God’s Redemption Story: The Answer to Popular Culture

If we only point out the sin in every piece of popular culture, we would foster a pessimistic attitude that affects our own lives. Only through God’s redemption story can we live and remain hopeful. Seeing the devastating nature of sin alongside the necessity of repentance leads us to worship God. Our vision of God’s mercy, wisdom, goodness, and power always contrasts with culture. When we engage with popular culture, let’s ask ourselves how the Gospel applies. How is God’s story the answer?

Through these situations, we can introduce something greater—a better solution. When popular culture cries out for an answer, we want to respond quickly with the only acceptable answer: Christ. Our human desires can only be truly fulfilled in the Gospel. God’s redemption fully answers and silences the idols lurking in every corner.

When your friends or family members raise questions about popular culture, we want to show them God’s mercy and righteousness. He wants His glory shown through us as we spread His Gospel and show people Christ. How can we unpack the devastating nature of sin and then pivot to the necessity of repentance to the lost? If we do this the right way, it will lead to glorifying God. Contrasting God’s nature and power with cultural norms will always reveal God as supreme.

All of mankind’s desires only find fulfillment through the Gospel of Christ Jesus. He alone will fully meet any need. Create space for God’s redemption story to answer popular culture and silence its idols. Remember, all truth is ultimately God’s truth—we must make those connections when engaging with popular culture.

Today’s Challenge: Look for the overarching theme of God’s redemption story in what popular culture portrays. What issue or idol can you pick out and then point the answer to God’s character? Is a TV marriage in despair because of their lack of priorities? God’s plan for marriage is that both spouses set Christ as their priority, finding fulfillment in His perfection. Is a news story showing a hopeless situation? God sent Jesus to die for us and give us eternal hope.

If you’ve enjoyed this Bible Reading Plan and have children who you’d like to develop critical thinking skills while engaging with popular culture, visit www.cultivatecriticalthinking.com

Download a free Critical Thinking Movie Guide that has Incredible examples for you to follow along and use with your children at your next family movie night.