Occult 101 or a primer on book burning?

I recently heard a television evangelist going on and on, in great detail, about a certain series of books that he was recommending his followers speak out against. And while I agree with him that these books may not present the best of ideals for our children, I am concerned about the vitriolic anger with which such preachers put forth their own opinions.

I am also concerned about how they alone supposedly speak for God, as if what flows out of their mouths comes straight from the throne of The Almighty Himself.

If we are concerned about our youngsters being swept up into some "Occult 101" indoctrination by reading books, watching movies and listening to certain styles of music, then the responsibility to curb their exploration through such avenues falls on us as parents. If we, as Christian parents, see trouble coming down the pike through books, movies and music, then it is up to us to teach our children what we believe to be right and true and to hope they steer clear of such evils.

The fact that such men and women use television airtime paid for by their "congregations" (those who send in tax-deductible contributions) to encourage the banning of books they do not agree with is rather ironic. They are, after all, given the right to be there speaking their mind by the First Amendment of the Constitution -- the same amendment that gives an author the right to put thoughts to paper and to seek publication of his or her writings. In fact, it's that same amendment that gives this newspaper the right to print opinions such as this one on a regular basis.

I am not here to preach a message of total tolerance when it comes to what we allow our children to read, watch or listen to. And I'm not saying the books referred to by these preacher types are harmless when it comes to the effect they have on our children. I simply want to encourage parents to take responsibility for such things. Know what your children are reading and watching and listening to and take a stand based on the values you want to instill.

My fear is that in trying to steer folks away from certain books, movies and music, we Christians -- especially those in the pulpits of America -- will become an overly judgmental, witch-hunting, book-burning lot. It has happened before. And history reminds us that no good ever comes from such activity.