Absorbing theology show sparking debate online
A clip from SAT-7 ARABIC’s entertaining theology show The Postman has received an amazing level of engagement on social media, with viewers from a variety of backgrounds sharing their honest opinions and heartfelt questions about Christianity’s most powerful – and provocative – story.
THE CROSS SPARKS DEBATE
“Why is the idea of the cross so shocking to those who don’t believe in it?” asked Baher Fathi, presenter of The Postman, during a two-minute clip that was recently posted to Facebook. The response was astounding.
The clip got over 250,000 views and more than 8,700 reactions, while the video’s comment section turned into a fascinating public debate.
The original clip can be found here.
Some of the 500+ comments were faith-filled and supportive. One viewer said, “The cross is the power of God,” while another said, “I’m proud of Christ’s cross.”
Others pushed back against the message of the cross, asking questions such as, “If Jesus is God, why didn’t He just forgive without the cross?” and “The cross is a disgrace; how can it be holy?”
Seekers and sceptics also posed some very thoughtful questions, such as: “Why would God need to kill His son to forgive?”, “Isn’t it unfair for the innocent to be punished?” and “How can you worship something used to torture people?”
Marianne Awaraji, Viewer Support Manager for SAT-7’s Arabic channels, is deeply encouraged by the range of comments the programme has drawn. “Viewers of The Postman aren’t just commenting; they are interacting, debating and even sharing the Gospel with one another. Even if some comments appear negative, each interaction is a chance to start a meaningful spiritual conversation.”
“HONESTY AND CURIOSITY”
The Postman, now in its second season, exists to spread Christian ideas very widely and make them understandable. “The Trinity”, “Divine Incarnation” and “Interpreting the Word of God” are just some of the recent topics. The programme uses a popular directing approach called Edutainment, which combines education and entertainment in a satirical visual style that is witty, engaging and humorous.
Marianne believes that the programme is a great way for seekers to take the first steps of a life-changing journey of faith. “The Postman is a doorway into deeper ministry and lasting transformation,” she explains. “In a region where spiritual questions are often taboo or confusing, The Postman makes room for honesty and curiosity. And these plant seeds of transformation.”
As SAT-7 ARABIC’s Viewer Support team tracks comments on social media and engages with as many curious viewers as possible, Marianne knows that how the team respond is just as important as what they say. “Our team steps in, not to argue, but to reflect the spirit of 1 Peter 3:15,* answering with gentleness, respect and love.”
*“But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect,” (1 Peter 3:15)