When you hear the name of executive producer Mark Burnett, you think of shows like "Survivor, "The Voice" or "Apprentice". He is probably not your first thought, or tenth, for being the man behind the ratings hit, "The Bible" which premiered this past Sunday night at 7pm (CST) on The History Channel. However, with all of Burnett's television achievements, he and his wife, Roma Downey ("Touched by an Angel"), say this is the most inspirational and exciting work they've done.  

Downy and Burnett shared that over four years ago they were watching "The Ten Commandments" (1956) film by Cecil B. DeMille and started to brain storm how they'd bring to life the stories of the Bible in a new way. "We saw this as an opportunity engage people in new and exciting ways to consider these stories and re-experience them," said Downey. Burnett added, "The faithful will see the stories of their faith. People who are not faithful will totally enjoy it because it is the greatest story ever told."  

Several pastors including, Bishop T.D. Jakes of The Potter's House in Dallas, Rick Warren of Saddleback Church in Southern California and Craig Groeschel of Oklahoma City's multi-site Lifechurch.tv have endorsed "The Bible" mini-series and have been pushing their congregation to take part in watching.

Joel Osteen, pastor of Houston's Lakewood church, the country's largest church, had a screening for the series with his 40,000-member congregation in January and is now in the middle of a seven-week promotional effort. Olsteen notes it showcases the Bible in a "compelling and powerful way," Pastors and leaders across the country are in agreement that "The Bible" mini-series has the impact to speak to both believers and non-believers.