Jesus Goes Hollywood

CrossRoaders,

I am excited about our fall Kick-off this Sunday, September 11.  We are continuing a series that we started last year called ‘Jesus Goes Hollywood’.  We will explore some of the spiritual themes that are imbedded in last summer’s blockbuster movies. I wanted to take this opportunity to let you know why we are doing this series and how I chose the movies that we will be discussing.

Why do this series?

Jesus was a master at taking things that were culturally relevant and using them to teach people. The parables that Jesus taught are great examples of this. We believe that using movies that are culturally relevant provides a platform for us to explore our faith. With that said, the goal of this series is not to be culturally relevant in people’s lives; rather, it is to seek God’s truth through His Scripture which is transcendent. We believe the goal of the church is not relevancy but to provide an avenue for people to experience God. This is our prayer and why we are talking about certain topics over the coming weeks.

Here are a few things to keep in mind as we are on this journey together:

1.      1.  This is a great opportunity to invite people you know to church. The series is designed to capture people’s attention both through the movies and the topics that are being addressed.

2.      2. You do not have to watch the movies before you come. We will be taking over arching themes of the movies and you don’t have to see the movie to understand the message that week. Also, we promise not to give away anything in the movie that would ruin the movie for you if you have not seen it yet.

Why Harry Potter?

One of the movies that I have chosen might be controversial for some. The movies and books about Harry Potter have caused concern for some believers. There are several things I would like for you to understand about why I chose this movie:

1.             1. As I have worked on this series, I looked for themes that I feel need to be talked about and then find movies that represent them from                 this summer. The theme I felt God impressed on me with the Harry Potter movie is more important than the movie itself. The topic of                  spiritual warfare is what I really want address in this talk and this movie provides the backdrop for the conversation.

2.    The fact that Harry Potter movies contain scenes of witchery and sorcery in it is not a reason for us to avoid a review of this movie- I believe it is even more a reason why we should talk about it. For example, once a year we do PORN SUNDAY where we talk about pornography and its grip on people. This does not mean we in any way endorse pornography.  I believe if there is any place we should be talking about some of the things we see in Harry Potter, it is in the church.

3.       We want our church to be a safe place and don’t want this movie or any other movie to be a stumbling block for people. We are aware of the elements that some feel are questionable and will use discernment as we review this film.

 Again, if you do not feel comfortable please do not view this film.  We will be careful as we choose any scenes that are shown during the service. If you have a question or would like to further discuss this, please feel free to contact me.

In Christ,

KEVIN