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God of Wonders DVD Review by Stacy Kalisz
Randolf Productions Inc.18005 Sky Park Circle, Suite #K
Irvine, CA 92614
800-266-7741
http://www.go2rpi.com/
God of Wonders is a documentary-style DVD that explores the "wonders of creation, conscience, and the glory of God." The DVD is region 0 (playable in any country) and runs for 1 hour and 25 minutes. This is something of a sequel to Eternal Productions' previous DVD, A Question of Origins.
The point of this DVD is to give evidence for the God of the Bible and to show His greatness. The Bible is constantly quoted or referred to throughout. This is great for Christians, but it may seem a bit "over the top" for some non-Christians you may want to show this DVD to. I think it's perfect for junior high and high school age as well as adults. The pacing is fast and should have no problem keeping the attention of teens.
God of Wonders could be used in a variety of ways. For instance, viewing the DVD in one sitting would help reinforce or introduce concepts to students. Another option would be to watch it in segments and study each one individually. A free teacher's guide is available for download at www.go2rpi.com/. This guide includes questions and answers for each segment of the DVD.
The production is smooth and professionally done. The music is very dramatic, and the footage of nature is stunning and presented in an exciting way. The computer animations and sound effects are impressive but not overdone. It reminds me of some of the old Moody Science videos (like the Wonders of God's Creation set) but with faster pacing, updated special effects, and more Scripture.
Some of the well-known apologists and creation scientists of today are interviewed in the DVD, such as Dr. David Menton, Dr. Gary Parker, Ken Ham, Dr. Jason Lisle, Dr. Larry Verdiman, Dave Hunt, Dr. Don DeYoung, Frank Sherwin, Ian Taylor, Roger Oakland, and Dr. John Whitcomb. The arguments are simple and easy to hang on to. Keep in mind that this is designed to be on the level of popular apologetics and not overly deep. The main focus is on teleological (design) and aesthetical (beauty) arguments for the existence of God.
Among other things, this DVD discusses lightning, stars, energy, snow, DNA, seeds and plants, sea creatures, birds, butterflies, and man. The DVD starts coming to a close by talking about the conscience of man and the justice of God (the moral argument). And then it gives a short theodicy (dealing with the "problem of suffering") and finishes up with salvation in Jesus Christ.
My only two criticisms would be that Dr. John Whitcomb's hand movements look a little stiff and contrived and that there are almost no extras on the DVD (just a few previews and how to contact Eternal Productions).
Overall, it is quite good, and I'm happy to have it in our collection of apologetic DVDs. My husband (a creation/evolution buff) thoroughly enjoyed it and is planning to show it in his adult Bible class. It is my estimation that God of Wonders would be beneficial to homeschool, classroom, family, and church. The DVD does a good job of showing God's power and intelligence as seen through His creation. Grasping hold of these concepts is valuable and important, which is why I am pleased to recommend this product.
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