Posted on 07/31/2023 12:02:21 PM PDT by Morgana
Recently, Saddleback Church, which is now “pastored” by Andy Wood and his wife, Stacie, did something unusual. Well, actually it isn’t all that unusual—this behavior is a disturbing trend in modern Evangelicalism. The husband-wife pastor duo dressed up like characters from the Toy Story movie and preached a sermon about it. This act, as entertaining as it may seem to goats, actually disrespects the Bible and its teachings. Instead of lifting God’s Word high, it makes it feel like a cheesy Hollywood script.
In the Bible, Galatians 6:7 says, “Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.” When we turn our sermons into movie themes, we’re playing with God’s Word. We’re not giving it the respect and honor it deserves.
Sure, movies can be interesting, though most of them are filled with foul language, sexual immorality, and leftist propaganda. But, on occasion, they can be used to tell powerful stories. But no movie, no matter how well made, can match the truth and power of the Bible. To use movies as props for the exegesis of God’s word is sacrilegious—it’s almost as if we’re treating God’s Word like it’s a toy.
But why would a church do this? Well, it certainly seems like they’re trying to please man and, as Spurgeon says, entertain goats, more than they’re trying to honor God. They’re using worldly things, like movies, to make the Gospel seem more exciting. But Romans 12:2 tells us, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Instead of following the world’s trends, we should be focusing on God’s Word.
Bringing movies into the church is just letting the world creep into our worship. Instead of being a place for worshipo and reverence for God, it’s turning into another stage for entertainment.
We need to remember that the Bible isn’t just another book or script. It’s God’s Word, full of truth and wisdom. As John 17:17 says, “Sanctify them by the truth; Your word is truth.” The Bible isn’t a story created by Hollywood. It’s the truth that can change our lives.
So, here’s the point. As 2 Timothy 4:2 tells us, we’re supposed to “Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction.” We should be focusing on sharing the truth of God’s word, not cloaking it in worldly movie themes. When we mix God’s Word with worldly things, we’re mocking God and His Word. And that’s something should be taken very seriously.
But this is Rick Warren’s legacy, and we’re sure he’s proud of it.
These costumes and props are not cheap. Plus this church gave out a free movie ticket?
Hollyweird has to be paying these churches to do this.
I found this one too. I agree something is up. I bet I will find more before the week is over.
I wouldn’t run that past Tinseltown.
I think we all will.
About two years ago I was checking out the websites of some local (Seattle area) churches and was dismayed when one of them showed the pastor leading a service while wearing a Seattle Seahawks jersey. I thought that was totally inappropriate attire for leading a church service.
No need for such vain exhibitions.
I will say, though, that my pastor has been known to say something very vernacular, like: “A man’s gotta know his limitations; Clint Eastwood said so. But at the same time, the Bible says ‘I can do all things through Christ...’; so there’s the natural, and there’s the supernatural...”
I didn’t mind his adducing that, as I thought it made a very good point; and it did get a chuckle or two. And in no wise did it sink to the level of a costume display.
Churcuses.
(Just coined.)
Just needs a “halftime show” ........
2 Timothy 3
King James Version
3 This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come.
2 For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,
3 Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good,
4 Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God;
5 Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.
6 For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts,
7 Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.
*****
Error #1 right there.
Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.