Golden opportunity
As one might almost have predicted, Albert Mohler has posted an excellent analysis of The Golden Compass controversy.
He argues that, yes, the movie is every bit as subversive of Christianity as you have heard, and that, yes, this is certainly the agenda of the author, Philip Pullman, and that it comes out particularly strongly as the trilogy unfolds.
However, Dr Mohler wisely suggests that boycotts and protests are not the best response. Instead, he regards the release of The Golden Compass as a golden opportunity for the battle of worldviews to be joined. He suggests we use the movie's release as an occasion for vigorous engagement and for talking about these big issues—with our children, and with our neighbours and friends.
Pullman's trilogy has already joined the honour roll of recent anti-Christian bestsellers (think The Da Vinci Code, The God Delusion and God is not Great). Personally, I think this trend is a promising development. It is much better to be attacked than ignored—to be on the agenda of public debate than to be marginalized.
And besides, according to Jesus, it is a blessing and a joy to be attacked and ridiculed on account of his name.
(Editor's note: The Golden Compass has just been released in the US. It has also been shown at preview screenings in Australia. Discerning CHN readers may like to check out some of the reviews in SydneyAnglicans.net, Christianity Today, Salon.com and The New York Times.)