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I’m working on an article and I’d like your help. I want your two cents about Foxes hit show, Glee.
Since I’d love your comments, I’ll go ahead and make this a contest. Rather than doing the typical “first 10 comments,” etc… I’d like to keep the comments flowing. So here’s the skinny. Make a comment to this blog entry in the next 48 hours. I’ll randomly choose from the helpful comments, drawing 10 winners.
Here’s what I want to know:
Glee is one of the most Emmy-nominated shows on network television (19 Emmy nominations, more than any other show). Season 1 went on sale yesterday and Season 2 is just around the corner (September 21). A ton of our kids are watching it, many obsessing over it.
Add to that… it’s brilliantly executed. The musical numbers are amazing– after the show airs, the songs go on sale on iTunes and are catapulted to the top 10. There’s more talent on this cast than almost any year of American Idol’s top 10. The show isn’t cheesy.
The show deals with issues, showing consequences and hurt. Name it: teen pregnancy, bullying, self image, equal rights… but at the same time, the show sends mixed messages. It’s often course, laced with sexual humor and is very preachy about the homosexual lifestyle (the show has a huge LGBT following).
Christian parents always ask me: Should I let my kids watch it?
I want your answers! (and please include in your comments if you’ve seen the show. You can watch full episodes on Fox.com)
Use the comments and let me know. I’ll send 10 of you a copy of my first book, The Top 12 Resources Youth Workers Want. If you already have the book… still comment. I’d love your thoughts!
Posted in Contests, Discussion Ideas, Entertainment Media, TV | | Leave A Comment
I have a love-hate relationship with this show. There are weeks that my wife and I watch and just absolutely love it and others where it pushes the lines quite a bit. A ton of kids in my former youth group (ended a week ago) loved this show and I think that parents who are connected with their teens and actually converse about the media their students are consuming would get a big picture into the stereotypical highschool today.
I have a hate-hate relationship with Glee. I can’t wait for this style of TV to go away. 🙂
I agree with Jake, Parents need to be involved/participating with what their children are doing. Be it school, school, sports, youth group (yes, even this), and media consumption. To raise a Godly it takes active involvement, not cruse control.
I would say parents should watch it with their kids (probably 15 and up) for the following reasons:
1) they’ll both love the music. the parents can make fun of the kids for liking Bell Biv DeVoe, and the kids can raz their parents cause they don’t know who Jazmine Sullivan is in teh same episode.
2) It’s going to open a lot of doors to discuss topics that may not otherwise come up. It may do a good job of bringing up questions like, “Do kids in your school; struggle with that?” or “Do you think teens really respond like that?”
3) I really don’t like the show, simply due to personal taste, but Sue Sylvester is hilarious.
This is less a comment about Glee and more about the “should I let my kid watch/listen to/read it” question. My go to answer is have you taken the time to watch/listen to/read it yourself? Granted, there are some things out there in media land that are so obviously toxic that there is little to no chance of a conversation about them having any redeeming value – but usually those things come with clear warning labels. In most cases, however, if a parent has questions about a show/song/book chances are if they take the time to pre-view the item, and then experience it WITH their child and then talk to their child about it afterward that child is going to learn more about how to consume media responsibly than if the parent just relied on the youth worker’s stamp of approval.
This is definitely true, in my opinion, with regard to Glee.
*steps down from soap box, takes deep breath, and walks away*
Glee is a conversational whirlwind of topics.
If a parent wanted to know how to communicate/understand some very real topics their children, teenagers, or friends of theirs deal with, I think they should be watching this show.
This is a show that is fun, great, and offensive all at the same time.
The songs and music are great. They have amazing talent, and performers. The writing is really well done. And the stories are very compelling and heartfelt.
The problem with this show, on the Christian side of communication, is the morality of the writers points.
We as Christians need to be watching this show to understand the points of view that is being told, because they are valid if we are ever going to try to minister or communicate with people of these values or points of view.
To give an example, there is a boy named Kurt on the show, who is gay, and there is a strong emotional story going on between him and his father. His mother passed away, his dad is a jock, he’s sensitive and into more fashion and style, and it is a very heartfelt story. How do we communicate and understand that knowing being gay is wrong, but still try to connect with someone with a broken heart, a hurting relationship with his only parent, and find someone hurting in the world to communicate with who could relate to that story.
Glee is not a perfect show, and it shouldn’t be.
Dealing from topics of teenage pregnancy, racism, outcasts, nerds and jocks, to the hurting families, and many more topics, this show can really open your eyes to what we can be using to work with peoples lives and share with them the difference.
Glee is one of the most perfectly planned, written, and acted shows I have ever seen. It is one of a very few shows I have ever seen that can convincingly move directly between moments that are awesome-cool, heart-wrenching, deeply touching, absurdly funny, and almost any combination of those that you can imagine. Add some of the best current and classic pop music, and it is quite literally the perfect vessel in today’s culture for addressing social and moral issues in a way that students will both understand and engage with.
That said, it shouldn’t be a surprise to anyone that the writers and producers of Glee would address those moral and social issues from a perspective that doesn’t always line up with scripture. On some issues (like how people treat/value each other, in particular) I have been pleasantly surprised at how much Glee’s worldview actually does line up with scripture. But, yes, on issues like sexuality Glee’s perspective isn’t necessarily ‘Christian’.
Does that mean that parents shouldn’t let their kids watch Glee? I don’t think so. I think students are way more intelligent and thoughtful than we sometimes give them credit for. To answer the question (Should I let my kids watch it?) directly – yes, you should let your kids watch it. And you should sit right next to them on the couch. And every time the show goes to commercial, you should talk with your kid about the previous segment. And you should know scripture well enough that when the show champions a worldview that conflicts with scripture, you can accurately show them how God’s way differs from the World’s way.
If you’re not willing to go that extra mile with your kids, my guess is that they probably wouldn’t obey you even if you did forbid them to watch it…
I have to admit that I have not watched the show, but know people – including a respected pastor – who are a little obsessed with it. Part of the reason that I haven’t watched it is because our student’s aren’t really into it either. Not sure why that is.
Regardless of what show it is, however, I do think that parents should not restrict their kids from seeing shows that tackle real-life issues and spark discussion. Good parenting means tackling the hard issues head-on and being involved; when kids watch these controversial shows, parents need to be willing to talk through issues with them afterwards or during (with the age of DVR, pausing is helpful…). Those are the opportunities to teach the students to make wise decisions. Sheltering them from the hard topics – I’ve found – only makes it worse in the long run.
Great comments so far. Very interesting. Especially considering some of the research I read last week about media and how it affects teenagers. No report agreed. One report said, “Parents can’t stop what kids watch- so don’t try to stop them. But talk with them about it.” Another study said, “Monitor your kids media and limit it, and talk about it.”
The interesting thing was, with all the disagreements between these academic reports and research, they ALL agreed on one thing: parents should keep talking with their kids about this stuff.
It’s good to hear the same principle here within the divirsity of comments and points of view.
Keep em coming!
I believe this is one of those shows that strikes a cord with many teens and adults alike. It is certainly a water-cooler type show because it lends itself to discussion on all the issues brought up in earlier comments.
Personally, I admit I do get uncomfortable at times with how strongly issues are handled and displayed but I feel this show depicts teen struggles in a typical high school (minus the great singing). I still remember how uncomfortable I was when I was in high school back in the 70’s and honestly not much has changed. Bullying, sex, exploitation, homosexuality, ego, swearing, reveling clothes, bad hair, etc where all there back in the day.
I have no problem with parents “allowing their teens” to watch it and think the opportunity for open discussion on topics brought up on the show are great… so sit down together, tune in and then talk.
Basically I would say I agree with the majority of what others have said—if you’re going to let your children watch it, then parents watch it with them. During the parts of the show I have seen, discussion could/should flow right from the scenes. Some students are definitely relating with the show.
Some observations:
A couple of months ago, I was at a Bay Area frozen yogurt store where a group of High School students sang songs similar to “Glee” type songs during the store’s talent night. The group didn’t say it, but it seemed like “Glee” was a big influence.
The students in our youth group however are not really into the show. Our demographic doesn’t seem to be one portrayed in the show, though I could be wrong. The demographic of our students is mostly Hispanic, lower class, at-risk students, 95% of whom are from broken homes.
Just started watching it with my wife. We wanted to see what all the hype was about. It’s a well done show. It touches on a lot of things that teenagers go through but doesn’t necessarily give the right responses to these things.
Parents should tune in with their children. Teenagers are experiencing a lot of these things already or know someone that is. This way, parents can encourage the right response to these situations. This show could possibly even promote the dialogue between parents and teenagers.
I don’t think that middle schoolers need to watch it though. Teenagers should be more mature than that which is associated with the middle school mindset to watch it.
When parents are watching this with their kids, then they know what they’re watching. Otherwise, kids are absorbing this stuff with no wisdom to go along with it.
I definitely agree that you should sit with your kids and watch this, although in todays society kids have their own tv in their room and sometimes it’s just not that simple. I would at least watch it to see what’s on there and then bring it up later in conversation with them. I think (just like a LOT of the shows on television these days) it glorifies sex too much. But I am relieved that they did show the consequences of sex and some of the kids chose to wait even if it’s not for the biblical reason. I want to agree that middle schoolers shouldn’t watch this, but in todays society all most all of them are exposed to this by 7th or 8th grade. I know a girl who started smoking weed in the 7th grade. It’s not something unusual. Sex is everywhere and so is homosexuality. I would just suggest that you talk to your kids about the issues the show brings up – especially when they are in middle school because they are so young and so much more open.
I’ve never seen the show, just bits and pieces, so I can’t comment on content. However, what I do like about it is the musical part. I think it’s great that somebody’s put together a show with singing and dance like that.
I really enjoyed the first season I thought it really hit the mark with a lot of teen issues especially around acceptance. The second season has felt like it was trying to become a MTV show, more edgy, more sex, more homosexuality stuff, more adult content. And if I’m honest I’ve changed the channel sometimes 15 minutes in to see if there is something better on.
Should your kid watch it? Nope. Should you watch it? Probably not. But it sure is entertaining!
Here’s the deal with Glee: it exists in an alternate reality with no morality.
One example: As a viewer during the first season of Glee, you found yourself rooting for the teacher to break up with his high school sweetheart & wife, and to hookup with the doe-eyed counselor & love interest who happened to be engaged to one of his friends.
In the show there are high school kids hooking up with one another, VERY sexualized dance routines and innuendos, gay expression/lifestyle is encouraged…the list could go on and on (but I stopped watching it about 1/4 of the way through the season and repressed memories of the shows I did watch) (okay, I still watch some episodes, but mainly I fast-forward to the musical numbers…especially Dougie Howser’s episode).
In summary, the show Glee is not for kids (although, like tobacco, it is marketed towards them). The show should be viewed by adults with intact moral compasses and the wherewithal to constantly run the happenings of the show through their filter. If teens are going to watch it (and they will!), I strongly encourage parents to watch it with them and discuss the choices the characters are making–don’t underestimate the influence of this show!
One things is for sure that a show this popular carries ahuge amount of influence. In the UK glee clubs are springing up everywhere now, the music they cover sells thousands a day and whatever ‘morality’ it preaches, kids listen.
Our young people are singing the songs, copying their outfits and sadly many will copy their actions. I think the show glosses over many harmful issues as these teens seem to cope admirably well with the worst problems and communicate effectively to solve them. I don’t know many youth that are able to maturely work through all their issues straight away but the show is providing these ‘inspirational’ characters that our young people will think are leading a normal life and try to be the same.
I understand why its so catchy and appealing so like other comments the one positive is that it provides a wide open door for bold parents to talk through this stuff with their kids and point them to the truth of God’s Word.
“Glee” is my guilty pleasure but a situation that makes me really glad I’m not a parent and don’t have to make the decisions about what to allow in the house.
I try to never tell parents what they should or shouldn’t do. As a youth minister and a single gal, I know that while I think I know all about morality, theology and the development of teenagers, I really know very little about family dynamics and the blood, sweat and tears that actually goes into parenting teenagers so I’ve trained myself to have my initial reaction to “should I allow my teen to…” always be, “you are their parent and you know best”. However, I also realize that as youth ministers it’s important that we provide tools and insight into the teachings of the Church and Teen culture that parents might not be aware of, so I will follow this comment up with any relevant information I have.
So I have shared with parents what I’ve observed about Glee: that it’s a snarky representation highlighting and poking fun at some of the worst aspects of teen culture (perhaps that’s why so many youth ministers and teachers find it hilarious– it makes fun of so much that we observe on a daily basis). The teens don’t always make the right choices and the adults are not always good role models. However, I know from experience that even if kids are forbidden to watch something at home, that doesn’t mean they won’t see it at a friend’s house or on their friend’s ipods or phones, so it’s important to discuss the topics raised in shows like “Glee” because whether or not it’s allowed in the home, teens need help understanding these issues.
Personally, the soundtrack to “Glee” provided some great sing-along moments on youth group road trips this summer– much better than some of the music kids have previously asked to listen to on Church trips. Also, the topics raised have led to some great conversations with kids and their parents, it sure beats “Jersey Shore” when it comes to shows to discuss over pizza.
Hey,
I am not personally obsess with Glee. I watch it occassionally because my wife likes it. Most of my female youth leaders watch it and my youth watch it.
I do see there is alot of controversial issues on there and I don’t like how they handle them.(same goes with the secret life of an american teenager). I also agree that they contradict themselves.. When them seem to speak truth about one topic and half truth about another…
Should Parents let their kids watch it?
I agree with the person who said that Parents should let their children 15 and up watch it, but watch it with them.
1) Glee gives parents peek into the world of High School/ the world of youth culture.
2) Allows Parents to talk about/ask questions about some of the things that are going on in their own child’s life.
3) Glee portrays something that everyone wants in high school- To fit in/sense of community
The Glee club is it’s own clique where you have dorks, semi popular, jocks, cheerleaders, glamour girls and not so glamour, losers and homosexual(s).
From what I seen of the show is that the Glee club sticks together and has each others back, they go through hard times and fights, but come back together….
I think it offers a sense of community that Youth crave…I think it motivates us as youth pastors to offer an even better and healthier sense of community through our youth groups.
I guess I will be the odd man out here. I do not allow my kids to watch glee, granted the oldest is only 9.
I watched the first couple episodes of the first season and then another one later on. Since then only bits and pieces. It holds no appeal for me.
As has already been mentioned there seems to be no consequences for immoral behavior. (Although this show is not alone in this.) It seems to really push the homosexual agenda and talkling points.
Why would I want to relive high school through a tv program? I survived all that foolishness once, and have 5 kids who are going to have to navigate it soon. I work w/ high school kids and see the consequences of this crap first hand.
Since my kids started talking we have tried to instill in them that it is ok to be different, to make good choices and stand by them. We are very careful what we watch and allow to be watched in our home.
I can see watching one episode w/ them to discuss what was being pushed, but certainly not every week.
Wes
Glee rides a fine line. And only a parent can really decide if it is or isn’t appropriate for their child to watch. But I would definitely advice parents to be cautious because, so often, Glee says the exact opposite of what we teach our students as Christians. As an example, there was a scene where two of the female cheerleaders are talking about sex and dating to some of the other students, and say that “you aren’t dating everyone you have sex with. If you were we would be dating.”
On the one hand, if I had kids I am not sure I would want them watching this show. On the other hand, I worry a lot more about the students whose parents don’t care what they watch, would never even think to ask if the show was appropriate and wouldn’t think it wasn’t if they saw it.
I want my students to be sheltered from the negative influences of the world. But at some point, as their walk with Christ matures I need them to be able to discuss issues with their peers and minister to them on their level.
If parents are willing to watch with their students and teach smart media filtering, then great, I can think of no better show to lend discussion to that conversation. But I think it could be dangerous to just let students absorb the messages they portray on Glee with out conversation of the messages and morals.
A suggestion:
Like most of these points made so far (above). Could parents use the show as a connection point to their teens? The show is set in a high school, with all the clichs, clubs, gossip, bullying, and insecurity that comes along with it. Granted parents didnt have the technology their students do now but parents were in High School once. — Mom could sit with daughter and talk about body isssues as they see Mercedes Jones struggling between desiring to be popular (Cheerleader) and accepted (Glee club).- –Dad could sit with son and talk about male roles as they see Finn Hudson struggling to be the right guy when he has no real male role models to emulate.-
Yes there is sex, yes there are issues with homosexuality, yes Sue Sylester is a modern day Cruella Deville, but the show speaks to some real issues facing teenagers…all be it with singing. Parents at the very least should use the show as a discussion starter, and they will be suprised to hear some music for their time period and some of their teenagers. Use the music to bridge the gap, and watch it with their students and talk about those underlying issues. That’s how Sean “S” it….that didnt work. Sorry.
Not only did we let our 16 year old daughter watch it last season but our family room was filled each week with no less than a dozen of her friends. We use these “happenings” as a way to open our home to a wide variety of kids. As you might guess they fall across the Outreach/Discipleship spectrum. They love my wife’s hospitality on Glee night which includes lots of freshly baked chocolate chips and hot chocolate. Many of the kids are members of our church and my wife pulls them and their musical interests into her worship group at our church.
Of course the content is a concern but most of these kids are 16 and 17 so they can attend the R rated stuff at the local cinema anyhow. In the grand scheme of things it is worth it to us for them to be at our home where we can build relationships with them. Otherwise my daughter leaves the house and heads off to… Well you just never know do ya?
Personally, my wife and I love the show and own the first two season soundtracks. As a youth leader I find the content of the show to be exactly how you described it: “course, laced with sexual humor and is very preachy about the homosexual lifestyle”. But I appreciate the show because of it’s honesty. They don’t try and sugarcoat anything and lay it out there how they see things.
Do I think every one of the youth in my youth group should watch it? Probably not. But there’s a great majority of kids who could have great conversations with their parents if their parents would watch it with them or at least watch it sometime to know what’s going on.
I think it opens up an entire inlet to talking about youth culture with some fresh examples.
I must admit to watching Glee on regular basis, and enjoying the somewhat subversive humour, as well as the music.
They’re bringing in a “Christian” kid this season, Ryan Murphy said in an article I read not too long ago that they’re hoping to do with this character for teenage Christians what the character Kurt did for gay teens. We’ll see, but it’s something I plan on discussing with my youth.
Steve… that would be interesting indeed if they actually showed a Christian in a positive light. I can count on one hand how many times I’ve seen that on TV.
I think the most recent was a show that only made it one season, STUDIO 60, written by Jewish writer Aaron Sorkin (who also penned West Wing and numerous movies like A Few Good Men). He had a Christian character who they showed in a positive light, although… she didn’t really live by Biblical standards.
Glee actually portrayed Quinn (the pregnant cheerleader) as some sort of religious person in the Pilot, making fun of the fact that she was president of the celibacy club. She stopped in the middle of making out to pray. I thought this was typical of Hollywood… because Quinn is perhaps one of the meanest characters on the show… but you really start to feel compassion for her as the season progresses. (messy, isn’t it?)
It will be interesting to see.
I’m honoured to be invited to comment; so, here is my two cents in answer to the question “should I let my kids watch it?”
They already do. Even those in the church. I know it is often the case, in my church at least, where one or both parents are watching it together with the student (usually a daughter). Discussing the topics and ‘low-brow’ elements (i.e. a pro-gay agenda) are worth more than letting them slide; the teens will learn more this way as to the ‘why’ and ‘what’ rather than being left alone to sort it out themsleves.
I don’t suggest you let your children watch this show, especially without some responsible supervision, and definitely not the younger crowd (not teen). Again, it may be too late since so many do. And, what once started out well doesn’t always stay good; the seasons have digressed (as most of the “big shows” do i.e Grey’s; Housewives; etc) and perhaps they will stop watching. It is hard to imagine teens tuning in only to the YouTube postings and iTunes/soundtrack buying (which are the best part of the show — the musical numbers) without watching the show, but, it might be a suggestion. PVR’s are the saftey of one amily in my church when it come to GLee; they can skip what they like and pause it so as to talk about things right away, much like you would a DVD.
So, there was a long answer to a ‘yes’/’no’ question. I think it’s not a matter of letting them see it (I would simply say ‘no’ to that — the characters seem to fit the description in Jude 7-14, 16) but what to do since they already watch it; sadly the approach now must be reactionary rather than proactive. To each parent, their discretion.
I hope you are two cents the richer 🙂
As a stay at home mom and youth worker, I watch waaaaayyyy too much TV, most of it online. So when I heard about a show (from my high school girls small group Bible Study) made just for “them” — they were in show choir — that was supposedly hilarious, I was all in.
Two episodes later, I was out. I had abysmally poor standards when it comes to morality and online tv — I was a Bachelor/Bachelorrette devotee, along with Ugly Betty, Samantha Who and a slew of other reality-type shows.
I say “had” and “was” because my husband staged an intervention when all the advice I gave to teens was drawn from Bachelor episodes, instead of the Bible. I cried, was angry (how dare he? I was a discerning adult! I was learning about THE WORLD so I could relate to it!), and later realized he was right.
Now, 2 years later, my viewing schedule is much changed. I still love me my reality shows and comedies, but with my renewed mind, I actually do have more discernment. You hit all of the themes that make this a questionable choice earlier. And I don’t think I would go so far as to ask my high school friends to quit the show all together. But as popular and well-designed as it is (and as much as it would have been a favorite of mine 2 years ago), Glee just doesn’t have the overall values I want to be putting into my mind — or my children’s. And that, considering my past and current track record of faves, says a lot.
I want to be used for noble purposes, not ignoble. And shows like Glee are the ones I have chosen to declutter from my mind. My dad always said that I could “watch TV, or be on it.” I stopped watching, started writing, and had a Christ-centered screenplay turned into a feature film due in theatres this spring.
My point? Toss the garbage — no matter how much you can analyze it “with your children.” Watch and analyze the good stuff, and reap a harvest of righteousness from their lives.
My daughter (16) and I began watching Secret Life last year and were disappointed by the “bait & switch”. All sex and bad acting. My daughter has chosen to stop watching and now watches Glee and Make it or Break It. I do not allow her to watch MTV or VH1, however, I do want her to have some freedoms and she has made good choices thus far. Glee has some questionable moments, but is quality television compared to most of the trash usually on. We are big fans of Americas Funniest Videos, Food Network and Discovery! Comercials are becoming so risque I am going to have my 12 year old record his favorite shows so he can fast forward. I enjoy the music of Glee and the fact that they attempt a story line and a message.
Thanks for what you do, I have learned much from your blog.
You know, I’ve struggled with Glee since last season – most of my 6th-9th graders (some older…but that seems to be the median age of the fans in our community) and their parents watch it. I thought I’d wait it out and see if the hype would pass. Until my 60-something-year-old father called me up and said “you’ve got to check this show out!” I was horrified! But he made an interesting point in connecting Glee to classic musical films…Rodgers and Hammerstein they are clearly NOT…however despite the content and innuendo its significant to consider that at least our folks seem to be attracted to the talent, the issues of the storyline (including consequences), and the sense of community from the perspective of a developing group of people who share a common gift. Those characters are each attracted to show choir for different reasons just like disciples were attracted to Jesus’ person and teaching for different reasons. Some already had their act together even before they encountered Jesus – but many did not. I have to admit my dad is right – and a good minister will use anything to bring others to a friendship with God. For better or worse – this is where we’re at right now…so – we have staged community flash mobs to “Don’t Stop Believin'” and “Faithfully,” and we’ve used the Glee graphic with some tweaks with the “L” as part of our church’s name and in local programming/publicity. I wouldn’t say I’m a full-fledged card carrying “gleek,” but I’ll use whatever means necessary to impact the community I’ve been called to for now.
Thank you all for your comments over the last 48 hours. Great stuff. This helps me get a peek into the mindset of youth workers, parents and adult mentors on the “front lines.” I’ll be finishing my article today and posting it as next week’s YOUTH CULTURE WINDOW article titled, “To Glee, or Not To Glee…” The article won’t be so much “an answer” as to whether the show is “good” or “bad,” as much as it will encourage parents to make that decision carefully, teaching their kids to make Biblical media decisions.
As for the free books I’m giving away, as promised, we just drew the 10 winners randomly from your comments. Here they are:
Steve Swan
Jon
Joe
Sean H
Rachael
Alison
Paul Loeffler
Caitlyn
Chris Reardon
Chris Weber
I’ll send the winners emails asking for their mailing addresses so I can mail them their book! (Man, I hope none of you live across the pond!) 🙂
As a former show choir gal myself … I have to say that this show pulls at the heartstrings of my nostalgia from “the good old days.” Granted, my high school experience didn’t quite play out in the same way as depicted on Glee, but we had some pretty interesting characters too. 🙂
That being said, I have a soft spot for Glee. It has a certain wit, charm, elegance, and sparkle that most “made for teens” shows lack today. (Have you SEEN Jersey Shore? Seriously …. ) Glee is funny and the musical talent is mind-blowing.
Now, the tough stuff: There are DEFINITELY some tough/touchy issues – premarital sex, teen pregnancy,and homosexuality, just to name a few. If we are all being honest, we know that our teens are watching this stuff all over place, it’s on TV, in movies, and in their music. Knowing that fact, I have to say that I would rather have a student watch it in the capacity of Glee than in a show like Gossip Girl or Pretty Little Liars (both INCREDIBLY popular with the teenage girl demographic and INCREDIBLY awful in its own right). Like many of the comments before, I agree that this can be a great way for parents/youth workers to introduce conversations about these topics with their teens. Additionally, some episodes of Glee actually take a stab at teaching a moral lesson. For example, in the earlier part of the first seasons, Rachel is viewed as the annoying, over-ambitious, slightly arrogant, do-gooder that no one likes. The show displays her lack of self-esteem and lack of self-confidence and addresses it in a manner with which to say “Be yourself. Love yourself for who you are,” all the while encouraging the other students to accept and love her as well. Not a bad lesson – and definitely one that some of the “mean girls” in my youth group need to learn. Even the episode that was highly focused on Kurt’s homosexuality and gay rights really spoke to me. NOT because I agreed with the entire episode or with the homosexual lifestyle, but because the speech Kurt’s father made had me hoping that I, as a Christian, will NEVER come off as “one of those people” who scorns others that are different. Instead, that speech made me want to acknowledge what he said and adapt for a spiritual purpose, so that I might love EVERYONE as GOD would love them and not as the world would tell me to.
All of that is not to say that Glee ALL sparkle and charm, because there are certainly things that could be dealt with better on the show, or directions that I would have rather not seen the show move toward (aka – the ENTIRE Lady Gaga episode), but at the end of the day we know this: Glee is on, Glee is popular, and our teens are watching it.
Knowing that, I think it is our job as Christians, youth pastors, and parents to use it for GOD’S glory, because what Satan may have intended to use for evil, God intends to use for good.
The musical numbers in Glee are fantastically executed. The talent, energy, vocals, and dancing pull together for a spectacular performance every single time. That said, the acting and writing could use some improvement. I watch this show every week and my eyes are always glued to the screen, waiting to see what happens. The plot is definitely addictive, but lacks the purpose and drive of a staged musical.
Moving onto the content of the show, Christian parents can use their own discretion in deciding what to show their children. Personally, I would advise them to allow their children to watch it if they so choose (though I probably would not if the child was under 12). That being said, I am a liberal Christian, and my views differ greatly from most Christians I know. A child will form their own opinion of LGBT rights and other issues addressed in this show regardless of what their television tells them. If a parent is particularly worried, I would advise having their children watch shows that portray contrasting views regarding LGBT rights in order for the child to get a rounder view of the issue at hand.
I can’t believe I’m reading youth pastors’ comments on this. When are we going to stand up for purity and holiness?
I saw this show with my wife. I’m sorry I did. It is filthy. Teen fornication. Teen homosexuality. Wicked, sexually charged music and teens dancing like strippers. Subtly, well taught worldly philosophy.
Everything we teach and preach in youth group is completely undone in about 5 minutes of this show.
Youth Pastors, shows like this are more powerful teachers of ideas than we could ever hope to imagine. They subtly insert wicked teachings into the plots, and transfer a filthy spirit that glorifies the flesh faster than our preaching can ever transfer the Holy Spirit.
I know, I know! I’m so old-fashioned! I would submit that this new-fashioned stuff isn’t working too well…
I’m with Sam. These responses reflect so much of what is wrong with contemporary Christianity. These are youth leaders? I suggest reading Eph 5:1-12 before each dive into the sensual world of “GLee.”
It’s interesting to see the direction Season 2 has turned. Season two seems to have lost some of the original fair and traded it for more sensuality and distorted thinking. As a parent, I’ve definitely decided that it’s a show our family doesn’t watch.
i find much of it distasteful,but for anyone to be preachy via bible is commting legalism.we’re individuals and the bible mentions christians being ‘likeminded’ but it doesn’t mean we’re all to be like clones. contrary to what some will say,what might be okay for me to watch or listen to , he may be restricting from you and yours.we’re all individuals./personally i don’t watch the show.it’s the encouragement to tolerate gay lifetyles that turned me totally off,as i see it everywhere now in every episode of anything being broadcast on tv.except rocky and bullwinkle..actually though ,Natasha was kind of sexy./i’m assembly of god and i watch horror movies and teen movies and most of what i watch is R and PG. i have no business ‘telling ‘ someone what they should or should not watch anymore than someone has the right to tell me./if the show doesn’t effect your christian walk it’s probably okay.you ain’t going to hell for watching glee freddy krueger, die hard or oprah winfrey…well maybe oprah winfrey.unless you know that god has personally told you no..falls into the bible verse that speaks of laws..(not condemnable sins as in the ten commandments). if what you are doing is something that you know god has told you not to do then that thing becomes a sin to you(as an individual).don’t forget that it’s cult leaders like jim jones who uses forced conviction on the flock!nuff said !!gotta go.can’t miss the 10pm movie, “Charlie Sheen:Party Wizard”