What's a Christian to do with Harry Potter?: an Interview
I figured anyone who picked up a book called "What's a Christian to Do with Harry Potter?" was already familiar with the fears and concerns of those against Harry Potter. Therefore, I tried to help those who were worried about this to see why some Christians see these books as classic children's literature, even though I stressed that those who hold convictions against Harry Potter should not violate their consciences by reading it.
I did my best to set aside my personal opinion because the point is not to persuade anyone to share my opinion but to come to their own in a godly way. I must have done okay since one customer review on Amazon.com said, "It's obvious she's against Harry Potter," and another said, "It's obvious she's a fan of Harry Potter."
MI: What principles do you keep in mind while considering books such at the Harry Potter series ?
CN: I went to principles governing freedom in Christ, and the greatest over-riding principle of all "Love your neighbor as yourself."
In dealing with the division and resulting disputes, I drew from the teachings in 1 Cor. 8-10, and Romans 14, using those principles as applied to this "disputable matter." However, those who associate the magic of Harry's world with real-world witchcraft may dismiss these principles as not being applicable. I did double-check the biblical exegesis on these passages with my Pastor who has a Ph.D. in Bible.
I also used the principles that warn us against witchcraft, the wiles of the devil, and necessity of spiritual warfare, prayer, and wearing spiritual armor. I wrote them simply so parents and concerned adults could prepare their kids to be "in the world but not of the world" and trained in spiritual discernment.
MI: How can parents in general best approach the Harry Potter series of books with their children ? What suggestions do you have for Christian parents in particular ?
CN: Realize that your kids MUST be prepared to deal with Harry Potter -- whether or not you plan to let them read the books or see the movies. The best time to prepare is before the movie comes out. ยท If a child has read a Harry Potter book, the parent needs to make sure their child distinguishes between fantasy and reality, knows that witchcraft in our world is not the same as in Harry's world, and that God
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