Book Description

The Simpsons is one of the longest running, funniest, most irreverent, and, according to some religious leaders, the most theologically relevant show on television today. Journalist Mark Pinsky looks at the religious and spiritual aspects of the show once strongly denounced by many conservative Christians in 1989. He examines the show’s treatment of God, Jesus, heaven and hell, the Bible, prayer, the evangelistic next-door neighbor Ned Flanders, and the town’s church and pastor, Rev. Lovejoy. He also discusses whether the character of Lisa is the voice of Jesus, and explores the many moral dilemmas that the characters, in particular Bart and Homer, face. The treatment of Catholics, Jews, and Hindus is also explained in depth. This is must reading for any Simpsons fan, and is an insightful exploration of how religion and faith influences popular culture.

Also available The Gospel According to the Simpsons, Leader's Guide for group study.