#1086. Christianizing Reality TV Shows
(It’s guest post Friday, and Some Guy is back with another great post! If you want to write a guest post for SCL, here’s how.)
Christianizing Reality TV Shows by Some Guy
The idea that inspired Jon to start SCL was that Christians like making Christian versions of secular things. We have done great in music and are making progress in the film industry, but we have been neglecting television.
I know we have some television stations and channels that carry preaching, dramas, or discussion panels. Those are fine and all, but that’s not keeping up with what’s popular in the world right now: reality TV.
Reality shows are here to stay, it seems. Rather than fighting the trend, Christians must embrace it. Here are 5 shows I think we could give the ole’ Christian remix:
1. American One True God
No idolatry in this singing competition. This show is moderated by three judge-nots, who offer only encouragement. The pool of contestants is narrowed each week by separating them into sheep and goat categories.
2. I’m in It to Win It
This reality show pits a contestant against the clock. Each challenge must be completed within 60 seconds, with the challenges becoming progressively harder.
The challenges include:
* Cup Stack: build a pyramid using 36 communion cups. The cups are full, and any spill disqualifies you.
* Tithe Drop: you must drop tithe envelopes from a 6-foot ladder and get them to land in an offering plate
* Pencil Basketball: you must toss pew pencils so that they go through the communion cup holders two pews in front of you.
3. The Amazing Grace
Couples compete against other couples to reach the destination, while deciphering hints as to what that destination is. Contestants receive time penalties for every harsh word, unkind deed, or insult.
4. Heaven’s Kitchen
The friendly chef who runs this show is encouraging to each contestant, offering helpful advice on food preparation and presentation. All the food is delicious, and there are no losers.
5. America’s Got Talents
Contestants get 1 talent, then 5 talents, then 10 talents to invest. They are free to invest them however they want, but when the show’s host returns (at random intervals, to surprise the contestants) he will see who has made the most money. The top two places keep their earnings, and they each get a “well done, thou good and faithful servant” trophy.
Question:
What reality show would you “Christianize?”
(Some Guy is an engineer from Michigan. Check out his blog here!)
