Forty years after the release of the groundbreaking JESUS film, Jesus Film Project® has unveiled an updated edition of founder Paul Eshleman’s powerful book, I Just Saw Jesus. This refreshed release, which hit shelves in October 2024, not only commemorates decades of transformative ministry but also reintroduces a timeless message to a new generation of believers.
The new edition of I Just Saw Jesus features a poignant foreword by Eshleman’s daughter, Jenn Huff, who reflects on her father’s vision and dedication. “The JESUS film, meticulously crafted to depict the life of Jesus with unprecedented accuracy, stood as a beacon of attention to detail,” Huff writes. “Behind the scenes, my father’s equally meticulous storytelling mirrored the attention that was paid to every aspect of the film’s creation. This book is not just a book; it is a testament to the miraculous change Jesus makes in people’s lives.”
Originally published in 1985, I Just Saw Jesus chronicles the extraordinary journey behind the creation of the JESUS film, the most translated and viewed film in history. With over 2,100 language translations and counting, the film has touched millions of lives around the world, delivering the gospel in the heart languages of people from the most remote villages to bustling cities.
Eshleman’s book dives deep into the human stories behind this monumental project, highlighting the courage and determination of volunteer teams, missionaries, and pastors who carried the film to the farthest corners of the earth. These individuals braved jungles, faced political resistance, and risked their lives to show the JESUS film in places where the gospel had never been heard. From navigating cultural barriers to overcoming deadly diseases, their stories illustrate the powerful call to share the message of Jesus.
The updated release of I Just Saw Jesus arrives at a pivotal moment as Jesus Film Project works to reimagine the original 1979 JESUS film for today’s audiences. This effort signals the continuation of a mission that began with Paul Eshleman’s bold vision: to ensure that the story of Jesus is accessible to everyone, no matter where they are or what language they speak.
For those eager to join this legacy of faith, the new edition of I Just Saw Jesus is available on Amazon and the Cru store. Its release serves as a rallying cry to a generation of believers ready to carry the torch, proving that the gospel message continues to transcend time, culture, and boundaries.
