.
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with comments by David Bruce

DETACHMENT
Subject: Newsletter_27-Disengagement
Date: Wed, 28 Nov 2001
From: David

David:
I believe that some of the reason that the cutlure suffers is what Franky Schaeffer outlined in his book "Addicted to Mediocrity:" The Church tried to contain the arts inside a stained glass box and when artists would not play according to the prescribed formula, they were thought of as "evil" or "heathen." That said, I have some Thomas Kindkaide paintings in my home. I appreciate his use of light, and the hard work it took to acquire the skill. But Mort Kuntsler (sp?) Civil War paintings have the same impact and took the same talent. So do works by Salvador Dali and Pablo Picasso and Norman Rockwell. Music by Bach can inspire but so can Jimi Hendrix (has anyone ever really figured out all those riffs?). Genius is genius. C-S Lewis talked about the evil being in the heart of the viewer not the object viewed. God said HE had given Bezalel and Oholiab wisdom and skill and filled them with the Spirit of God so they could work in gold, and silver, and wood, and precious stones, and cloth and all kinds of textiles. Who do you think they were doing that for before the exodus? Idol-worshipping Egyptians. Interesting huh?

MORE RESPONSES ON HARRY POTTER

NOT ALL CHRISTIANS ARE ON A WITCH HUNT!
Subject: Newsletter_30 Harry Potter
Date: Tue, 27 Nov 2001
From: T Webb

I thoroughly enjoyed Harry Potter as a work of fiction. As a Christian adult who has read many works of fiction fantasy I felt no pull toward witchcraft, demons, or magic. A relative gave me a book to read, The Bible and Harry Potter. It scared me to death and I couldn't finish reading it. I was very glad to hear your point of view and glad to know not all Christians are on this particular witchhunt! Thank You!!

Response: Thank you. And right you are. Most Christians are not involved in this insane witch hunt. And that makes we happy. Jesus smiles too. -David

HARRY POTTER ..LOTR..
Subject: Newsletter_30
Date: Tue, 27 Nov 2001
From: Justin

First of all I would like to thank you for such a wonderful (and much needed) site. I think it is a breath of fresh air to the christian community reguarding movies and entertainment. First of all I would like to address the current issue that seems to be on every christians mind: Harry Potter. I have never read the books, never really payed much attention to all the hype behind them, and I honestly never had any desire to read them..until now. I saw the film and loved it, it reminded me of being a kid again, and transporting myself into a eye popping world of fantasy. I grew up on fantasy. My first film experinces were E.T and Return of the Jedi, so I think I was in good company with Harry Potter. As for the whole debate on whether it is satanic or not. I would like to say that I STRONGLY feel that if you have nothing better to do with you time that rant and rave about how evil Harry is and how the author is leading all of our children into the occult, then wake up! You should sit back and take a good long look at yourself, and then ask Jesus to forgive you for the way you are acting. If your going to dismiss Harry Potter, shall we forget Tolkien and Lewis as well? (I should also point out that the latter two were devout christians..some people need to research before they draw conclusions) The magic in Harry Potter is nothing but fantasy and in researching I conclude that the author was very much influenced by Tolkien and Lewis. These books can teach our children moral lessons of self-sacrifice and the value of friendship, which were things I got out of seeing the film. The Bible says train up a child in the way he should go, so if your actively teaching your child the things of God and teaching them the Bible, then they will be strong in the Lord. What are they gonna think if they see you pointing fingers at something you should not be so concerned about? And yet we wonder why hollywood and the media has such a negative view on christianity! im just sick of the self righteous, legalistic , close minded christians who have nothing better to do than point fingers and jump to conclusions! I honestly think if we really truly searched the scriptures instead of holding on to "our" ideals and what "we" were taught, than we would see what God truly wants us to see. We have missed so much. Think of all the people whos lives were touched by the ministry of a christian rock band, and then then think of all the people who think christian rock is satanic. scary huh? see the problem??? we dont look before we leap. i am a 21 year old christian guy, who loves movies, and loves to read. I thank God for people like David who can see Jesus in Hollywood and in entertainment. I think alot of people can follow his example.
God bless you guys
Justin

Response: Thank you. -David

WITCHCRAFT
Subject: Newsletter_30
Date: Tue, 27 Nov 2001
From: Astrid

I feel that at least one point of confusion about witchcraft is that it is poorly defined in most cases, and lumped together with sorcery and enchantment in others. I believe they are all of the same genre, and have to do with rebellion , as is pointed out in 1 Samuel 15:23, in the Old Testament . In this context the rebellion is against God , in fact all rebellion is by definition against the Almighty and Omnipotent God. So giving children a look at what we must confess is a superficial , fanciful idea of what it means to have powers to transform, change, destroy and create are , shall we say, at least questionable and at most perhaps rebellious. So what we should do in all fairness as reasonable Christian adults is to tell children the truth about God , as their Father and creator, and stop messing around with fantasy and untruths. And heed the warnings given in the Book of Revelation, which state that in God's supreme justice, witches and sorcerers who are rebelling against God will never, therefore, get into Heaven. Period. Train up a child in the way he should go and he will not depart from it.

Response: You are right. Rebellion against God is the issue. Harry Potter is NOT about rebellion against God. -David

TOLKIEN
Subject: Newsletter_30 Tolkien
Date: Tue, 27 Nov 2001
From: Charity

One of your commenter mentioned how Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit have definite spiritual aspects. This is true -- and I am personally counting down the days until the film premiers... but she also claimed that "Tolkien himself may not have been a Christian..." I would like to make a short correction. Tolkien *was* a Christian. In fact, it was his influence that gave CS Lewis insight into the Christian faith, and ultimately converted him. He would be insulted to think that his books -- and himself -- were secular. I've only just discovered "Hollywood Jesus," and look forward to coming back.
God bless your ministry,
Charity
www.charitysplace.com

Response: Thank you. And you are right Tolkien was a Christian. -David

I THINK YOU ARE VERY FOOLISH
Subject: Newsletter_30
Date: Tue, 27 Nov 2001
From: Mary Jaber

to just blow this over as cunning and cute.. You apparently read only what you want from the Bible and as so many " LIBERAL RELIGIOUS " people think, you apparently also feel that Satan is just this mindless creature who isn't interested in destroying the Lord's people. Where is Jesus Christ in this by the way??? I thought this was a Christian web-site and I read here alot about God but nothing about the Lord Jesus Christ!!! I am simply amazed at how stupid some religious people are about spiritual things and how they subject their precious children to domonic stories and movies and think God will wink at them and say He understands... You have a lot to answer for on judgement day because all of these issues will be addressed by Him and then you go right ahead and tell him that you think socerey is no big deal.. I'm sure God will just think you are so much smarter then He is, right ??? You are really really off base IF you are a serious Christian, but if not - close up this web-site because satan gets enough help as it if from the secular world and you are running right along with the rest of the other liberal religions who are really going to answer big time.. Read the Old Testament... Jesus came to fill the law.. not remove it... I am appalled at these e-mails you have printed about this.. God help all of you... Mary J Jaber mailto: mjaber@reinhartlaw.com <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< Difficulties mastered are opportunities won... Churchill

Response: Thank you for your slam. Where is Jesus in Hollywood JESUS you ask? Hmm, gosh beats me. By the way, I consider myself to be theologically conservative. Your label of "liberal" was designed to dismiss me. No such luck. Call me what you will, Jesus is still my Lord. And the Bible is still my book. Remember who the father of the lie is. May God bless you on your journey and help you with your mouth. -David

LET US USE THE OPPORTUNITY
Subject: Newsletter_30 harry potter
Date: Tue, 27 Nov 2001
From: mary

i think the appeal of fantasy is basically because the devil can only imitate what God has created. some fantasy is allegorical, like C S Lewis' "The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe". other fantasy may be demonically inspired and will present counterfeits of God's truth. either way, fantasy can fill part of that empty space God built into each of us so we would hunger for Him. no wonder fantasy, myths and legends have persisted through the ages! i don't have kids at home any more; when i did i read books and watched movies with them. i set standards, and also taught them the standard of God's word. i wouldn't encourage my children to see this movie; but i'm concerned about children who have. threatening them with hell, disparaging them and their parents edifies no one, doesen't redeem the time, and does nothing to further the gospel of Christ. Connie Neal has witnessing tools relating to harry potter (read the bookmark at http://www.connieneal.com) let's use this opportunity to preach the gospel to a new, obviously hungry, generation!
mary

Response: Thank you. It is a hungry generation. -David

LOVE THE HP BOOKS
Subject: Newsletter_30
Date: Tue, 27 Nov 2001
From: K

My husband and I love the Harry Potter books, we're reading them aloud for the 2nd time. We are eastern orthodox christians, and they really don't offend us. The stories are just so good! Evil is not glorified, but is portrayed as real. I think it's important not to overlook the fact that there is evil in the world, that there are battles between good and evil. While the Harry Potter tales are not overtly Christian, I do think they are moral and deal with many issues that people of all ages struggle with, such as feeling alone, working hard to keep your friends, feeling unjustly persecuted, and fighting for what you believe in. The witchcraft is a sort of background for very human stories. When I think of the books I read as a child, many of them gave the main character special powers or at least special insight into the world around them. Everyone wants to feel special in some way, and the HP stories address that need so well. My Christian walk has been a lot of gut decisions. Until attending bible school in my early 20's, I never had a lot of book knowledge to back up my gut instincts, instincts that were developed through life in a Christian family and church community. Harry Potter doesn't go against my gut instincts, nor against the book knowledge I have. I don't really think that these books will encourage young people to pursue witchcraft, the sorcery in the books really takes a backseat to the human drama. I do have my concerns about related merchandising of "spell books" and the such, but as most of the "spells" are just the latin or greek root words with some made up conjunctions, I don't suppose there's much harm. Whew, that's a lot more than 2 cents worth, but there it is :) K

Response: Thank you. I agree with you. Very insightful. -David

thoughts on harry potter
Subject: Newsletter_30
Date: Tue, 27 Nov 2001
From: rhonda

I believe that we as God's Children are too easily influenced by the media and other sources. What the devils means for our bad God can and will turn it into something good for us. Harry Potter is a fictitious character created by a person who is no different from any of us. I have not allowed my children to go because I'd like to be better informed of what the content is. That is not to say I will not take them. I believe that it does promote witchcraft and divination. However, it is no more evil or sinister than many of the cartoons that I have to tell my children they don't need to watch on TV every single day, not to mention the video, or computer games. We have a responsibility to prepare our children for the real world and if Scriptures tells us clearly that "we wrestle not against flesh and blood but against powers and principalities in high and wicked places" Should we not know how to battle our enemies? We are told to put on our whole armor and not flee.... But to stand! We live in a world full of wrong doings and sin is abounding we are to be Light in a dark and barren land. So let's just be about doing what it is God has instructed us to do. Pray without ceasing. Lift up one another and bear each others burdens. Work out our OWN Soul Salvation with fear and trembling. People that pray together stay together. We are not be afraid. God did not give us the spirit of fear, but of Love Power and a Sound mind. We need to begin to live that way, stop giving the devil so much credit. God is still in control. I apologize for rambling on so long, I just hate to think that we as God's children forget our faith so easily and continue to roll over and play dead "spiritually that is"
Sincerely, Rhonda Ferguson

Response: Thank you for being a caring mother. I hope you are not too strict. -David

THE SPIRITUAL CHEESE IN THE MOUSE TRAP
Subject: Newsletter_30
Date: Tue, 27 Nov 2001
From: Santosh Benjamin

Hi,
"Harry potter is fictitious but witchcraft isnt"

Im thinking back to a few months ago when 'Charmed' was on TV screens (the story of three teenagers who are witches , albeit 'good' ones) ... Interestingly withcraft organisations reported an increasing number of teenagers calling up and inquiring how they could become witches and of course the organisation was only to happy to tell them how to be initiated...

Now , i hope u dont think witchcraft is good . The Bible strongly condemns it . Under this premise, i would argue against any advancement of witchcraft and its aims , even if a seemingly innocent programme is used to guide it .

so harry might be a likable lad and the story may have some good themes , but spiritually i think thats the cheese in the mousetrap ..havent u seen programmes , even hollywood movies where people give in to the devil because they get promises of greatness , powers to do good etc and at the end , satan shows that they would actually burn in hell ?

Remember the admonishment "if anyone of u causes these little ones to stumble ..."

and theres one more thing , what about the interview with JK Rowling where she said some very unpleasant things about Jesus ? its one thing to be neutral about him and another thing to be nasty about Him ...

Sincerely,
Santosh Benjamin

Response: Thank you for sharing. I disagree with regarding HP. But, that's okay. I always enjoy a good discussion.The witch craft that the Bible speaks about is not what HP is about. Apples and oranges. -David

WHY THE FUSS?
Subject: Newsletter_30
Date: Tue, 27 Nov 2001
From: "Geeting, Brian"

If the setting of the Harry Potter stories been another planet and his magic advanced technology, no one would be raising any stink.

The "magic and wizard" background of Harry Potter books are only the settings within which the tales unfold. The conflict is between good and evil in each book. Harry being the good guy and various other wizards being the bad guys. In the books good always triumphs.

The values Harry holds and upholds are similar to those of Christian teachings, without the specific references to God or Jesus. The choice for parents to permit their children to participate in the "Harry Potter" mania is individual. Harry Potter is nothing more than the new "James Bond" or "Star Wars" or "Pokémon".

It is my opinion that those who see devils and demons within Harry Potter are likely to find devil and demons in any literature, film or play. "Harry Potter paranoia" is irresponsible and destructive to God's teachings. Persons suffering that level of paranoia should seek professional help.

Response: Thank you for your excellent comments. You are so right on. Again, excellent comments! -David

MUCH GOOD IN HP
Subject: Newsletter_30 Harry_Potter_Can_Be_Used_Positively_
Date: Tue, 27 Nov 2001
From: Rodney Simmonds

To me there is much that is good in Harry Potter. In all four books Harry Potter overcomes evil with good. Harry Potter is unselfish. In the film just before the end we are told. You have overcome evil because you have love deep down i n your soul. The film also makes much of Ron laying down his life in the chess game so that Harry can go obn and overcome evil just as Jesus laid down His life for us. To me there is much that is good in Harry Potter. Harry is concerned with others.
Rodney
Rev. Dr. Rodney C. Simmonds Home Page: http://www.ilovejesus.com/myhome/rodneycsimmonds/index.html

Response: Thank you pastor. It warms my heart to know there are pastors like you out there. If I were in your area I would visit your church. Keep on brother. -David

WITCHCRAFT AND CHRISTIANS
Subject: Newsletter_30
Date: Mon, 26 Nov 2001
From: L. Glenn

Dear Mr. Bruce:
This is the first time I have looked at your site, and was disappointed at your favorable opinion of the Harry Potter series. It did reflect the controversy swirling around the Harry Potter books and current movie, especially within the "Christian" community. Your opinions reflect relativistic logic and an acceptance that Christian truth can be established through non/extra-biblical sources. Scripture does not support your opinions. (You are so wrong about my thinking. -David)

Some like yourself try to justify your anti-biblical argument by saying that God used this or that scenario to interact with or teach man. True, He can, such as using an ass to communicate to Balaam the false prophet. If your position is valid then you would accept that Satan is a force for good because he can quote scripture, as he did when Jesus our savior was being tried in the wilderness; or, that Job came out better from his trial than he was previously. God used Satan in Job's case, yet Satan only used evil and loss to work on Job. So perhaps evil and Satan are good and God is....? No, God is the ultimate in righteousness and goodness and He tempts no man with evil, nor does He sanction witchcraft, sorcery, spiritualism or those who believe evil is good. (No argument here. -David)

Some claim that a great deal of highly regarded fantasy would have to be thrown out were Harry Potter to be relegated to the rubbish heap. Those who hold this opinion do not comprehend the that none of the other fiction takes place in the "real" world, that the other fantasies do not set the scene in a school of witchcraft, give vicarious lessons in witchcraft, or uphold witchery / wizardry as a desirable goal. The wizards of these other fantasy pieces are either phony, the end of their line, or as a player in a drama.

Some professed Christian personalities and other prominent people have jumped on the Harry Potter bandwagon. However, these people seem to have set aside the authority of the Bible to vaunt their own opinion. Since Christianity is a religion based upon the validity of the Bible, the supremacy of God and of Jesus Christ one must look at what the Bible has to say, what God through His inspiration has said, not what people, whoever they are -- whatever their station, have to say. These people, no matter their sincerity, cannot offer, give or assure forgiveness of sin or salvation; nor, do their opinions supersede or negate God's judgments and laws. (True. The Bible is always the final word. I do not disagree with you. This is strange because you seem to disagree with me. I see no difference between us, except in our different views of HP and what a Christian is. You seem to suggest that Christians who view HP differently than you do are not true Christians. -David)

The Holy Bible, the only complete source of Christian truth, says, "There shall not be found among you anyone who practices witchcraft, or a soothsayer, or one who interprets omens, or a sorcerer.
For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft.
And many who had believed came confessing and telling their deeds. Also, many of those who had practiced magic brought their books together and burned them. But outside are dogs and sorcerers and sexually immoral and murderers and idolaters, and whoever loves and practices a lie.

These examples from the Law (Torah) to Revelation show there is no controversy in the Bible about evil practices and beliefs. (HP is not this, however. -David)

If we believe in God, and we believe that the Bible is the word of the Living Almighty God who will judge all mankind ('humankind' would be a better word -David), it is not our opinion or belief that counts, it is His sole opinion; and He in His book has nothing good to say about witchcraft, sorcery, divination, magickal practices etc. You say, "Point: Harry Potter can be used to point to the positive truths." The Bible says, "Can two walk together, unless they are agreed?" and "what communion has light with darkness?" You cannot agree with God and with the occult, or Harry Potter and his creator. (Again. The Bible is always the final word. I do not disagree with you. This is strange because you seem to disagree with me. I see no difference between us, except in our different views of HP and what a Christian is. You seem to suggest that Christians who view HP differently than you do are not true Christians. So sad -David)

You said, "Statement: Harry Potter will not advance the cause of Satanists. Harry Potter will not increase the ranks of so-called wizards and witches." However, the Bible says, Proverbs 22:6 "Train up a child in the way he should go, And when he is old he will not depart from it." Proverbs 20:11 "Even a child is known by his deeds, Whether what he does is pure and right." Children learn by reading, seeing, mimicking, and through play (Harry Potter toys, Ouija boards, Dungeons & Dragons ad nauseum.)

In summary, the Bible continues: "And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose them.", it does not say embrace, promote, encourage or support the works of darkness. Mr. Bruce you need to rethink your position in light of the Holy Bible, not what is convenient or popular. Harry Potter, witchcraft, sorcery, divination, mediums / spiritualism, psychic readings, magick and related practices are of darkness. No Christian should have fellowship with these practices. Witchcraft is sin, sin brings eternal death --is Harry Potter really worth risking your eternal life for? (Non-sense. HP does not equal eternal death. God will NOT burn people forever just because they read HP. Nonsense. Your view of God's justice is somehow wrong to me. -David)
L. Glenn

PS: If you are going to offer and try to establish a theological or doctrinal position or opinion use a real translation rather than a paraphrased text. (The translation I used is not a paraphrase. Unlike the old Living Bible which is a paraphrase, the New Living Translation is not as you state. It is a translation. You do not know theology or biblical matters very well. You are very limited in your experience and understanding. May God bless you and work with you in expanding your heart to be inclusive of Christians that think different than you. The difference between you and I is that I can rejoice that you follow Jesus, whereas you can not celebrate my life in the same way. So sad. If you are intolerant toward certain brothers and sisters in Christ, I wonder if you are even more intolerant toward nonChristians. -David)

GOOD LESSONS IN HP
Subject: Newsletter_30
Date: Mon, 26 Nov 2001
From: Lori

I have read all the Harry Potter books so far. Because of all the controversy I wanted to be sure before I allowed my son to read them. I have to say they are positive in a lot of ways. There's a good lesson in each book (sometimes more than one). He also has enjoyed them. Isn't that why the books are listed under "science FANTASY"? Thanks for listening!

Response: Thank you. -David

WHEN IN DOUBT --LEAVE IT OUT
Subject: Newsletter_30
Date: Mon, 26 Nov 2001
From: Wendy Hamil

David: I just finished reading various opinions about Harry Potter books, and I wish to share this rule of thumb with you and others. This is not original, but I have always discovered this rule to be practical and safe. When followed I have never had any regrets. It is old but true,"WHEN IN DOUBT, LEAVE IT OUT".

I am aware that witchcraft is practiced throughout the world, and personally, I want no part of it. It opens the gate to hell!! I don't even read my horoscope any more. As parents and grandparents I believe we have a responsibility to protect our children, and many people are letting their children read the Harry Potter books and view the movie without personally learning what this is about.

I think a person should pray for the Holy Spirit to open their eyes and ears before they begin the search, and before they let the children read the books or view the movie.

We all know satan is the biggest deceiver of all and many Christians will be deceived. He is not worried about the unbelievers, his great concern are believers.

I believe our schools should practice the same policy about permitting the children to read the books. Since some consider them to be witchcraft, which is a religion, then they should not let the children read them. Do public schools allow the Bible, Curran or other Books of Faith to be read? I am a Christian, and would like to say I am not in favor of audible prayers being said in public schools. If one religion is allowed to pray aloud, then allow all religions to pray aloud. THE GOVERNMENT CANNOT FORBID OR PROHIBIT ME FROM PRAYING ANYTIME......WHEN I PRAY SILENTLY. I am in agreement for a period of silent prayer in public schools.

So, if Harry Potter is going to be read in public schools....let's dust off the Bible and encourage the students to spend the same amount of time reading it as they do Harry Potter. There are Bible for all age levels, and many may be surprised how fascinating the Bible is.

Thanks for letting me share my opinion.
Wendy Hamil
Thanks for allowing me

Response: You are welcome. -David

A WONDERFUL TOOL
Subject: Newsletter_30 Harry Potter
Date: Mon, 26 Nov 2001
From: Linda

I think the new Harry Potter movie is wonderful and I also think that the whole Harry Potter series is the age old tale of good versus evil. Isn't it amazing that in the movie the one thing that keeps Harry from harm in the end is the Love of his Mother that she put into him just before she died! Harry is a wonderful tool to teach our youth and adults as well, that the things of true value are not made of gold or silver but are instead the relationships we have with our fellow human beings.

Response: Thank you. -David

WAKE UP AND SMELL SATAN!
Subject: Newsletter_30
Date: Mon, 26 Nov 2001
From: Rev. Michael S. Ingo,
Draper Valley Pentecostal Holiness Church.

My dear friend I am not sure how I got your page, but I am glad I did. I address you in love sir, not in hostility.

You too have been duped by the devil, like thousands of others. There is nothing, hear me son, nothing positive about witchcraft in any form. You quote Paul, so listen to him here: "Finally, brethren (Christians) whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy, meditate on these things." (Philippians 4:8 NKJV). Read about Samuel if you think witches have anything positive to relate, read 1 Samuel 28 through chapter 31. You quote Scriptures, so let me give you one. You need to use the whole chapter of Acts, not just an excerpt. I can take one sentence of Scripture and interpret it to mean just about anything. Paul said in verse 22 of that same chapter of Acts you quote, " I perceive that in ALL things you are VERY RELIGIOUS. (Emphasis mine.) The people had been duped into believing there were numerous gods, so it was a bit sarcastic in a sense when he made this statement to them, that you use in your quote.

Call me a holy roller if you like, as the one lady did John Hagy. After all, that is how Satan fools everyone else. Take "holy" away from Christianity and you end up with religion. The difference between religion and Christianity is heaven or hell. Consult Christ about it in Matthew 15: 7-9: "Hypocrites! Well did Isaiah prophesy about you, saying: 'these people draw near to Me with their mouth, and honor Me with their lips, but their heart is far from Me. And in vain they worship Me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.'" One more bit of advice, if you happen to still be reading this: Satan can sugar coat his antics with children, and even puppies or kittens if he chooses and try to lead us to believe there is nothing "wrong with it." Popular opinion is not always the right opinion. It is not what you think, or what I think that counts. It is what God says in His Word. All of His Word. Not just bits and pieces.

I guess some "Christians" may say the Exorcist was a "teaching movie" as well, huh?

May God continually be merciful and gracious unto you and yours!
In His Service and at yours:
Rev. Michael S. Ingo,
Associate Pastor, Draper Valley Pentecostal Holiness Church.

Response: Thank you for sharing. I wish you had been more being "merciful and gracious" in sharing your opposing view. I would have appreciated such kindness and heart. "The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace ..kindness" "The works of the flesh are strife, quarrels, factions, malice", etc. as you well know. We may disagree, but we still follow Jesus and are part of the same family. -David

LOVE IS MORE POWERFUL THAN BAD MAGIC
Subject: Newsletter_30 Harry_Potter_Can_Be_Used_Positivel
Date: Mon, 26 Nov 2001
From: Dale Bare

Hello, just read your article on ol' harry. I read the books with my 13 year old son and took him to see the movie. in the story it was love that was more powerful than all the evil magic. and loyalty and friendship was the most important virtues. as for an innocent dying. what is our faith built on but the horrible death of our savior. It is sad to see Christians up in arms over such trivial things. And not emphasizing the good news of Gods Love.
Your bro Dale Bare

Response: Thank you for sharing your wonderful experience. You are a great father. Thank you for loving your son as you do. -David

THE PROBLEM OF CRYING SATAN
Subject: Newsletter_30 Satanic_Hysteria
Date: Mon, 26 Nov 2001
From: "Barbara"

I think that people who "cry Satan" keep a lot of people from Christ - so in reverse, maybe they are serving Satan themselves with their irrational behavior.

Response: Amen to that. You are so right. What is a nonChristian to think with isolationist Christians falsely predicting the Y2K crisis, the so-called fall of America on 9/11, the gay bashing Disney boycott, the Pokemon is demonic craze, the so-called baby sacrifices by Satanist, Family Radio's end of the world in 1994 prediction by Harold Camping, the return of Jesus in 1988 by Hal Lindsey, Satanic back masking in Rock records, etc? And now what? Harry Potter? Legos? Lord of the Rings? CS Lewis? Satan has an easy job of making the church look ridiculous. Isolationist Christians make us all look stupid and ignorant to out side eyes. Jesus is not pleased. Thank you, I totally agree with you. I pray that the insanity will stop! -David

68 YEAR OLD READS HARRY POTTER
Subject: Newsletter_30
Date: Mon, 26 Nov 2001
From: "Barbara"

I'm 68 and I've read all the Harry Potter books (the first two twice). I always have them on loan. I think they are a great deal like C.S. Lewis's "Tales of Narnia". I wish more young children were like Harry, Ron and Hermione. Even in the fourth book where one of the good students is killed by the evil of another, that "stuff" happens in the Bible and happens daily in life. It is how we deal with "stuff" that makes the difference. Harry deals with things honestly, it doesn't get better than that.

Response: Thank you. -David

THE HARRY POTTER QUESTION
Subject: Newsletter_30
Date: Mon, 26 Nov 2001
From: "Raven Rivers"

Hello :)

I am trying to verify a quote by JK Rawlings in a supposed interview on July 17, ?, with the London Times. It is a damaging quote to say the least and truthfully I doubt she said it. I have tried to find The London Times on the internet, but am having a difficult time finding it. Is there even such a newspaper? The article that mentions the quote by Ms. Rawlings was sent to my sister-in-law who is the editor of our website by well-meaning friends of ours in Paris, France. They are evangelical christians. I am a born again christian, just so you know, and although I don't agree that Harry Potter has something good to offer christian children, I also don't agree with all this negative hoopla surrounding the books and the author. I also don't believe the books are overloaded with subliminal messages being sent to lure unsuspecting children to their doom. I am 32 yrs old and I grew up feeding my reading hunger with Robert Lynn Asprin's Myth Adventures and C.S. Lewis, and Tolkein, and Roger Zelezny and the like. Although I did eventually drift into the occult, I believe it was mostly due to the lack of parental supervision on my reading material than the influence of evil messages in the books I read.

This is the case with Harry Potter. If you are going to allow your child to read these books, then be prepared to discuss them from a reasonable christian perspective and not hysteria. Children are naturally curious. Personally, I found it disturbing to see parents taking their children to the bookstores at midnight and joining in THAT frenzy as they pushed and shoved to get one of the books. It's like the mess with the Pokeman trading cards. So, as parents we have the responsibility to keep things in check without making it such a taboo that it becomes even more enticing to the child. It's not easy keeping that balance.

Anyway, if you can in any way shed some light on the quote I would appreciate your help. Once I verify the truthfulness of the article in question, I will be writing one of my own on the dangers of all this hysteria and how, if as Christians we continue to cry wolf...no one will listen to the truly important things we have to say and the warnings of the real dangers out there. :)

Thank you for your time.

P.S. I am reading now the article by Terry Mattingly...I think I have my answer ;) I am sending this to you anyway. Think of it as a long hello! lol Thanks again.

Response: The quote is bogus. Major urban legend. A lie. And we all know who the father of the lie is. Sadly, this urban legend is being spread by Christians. -David

AFRAID OF SATAN
Subject: Newsletter_30 Harry Potter
Date: Mon, 26 Nov 2001
From: "Al & Lisa"

I am the mother of two boys ages 8 and 10. My feelings on the Harry Potter situation is that I'm afraid it will open some doors that need not be opened in the mind of a child. Sometimes all it takes is for the curiosity to be built and Satan takes it from there. My 10 year old gets lost in his stories as I did at his age and I really don't want to encourage the witchcraft and sorcery aspect in his life until he has a better foundation in Christ under him. I am preferring to stick to the positive aspects in his life for now. We will deal with life's lessons as they arrive. This is one Mom who is not bashing Harry Potter but also not allowing it at this time. Sincerely, Lisa Ouellette

Response: Thank you for being a concerned mom. However, remember; "Greater is the One who is in you than the one who is in the world." -David

TRUST GOD, NOT WIZARDS
Subject: Newsletter_30
Date: Mon, 26 Nov 2001
From: Bell

I have no desire to read a book about wizards and witchcraft. I don't believe you can label it fantasy, in regards to the occult. I trust God and the bible!

Response: I am glad for your commitment to God. -David

SOMETHING GOOD?
Subject: H.P. Newsletter_30
Date: Mon, 26 Nov 2001
From: Arpi

Mr Bruce, how can we turn HP into something good? What would you (Jesus) do? I think Christian movie makers must come with a good alternative. To all Christians who want to read the books and/or see the movie: pray about it and tell your children the alternative. While you read pray so the Holy Spirit can guide your mind. Pray also that all non believing children will not be influenced negatively by HP.
Arpi

VARIOUS THOUGHTS
Subject: H.P. Newsletter_30
Date: Mon, 26 Nov 2001
From: Arpi

Mr. Bruce, Your views on Harry Potter are very interesting and I agree that we can use HP for something good. Anyway I do believe that HP is bad influence for children. Children can be influenced easy and occultism, whichcraft and magic are things that the Bible warns us about. Why is it that we protect our children from hard violence, soft and hard porn and not from occultism? To my opinion, The HP idea make us think that it's ok to use magic to control people while Jesus learned that we can do nothing without the Father. Jesus learns to love our enemies and pray for them and that revenge belongs to the Father. The Bible teaches also that the words we speak can influence everything (life and death are in the power of the tongue) so I believe that children (and adults) who want to imitate HP and speak incantations they can put someone, withour knowing, in bondage.

I think poor Harry has a big trauma and needs help. I would love to see that in the future Harry would meet some good Christian people tp pray with him, tell him about Jesus, how him Gods love. Further that he turned to God, asked forgivness and leave the whichschool and started telling the other students and teachers there about Jesus. And instead of using dark powers he started to use the power of the Holy Spirit and Gods Word to destroy the works of the devil. Wouldn't that be great? What an influence would that be for all children!

I think that satan is laughing about it, clapping his hands, because Christians are being undivided and attack each other. Instead of critics, ungodly reactions and speaking fear, Christians stood stand up and PRAY. The prayers of righteous men can do much, because the power of God is much greater.

I think HP can be use positively by showing, in the light of Jesus, the differences between the power of occultism and the power of the Holy Spirit.

Arpi

BRUCE LEE, JESUS COMPARISONS
Subject: Bruce Lee
Date: Tue, 27 Nov 2001
From: Steve

Dear Readers, My comments may seem short and terse but please do not be angry with me. For the sake of brevity, I'll be academic. Comparisons between Bruce Lee and Jesus are futile and ridiculous. Jesus called himself G O D, the creator of all, he called himself Jehovah the Son. Bruce Lee never claimed to be anything more than a seeker after truth, the way. Jesus said about Himself: 'I am the WAY, the Truth and the Life...no man comes to the Father BUT BY ME." Jesus who spoke the greatest words ever, who healed the blind, lame etc is confronting us with this: HE IS EITHER A LIAR...A LUNATIC...OR L O R D . Bruce Lee did not follow the classical ethos of the ancient martial arts which espoused the 'middle way'. Lee overtrained, kept late nights, overextended himself at work, spent 'time' with other women other than his wife (died in another woman's apartment of a brain edema), had recurring headaches from overtraining and overstraining, was not....I emphasize...was NOT a good role model for youth. His films advocate wanton violence, revenge ...let's be up front about it. Jesus' life was spotless, blameless: he said...'he who lives by the sword, dies by the sword'. Indirectly that is what happened to Bruce Lee. Old-time Chinese martial arts masters have not been changed by Lee's Jeet Kune Do....they were practicing their arts peacefully before Bruce Lee...and today they are doing the same after Bruce Lee. Jesus Christ on the other hand did not seek to change Judaism or the Torah. He said: 'I came not to destroy the Torah, but to magnify the Law" and also...."not one letter shall change from the Law until everything is fulfilled'. Jesus life bore this out. With all due respect: Bruce Lee is still in his grave. Jesus Christ's grave is EMPTY. He is alive, resurrected and sits at the right hand of the Godhead WAITING TO RETURN IN THESE LAST DAYS AS HE HIMSELF PROPHESIED. A cursury glance at the whole chapter 24 of Matthew, shows you that all of His prophesies are being fulfulled TODAY AND WILL CULMINATE WITH THE RAPTURE OF ALL THOSE WHO HAVE TRULY ACCEPTED HIM AS LORD AND SAVIOR. This may sound 'preachy' but think for a moment...those are HIS words! Bruce never never spoke like this. Theologically, Bruce Lee will stand before Jesus Christ, possibly at the GREAT WHITE THRONE JUDGEMENT of the Book of Revelation, to be eternally judged as to WHERE he will spend ETERNITY. It says: 'all those whose names were not found written in the LAMB'S book of life were cast into the Lake of Fire where they endure eternal torment f o r e v e r.' I ask you...who is the Lamb? It is Jesus....:of whom John the Baptist said: BEHOLD THE LAMB OF GOD WHO TAKES AWAY THE S I N OF THE WORLD'. Wow! No comparison between Bruce Lee and Jesus at all. No contest! And so.... I say to all as I would say to Bruce Lee today: 'for God so loved the world that he gave HIS ONLY BEGOTTEN SON that whosoever would beleive on HIM, should not PERISH but would have everlasting life. Bruce Lee is never coming back...
but JESUS CHRIST IS COMING BACK .... S O O N .
God Bless you richly.
Ren Tao

Response: So do you feel better? Did you feel you needed to do all that preaching? Your points are lost in your dogmatic tone. -David

THE END
Subject: Planet_of_the_Apes
Date: Tue, 27 Nov 2001
From: Jonathan

It is interesting to note that no one talked about the irony that is shown in the ending sequence of the movie. Notice that Gen. Thade is in the Lincoln spot. Lincoln was known as the great emancipator who helped to free the slaves. The inscription behind the Thade statue leaves the impression that Thade helped to free the world from the humans. Thade therefore becomes a sort of "anti-Lincoln",instead of freeing the slaves, Thade rids the world of them. The nightmare world in the end of the movie is another rift in time, where Wahlberg's character didn't show up to free the slaves, and unite the apes and humans together. I think it is also a tie to the earlier POTA movie series where Cornelius, his wife, and their other ape companion use the spaceship to break the time barrier and enter the past. Notice in "Escape of the Planet of the Apes" the opening sequence is similar to the ending sequence in the recent movie. I know that the ending sequnce is puzzling and I believe that it was left that way. There is a mystery there that is difficult to solve, but from a postmodern view point, that is a good thing, because postmoderns don't like everything explained to them.

Also the movie isn't intending to be a strick retelling of the Exodus (just a repeat of some of the themes), so trying to find a parallel of the ending of the movie to the Exodus story, I believe, is futile. Also it is interesting to note that the final battle scene in the movie between the apes and the humans echoes an "Armageddon" type battle. In Revelation 16:12 the Euphrates river is dried up in order to prepare the way for the kings of the East. Some how the apes found a way around the river, since they wouldn't go through it because they could not swim. The scene of the huge army of apes facing off against the mass of humans also gives one an impression of the Armageddon battle in Revelation. This scene also recalls a similar scene in "The Mummy Returns" where the tribes face off against the army of the jackel humanoid creatures in the end of the movie.

The river scene not only echoes the Red Sea story, but also echoes the crossing of the Jordan when the Israelites finally cross the Jordan in order to enter into the Promised Land (the Jordan crossing is also considered to be a smaller Red Sea crossing).
Jonathan

EXCELLENT
Subject: Les Miserables
Date: Tue, 27 Nov 2001
From: Charity

I thought the film was excellent, very thought-provoking and deeply spiritual. Why on earth didn't Liam Neeson get an Oscar for this performance? The film was pretty much completely ignored by Hollywood that year... a pity, since it is the only good Christian-based production to come out of smutville in a long time.

Don't be turned off due to the reviews that state it doesn't stand up to the book. Personally I was very satisfied with the ending... I hated the last chapters of the book and was disgusted with the musical's overly sexual tones and profanity. It's a wonderful movie -- the only film that my grandmother (who is completely anti-Hollywood, anti-movie) will watch!
- Charity

GRANDFATHER SPEAKS
Subject: Potter Newsletter_30
Date: Tue, 27 Nov 2001
From: Jos. H. Bryant o.d., o.c.

Hello, I have 6 grandchildren from the age of 6 up to 17 and their general opinion is that Harry Potter is either great fun to watch or it's just silly "fairy-tail type stuff" as the 14 year old said. Sa, for the Satanic thing? We are aware that there are some in and out of the ministry that will use any means available to fatten their purses. I feel this applies to most of the "televangelists" and, unfortunately, some of the more established churches. My family has a very stong Christian Ethic that we all live by and we're rarely affected by those who would have people buy into there particular "ism". We don't do yoga or pay any attention to Buddha and we're not expecting a spaceship to come along and take us to Heaven. We're just plain old fashioned Christians and it works just fine for us. We pray for those not so enlightend by The Word of God. We also don't look at popular entertainment media to provide any insghts to the Bible. Thank you for your time.
Keep The Son in your eyes!
<>< Jos. H. Bryant o.d., o.c.

SUPERMAN/MESSIAH
Subject: Superman
Date: Tue, 27 Nov 2001
From: Jonathan

I found the article on Superman being the Messiah, very interesting and compelling. Anyone who reads the comics, or has read them in the past has seen similar parallels, especially with Superman's death. I have noticed in Superman's death, in the comics, that there is much religious symbolism. Note the similarities below:

1. Superman dies in a sacrificial way, just like Christ

2. Following Superman's death many people take up the mantle and replace superman. These new "supermen" parallel the disciples and false christs mention by Jesus in the gospels. The man who becomes "Steel" in the comics, does not pass himself off as the real superman, rather he is seen more as a disciple of the original, who takes up the mantle to do battle with the evil. The other supermen resemble more of the false christs as they claim to be the original.

3. Superman experiences a resurrection that is witnesed by many, just like Christ's was.

4. Superman's resurrection occurs with him being "born" out of an egg/womb like kryptonian ship. This egg/womb symbolism parallels the "new birth" motif of the gospels. Also it parallels the tomb in which Jesus rose from. It is also interesting to note that the kryptonian machine that finally gives birth to the alive superman, first travels through water. The symbolism of baptism can be scene here, especially when Paul says that we experience the death and resurrection of Christ in the waters of baptism. Also the superman tomb/statue where the body of superman lay is later on found empty, although it is not until later on in the series that the true superman comes back. Following the empty tomb we find the discovery of the false supermen as well as the superman disciple.

5. Superman's resurrection experience is really combines the resurrection/return motifs of Jesus. At Christ's second coming the powers of evil are destroyed. It is said that following Jesus' resurrection there would be false christs who would seek to deceive those who know the truth. So the superman story seeks to telescope the resurrection and second coming of Christ into one story. It is after Superman comes back from the dead that he goes out to do battle with the evil half/cybernetic superman, who really symbolizes the beast or antichrist of Revelation. Superman does battle with the evil superman with the help of some friends, which symbolizes Revelation 12 and the heavenly battle in heaven between good and evil. The story really makes you think!
Jonathan

Response: Excellent comments. Thank you -David

MOST TRUE TO LIFE
Subject: Riding_In_Cars_With_Boys
Date: Tue, 27 Nov 2001
From: Laurie Magnusson

This movie is one of the most true to life films I have seen. It was good to see the depravity of man without making it seem as though their lives weren't worth anything. They showed the good and bad of every character which is the way things are in reality.
Laurie Magnusson

WOW -GREAT EDITORIALS
Subject: Newsletter_29
Date: Tue, 27 Nov 2001
From: Stephen

I received a link to your newsletter from gospelcom.net. It is refreshing to read a positive view of life - I get fed up with the "doomsday" Christians. God wants us to be happy and live a fabulous life with him and through him. I intend to do that for myself and my children. Thanks for breathing sanity into some of these ridiculous issues: 9-11, Harry Potter etc.
Stephen

Response: You are welcome. I try. -David

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