The Gospel According To Breaking Bad

Breaking Bad, the critically acclaimed television series created by Vince Gilligan, is more than just a story about a high school chemistry teacher-turned-methamphetamine manufacturer. Beneath its thrilling plot and gripping characters lies a deeper exploration of morality, redemption, and the consequences of one's actions.

From the very first episode of Breaking Bad, we are introduced to Walter White, a mild-mannered chemistry teacher who is diagnosed with terminal lung cancer. Faced with the fear of leaving his family in financial ruin, Walter makes the radical decision to enter the world of drug production – a decision that ultimately leads him down a dangerous path.

Throughout the series, we witness Walter's transformation from an ordinary man into a morally ambiguous anti-hero. He justifies his actions under the guise of providing for his family, but we soon realize that his motivations extend beyond financial stability. He becomes consumed by power, ego, and the thrill of the criminal underworld.

The Gospel According to Breaking Bad

by Blake Atwood (Kindle Edition)

4.1 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	967 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	216 pages
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The character of Walter White can be seen as a modern-day representation of the biblical figure, Lucifer. Both characters start with good intentions but ultimately succumb to their darkest desires. They both defy moral boundaries and seek personal gain at any cost.

Similarly, Breaking Bad explores the concept of redemption through the character of Jesse Pinkman, Walter's former student and partner in crime. Jesse's journey is one of struggle and self-discovery as he wrestles with guilt, addiction, and the consequences of his choices.

Unlike Walter, Jesse's path toward redemption is full of obstacles and setbacks. He constantly faces the consequences of his actions and must confront his own inner demons. Through his struggles, we witness the possibility of transformation and the power of forgiveness.

Breaking Bad also delves into the theme of consequences. Every action taken by the characters has ripple effects that reverberate throughout the entire series. The choices made by Walter and Jesse not only impact their own lives but also the lives of those around them.

The show serves as a cautionary tale, reminding us that even the smallest decisions can have far-reaching consequences. It challenges us to consider the moral implications of our own choices and the effects they may have on ourselves and others.

One aspect that sets Breaking Bad apart is its thought-provoking writing and complex characters. The show's creators are unafraid to explore the depths of human nature and expose the flaws and contradictions within us all.

The characters in Breaking Bad are fully developed and multi-dimensional. From the morally questionable lawyer Saul Goodman to the relentless DEA agent Hank Schrader, each character represents a different aspect of human behavior. They are relatable and flawed, making them all the more captivating to watch.

Moreover, Breaking Bad's cinematography and visual storytelling add another layer of depth to the series. Scenes are carefully crafted to convey emotions and emphasize key moments, often using color symbolism to enhance the narrative.

Breaking Bad's legacy extends beyond its time on television. It has become a cultural phenomenon that continues to captivate audiences to this day. Its exploration of morality, redemption, and consequences resonates with viewers, prompting discussions and debates about the nature of good and evil.

In , Breaking Bad is not just a TV show about drugs and crime. It is a thought-provoking exploration of the human condition and the choices we make in life. It challenges our preconceived notions of morality and offers a unique perspective on redemption and the consequences of our actions. Breaking Bad is, in many ways, the gospel of our modern times.

The Gospel According to Breaking Bad

by Blake Atwood (Kindle Edition)

4.1 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	967 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	216 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Breaking Bad showrunner Vince Gilligan wants to believe that heaven exists, but he "can't not" believe there's a hell.

Throughout this fascinating TV show depicting the shocking life and tragic times of Walter White, Gilligan offers his singular glimpse into a morally amoral universe, a place not unlike the world we live in. This critically acclaimed TV series seeks to answer the question, "In a seeming world of chaos, can justice ultimately prevail?"

The Gospel According to Breaking Bad takes a thoroughly Christian look at AMC's popular and critical TV hit.

Covering such weighty theological issues like identity, death, justice, power, fate, free will, and the gospel itself, readers will be coerced into thinking more deeply about the universal questions Breaking Bad asks. In sections covering the colors and metaphors of Breaking Bad, fans will also come to a further appreciation for one of the most well-done TV series in recent history.

More than just an entertaining RV ride through the Albuquerque desert, Breaking Bad presents two unique characters, Walter White and Jesse Pinkman, each on notably different trajectories in their lives.

Are either redeemed by series' end? What do our reactions to their stories tell us about ourselves?

Through these stories and more, The Gospel According to Breaking Bad seeks to tell the old, old story through one of the most visceral and alluring stories of the present. As author Madeline L'Engle wrote, "Maybe you have to know the darkness before you can appreciate the light."

ENDORSEMENTS

"As a fan of Breaking Bad, and as a student of religion and popular culture, it's now clear to me that I haven't been paying close enough attention to the series' moral and spiritual dimensions. Thanks to The Gospel According to Breaking Bad, I won't make that mistake again." 

— Mark I. Pinsky, The Gospel According to The Simpsons

"One of the better Gospel According To's I've read, and I think I've read most of them."

— Cathleen Falsani Posseley, The Dude Abides: The Gospel According to the Coen Brothers

"The Gospel According to Breaking Bad is provocative, compelling, smart and a whole lot of fun."

— J.R. Forasteros, Pastor, Blogger, The Fascinating Podcast Host, Empathy for the Devil

“Blake Atwood is one of the most thoughtful Christians you’ll meet. He’s always dreaming up new ideas and projects. In The Gospel According to Breaking Bad, Blake applies his mind to yet another endeavor by taking a unique look at the spiritual elements of this popular television show. You’ve likely never read anything quite like it.”

— Jonathan Merritt

“By putting Walter White and company under the microscope, Atwood brings the elemental structure of the human soul into magnified clarity. Who knew a world of drug kingpins, pathological liars and narcissistic grandiosity could be so ripe with moral meaning? Examining Vince Gilligan’s post-modern tale of pilgrim’s regress through a gospel lens enables Atwood to offer up a redemptive future for all of us who live east of Eden. This is a must-read guide for all Breaking Bad fans who want to savor the final season as it unfolds."

— Brad Russell

"In The Gospel According to Breaking Bad, Blake Atwood brings a fan's passion, a critic's analysis and a Christian's perspective to bear on the most provocative television program in recent memory. If you find the show intriguing, perplexing or just plain compelling, you'll want to read this book. Spoiler alert: You'll find yourself in these pages."

— Marv Knox