The most anticipated movie of the year opens this weekend: “The DaVinci Code.” I read the book when it first came out and, yes, I’ll go see the movie, too.

In the event your head’s been in the sand, “The DaVinci Code” is part mystery novel, part conspiracy theory and part indictment of the institutional church. In a roundabout way, it’s a search for the truth about Jesus.

A lot of Christians are up in arms at the controversies suggested by Dan Brown’s book. For my part, I welcome the discussion. Anything that gets people thinking and talking about Jesus is just fine with me.

Who was Jesus, really? Is he the victim of a massive cover‑up by the religious establishment? Did he leave descendants? Just what is the truth about Jesus, and why is the world still so fascinated by him?

The simple fact that an obscure man from a nondescript town in a far‑flung corner of the Roman Empire is the most recognized person in the history of the world should tell you something of the importance of his life.

There is no doubt: Jesus is the single most compelling figure to have ever walked this earth. His influence in history is unparalleled.

But, again, who was Jesus? Is it even possible to know? I believe it is, for I believe the gospels in the New Testament represent an accurate portrayal of the life and teachings of Jesus. What do you think? Have you ever read them for yourself?

At the very beginning of Jesus’ ministry, before he’d done any public teaching, performed any miracles–before anyone knew anything about him, he searched out a man named Philip. When he found him, he said, “Follow me.” We don’t know what compelled Philip to follow Jesus, only that he became one of the 12 disciples.

Philip immediately found his friend Nathanael and tried to persuade him to join in following Jesus. Nathanael was unimpressed. Jesus was from Nazareth; no prophet could possibly come from there.

Philip didn’t argue with his friend. He didn’t try to prove his convictions. He merely said this: “Come and see.” Nathanael, to his credit, set aside his prejudice and decided to take an honest look for himself.

Perhaps you think you’ve got Jesus figured out, just as Nathanael did. Or maybe, like the poor reputation of Nazareth, you find him guilty by association.

No matter. Let me tug at your sleeve a little and repeat Philip’s invitation: “Come and see.” Don’t be content with your prejudices, nor with the witness of someone else such as Dan Brown, the writer of “The DaVinci Code.” Read the gospels for yourself. It just might change your life. I know it has mine.

How about it? It’s a good day for an adventure. “Come and see.”

Steve Gilbertson is the pastor of Sanctuary, a church in the heart of Cave Creek. To read more of his writing, go to www.sanctuarytoday.com.