Equipping Godly Women and Monetize My Ministry. She’s also a Christian speaker, podcaster, and conference host. Her work has been featured on numerous TV, radio, and online ministries, including CBN, MSN, Christianity Today, Evangelical Alliance, Patheos, Crosswalk, and more.
