Many of you are acquainted with a move entitled “The Golden Compass” that was released out in theaters tonight. If not, here is a little background information on the movie and what the big issue is:
The Golden Compass is based on the first book of a series called His Dark Materials by British writer Philip Pullman, where the main premise of the series is that kids will eventually kill God Himself (or rather a weak, no where even close resemblance of Him that is portrayed in the series). Is this where I was supposed to tag “spoiler warning” so as not to ruin it for you? Anyways, as you may have guessed Pullman is an atheist, but this is not the only reason he has people on the fritz. It is claimed and verified by Pullman himself that he intends to use this “watered down” version of his book in movie format to interest kids into buying and be influenced by the series. Both the Protestant and Catholic churches are in an uproar over this, and the atheists are upset claiming that his watering down of the books anti-religious views is castrating its main point. Seems like Pullman can’t make anyone happy. For more information on the movie and other articles, just see Wikipedia.
Thus introduced, I would like to make a few points in general after reflecting on the movie and the stir it has caused. This list is certainly not exhaustive so feel free to add to it.
1. A proper Christian world view must encompass all aspects of life, thus implying an ever increasing understanding of scripture, its application, and the ability to discern. It seems more and more Christians are either ignoring or loosing their ability to discern what is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable, and worthy of praise (Phil. 4:8). Our society is bombarded with all sorts of ungodliness, especially in education, books, and movies, yet it takes someone openly and outrightly disputing Christians for them to finally take notice. The church needs to learn that even though Christianity is a matter of the heart, the intellect can not be ignored either. The Golden Compass is another example of what a long line of ungodly men do, so why do we choose to thrust all our focus, efforts, and attention on this one little thing while ignoring other issues?
2. There must be a recovery of biblical parenting. Ever since the boom of “youth groups” within the church in the 20th and 21st century, the God ordained authority of the family, specifically with the teaching of children (Deut. 6), seems to be placed on the church and its youth ministers. The Bible itself attest to and history confirms that God’s intention for parents to teach their kids is by far the better for the health of children, and one or two ministers within the church cannot teach, hold accountable, or be more authoritative to children than their parents. Children must be taught a proper world view and their parents, with scripture, must use situations such as the Golden Compass issue to help develop discernment and a world view within a child.
3. The gospel and scripture must be recovered as the defense against ungodliness. Did Jesus march around with a pouty lip, angry eyes, and picket signs boycotting ungodliness? Certainly not! Christians must learn to combat ungodliness and wickedness with scripture and the preaching of the gospel, rather than hiding behind their boycotts and picket lines. You must live the gospel in your community, rather than yelling at it from the street corner.
Closing thoughts and statements: Will I go see the movie? Probably. Should you go see the movie? That is a matter of the conscience and another potential good post for discussion. Do I agree with how most professing believers are reacting to this situation? Not particularly. This issue a clear example of why the church needs to get away from programs and topical messages and back to a faith grounded in scripture, and a life wholly thrust upon Christ.
0 Responses to “The Golden Compass”