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Nor could people believe that telling a story in which a samaritan is the hero was something that belonged in a proper sermon.

Storytelling, whether through telling them or showing movie clips, are not in themselves used to be "about worshipping God." They are about communicating truth, just as Jesus used stories to communicate truth.

You're right, from the reviews I've read I can't envision how "Along Came Polly" could be used in a worship service to communicate truth, unless it were used to illustrate than refute the unspoken values the world looks for. There are many other movies that could better serve that purpose.

The problem with using movies as an example, is that many christians believe that hollywood, the people producing these movies, have done much harm and damage to our culture, and furthermore, to the cause of Christ. How difficult is it for a church to use a clip from an "R" rated movie to make a point, and then contend that "R" rated movies are a problem in our society?

I think it can't be done. I think using the clip says that seeing these movies must be okay. Unless the clip is used in a negative way and being preached against.

I'm not sure it is fair to compare Jesus' use of parables as being similar to a contemporary church using hollywood movies to make a point. Maybe it is.... but I don't know.

I disagree with you about the movie clips. If they want to tell stories such as the story of the samaritan then fine. But the Bible is not silent on who should lead in church. Atheistic movie actors do not qualify. Nor should the church be advertising for Hollywood. Literally, when my family went to such a service they came out saying "that looks like a good movie." That's it. They were not touched by the message of the sermon. They wanted to head straight for the theater and see the rest of the movie. It wasn't a great movie either. I believe it was PG13 and the church audience had many children present. What are those kids' parents supposed to say? "Sorry honey, that movie is not appropriate due to language, nudity, etc.." What message do those kids leave church with?

I am offended by movies -- even clips -- in church. (With exceptions like The Passion of the Christ.) If fellow church goers think I am wrong then they should still care about the conscience of their "weaker brother" and refrain from bringing movie clips to church. They can watch them at home. But that's never the response I get. They defend their movies like they are their god. I do not wish to worship Hollywood. I don't even respect Hollywood. I now go to a different church.