Star Wars’ good vs. evil may be vehicle for Gospel

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (BP)–Star Wars can serve as a vehicle for sharing the Gospel with younger Americans in a language they comprehend, a Cincinnati minister says, citing parallels between the cinematic classics good vs. evil themes and the obstacles Christians face in life.

Jeffrey Perkins, 34, of Covenant-First Presbyterian Church in Cincinnati, leads The Gospel According to Star Wars, speaking the movie language of a younger generation to explain biblical concepts like truth, beauty and goodness, according to The Cincinnati Enquirer.

The 12-week study focuses on the original trilogy – Episodes IV, V and VI – and Perkins said the entire story is essentially the redemption of Darth Vader.

Phil Boatwright, a movie reviewer, remains cautious about the movie.

“I have been told that [director] George Lucas is a student of Eastern religions and that he includes many Zen Buddhist and Taoist ideas in his Star Wars movies, especially with his presentation of the force as an example of light and dark dualism,” Boatwright said. “Still, I don't think Star Wars is going to lead people into Eastern religions. I maintain that these movies are simply parables.”