Denzel Washington has been a very public evangelical Christian for many years, and he is not ashamed of being one in Hollywood, Romans chapter 1:16-17:
“For I am NOT ASHAMED of the GOSPEL, because IT is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes (depends, relies, trusts), first to the Jew, and also to the Greek (non-Jew)…
For in it the righteousness (mercy and justice) of God is revealed, from (starting with) faith, to (finishing with) faith, just as it is written:
‘The righteous (those whom God has declared innocent), will live by faith (trust, reliance, dependence, on Jesus’ death).’”
Many years ago, the cast of a Washington movie (several of whom were Christian) appeared on the Oprah show. She asked Denzel, “What do you do to prepare when you’re backstage or in your trailer waiting to go on? Meditate, deep breathing, yoga?”
Denzel simply said, “I just pray to God.”
Oprah had the wind taken out of her sails. She didn’t know what to say for a moment (very much out of character).
Fast forward, and two Saturdays ago (live streamed on Facebook – see pic), Denzel was baptised and given a minister’s license at the Kelly Temple Church of God in Christ, in Harlem. His license means he can be ordained in the future.
He told “Esquire” magazine in his “Gladiator II” press tour:
“It’s not fashionable to be so outwardly religious in Hollywood: it’s not sexy…. But that doesn’t mean people in Hollywood don’t believe. … Things I said about God when I was a little boy, just reciting them in church along with everybody else, I know now. God is real. God is love. God is the only way. God is the true way. God blesses.
It’s my job to lift God up, to give Him praise, to make sure that ANYONE AND EVERYONE I SPEAK TO (for) the rest of my life, understands that He is responsible for me. When you see me, you see the best I could do with what I’ve been given by my lord and saviour, (so) I’m unafraid. I don’t care what anyone thinks.”:
Acts chapter 5:42
“Then they (the apostles) went out from… the Sanhedrin, rejoicing that they were COUNTED WORTHY to be treated shamefully on behalf of THE NAME (‘Jesus’).”
Washington-
“Talking about the fear part of it — you can’t talk like that and win Oscars.” (He is widely tipped to land an Oscar nomination for best-supporting actor in “Gladiator II”.)
“You can’t talk like that and party. You can’t say that in this town….
In one week, I turn 70. It took a while, but if (God) can do this for me, there’s nothing He can’t do for you.”
His wife Pauletta was also at the ceremony, fighting back tears:
“Forty-six years later, here I’m still standing next to him as only God will have it. So I’m very proud of you. You are the head of our house and you have set a great example for our children, who are now adult(s), who know the difference because we have shown them the difference.”
Sexy being a Christian in Hollywood? Nooo!
Sexy being a Christian in ANY other industry or campus? Nooo!
Prayer:
Our gracious God and loving Heavenly Father,
Thank you. Denzel aims to talk to anyone and everyone about You for the rest of his life. Please help us, by Your Spirit of holiness, to follow His example.
That Jesus’ name might be praised.
Amen
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you for Christians who work and study in Hollywood, Disney Studios Sydney, Pinewood Studios London, Bollywood, and all other entertainment venues. Fill them with superhuman boldness, to not be ashamed of You, and not fear the evil one and their colleagues.
To reflect well on Your name,
Amen
Image: Screenshot of Denzil Washington being baptised