Hot Topics

Using a "hot topic" in the culture as an anchor is one the ways I really enjoy communicating the gospel. I have an opportunity to do it again in a few days.

The DaVinci Code movie is coming out this week, and the world is buzzing. The Catholics are demonstrating, many Protestants are boycotting the movie, while news programs and cable television are chiming in on the controversy.

To me, this is a no-brainer! It's a hot topic that deserves to be addressed.

Here's my approach:
1) I've read several books and articles on The DaVinci Code, and I've prepared myself with a wealth of information.
2) I've gone back to some of my good old college textbooks and brushed up on church history.
3) I am preparing a special Sunday message entitled, The DaVinci Code Distortion.
4) I've prepped the congregation, letting them know that I'm going to see the movie and report back. I've also encouraged them to do what the movie trailers suggest, "Seek The Truth."
5) I've set aside time next Monday afternoon to catch a matinee. (There's no way I'm paying full price for that movie!)
6) I'll put together a positive message explaining the truth about church history.
7) I'll encourage my people to not cave in to hysteria, fearing that this movie is somehow going to shipwreck Christianity.
8) I'll equip my people to defend their faith intelligently, preparing them to seize the opportunities that will avail themselves in the workplace, neighborhood and at school over the next several weeks and months.

I'm truly praying that this movie will cause a lot of people to begin asking questions to believers about their faith, generating natural, wise, prepared, and spirit-directed responses.

Leaders, what a wonderful opportunity we have to equip the saints to do the work of the ministry!!!

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Addendum 5.23.06:
Check out the post I just placed on my other blog entitled, "Okay, I Saw The Movie"