"The Golden Compass is skillfully designed to get kids lost."

The following note came across my email, it originated from Pastor Bob Botsford of Horizon Christian Fellowship:

In our four services this past weekend I referenced the release of an upcoming movie starring Nichole Kidman coming out this December called, "The Golden Compass."

The movie is designed to introduce children to an "anti-Narnia" trilogy of books written by Phillip Pullman in which God is killed. Pullman is a secular humanist and proclaimed atheist whose works recently were accurately described by ABC news as, "atheism for kids." Clearly, Pullman's motivation is to attack the symbolism of Christ that is beautifully portrayed in the Chronicles of Narnia series written by C.S. Lewis.

Pullman has publicly stated that he wants to "kill God in the minds of children". And it has been said of Pullman that he is "the writer the atheists would be praying for, if atheists prayed."

To some "The Golden Compass" movie itself will seem mild and innocent, and they will draw the conclusion that I and the Christian community have once again over-reacted. However, the books upon which the movie is based portray a much darker story than meets the eye. The plot thickens over time resulting in a "frog in the kettle" reading experience that is meant to draw your young readers in unsuspectingly. There are characters in the book series that blatantly describe Christianity as "a very powerful and convincing mistake." In fact, in the final book, characters representing Adam and Eve eventually kill God, who at times is called YAHWEH. Each book in the trilogy progressively becomes more wicked, graphic and bold.

I have received many phone calls of concern, articles and emails, and I believe based on the information I have received that this could possibly be the most dangerous film, to date, ever made for children. At its core, The Golden Compass is about killing God and is skillfully designed to get kids spiritually off course and ultimately leave them lost! I believe we have a "golden" opportunity to stand up in opposition to this assault aimed directly at the heart of our faith and the heart of our families.

Humbly, with the heart of a shepherd, my aim simply is to warn the flock of pending danger and advise that we steer clear of grazing in this patch of poisoned grass.

May God bless you as you raise your families and build your homes upon the Truth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the Glory Forever,

In the Power of His Love,

Pastor Bob Botsford
Horizon Christian Fellowship
Rancho Santa Fe, CA