The other day I headed over to Phil Vischer’s site (since I subscribe to his blog). He was writing about some of the reviews he has gotten surrounding his new DVD series “What’s in the Bible.” One review in particular was written by the Book Center at the Dallas Theological Seminary. It’s a great review. I’m really glad a seminary chose to do a review on a children’s ministry DVD. Kevin Stern, the author of the review, called the DVDs two of the most life-changing titles this year. That’s awesome!
Then came the part that drives me nuts. The comments, which I can only assume are seminary students. Click here to read the comments.
Seriously! The reviewer just wrote a glowing review about a much needed resource in the world of Children’s Ministry which really could provide a dynamic tool for parents to engage with their kids in biblical discussion and two of the three comments seemed to be wrapped up in concerns about creation not being portrayed as a literal event or following Augustine’s viewpoint on creation. I’m a huge fan of theology and making sure that doctrine is right and accurate, but is this getting a little ridiculous? When I was at my Christian university, I’d seem to always pass by the same group of students who were eternally locked in debate about deep spiritual issues. As pure as their motives seemed to be, they always seemed to be more engaged in religious debate rather than ministry in action. I’m not saying this is who these commenters are, but comments like these seem to deflate the positive nature of this post, a glowing review.
I haven’t yet watched the DVDs. I’m sure I’ll like them and I’m sure the portrayal of the creation story is one that won’t insult my child’s intelligence or spoil his doctrinal viewpoints of Genesis.
Had a similar comment on the review of WITB I did for Kidology. I think Phil did a good job of talking about creation. He simply pointed out that Christians do not agree on whether or not the days were literal 24-hour days or not and explains one reason is that the word for “day” could mean 24 hours or a longer period of time. He concludes that whatever you do believe, the most important thing is that God did the creating. He doesn’t advocate one view over the other.
One other thing ppl who commented on Kidology had issues with was the use of puppets. Personally, I think Phil did a good job with the puppets, too.