ABC News: 'The Simpsons' Dives Into Gay Controversy

ABC News: 'The Simpsons' Dives Into Gay Controversy

So, what to make of this? The video feed from ABC states that there is a significant debate among conservative Christians about this episode, let alone The Simpsons itself. What's a proper Christian response to this episode?

I'll preface my comments by divulging that I'm a long-time Simpsons fan. I spent many a Sunday night in college with other students watching the first episodes. What do I like about it? It's funny! The depth of the satire on the show is profound, and there have been several astute critiques of all aspects of society: Management, labor, liberal, conservative, Christian, Jew, Muslim, and on and on. . . No one escapes the sharp wit of Matt Groening.

What do I make of Springfield's legalization of gay marriage? Let's list some principles

1. It's a television show, and a cartoon to boot. It's a cartoon for adults, not kids. I don't let my kids watch this show. Ever. The themes are just too much for them. As with all television, it reflects and shapes our culture.

2. With a strong record for satire, I think that it would be interesting to watch this episode to see how the producers want to show what they think is ridiculous about this issue.

3. After the episode airs, I'd like to have a chance to reflect on it

4. I don't pledge blind support or abject condemnation of this or any other television show. All of it must be taken in critically.

Because this issue is one that I have a strong belief about, that's going to bias my opinion of the show. I believe that marriage is for a man and a woman. It's a civil institution with religious significance, and it's not to be changed, since it's one of the basic building blocks of society. I'm concerned about the headlong rush to try to legalize it. I'm concered, too about the response to this demand for change. Both sides have taken polarized positions. I hope that this episode points that out.