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With all respect, I think you're both missing the point. Read again what Rev. Straw says: "How many people read philosophy or theology? How many people hang out with professors who talk about deconstruction? Millions of people around the world watch these films."

He's right.

If Christianity persists in speaking to people only in its own internal language, we won't be doing the Gospel any justice. The average young person in America knows jack about the Bible above whatever stories he remembers from when he was five--and doesn't care. He or she may be interested in the ultimate questions, but has a massive(and unfortunately well-earned) skepticism towards anything put in the context of coming from Organized Religion. Want to watch a young man wave you away and run in the opposite direction? Whip out that Four Spiritual Laws tract.

On the other hand, are you legitimately interested in speaking to a person of GenX or the Millennial Generation about Christ and actually connecting? If so, you need a bridge, a common interest and frame of reference. Enter The Matrix. You literally cannot have a discussion about that movie without the opportunity to express your faith in Christ in a way that is not threatening to the other person coming up.

The pastor isn't excited about the movie because he thinks the Bible is passe. He's excited because he sees an opportunity to bridge the gap between him and his audience. He's excited because he now has several dozen new illustrations to use in his sermons. And ultimately, he's excited because even though The Matrix doesn't give all the right answers, it's getting people to at least ask the right questions.

If Christianity persists in speaking to people only in its own internal language, we won't be doing the Gospel any justice.

"So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it." (Isa 55:11)

While I understand your point that we, as Christians, must reach out, I believe that the Bible is suited to the task as is. Deviating (sp) from it only leaves room for error and misinterpretation. The Word provides the map for salvation, which can only be gained through accepting Jesus Christ, believing His virgin birth, real death and resurrection, and having faith that He will return again. The deceiver IS at work. We should be careful not to add or subtract from it. It is perfect and very capable of accomplishing His intended purpose.