The Da Vinci Code

[EbonyEyes]

There's this show called "Jack Van Impre Presents" that's on right now. Jack is saying that The Da Vinci Code is blaspehmy and Christians should avoid this book and the movie at all costs.

He's saying that Dan Brown told many lies in the book.

 

[Starian]

There's this show called "Jack Van Impre Presents" that's on right now. Jack is saying that The Da Vinci Code is blaspehmy and Christians should avoid this book and the movie at all costs.

He's saying that Dan Brown told many lies in the book.

, of course he told many lies in the book. That's the nature of fiction, isn't it?

I'm finding it kind of funny that so many people or up in arms over this book and movie, when no one said anything about other movies...

Like Bruce Almighty, for example. God giving his powers to a human? Blasphemy if I've ever heard it. Yet, no one picketed that movie. There are many other examples, I'm sure.

 

[EbonyEyes]

, of course he told many lies in the book. That's the nature of fiction, isn't it?

I'm finding it kind of funny that so many people or up in arms over this book and movie, when no one said anything about other movies...

Like Bruce Almighty, for example. God giving his powers to a human? Blasphemy if I've ever heard it. Yet, no one picketed that movie. There are many other examples, I'm sure.

I think the guy was saying that the "facts" that Dan Brown incorporated in the novel weren't fact at all.

My mom read "The Da Vinci Code." She thought it was aiight. She really doesn't understand the hype. She likes his book Angels & Demons though.

 

[Starian]

I think the guy was saying that the "facts" that Dan Brown incorporated in the novel weren't fact at all.

My mom read "The Da Vinci Code." She thought it was aiight. She really doesn't understand the hype. She likes his book Angels & Demons though.

Thanks for clarifying.

 

[hallcust]

Dear TrustMeLove,

I thank the Lord for your note of encouragement and for the witness of biblical discernment in you that testifies to the truth. I will continue to stand in the truth and strength of the Holy Spirit, for He is able to make me, you, and all others in the true body of Christ stand; and He has told us that in His word!
I am resolved to stand for my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ no matter what man may think. For I gave my life to Him and to no one else.
I made a mistake in my first post; I actually first responded in agreement to Niara's response. It so much said what I felt in my heart!! I apologize to Niara for mistakenly posting another's name; however it has been corrected.
I beleive despite all, those who bear the Spirit of Christ will bear the true testimony of Christ, in all that they say, think, and do. The only thing that will ever matter is how God sees it. Just as you say TrustMeLove, pick up the word, study it, and pray to the Lord, and you will know these answers for yourself. Know Him, and you will know what is truth and what is not.

God's love to you all!

 

[MuseofTroy]

Hi Ladies...

I think Christians are intelligent enough to know the difference between reality and fiction. It's the non-believers we should be concerned about. I'm a big fan of the Da Vinci Code as a work of FICTION (although I think Angels and Demons was much better). I also saw the movie and was pleased with it's entertainment value. Although I understantd why the Da Vinci Code is a controversal movie/book, I believe that individuals who are strong in their faith in God won't be phased by a movie. Through out history various sectors of society have been trying to discredit Jesus Christ and what he stands for. I believe that Jesus was the Lord's son and died for our sins, so no movie or work of fiction is going to change my faith.

BTW I think this is a great forum! I've been a silent reader for the longest time.

 

[SoniT]

, of course he told many lies in the book. That's the nature of fiction, isn't it?

LOL, get outta my head! I was about to type the same thing. THE BOOK IS FICTION!!!!!!!

 

[silverflyt]

Hi Ladies...

I think Christians are intelligent enough to know the difference between reality and fiction. It's the non-believers we shoudl be concerned about. I'm a big fan of the Da Vinci Code as a work of FICTION (although I think Angels and Demons was much better). I also saw the movie and was pleased with it's entertainment value. Although I understantd why the Da Vinci Code is a controversal movie/book, I believe that individuals who are strong in their faith in God won't be phased by a movie. Through out history various sectors of society has been trying to discredit Jesus Christ and what he stands for. I believe that Jesus was the Lord's son and died for our sins, so no movie or work of fiction is going to change my faith.

What's this? A voice of reason among the discord? Well put. I am in total agreeance. Simply put, this is a MOVIE, NOT a documentary. Don't be a lemming.

 

[hallcust]

I feel the need to share a letter from a dear brother in Christ, Chuck of Ciloa Ministries, who, I feel, gave an awesome and biblical testimony on his thoughts on the DaVinci Code. This is not someone speaking from a voice of "reason", but from spiritual conviction of the Holy Spirit; and he says it better than I could ever say it. He had the same typical comment from an intolerant subscriber who actually left his forum because of his Godly stand on this book and movie. Nevertheless, he sums up the truth better than I've heard from most lately. Enjoy!

_________________________________________________________________

May God bless you this day… and every day ... to honor Him!


The Note usually invokes varied responses from our readers since Chuck has no problem with taking a stand on tough issues. Last week’s Note was no exception and led one reader to unsubscribe because of Chuck’s extremist position on The DaVinci Code. The reader, a thinking adult who knows Truth and can separate that from Fiction, argued, As a Jew, Jesus learned to turn the other cheek , etc. I am not a fundamental Christian - I am a child of God and a unique human being with the ability that God has given me to reason and utilize my free will to not be swayed by any extremist arguments... While we have never shared Chuck’s replies to the responses he receives, we would like to share portions of his reply to this reader, edited to fit this space. We believe you will be encouraged by it.

______________________________________________

The cornerstone of extremism is the cessation of discussion. When we fail or refuse to discuss our differences, we can no longer seek to influence another's position or even to respect the other position. As debate is prevented, so tyranny begins.

Allow me to suggest that you have omitted a very important aspect of being a follower of Jesus, and that is our witness of Him. Everything you do affects those around you. That may not sound fair, but that is the truth. They watch your example in how to treat others, how to live, and how to honor God. They may be strong Christians. They may be new Christians just learning how to act and respond. And they may be people who are seeking the truth or who are unsure of the truth as expressed in the Bible or who are vulnerable to the persuasions of those who do not follow Christ and who are actively opposed to Him.

You have an awesome responsibility to present the true witness of Jesus. The Bible is clear that all followers have this responsibility. And that is where I have a serious problem with this book and movie.

All lies are fiction, but not all fictions are lies. I believe Dan Brown went way too far in this fictional work. Many years ago Robert Ludlum wrote a novel that involved a discovery of a book claiming to "tell the truth about Jesus." But to the best of my knowledge, he never attempted to use actual documented facts, change the information, and then state the new information as though it were documented, undeniable fact. Dan has and makes the bold statement in the beginning of his book that certain things are actual fact, when they are not.

Jesus never said to turn the other cheek in the face of blasphemy, heresy or false teaching. In fact, He challenged them all and would not participate in any of them. The souls of those who did not yet know Him were simply too important to play with. Jesus drew the line.

I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. I tell you the truth, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. (John 13:15-16) A student is not above his teacher, but everyone who is fully trained will be like his teacher. (Luke 6:40) He who is not with me is against me, and he who does not gather with me, scatters. (Luke 11:23)

Would Jesus, our Lord, Savior and Master, go to a movie that openly distorts who He is and what He did on the cross? As a servant and messenger of Christ, are we honoring Him if we do? If we support such fiction, whether through attendance or paying money, are we for Him or against Him?

I, too, am a thinking adult who knows Truth and can separate it from Fiction. That is not the issue among people such as us. The issue lies in understanding that Truth and understanding how those, who lack the knowledge we have, will be profoundly influenced by such Fiction, even to the point of doubting and denying the Truth which we know. I do not want to be a part of anything that has the power to turn people away or further away from God.

It is not a matter of personal autonomy to pick and choose what I wish to read and hear and see. I gave that up to God when I chose to follow Christ. I now have the responsibility to be like Him and that means standing for the Truth and standing against everything that attacks it, whether it comes openly with malice or subtly as entertainment. And all Christians are called to do the same.

Take care and be God’s,

Chuck


Ciloa ... Encouraging one another as long as it is called Today!
Ciloa is a registered trademark of Ciloa, Inc., a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization.
A Note of Encouragement is a copyright interest held by Ciloa, Inc.

 

[silverflyt]

My spirit grieves over the increasing liberal opinions that I witness among those professing Christianity today, although it's something that the scriptures predicted would happen. May those with eyes to see and ears to hear hold to the truth of what the Word says as we begin to see these vicious attacks on Christianity. I will say that there seems to be a sad tolerance for the antichristian values that are being pushed into our society. Whose name are putting on morals now? Is it ours or the name of Christ? Are we giving Him the authority to speak to us through His word, or are we making our own assumptions? Satan doesn't care about us speaking OUR opinions on morals, he only cares that the name of Jesus Christ is left out. Sisters, please wake up. We are living in the last days. When we become tolerant of someone attacking the diety of Christ Jesus who is God in the flesh then we are left with nothing but a world that awaits coming judgment. It's time to renew our commitment as Christians for what has been lost.
I'm sorry if what I say offends others, but I feel committed to speak on these matters reflected by the authority of the word. It is better to speak the truth than to sweep the truth under the rug just to pacify the conscience. We in Christianity today are in need of a serious faith when we say that we have a living faith in Jesus Christ and feel that truth is relative rather than absolute.
I seek to be a wise virgin ready when my Lord comes. I don't want to be found as having given in to the lie of relative truth. I pray and hope to see more contending for the faith.
I came to this forum looking for such, and am grateful to the Lord for the few I've seen. I came to this forum seeking to fellowship. I don't think it is wise to be involved in endless debating, so this will be my last comment.

I see you've had a change of heart. Don't worry, I won't be unsubscribing from this forum because you share the same extreme, fanatic, and puerile views of the writer you quoted. I'm quite at home here. I look forward to reading how else you like to express your radical, zealous and dogmatist points of view.

 

[mkh_77]

Would Jesus, our Lord, Savior and Master, go to a movie that openly distorts who He is and what He did on the cross?

Obviously the author of this letter and the author of this post the letter was embedded in know nothing of what the book is about. The "criminal" in the book is the church for hiding "the truth about Jesus." The FOCUS of the book are the shadowy actions of the church, past and present. No where in the book does it try to detract from the importance, existence or powerfulness of Jesus. The book is premised on the fact that Jesus did indeed exist and was such a powerful figure!

If Jesus came to Earth, fully human as the Bible said, then what would be so wrong with him having a wife and family under the tradition of the laws of His time? There is NOTHING sinful about that, and if He did, it would in no way detract from who He was. Afterall all, God saw fit that Jesus come to Earth THROUGH a woman--He didn't miraculously appear one day. Is He any less divine because someone conjectures that He could have had a wife and children?!

 

[silverflyt]

Obviously the author of this letter and the author of this post the letter was embedded in know nothing of what the book is about. The "criminal" in the book is the church for hiding "the truth about Jesus." The FOCUS of the book are the shadowy actions of the church, past and present. No where in the book does it try to detract from the importance, existence or powerfulness of Jesus. The book is premised on the fact that Jesus did indeed exist and was such a powerful figure!

If Jesus came to Earth, fully human as the Bible said, then what would be so wrong with him having a wife and family under the tradition of the laws of His time? There is NOTHING sinful about that, and if He did, it would in no way detract from who He was. Afterall all, God saw fit that Jesus come to Earth THROUGH a woman--He didn't miraculously appear one day. Is He any less divine because someone conjectures that He could have had a wife and children?!

Here, here! WHY IS EVERYONE SO UP IN ARMS ABOUT THIS PROSPECT? THANK YOU FOR HAVING THE VISION TO SAY WHAT MANY OF US "LIBERALS" and "CONSERVATIVES" ARE THINKING-BUT NOT SAYING FOR FEAR OF EXTREMIST RETORIC CLOUDING UP THIS THREAD.

But the cat is out of the bag now. I realize that for some, if this were true, it might cause you to ask, what else was intentionally left out of the Bible? What else have I been duped on? Perhaps this is why so many people are "outraged" by this movie. Their foundations are being shaken. And even if this is a fictional story, it still is scary for them to have their foundations shaken. All of a sudden, everything they have based their entire lives on, everthing they have been spoonfed is in question. THIS IS THE PROBLEM. Not the movie itself, not the "story", not the "blasphemy". How is trying to prove Jesus had a wife "blasphemy" anyway? Please. It is time to start thinking for yourselves if you are not already. erplexed

 

[GodMadeMePretty]

Here, here! WHY IS EVERYONE SO UP IN ARMS ABOUT THIS PROSPECT? THANK YOU FOR HAVING THE VISION TO SAY WHAT MANY OF US "LIBERALS" and "CONSERVATIVES" ARE THINKING-BUT NOT SAYING FOR FEAR OF EXTREMIST RETORIC CLOUDING UP THIS THREAD.

But the cat is out of the bag now. I realize that for some, if this were true, it might cause you to ask, what else was intentionally left out of the Bible? What else have I been duped on? Perhaps this is why so many people are "outraged" by this movie. Their foundations are being shaken. And even if this is a fictional story, it still is scary for them to have their foundations shaken. All of a sudden, everything they have based their entire lives on, everthing they have been spoonfed is in question. THIS IS THE PROBLEM. Not the movie itself, not the "story", not the "blasphemy". How is trying to prove Jesus had a wife "blasphemy" anyway? Please. It is time to start thinking for yourselves if you are not already. erplexed

Don't even get me started on what I highlighted in bold. Christians need to wake up and realize that you can't just blindly follow the Bible. You have to know a bit more history to back it up. You can't go calling Brother or Sister SoAndSo every time someone with a bit more history than you have knowledge about questions you about Christianity. Study to show thyself approved means more than reading the Word of God. Sometimes we ignore what God is telling us that we need to do. The Israelites repeatedly ignored/shunned history and God punished them time and time again because their ignorance caused them to stumble repeatedly.

 

[silverflyt]

Don't even get me started on what I highlighted in bold. Christians need to wake up and realize that you can't just blindly follow the Bible. You have to know a bit more history to back it up. You can't go calling Brother or Sister SoAndSo every time someone with a bit more history than you have knowledge about questions you about Christianity. Study to show thyself approved means more than reading the Word of God. Sometimes we ignore what God is telling us that we need to do. The Israelites repeatedly ignored/shunned history and God punished them time and time again because their ignorance caused them to stumble repeatedly.

I'm sorry-I don't ahh..recall calling anybody or discussing historical documentation, perhaps you are confused by my statement-because I don't quite understand why what you said applies to my comment...Will you qualify your point of view? Correct me if I am wrong, because it sounds like we agree...

 

[JamericanGurl]

I'm sorry-I don't ahh..recall calling anybody or discussing historical documentation, perhaps you are confused by my statement-because I don't quite understand why what you said applies to my comment...Will you qualify your point of view? Correct me if I am wrong, because it sounds like we agree...

Your not talking to me and I venture into this forum ....rarely. But!
GMP one of the more informed folx I know is basically agreeing with what you said she bolded your comments and went on to add more. She was basically saying everything shouldn't be dismissed as evil and people shouldn't be called out for offering history or a different point of view. (In a very respectful tone might I add)

Okay folx that's my once a year comment in this forum.

Ducks out!

 

[Trini"T"]

Dan Brown named real people’s names and gave backgrounds on real, actual organizations. He claims his book is based on historical fact.

The idea of Jesus being married is sooo Gnostic and sooo not of the Bible. Many believe this to be blasphemy because they are LIES about Jesus and His life and this Dan Brown is trying to pass it off as historical fact. I don’t know why it is so hard to accept the fact that Jesus was a very different individual. They just gotta throw some wife and kids in da mix to make him “normal”. He is the Son of God, blamess, sinless, and pure...this is not normal. Jesus was not normal.

In Luke 14:26 Jesus said, “If anyone comes to me and does not hate his father and mother, his wife and children, his brothers and sisters- yes even his own life------he cannot be my disciple.”

Jesus Christ was all about his ministry. Having a wife and children was not part of God’s plan and would have only been distractions for Him. Jesus and His boys traveled all over the place preaching and were getting themselves into some dangerous situations. Where would he have time to rear children and perform his husbandly duties? Are we now inferring that Jesus was some deadbeat dad and a no-good husband? If this man had children, he sure wasn’t no where around to take care of them. If this man had a wife, she would be screaming, “HA, what husband? Jesus who?” He would have left poooor Mary aaaalll alone to mind them kids all by her lonesome . That’s not very Christ-like is it?!

Mathew 19:12 says “For some are eunuchs because they were born that way; others were made that way by men; and others have renounced marriage because of the kingdom of heaven.” Hmmm let’s see, which category is Jesus Christ in? This category is rooted in Jesus’ own commitment and example not to be married. Come on now! The only wife Jesus has is the Church.

 

[Trini"T"]

Here, here! WHY IS EVERYONE SO UP IN ARMS ABOUT THIS PROSPECT? THANK YOU FOR HAVING THE VISION TO SAY WHAT MANY OF US "LIBERALS" and "CONSERVATIVES" ARE THINKING-BUT NOT SAYING FOR FEAR OF EXTREMIST RETORIC CLOUDING UP THIS THREAD.

But the cat is out of the bag now. I realize that for some, if this were true, it might cause you to ask, what else was intentionally left out of the Bible? What else have I been duped on? Perhaps this is why so many people are "outraged" by this movie. Their foundations are being shaken. And even if this is a fictional story, it still is scary for them to have their foundations shaken. All of a sudden, everything they have based their entire lives on, everthing they have been spoonfed is in question. THIS IS THE PROBLEM. Not the movie itself, not the "story", not the "blasphemy". How is trying to prove Jesus had a wife "blasphemy" anyway? Please. It is time to start thinking for yourselves if you are not already. erplexed

No foundations shaken here! All this is only making me stronger in me and mines. Maybe if their foundations are not firm they might think that way and that is partly why there is so much hub bub. There are Christians out there on different levels with their relationship with God. For those in the early stages of the relationship, something like this may very well shake them and those people shouldn't view things that contradicts the Bible's teachings. See, I know I could watch this movie and not be phased but like I said b4 I will not support it by paying money to go see it.

 

[Trini"T"]

Your not talking to me and I venture into this forum ....rarely. But!
GMP one of the more informed folx I know is basically agreeing with what you said she bolded your comments and went on to add more. She was basically saying everything shouldn't be dismissed as evil and people shouldn't be called out for offering history or a different point of view. (In a very respectful tone might I add)

Okay folx that's my once a year comment in this forum.

Ducks out!

Nah It sounds like GodMadeMePretty is saying that Christians need to know their stuff to protect themselves against mess like this. How you can't be calling on someone else every time someone wants to challenge your faith. You have to know it for yourself.

 

[Trini"T"]

I see you've had a change of heart. Don't worry, I won't be unsubscribing from this forum because you share the same extreme, fanatic, and puerile views of the writer you quoted. I'm quite at home here. I look forward to reading how else you like to express your radical, zealous and dogmatist points of view.

Are you attempting to insult Hallcust? All that is not even necessary. No one came on here insulting you for your views or saying you were childish because of them. You said your piece and she said hers. TACT PLEASE

 

[silverflyt]

Are you attempting to insult Hallcust? All that is not even necessary. No one came on here insulting you for your views or saying you were childish because of them. You said your piece and she said hers. TACT PLEASE

If you are referring to my indexing of the above mentioned's stance on Christianity, no. I am not *attempting to insult* anybody. She has done a brilliant job of classifying her own comments. I am simply restating the obvious. Besides, she has never shyed away from making it known she stands to the left. I quote her when I write, " My spirit grieves over the increasing liberal opinions that I witness among those professing Christianity today." Spoken like a true leftist . As an added bonus, she gifts us with the leftwinged comments of a self professed fundamentalist, fond of extremist points of action, because he according to her," ...gave an awesome and biblical testimony on his thoughts on the DaVinci Code...and he says it better than I could ever say it." So you see, she celebrates her leftwinged alignment-no harm done.

Furthermore, my post was inspired by the poster's comment regarding my own previous post. She wrote, "...He (Chuck the Left Winged, Extreme, Fundamentalist) had the same typical comment from an intolerant subscriber who actually left his forum because of his Godly stand on this book and movie." I personally not only find it *insulting*, but offensive, and completely inacurate to have my points of view paralleled with those of an "intolerant unbeliever"-because I am many things, but I am neither of those. So I felt the need to fortify my view. I am astounded that you find me "childish", But that is neither here nor there for me. -any self respecting person who enjoys their God given free will would also protect themselves from such slander.

BTW, I am relieved that your foundations are not shaken by this movie.
And it seems as though we agree that there really is no need for such, and why there is so much *hub bub*. However, it seems to be the Christians in their more "developed" stages that are all shaken up over this movie. Developed enough to have determined their left winged alignment that is .

 

[mkh_77]

Dan Brown named real people’s names and gave backgrounds on real, actual organizations. He claims his book is based on historical fact.

The idea of Jesus being married is sooo Gnostic and sooo not of the Bible. Many believe this to be blasphemy because they are LIES about Jesus and His life and this Dan Brown is trying to pass it off as historical fact. I don’t know why it is so hard to accept the fact that Jesus was a very different individual. They just gotta throw some wife and kids in da mix to make him “normal”. He is the Son of God, blamess, sinless, and pure...this is not normal. Jesus was not normal.

Again, the fact that Jesus was "different" is the point of the book. He was so different that the church wanted to use his power over humanity for their own purposes. The Crusades is a prime example of this.

I'd like to know:

Have you read the book, The Davinci Code?

Have you been to some of the places mentioned in the book?

Have you studied the Historical Jesus?

Have you taken an academically oriented religion class (not just attended Sunday school)?

Have you read the Apocrypha?

I can answer in the affirmative to all of the questions I have posited to you (the general you). If you can't answer in the affirmative to these same questions, then you should understand when I don't blindly believe what you tell me about God, Jesus, the Bible, and the "truth" you profess to know.

It stands to logic that those with a broader knowledge will also have a broader sense of truth. Example: People once believed the Sun revolved around the Earth because their knowledge was LIMITED. A man with a broader sense of knowledge, Galileo, ultimately provided a broader sense of truth--the Earth revolves around the Sun; in fact, all planets revovle around the Sun. Unfortunately, he was persecuted for trying to share his truth, obtained through his knowledge, with his fellow man.

 

[angelk316]

What is wrong with having wife and kids? Is having wife and kids unpure?

 

[JamericanGurl]

Nah It sounds like GodMadeMePretty is saying that Christians need to know their stuff to protect themselves against mess like this. How you can't be calling on someone else every time someone wants to challenge your faith. You have to know it for yourself.

See I took as her saying be informed! Either way? Be informed!

 

[trinidarkie1]

I've read pages 1 and 3 of this thread, so I've definitely missed some things.
But from what I see there are some people who are firmly against watching it, others who want others to stand with them, some who dont care to see it and dont care period and others who want to go.

IMHO, each person's walk with the Lord is so different. His calling on our lives are never the same. For some people, they think that wearing jewellry is sinful, or wearing make up, you shouldnt wear pants, or anything fitted. In cases where you feel strongly about those things, then YOU deal with that. Sometimes it's because of what you struggle with in your spirit, as an idol in your life and the Lord wanted you to stop doing something because it might hinder you.
I know a lady who says she was obsessed with wearing jewellry and when she accepted Jesus she felt like the Holy Spirit wanted her to stop focusing on that, but that doesnt mean she shouldnt let her kids wear jewellry or tell anyone else not to.

To be more direct, the book from which the movie has been made is a work of fiction. For those of us who know about the spirit world we understand the influences that take place everyday through any form; word of mouth, music and other forms of media, just to name some examples.
If you feel that your spirit is going to be troubled or cannot handle watching a film like this or any other film, then do not go. You may be at a stage in your walk where you're very fickle and watching or reading something like this isnt what you need.
There are some of us who just think that it's wrong to watch or read or talk about anything non- Jesus. Then u dont watch, read or talk about it. But that doesnt mean that it's a sin to do any non-Jesus centered thing.

I cant encourage the extremists.

What I think we should be focused on, is the droves of people that will come out of these movie theaters searching for something, asking questions and shaken because of what they didnt realise they didnt believe. Some people will go in there thinking that they are sound in faith and they are not.
We should be prepared to answer questions about Jesus, to back up what we believe and what we think the Bible tells us.
The Bible was written so long ago and has not changed, so regardless of how many books are written and how many movies are made, we can use the Bible as our foundation.

Also remember that there are people who dont even believe or respect the Bible. So unless you focus on your personal relationship with Jesus, then you have nothing to witness to them about. INstead of telling people what NOT to do, focus on what you SHOULD do to let others know about who Jesus us.

 

[hallcust]

I'm not sure what you mean by a change of heart. My opinions are fixed and have been since I entered this forum. My convictions may seem radical only to those who don't hold to the clear fundamental teaching of scripture, but I try not to let that discourage me. The word of God has clearly spoken that in the latter times many will depart from the faith and those who contend for it will face persecution; and this happens even from professors of Christianity. I have been given the charge to speak the truth lovingly so as to convince of what the authority of the Word speaks.
I'm not seeking to give my opinion or to force anyone to come to my side. I'm, out of spiritual conviction, speaking from the authority of the word of God. I beleive it is such views as yours that say Christians should do nothing and let matters such as this issue of the DaVinci code just go and it will pass or who persistently speak out against those who out of a love for the Savior and conviction of the Holy Spirit come against these blasphemous matters against our Lord that do the great harm in your witness.
I will always beleive that it is not cool for anyone whether by fiction or supposed documented garbage to publish something that is clearly blasphemous about the Lord Jesus Christ, who is Almighty God in the flesh; and I can't imagine any true Christian who walks with the Lord feeling that this book or movie was alright in doing so.
Not only do you not come against this as a professing Christian, but you persist in calling those like me "fanatical" who do so, and influencing those Christians who may be weak in the faith. I will let the word of God be the judge between you and me. It is true that Christians can be deceived if they are not abiding in the word and in prayer, or why else would we be exhorted "be not deceived" by our Lord and the Apostle Paul in the scriptures. There are Christians who are saved, yet not abiding in the word and not paying heed to the leading of the Holy Spirit. They are instead allowing others to shape their opinions....or themselves. The bible clearly tells us that if someone is not preaching or speaking from the authority of the scriptures we should not allow them to shape our views; or we are allowing ourselves to love the word of someone else rather than God. This is why you see so many being led astray by many prominent so called ministers of our day; and why the witness of the visible Church has greatly diminished. We are called to be salt and light, and our living a life of holiness is an important matter before others. Whether you want to beleive it or not, an attitude of apathy is characteristic of a lukewarm attitude from someone who really has no spiritual conviction. This is a dangerous position to be in. I'm not Christ Jesus to say who is saved and who is not; but I can say that scripture clearly tells us that we are to examine ourselves to see whether we be in the faith. We are exhorted to do this for a reason.
You cannot come to Christ through any other means, except through the door (John 10:6-10), and you MUST abide in His word (Him) so that His word may abide in you. Based upon Christ's teaching in John 8:31-36; as we abide in the Word we will know the truth and it will set us free. The Word of God is our very life (Deuteronomy 32:46-47). Jesus Christ is the Word (John 1:1-18) and is the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6).
We presently live in a society that is open any and every point of view as being valid. We are called to be separate from the world, not take on it's view. How then can we be witnesses for Christ Jesus? The Lord has said that He hates lukewarmness and will spue such out of His mouth, and we can count on His word to be fulfilled. It is better that we be for Christ or be against Him.
I'm not looking to cause strife, but the word is divisive to those who won't submit to it. It's meant to be for a good purpose. It is fine that you desire to stay with the forum; I'm not trying to run you away from it. I'm not the one who called you a fanatic. I have only one motive and that is to lovingly convince of the word of God. I love all people, including you Silverflyt; and so does Christ Jesus.

 

[Spidergul]

Dan Brown named real people’s names and gave backgrounds on real, actual organizations. He claims his book is based on historical fact.

The idea of Jesus being married is sooo Gnostic and sooo not of the Bible. Many believe this to be blasphemy because they are LIES about Jesus and His life and this Dan Brown is trying to pass it off as historical fact. I don’t know why it is so hard to accept the fact that Jesus was a very different individual. They just gotta throw some wife and kids in da mix to make him “normal”. He is the Son of God, blamess, sinless, and pure...this is not normal. Jesus was not normal.

I find this comment kinda strange.erplexed
But all in all, that is what makes the story of Jesus so fascinating to some of us. Does anyone know what he did from age 12 to 33?


In Luke 14:26 Jesus said, “If anyone comes to me and does not hate his father and mother, his wife and children, his brothers and sisters- yes even his own life------he cannot be my disciple.”

Jesus Christ was all about his ministry. Having a wife and children was not part of God’s plan and would have only been distractions for Him. Jesus and His boys traveled all over the place preaching and were getting themselves into some dangerous situations. Where would he have time to rear children and perform his husbandly duties? Are we now inferring that Jesus was some deadbeat dad and a no-good husband? If this man had children, he sure wasn’t no where around to take care of them. If this man had a wife, she would be screaming, “HA, what husband? Jesus who?” He would have left poooor Mary aaaalll alone to mind them kids all by her lonesome . That’s not very Christ-like is it?!

Who is saying this?

Mathew 19:12 says “For some are eunuchs because they were born that way; others were made that way by men; and others have renounced marriage because of the kingdom of heaven.” Hmmm let’s see, which category is Jesus Christ in? This category is rooted in Jesus’ own commitment and example not to be married. Come on now! The only wife Jesus has is the Church.

But he was after all Jewish and Jews did married at a certain age. Maybe at some point in his life he wanted to be 'normal' but then realized that was not why he was here.

 

[FlyyGyrl]

Hallcust, I really admire and appreciate your ferver for Christ. I find it refreshing. People act like its a crime to be radical for Christ. Be passionate in everything else you do but when it comes to God be passive and lukewarm
I will not be watching the movie. I really don't watch many movies to begin with. I don't see why my hard earned dollars should go to support something that is an attack on the church. Whether you decide to see it or not, it will create confusion for some, and it will lead some astray. And that is contradictory to our goal as Christians. We are really in the last days. We need to be focused on spreading the truth, rather than fighting amongst ourselves over this lie (the da vinci code).

 

[silverflyt]

I'm not sure what you mean by a change of heart. My opinions are fixed and have been since I entered this forum. My convictions may seem radical only to those who don't hold to the clear fundamental teaching of scripture, but I try not to let that discourage me. The word of God has clearly spoken that in the latter times many will depart from the faith and those who contend for it will face persecution; and this happens even from professors of Christianity. I have been given the charge to speak the truth lovingly so as to convince of what the authority of the Word speaks.
I'm not seeking to give my opinion or to force anyone to come to my side. I'm, out of spiritual conviction, speaking from the authority of the word of God. I beleive it is such views as yours that say Christians should do nothing and let matters such as this issue of the DaVinci code just go and it will pass or who persistently speak out against those who out of a love for the Savior and conviction of the Holy Spirit come against these blasphemous matters against our Lord that do the great harm in your witness.
I will always beleive that it is not cool for anyone whether by fiction or supposed documented garbage to publish something that is clearly blasphemous about the Lord Jesus Christ, who is Almighty God in the flesh; and I can't imagine any true Christian who walks with the Lord feeling that this book or movie was alright in doing so.
Not only do you not come against this as a professing Christian, but you persist in calling those like me "fanatical" who do so, and influencing those Christians who may be weak in the faith. I will let the word of God be the judge between you and me. It is true that Christians can be deceived if they are not abiding in the word and in prayer, or why else would we be exhorted "be not deceived" by our Lord and the Apostle Paul in the scriptures. There are Christians who are saved, yet not abiding in the word and not paying heed to the leading of the Holy Spirit. They are instead allowing others to shape their opinions....or themselves. The bible clearly tells us that if someone is not preaching or speaking from the authority of the scriptures we should not allow them to shape our views; or we are allowing ourselves to love the word of someone else rather than God. This is why you see so many being led astray by many prominent so called ministers of our day; and why the witness of the visible Church has greatly diminished. We are called to be salt and light, and our living a life of holiness is an important matter before others. Whether you want to beleive it or not, an attitude of apathy is characteristic of a lukewarm attitude from someone who really has no spiritual conviction. This is a dangerous position to be in. I'm not Christ Jesus to say who is saved and who is not; but I can say that scripture clearly tells us that we are to examine ourselves to see whether we be in the faith. We are exhorted to do this for a reason.
You cannot come to Christ through any other means, except through the door (John 10:6-10), and you MUST abide in His word (Him) so that His word may abide in you. Based upon Christ's teaching in John 8:31-36; as we abide in the Word we will know the truth and it will set us free. The Word of God is our very life (Deuteronomy 32:46-47). Jesus Christ is the Word (John 1:1-18) and is the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6).
We presently live in a society that is open any and every point of view as being valid. We are called to be separate from the world, not take on it's view. How then can we be witnesses for Christ Jesus? The Lord has said that He hates lukewarmness and will spue such out of His mouth, and we can count on His word to be fulfilled. It is better that we be for Christ or be against Him.
I'm not looking to cause strife, but the word is divisive to those who won't submit to it. It's meant to be for a good purpose. It is fine that you desire to stay with the forum; I'm not trying to run you away from it. I'm not the one who called you a fanatic. I have only one motive and that is to lovingly convince of the word of God. I love all people, including you Silverflyt; and so does Christ Jesus.

Here is *What I mean* by change of heart. You wrote about not thinking it wise to debate and THAT was going to be your last post a few pages ago. But I curiously find myself replying to yet anonther one of your fanatically charged, "out of love" writings...you just sounded like you were off to "go eat some worms"- I didn't expect to hear from you on this subject again. No problem though. And for the record, I don't think it is "cool" either-but I DO FIND IT INTERESTING AND AM NOT THREATENED BY THE THE SECULAR WORLD REQUIRiING PROOF OF JESUS. THIS IS NOTHING NEW. It is nothing for me personally to get pulled out of shape over. My guess is after all the Davinci Code smoke clears, I'll get to witness to those who will listen to a less...fanatic point of view.

But seriously, here is my point. It might relieve you to know that you don't have to "beleive it is such views as mine that say Christians should do nothing and let matters such as this issue of the DaVinci code just go and it will pass or who persistently speak out against those who out of a love for the Savior and conviction of the Holy Spirit come against these blasphemous matters against our Lord that do the great harm in your witness." Because your impression of my point of view on the "DaVinci Code" is way out in left field...and it should be because this is where you stand...far to the left. And I STILL don't understand why it is blasphemous to consider whether or not Christ was married to his number one deciple. There is nothing wrong with thinking about it and deciding for yourself. I never claimed that your views are wrong-just not for me. And no one is *persecuting* you-you flatter yourself if you think I would take the time to do that. I am over your slanderous comments about my take on things and I've chosen to defend myself from it. That's all.

Having liberal Christian views classifies me as neither undecided nor "lukewarm". I know exactly where I stand within my personal walk-and I am a Christian everyday. Because I don't feel called to impose severe self restriction like you and I don't have the fierce need to spread my personal plight like butter does not mean that I am "not abiding in the word".

I'm surprised that I have to remind you of this , but we all exsist somewhere on the spectrum. The atheist would label us both as extremist for picking Christinity. If this is who we are, why would this be offensive?Puzzling that you are offended by a public label of your public stance . Being a liberal Christian is not the lukewarm Christ refers to, and you and I both know it. Being a liberal Christian does not mean that I go to bible study one day and then I run to the nearest bar and throw my dress over my head. I just prefer not to spew self righteous banter all over the place without regard to the proper context it is being consumed under and label it "love for the Savior". Furthermore, your views do not seem radical and extreme. Not that it is against the law to be, but they most certainly are. Even Merrium-Webster's thinks so:

Main Entry: 1ex·treme
Pronunciation: ik-'strEm
Function: adjective
Etymology: Middle English, from Middle French, from Latin extremus, superlative of exter, exterus being on the outside -- more at [SIZE=-1]EXTERIOR[/SIZE]
1 a : existing in a very high degree <extreme poverty> b : going to great or exaggerated lengths : [SIZE=-1]RADICAL[/SIZE] <went on an extreme diet> c : exceeding the ordinary, usual, or expected <extreme weather conditions>
2 archaic : [SIZE=-1]LAST[/SIZE]
3 : most advanced or thoroughgoing <the extreme political left> b : [SIZE=-1]MAXIMUM[/SIZE]


Main Entry: fa·nat·ic
Pronunciation: f&-'na-tik
Variant(s): or fa·nat·i·cal /-ti-k&l/
Function: adjective
Etymology: Latin fanaticus inspired by a deity, frenzied, from fanum temple -- more at [SIZE=-1]FEAST[/SIZE]
: marked by excessive enthusiasm and often intense uncritical devotion <they're fanatic about religion>
Funtion: noun
:A person marked or motivated by an extreme, unreasoning enthusiasm, as for a cause.


But hey, we could continue to hobble along with the vague and confusing left-right religous spectrum, but fortunately, something better has come along.

 

[Bublnbrnsuga]

Hallcust, I really admire and appreciate your ferver for Christ. I find it refreshing. People act like its a crime to be radical for Christ. Be passionate in everything else you do but when it comes to God be passive and lukewarm
I will not be watching the movie. I really don't watch many movies to begin with. I don't see why my hard earned dollars should go to support something that is an attack on the church. Whether you decide to see it or not, it will create confusion for some, and it will lead some astray. And that is contradictory to our goal as Christians. We are really in the last days. We need to be focused on spreading the truth, rather than fighting amongst ourselves over this lie (the da vinci code).

ITA with this post.

 

[silverflyt]

I've read pages 1 and 3 of this thread, so I've definitely missed some things.
But from what I see there are some people who are firmly against watching it, others who want others to stand with them, some who dont care to see it and dont care period and others who want to go.

IMHO, each person's walk with the Lord is so different. His calling on our lives are never the same. For some people, they think that wearing jewellry is sinful, or wearing make up, you shouldnt wear pants, or anything fitted. In cases where you feel strongly about those things, then YOU deal with that. Sometimes it's because of what you struggle with in your spirit, as an idol in your life and the Lord wanted you to stop doing something because it might hinder you.
I know a lady who says she was obsessed with wearing jewellry and when she accepted Jesus she felt like the Holy Spirit wanted her to stop focusing on that, but that doesnt mean she shouldnt let her kids wear jewellry or tell anyone else not to.

To be more direct, the book from which the movie has been made is a work of fiction. For those of us who know about the spirit world we understand the influences that take place everyday through any form; word of mouth, music and other forms of media, just to name some examples.
If you feel that your spirit is going to be troubled or cannot handle watching a film like this or any other film, then do not go. You may be at a stage in your walk where you're very fickle and watching or reading something like this isnt what you need.
There are some of us who just think that it's wrong to watch or read or talk about anything non- Jesus. Then u dont watch, read or talk about it. But that doesnt mean that it's a sin to do any non-Jesus centered thing.

I cant encourage the extremists.

What I think we should be focused on, is the droves of people that will come out of these movie theaters searching for something, asking questions and shaken because of what they didnt realise they didnt believe. Some people will go in there thinking that they are sound in faith and they are not.
We should be prepared to answer questions about Jesus, to back up what we believe and what we think the Bible tells us.
The Bible was written so long ago and has not changed, so regardless of how many books are written and how many movies are made, we can use the Bible as our foundation.

Also remember that there are people who dont even believe or respect the Bible. So unless you focus on your personal relationship with Jesus, then you have nothing to witness to them about. INstead of telling people what NOT to do, focus on what you SHOULD do to let others know about who Jesus us.

I whole heartedly agree with this post.