Posted on 03/04/2014 6:53:38 PM PST by SeekAndFind
Ken Ham of the Creation Museum has taken to Facebook to address criticism over Answers in Genesis' multimillion dollar project to build a life-sized replica of Noah's ark, explaining why the money isn't going to feed hungry people instead.
"I haven't yet seen any articles/blogs/posts directed at Paramount about the $300 million dollars (over 4 times more than the Ark project), they spent on a fictional movie only for entertainment – why aren't they being told by the same people they should be spending this money on feeding the hungry," Ham wrote in a post on Monday, referring to the upcoming Bible-inspired movie "Noah," which is being distributed by Paramount Pictures.
The Creation Museum and AiG CEO and president has criticized the upcoming Darren Aronofsky film for portraying an unbiblical account of Noah. Sources like Slash Film have said that the movie's budget is closer to $150 million.
Ham continued in his response to critics, "In fact, what about all the people who spend millions of dollars at the movie theaters to see the movies that cost hundreds of millions of dollars a year," Ham continued. "Of course, we could go on – what about the hundreds of millions of dollars Universities like Harvard have in their accounts – in fact the list is almost endless."
Answers in Genesis has been raising funds to build a giant life-sized replica of Noah's ark for several years now. Last week, it announced that $73 million has been raised for the first phase of the project.
"Several million dollars in donations and Ark boarding passes (memberships) had been raised prior to the bond offering, and most of that amount has already been used to pay for the Ark's land, secure expensive permits and licenses, clear the property, draw architectural plans, design the exhibits, etc.," the creationist group said in a statement. It is seeking to raise an additional $15 million in order to "provide additional attractions, like the special high-tech and interactive exhibits that guests have come to appreciate at our museum."
Ham and AiG have responded in the past to feedback they have received as to why they are engaging in such an expensive project rather than using the money to help poor people. In 2011, AiG posted a blog post titled "Why Build an Ark Instead of Giving the Money to the Poor?"
In the article, AiG explained that although taking care of the poor is identified as an important ministry for Christians, "Christ also made it clear that we are to make disciples of all nations."
"Frankly, we can't think of a more effective way to share the gospel with many millions of people today than by using an Ark," AiG wrote. "The Ark of Noah is a picture of salvation, which allows us to share with future visitors that Christ is our modern-day Ark of salvation. People who might not ever attend a church service will be powerfully presented with the gospel message at the Ark, where they will learn about Christ."
While Ham did not address any specific commentary against the Ark project, he noted on Monday that the negative feedback he has received has been in the form of emails, posts, comments, and blogs both from secularists and other Christians.
"So what does it all mean? Most of these people who make such accusations do so because AiG is a Christian organization, and because they know we will reach millions with the truth of God's Word. Yes – their intolerance of Christianity is showing clearly," Ham wrote. "They just can't stand a Christian group being so prominent in spreading the truth of God's Word and the salvation message."
The construction of the project is expected to begin in May.
Nice try. You are ignoring Scripture.
It’s not a matter of what *I* want.
Not 70 million dollars, that’s for sure.
Ah - then you admit to being the source of the criticism. That explains much.
I know from your earlier comment that $70 million is too much.
What I want to know is how much can be spent without generating criticism from you.
I guess you can’t read plain English.
Have a nice day.
How much would it cost to build a life sized replica of the wooden ark along with interpretive displays? The displays don’t have to be computerized.
You should not really have to build a life sized ark to get the point across either. But if you did, I’d bet $10m would cover it.
It's funny. While you are trying VERY hard to make this about yourself, I was identifying the clear source of the original criticism.
But if you wish to deceive yourself that I cannot comprehend the written language, feel free.
Have whatever kind of day you wish to have, FRiend.
So, not to put words in your mouth, but it appears you are saying because his cost estimates are 10% above yours, others can claim legitimate criticism of his project and that he has already failed in his mission? (post 7)
I have done no cost estimate on what it would take to build an ark.
I am strictly coming from the POV that we all need to be good stewards with the $ that God gives us.
That’s it.
I definitely made a mistake. You are saying $10 million he is saying $70 Million.
Can I help you get in touch with him? I’m sure he would appreciate your expertise for this project. There could easily be an extra million in there for you to do with as you please.
Then on what basis are you saying the criticism is legitimate and that he has failed?
I appreciate your confidence in my ability to handle money and run projects. Can I use you as a reference?
Cheers.
Read your bible.
Some danced around the true problem here and the Bible verses you quoted and the real life you related it too were very good and revealing - in that we all need to examine the man in the mirror
but
don’t leave out even one jot or tittle [when thinking of slinging stones]...
like
‘Judge not lest you be judged!”
Criticism has it’s place if it can remain constructive but the moment the receiver either dislikes or misconstrues the ‘no matter how well intentioned’ message then all the trying and doing good deeds can go for naught.
Life has been claimed ‘a great balancing act’ but you can weight it down in your favor by being a lover and imitator of God’s Words.
Thank you for your post.
You get it.
I do try and keep Matt 7:7 uppermost in mind.
We are all responsible for the lives we lead and we will have to give account on Judgment Day.
I fear that day. I am trying to get to a better, more humble, more obedient, more holy place. I do definitely feel called to do this.
Cheers, ‘Pod.
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