American Sniper, Blue Bible

First, American Sniper raises questions about the thinness of American Civil religion, a religion in which the film version of Kyle participates.  In one of the opening scenes, a young Chris Kyle slips a small, blue Bible from the church pew into his pocket as the pastor preaches.  The Bible accompanies Chris through his childhood and into the military, making conspicuous appearances throughout the remainder of the film.  Along with his rough-and-tumble Texas personality, his martial training, his shooting acumen, and his warm loyalty towards those for whom he cares, the Bible is a part of what defines Kyle.