You’ll get a kick out of this: A fascinating treatise published by the Puritans in 1616 was discovered that gives us an idea just how far back anti-entertainment sentiments go in the Christian community. Signed only by the initials “T.G.,” it cited numerous reasons why Christians should not see plays or participate in their production:
• The theater has its origin in pagan ritual.
• Plays deal in “murder and mischief.”
• The players take on false names, often wear inappropriate clothes and have to act out sins.
• By approving of plays we take part in the sins they act out.
• The fruit of play going is ill-spent money, time wasted and the New Man is weakened.
• The church historically has warned its members against the theater.
• God has judged the theater by allowing accidents to happen to actors and playgoers.
Whoever “T.G.” was, he had no vision about how dramatic storytelling could change people’s lives. Sometimes we try so hard to keep from making mistakes, that we limit our potential, and certainly our ability to share a message of hope!
Get out there and take a risk today!
