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Burning Bush 2.0: How Pop Culture Replaced the Prophet
Maybe God doesn’t speak through prophets as often these days because he knows people wouldn’t listen. Maybe God speaks to us in different ways—and in the places he knows where we in our movie theaters, living rooms, iPods, and smartphones. Maybe God still longs to connect with us, and so goes into the places where we’re most likely to listen. Burning Bush 2.0 is a whimsical and sincere examination of the ways God communicates with us—sometimes subtly and secretly—through our media and entertainment streams. Asay examines how faith and God’s fingerprints mark movies and music, television and technology. Through word and picture, God still speaks to us through unsuspecting voices—in ways we’re best able to hear—even if we don’t fully comprehend it completely in the moment. God is everywhere, and doesn’t ask permission to speak, shout out, or whisper his name. Includes study guide for individuals and church groups.
- GenresChristian
208 pages, Paperback
First published April 21, 2015
1 person is currently reading
34 people want to read
About the author
Paul Asay
11 books14 followersPaul Asay is associate editor at Plugged In, a ministry that reaches more than six million people with movie reviews that help people understand popular cultural trends and how they intersect with spiritual issues. Paul is an award-winning journalist who covered religion at The (Colorado Springs) Gazette and whose work has been published by such outlets as The Washington Post, Christianity Today, Youth Worker Journal and Beliefnet.com. Paul has a special interest in the unexpected ways faith and media intersect. He lives in Colorado Springs with his wife, Wendy, and two children.
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Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews
March 11, 2016
Paul Asay, who works for plugged in, "...an entertainment guide full of the reviews you need to make wise personal and family-friendly decisions about movies, videos, music, TV, games and books." wrote Burning Bush 2.0.
Lively writing, at least one or more of the topics will appeal to almost everyone, plus encouragement to explore on your own and maybe write your own observations and insights. Scripture shows us the role and calling of prophet – the person who speaks truth to power – happened because God's people insisted on having human kings like all those other nations, all those everyone elses. Some of us remember Simon & Garfunkel telling us the words of the prophets are written on the subway walls and tenement halls—but that was so very local, right here in this 'hood, on this street! With the power and prevalence of the internet "Pop Culture" in the subtitle has reached and stretched much further than it had even at the end of the last century. Author Paul Asay brings micro overviews of cinema, TV cartoons, video games, music, etc. from the perspective of a mature adult who like most of his readers – and like this reviewer – lived on planet earth before the internet invasion.
Scripture reveals Divine self-revelation in many many people, in a whole lot of physical material "stuff" that in the popular sense is anything but other-worldly, not at all conventionally religious. Especially because Good Friday and Easter 2016 are on the way, I'm preparing to discuss some theology of the cross and theology of glory with my adult Sunday School class these next two weeks, Lent 5 and Lent 6. Most likely I'll quote myself from a few years ago from the class I taught at a different church in a different town:
"Theologians of glory build their theology in the light of what they expect God to be like, inventing God to look something like themselves. Theologians of the cross build their theology in the light of God's own revelation of himself, particularly God's self-revelation in Christ crucified. In addition, the cross of Calvary forms a paradigm and model for God's characteristically hidden and paradoxical, sacramental presence in the commonest things, situations and people."
But has Pop Culture Replaced the Prophet? The Hebrew scriptures distinguish the prophet – nabi – and the seer (into future happens and events) or roeh. Literally in-spired by the Spirit of Life, a prophet calls people out of complacency, points out transgressions, and presents God's life-giving alternatives. But in movies, TV shoes, video games, rap and ballads, does God reveal Godself, show us where and how established political, educational, environmental; and economic powers that be have failed us and what we can do to change the world around us? In this time and place? Are some aspects of popular culture also vehicles of God's current self-revelation? Think about it!
Your own experiences and mine along with Paul Asay's make clear that no, we do not get to interpret everything in every cartoon or film as a message from heaven. Asay also cautions us to avoid aspects of pop culture we know negatively could affect us, possibly lead us into temptation and then into active sin. I appreciate that the author doesn't analyze much of anything in a whole lot of detail, but instead models what each of us might look for next time we watch a movie, listen to the lyrics of a song, play a video game. It also would be perfect for a confirmation or HS Sunday School class project so the students maybe could tell us How Pop Culture Has Replaced the Prophet or ask If Pop Culture Has Replaced the Prophet.
Amazon Vine sent me an ARC uncorrected proof that lacked any back matter, images, indices, etc. the final book might include.
Lively writing, at least one or more of the topics will appeal to almost everyone, plus encouragement to explore on your own and maybe write your own observations and insights. Scripture shows us the role and calling of prophet – the person who speaks truth to power – happened because God's people insisted on having human kings like all those other nations, all those everyone elses. Some of us remember Simon & Garfunkel telling us the words of the prophets are written on the subway walls and tenement halls—but that was so very local, right here in this 'hood, on this street! With the power and prevalence of the internet "Pop Culture" in the subtitle has reached and stretched much further than it had even at the end of the last century. Author Paul Asay brings micro overviews of cinema, TV cartoons, video games, music, etc. from the perspective of a mature adult who like most of his readers – and like this reviewer – lived on planet earth before the internet invasion.
Scripture reveals Divine self-revelation in many many people, in a whole lot of physical material "stuff" that in the popular sense is anything but other-worldly, not at all conventionally religious. Especially because Good Friday and Easter 2016 are on the way, I'm preparing to discuss some theology of the cross and theology of glory with my adult Sunday School class these next two weeks, Lent 5 and Lent 6. Most likely I'll quote myself from a few years ago from the class I taught at a different church in a different town:
"Theologians of glory build their theology in the light of what they expect God to be like, inventing God to look something like themselves. Theologians of the cross build their theology in the light of God's own revelation of himself, particularly God's self-revelation in Christ crucified. In addition, the cross of Calvary forms a paradigm and model for God's characteristically hidden and paradoxical, sacramental presence in the commonest things, situations and people."
But has Pop Culture Replaced the Prophet? The Hebrew scriptures distinguish the prophet – nabi – and the seer (into future happens and events) or roeh. Literally in-spired by the Spirit of Life, a prophet calls people out of complacency, points out transgressions, and presents God's life-giving alternatives. But in movies, TV shoes, video games, rap and ballads, does God reveal Godself, show us where and how established political, educational, environmental; and economic powers that be have failed us and what we can do to change the world around us? In this time and place? Are some aspects of popular culture also vehicles of God's current self-revelation? Think about it!
Your own experiences and mine along with Paul Asay's make clear that no, we do not get to interpret everything in every cartoon or film as a message from heaven. Asay also cautions us to avoid aspects of pop culture we know negatively could affect us, possibly lead us into temptation and then into active sin. I appreciate that the author doesn't analyze much of anything in a whole lot of detail, but instead models what each of us might look for next time we watch a movie, listen to the lyrics of a song, play a video game. It also would be perfect for a confirmation or HS Sunday School class project so the students maybe could tell us How Pop Culture Has Replaced the Prophet or ask If Pop Culture Has Replaced the Prophet.
Amazon Vine sent me an ARC uncorrected proof that lacked any back matter, images, indices, etc. the final book might include.
May 1, 2015
OK, 4.5 stars. Part of me wants to give this book ten stars just because I agree with it so wholeheartedly! But I think it could have been a bit meatier when it comes to giving scriptural reference and back-up on why we need to not isolate ourselves and stick our heads in the quicksand pit of "Christian" entertainment.
The author's point is best summed up when he says that back when Paul told us to focus our thoughts on all that is true, holy, just, and pure, "There was no system of Christian colleges or home schools to keep impressionable youngsters away from the wiles of the Roman Empire, no Christian music to drown out the clanging of the pagan bells, no Christian business directory to keep Christians safe from Jupiter-worshiping bakers. Paul's world was not just messy, its secular influence also was pervasive."
Most of this book analyzes movies, TV shows, music, and video games to show that the discerning Christian can find God in just about any media if we look hard enough. It's not, imho, that he's trying to justify watching things we shouldn't be watching. He spends *pages* at the end of the book warning readers that they should absolutely not watch, read, or play things that they know include weaknesses or sin triggers for them. The point is, we Christians don't have to isolate ourselves or limit our choices just because something isn't explicitly Christian. His point is that God--remember Him? the all-powerful? the Almighty?--can use ANYTHING to speak to us, even if we humans haven't slapped a Christian seal of approval on it.
So yeah, hear, hear! I did love reading this book. I wanted a bit more "this is why" in between all the "this is the cool Christian interpretation of (insert movie title)" but still a great read and one I highly recommend.
The author's point is best summed up when he says that back when Paul told us to focus our thoughts on all that is true, holy, just, and pure, "There was no system of Christian colleges or home schools to keep impressionable youngsters away from the wiles of the Roman Empire, no Christian music to drown out the clanging of the pagan bells, no Christian business directory to keep Christians safe from Jupiter-worshiping bakers. Paul's world was not just messy, its secular influence also was pervasive."
Most of this book analyzes movies, TV shows, music, and video games to show that the discerning Christian can find God in just about any media if we look hard enough. It's not, imho, that he's trying to justify watching things we shouldn't be watching. He spends *pages* at the end of the book warning readers that they should absolutely not watch, read, or play things that they know include weaknesses or sin triggers for them. The point is, we Christians don't have to isolate ourselves or limit our choices just because something isn't explicitly Christian. His point is that God--remember Him? the all-powerful? the Almighty?--can use ANYTHING to speak to us, even if we humans haven't slapped a Christian seal of approval on it.
So yeah, hear, hear! I did love reading this book. I wanted a bit more "this is why" in between all the "this is the cool Christian interpretation of (insert movie title)" but still a great read and one I highly recommend.
August 5, 2017
I always enjoy looking at spiritual themes in secular books and movies. This book addresses that, as well as music and video games, in an entertaining way. Quite enjoyable.
June 14, 2015
The title is what caught my eye. If you know me, or have been reading this blog for a while, you know that I like pondering the intersection of faith and pop culture. So, I was interested in Asay’s take, especially in his take on how pop culture has replaced the prophet.
In each chapter, Asay writes on a theme, weaving in different elements of pop culture. For example, one of the chapters deals with call (the burning bush connection) and Asay uses illustrations from various superhero films. Along the way, he makes valid points about why we should expand our thinking enough to hear what God may be saying to us through pop culture.
This is the strongest aspect of the book. Some excellent connections are made, some that are worth using as illustrations in a sermon or teaching session. He puts the Pixar film Up in dialogue with C. S. Lewis to ponder pain theologically. The serial killer Dexter and forgiveness. The film Children of Men and the birth narrative of Christ. Yet, this can only go so far for the reader, at least this one. As one blogger wrote, “the further along I got, the more I felt it was a little pointless.”
I would have to agree. Though Asay is a great observer of film, and writes with an ease and humor, it was a little bit much for what it was. Perhaps in a blog post or a newspaper or magazine article. But it seemed to miss the mark.
Read more at jasoncstanley.com
In each chapter, Asay writes on a theme, weaving in different elements of pop culture. For example, one of the chapters deals with call (the burning bush connection) and Asay uses illustrations from various superhero films. Along the way, he makes valid points about why we should expand our thinking enough to hear what God may be saying to us through pop culture.
This is the strongest aspect of the book. Some excellent connections are made, some that are worth using as illustrations in a sermon or teaching session. He puts the Pixar film Up in dialogue with C. S. Lewis to ponder pain theologically. The serial killer Dexter and forgiveness. The film Children of Men and the birth narrative of Christ. Yet, this can only go so far for the reader, at least this one. As one blogger wrote, “the further along I got, the more I felt it was a little pointless.”
I would have to agree. Though Asay is a great observer of film, and writes with an ease and humor, it was a little bit much for what it was. Perhaps in a blog post or a newspaper or magazine article. But it seemed to miss the mark.
Read more at jasoncstanley.com
March 16, 2015
Interesting name. Interesting Concept. Ok, I'll bite.
Paul is one of the guys who works for that company most Christian parents have heard of: Plugged In. He reviews movies and lets parents know what to expect. Will there be sex, drugs, nudity, blasphemy, etc... So, he's seen a LOT of movies and, obviously, knows his stuff.
What this book is pointing out is how the prophets of old were respected in their countries and towns. If we were to see someone that now, it was probably the schizophrenic homeless guy you decided was too scary to give money to. Instead, God is using pop culture, itself, to speak to us. He shows how each movie proves the truth of God. As men we are evil and we must hope. He points out one pop culture icon after another showing how God is timeless and true and even if you don't want to believe in Him, He will still use you.
At first I was really interested, but the further along I got, the more I felt like it was a little pointless. Yes, I love a good pop culture reference, but I didn't feel like I was really getting anything from the book. You can take any story, I suppose, and find God in it. I don't know that I agree with the idea that pop culture is today's prophet thought. I think this one is a skip for me.
Thanks, netgalley, for this book! As always, this is my honest opinion. Here's to many more!
Paul is one of the guys who works for that company most Christian parents have heard of: Plugged In. He reviews movies and lets parents know what to expect. Will there be sex, drugs, nudity, blasphemy, etc... So, he's seen a LOT of movies and, obviously, knows his stuff.
What this book is pointing out is how the prophets of old were respected in their countries and towns. If we were to see someone that now, it was probably the schizophrenic homeless guy you decided was too scary to give money to. Instead, God is using pop culture, itself, to speak to us. He shows how each movie proves the truth of God. As men we are evil and we must hope. He points out one pop culture icon after another showing how God is timeless and true and even if you don't want to believe in Him, He will still use you.
At first I was really interested, but the further along I got, the more I felt like it was a little pointless. Yes, I love a good pop culture reference, but I didn't feel like I was really getting anything from the book. You can take any story, I suppose, and find God in it. I don't know that I agree with the idea that pop culture is today's prophet thought. I think this one is a skip for me.
Thanks, netgalley, for this book! As always, this is my honest opinion. Here's to many more!
May 28, 2015
Food for Thought
This book reminded me how to evaluate entertainment on a basic level. I am very picky about movies I watch, so this book reminded me that even movies I don't like can have merit. This book is more about examples than techniques of criticism, so I will go back to English 201 online to get specific with artistic analysis. If you are not CHristian, this book might be a waste of time. I am, so it wasn't.
This book reminded me how to evaluate entertainment on a basic level. I am very picky about movies I watch, so this book reminded me that even movies I don't like can have merit. This book is more about examples than techniques of criticism, so I will go back to English 201 online to get specific with artistic analysis. If you are not CHristian, this book might be a waste of time. I am, so it wasn't.
January 21, 2016
I did not make it to the end. I realized I just didn't care. And actually dreamt about zombies after that chapter, and realized it was just filling my head with ideas and thoughts I would rather not have and/or think about.
Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews