Statement from The Assemblies of God of Singapore on the Staging of “Jesus Christ Superstar”
The Assemblies of God (AG) of Singapore is aware of the joint media statement issued by the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA), the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth (MCCY), and the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on the Advisory 16 classification for the musical “Jesus Christ Superstar”.
As a Pentecostal movement rooted in the authority of Scripture, we affirm that Jesus Christ is the divine Son of God, who lived, died for humanity’s redemption, and was bodily resurrected. We recognise that the musical presents a humanistic, conflicted portrayal outside historic Christian orthodoxy. For many believers within our fellowship, this depiction—together with the theatrical staging of sacred symbols—touches deeply revered tenets of faith and is a source of profound concern and hurt.
While we note the Government’s clarification that an arts and entertainment classification does not constitute an endorsement, and that mandatory disclaimers are required, we wish to offer the following pastoral guidance to our ministers, churches, and congregants:
1. Discerning and Wise Engagement
We urge all believers to approach contemporary cultural works with spiritual discernment, wisdom, and a grounded understanding of biblical truth. We encourage our community to process such secular media through Scripture, ensuring our faith remains firmly anchored in the true person and work of Jesus Christ.
2. Guarding the Sacred
We encourage parents and youth leaders to use this moment to engage our younger generation in conversations about the true identity, divinity, and lordship of Jesus Christ. Let this be an opportunity to reinforce biblical literacy, ensuring our believers can distinguish between secular entertainment and the sacred reality of the Gospel.
3. Upholding Harmony with Grace
As citizens in a diverse, multireligious society, AG Singapore remains committed to preserving mutual respect and religious harmony. Our response to cultural narratives that challenge our faith must reflect the character of Christ. We call upon our community to express their deeply held convictions responsibly, responding not with malice, but with humility, love, and a clear witness to the truth of the Gospel.
Moving forward, we trust that the relevant authorities will continue to exercise rigorous and consistent stewardship when assessing content that impacts religious sensitivities. We pray that our churches will stand strong as salt and light, anchoring our hope firmly in the enduring truth of Jesus Christ.
The Executive Committee of The Assemblies of God of Singapore
