It took me a while to realize that these stories, while ofthen used with children, are not at all children's stories. I think the devile has tricked us into thinking so much of biblical theology is story fit for kids. How did we cone to think the story of Noah's ark is appropriate for children? Can you imagine a children's book aboud Noah's ark complete with paintings of people gasping in gallons of water, mothers grasping thier children while their bodies go flying down white-rapid rivers, the children's tiny heads being bashed against rocks or hung up in fallen trees? I don't think a children's book like that would sell many copies.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Biblical stories are often mislabeled as children's tales but contain graphic violence. They require adult engagement rather than simple fables.
- In plain terms
- These stories have violent details not suitable for kids.
- What can you take from it?
- Treat religious texts as adult narratives, not children's fables.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Why do we soften these stories for kids?
- How do you handle difficult religious texts?
Another view
It dismisses the value of simplified versions for young learners.
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