King's Armory
From SPARK
One-sentence summary
Children's parable using armor to teach truths about salvation.
Description
The King's Armory is the second story about Nathaniel. This allegory tells how Nathaniel received his armor from the king. Each piece of armor in this story teaches a new truth about salvation in Jesus Christ. At the close of the story an explanation is given for the meaning of the parable.
“Deep in the heart of the Great Woods stands the King's Armory. Here blacksmiths labor, equipping the King's warriors with the armor they need to complete the tasks they've been given. Like all the King's warriors, Nathaniel finds himself at the entrance of the Armory. But it's what happens inside that will change the course of his life forever.”
Nathaniel was designed to present biblical truths, without using human representation, which is unacceptable in some cultures. (Muslim)
Equipment that accompanies the book and video was made to last in harsh, often dusty, climates. The material is also available in a 16 mm film format, more costly than video, but longer lasting and better suited for outdoor showings.
Considerations
- The end of the book/video explains the meaning of each portion of the armor compared to a Christian's journey through life.
- The map of the king's plans for Nathaniel (found in the book and video) will need explanation for some cultures.
- This book backtracks to explain the time of preparation for Nathaniel's journey. This will make it more difficult for some cultures to follow the storyline and the parable explanation.
Limitations
The bright yellow color of Nathaniel and other creatures in the book, video, puppet, and mascot could cause a problem in some cultures, if the color yellow has a negative cultural meaning.
- Some of the equipment, clothing, and armor, like the flashlight, two-way hand-held radio, and boots, may have no meaning in some cultures. Culturally significant substitutes might be found such as:
- Torch instead of flashlight
- Talking drum instead of hand-held radio
- Sandals instead of boots
- The theme of this book is medieval, including the armor. Some people groups might see the sword and shield and begin thinking about tribal warfare.
Guidelines for Use
- The book could be made available in audio cassette form.
- It could also be used as a shell book.
- The audio cassettes could be used as radio scripts.
Where to Obtain
Link to Producer or Source Organization
Vernacular Media Services (VMS) and Hands to the Plow Inc
Cost
According to the Hands to the Plow Ministries website (Frequently asked questions), “We generally send the materials out free of charge. However we do ask you to cover shipping and handling for each order.” They also accept generous contributions that provide the necessary funds to develop, print, and translate additional materials, both in the U.S. and around the world. There is a cost for the VBS curriculum.
Producer/Owners
Author/Artist/Producer
For contact information, see:
Current copyright owner
Other Information
Reviewed by
Vida, VMS
