Weekly Update from the Senior Pastor
November 17, 2005
Dear Family and Friends,
This Sunday in our two worship services I will begin a two-part series on the soon-to-be released film: Narnia, the Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.
Why in the world would a Christian congregation take two weeks and study God’s Word together through the cultural grid of a Disney film? Good Question! In fact that is precisely the question my title asks: “Narnia, Why Does It Matter?”
There are two big ideas in this Sunday’s message. Let me share them now:
1. The release of the new film: Narnia, the Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, is a powerful opportunity to share the story of Jesus Christ in a fresh way (an opportunity akin to the release of the film: “The Passion,” yet not so ‘in your face.’) But we must be equipped with insight and accurate information about what the author, C. S. Lewis’ intent was in writing the Chronicles of Narnia series.
2. Narnia is a fantasy world created to center around and focus on the character and saving work of Aslan the Lion. Aslan is the heart and soul of every Narnia story; and the heart and soul of Aslan is Jesus Christ.
The film will be released on December 9 and it is estimated (Disney hopes) that between 25,000,000-50,000,000 people will see this and later, subsequent Narnia films. If Disney does not pervert the great themes and dialogues in C. S. Lewis’ stories, those themes will penetrate hearts and minds. Narnia’s images of salvation will skirt around barriers many have erected against a direct Christian witness, offering us mental hooks in seekers for speaking truth about the great purpose and redeeming love of God in Jesus Christ.
A recent Update from Saddleback’s senior pastor, Rick Warren, was hopeful. He had seen a pre-screening of the film and felt that the Christian message came through. So, as always, pray for an open, courageous heart for sharing your hope in Jesus and come this Sunday for time in Scripture and in Narnia that will equip us for this new opportunity.
Next week: I’ll use the Update to lay out and discuss three options we have for a congregational home over the next three years and give the date for a congregational town hall to discuss those options. Be sure to read that Update.
Undoubtedly, we have transitions ahead of us—big opportunities and challenges. Increasingly that fact excites me, because God has been so faithful in so many ways and at so many times in the past. We serve a Savior who stayed up for us all the way to a cross and tomb—then conquered death to give us life. Because I believe that, I have no doubt the best is yet to come for all who “follow the Lamb wherever He goes!” (Revelation 4:4) May that always describe us.
Love ya,
Richard
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