The Case for Christ

In the bustling newsroom of a major Chicago newspaper, Lee Strobel pursues stories with the same relentless curiosity that has defined his career. An investigative reporter known for his sharp questioning and uncompromising standards, Lee balances the demands of deadline‑driven journalism with a personal life anchored by his young family. The film opens on a world where fact‑finding is both profession and identity, casting his skepticism as a lens through which everyday reality is examined.

At home, the dynamic shifts with Leslie Strobel, whose quiet conviction and compassionate faith introduce a contrasting perspective to Lee’s empirical worldview. Their partnership is marked by shared love, the anticipation of a growing family, and an undercurrent of gentle tension as Leslie’s spiritual inclinations begin to influence the household. A nurse named Alfie, whose brief encounter with the family hints at the possibility of unseen forces at work, becomes an early catalyst that nudges the couple toward a deeper conversation about belief.

Compelled by both personal curiosity and the encouragement of a seasoned mentor, Lee embarks on a methodical, two‑year inquiry into the historical foundations of Christianity. The journey takes him from dusty archives to modern laboratories, where he interrogates ancient manuscripts, consults scholars, and scrutinizes medical and psychological evidence. The tone remains investigative, blending the meticulous rigor of a newsroom report with the introspective mood of a personal quest, inviting viewers to consider how faith and fact can intersect in the search for truth.

Against the backdrop of 1980s Chicago—a city that hums with diverse cultures, bustling streets, and a palpable sense of possibility—Lee navigates a landscape where professional ambition meets existential questioning. The film captures the subtle interplay of doubt and hope, setting the stage for a story that is as much about the art of investigation as it is about the quiet stirrings of an inner transformation.

Last Updated: October 11, 2025 at 19:44