For all of you who have seen the third installment of the Spider-Man saga, did you guys notice the tasteful job in dealing with the theme of forgiveness and harboring hatred and vengefulness in one’s heart. I developed this a little at a post on by blog called Review Spider-Man 3. I really think that this movie could be a useful tool in teaching younger kids the dangers of revenge and an unforgiving heart.
This leads me to a question for something I am going to do with a group of kids I might teaching, should movies like this be used as teaching tools? Some people I’ve talked to don’t like the idea of showing such movies like this and others (ie Superman I, II, Returns; Star Wars; The Matrix?) because of the other stuff in them like violence and foul language and sex. Would you feel comfortable using Hollywood films to make a point or not?
3 Comments
Hi Hank,
Showing big name movies or using everyday TV shows to make a point is a wonderful way to reach across, and engage people.
Some of the best conversations I’ve had have been those after a movie or tv show.
For example, I think of The Simpsons as a great conversation show. They always have some goofy bible quote, or theological question that sends me straight to Google (not as often as before though).
Movies are like that as well. The DaVinci Code or Million Dollar Baby were great conversation movies. All I had to say was — “well, what about the idea that …” K/i> and we were on.
That said, prudence and parents’ permissions are a must. You don’t want a 13 year old watching a NC17 or R rated movie.
I think this type of media can be an extremely effective way to communicate and foster discussion, illustrate points, ect…
However, it most certainly has to be matched well with the audience. I keep thinking of 1st Corinthians 8:1-13 here.
Sadly, you are correct to state 1Cor. 8:1-13 (I might add Romans 14-15 too).
This whole issue is a weaker brother stronger brother issue.
So many Christians have been taught that we are Christians because we don’t do these things (movies, drink, smoke, cuss, etc). I am sadden at the actual state of mind that many Christians are in. It is so easy to read about the Pharisees and see how legalism is wrong, but we do not see the current issues of today that we present as legalist.
Right now, I am starting a bible study off of the TV show Lost. There are so many teachable moments in that show.
I Cor.8:1-13 is such a strong command that stronger Christians need to follow. Do not make a stumbling block for weaker Christians. Sometimes, we want to attack those who disagree, and we shouldn’t.
casey