Third, various forms of “Bible figures” have been around for centuries. Nativity sets are comprised of biblical figures, though they probably don’t have moveable arms and legs. But many a child has rearranged those figures, hidden them and used them with other figurines. On the market for about one year, the figure sprang less from a theological motive and more from a desire for something novel. But not all biblical action figures are novelty items. Some are intended for actual use by children. SOF concludes that “the real fun begins when you let them into the doll’s house, and when David first sets eyes on Barbie…” And Ship-of-Fools ( www.ship-of-fools.com)is likely unsurpassed in reflecting on all things religious. The figures may be for children, but there’s no escaping theology. Train Up a Child, for example, offers a light-skinned and a dark-skinned line of figures. CCM’s initial lines had olive-colored skin.

Jesus (Son of Christ) action figure – Oxford Cult Collectibles Jesus (Son of Christ) action figure – Oxford Cult Collectibles

What’s the coolest action figure since G.I. Joe? The Jesus Action Figure, according to online retailer Archie McPhee. Flannel board figures, while not three-dimensional, have offered children a means of acting out stories with Bible characters for decades.If there is an ethic behind biblical action figures, it may have less to do with which figures are put into plastic and more to do with how Jesus—in the hands of children—behaves. For example, Cook Communications Ministries ( www.cookministries.com) has produced a line of action figures including Jesus, Moses, David, Goliath and Samson. These biblical action figures are important precisely because they are toys: adults manufacture them and children play with them. And they do interpret Christian tradition. These figures, however, can pose more than their arms and legs. They pose a problem for some who examine religious culture.

Jesus Figures Action Figures - Etsy UK

How warranted is the criticism of biblical action figures? Yes, they’re tactile. Yes, they probably ignite children’s imaginations. But is this anything new? The blurring of boundaries isn’t lost on Kalich: “We feel our action figures serve the same purpose as other Christian products for children, such as coloring books, board games, plush toys and others,” he said.

Second, these figures do “manifest” Scripture and put mental images in more concrete forms. But criticism along these lines would have to reconsider all illustrations inspired by Scripture. And that includes everything from da Vinci’s “The Last Supper” to a child’s illustrated version of the Bible.