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Posted by Brian Tubbs Nov 5, 2007 |
J.K. Rowling, author of the Harry Potter series, shocked the world recently with her revelation that she envisioned the wise and distinguished Hogwarts Headmaster as being gay. What should be the Christian reaction to that development?
So far, reaction has been intense, with many Christians calling for a ban on Harry Potter. "What else is new?" you ask.
Well, prior to Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling's 'outing' of Dumbledore, the Christian community had been largely divided over the fantasy series. Sure, the Old Testament harshly condemned witchcraft (with the mosaic law even calling for witches to be executed), but Harry Potter is fantasy. And if Harry Potter is wrong, because of its themes of supernatural powers and sorcery, then what about Star Wars, The Lord of the Rings, and even The Chronicles of Narnia? What's more, some say, the books even have a Christian theme to them.
That's how the debate went......until the Dumbledore announcement.
Now, more Christians are turning against Rowling and Harry Potter. Defenders of Rowling's fantasy epic will likely charge these Christians with bigotry or homophobia. But this charge is unfair and the problem is much deeper than that.
This isn't a situation where homosexual rights are threatened. This is a situation where a popular fantasy series that has woven its way into the hearts and minds of children worldwide is now validating and endorsing the homosexual lifestyle. And parents have a right to be aware of this and to protect their children from it, if they so choose.
Many Christians will still likely stand by Harry Potter, appreciating its positive influence in getting more kids to read and fueling their creative imagination. Nevertheless, this is a social-political statement by J.K. Rowling. Make no mistake about it. And it should give all Christian families serious pause.