James Cameron is the producer of “The Lost Tomb of Jesus,” a Discovery Channel documentary that claims a tomb outside Jerusalem once held the remains of Jesus, Mary Magdalene, a “son of Jesus,” and family members. We reached him at his home in Redding, California.
So, tell us about your interest in the historical Jesus.
Um, I guess I’m interested in Jesus, yeah. Where did you say you were from, again?
Christianity Today magazine.
Are you selling subscriptions or something?
No, we want to talk about your documentary.
What?
The one about Jesus’ tomb.
Um, yeah, I think you have the wrong guy. I think you want the other James Cameron.
You’re not James Cameron?
No, I am, but not …
… And your wife’s name is Suzy?
Susanna.
Right. We found your number online. We figured the chances of you not being the filmmaker James Cameron are, like, a jillion to one. And you live in California, so that pretty much clinches it.
We’re in Redding. Do you know where Redding is? It’s, like, 500 miles from …
Let’s get back on topic. What’s your response to the criticism that no actual New Testament scholar supports your thesis?
Okay. We’re done here. Don’t call me ever again.
In the tie-in book, you say that “some of the most respected experts in biblical history and archaeology have contributed to this investigation.” Could you name one who actually supports the argument that this is “the greatest archaeological story ever”? Just one? Hello? Mr. Cameron?
Ted Olsen is the former solicitor general of the United States.
Copyright © 2007 Christianity Today. Click for reprint information.
Related Elsewhere:
Christianity Today‘s ‘Remains of the Day‘ covers Christian scholars’ objections.”
More responses to the Jesus tomb claims are available from Ben Witherington III, Darrell Bock (1 | 2), Scot McKnight, Paul Maier, Mark Goodacre, Tyler Williams, Michael S. Heiser, and pretty much every other biblical studies blog out there.
