"Saved!" the latest teen movie... (http://www.savedmovie.com/saved_flash.html)

So what do you guys think about it?
I have mixed feelings. I love the premise and the message- that faith isn't found in trinkits, or slogans, or giant Jesus billboards...
But the characters look really, really stereotypical. I think throughout my entire life, I've met maybe one person who's the wwjd wearing, cd-burning hypocrite portrayed as the 'norm' in this film. Most everyone I've ever known, Christians and non-Christians, have much deeper personalities than as such.
But when have these teen films been accurate in terms of characterization?! Never.

I was at first pretty excited about this flick when I first heard about it, but after seeing the preview, I dunno if I'm gunna like it. I think I'm gunna dislike it, but not because it pokes fun at particular Christians, but because the characters aren't deep enough. Looks like my hopes for a movie that has a similar premise as this one, but with deep characters and a really relevent message will still go unrealized. I haven't seen it and won't decide if it's a good or bad film, but I'm no longer that excited about it. :-\

I think that it looks offensive. It portrays Christians as one-sided. I emailed MGM complaining about it. No one would dare make a movie about Muslims like this one right now.

I think that it looks offensive. It portrays Christians as one-sided. I emailed MGM complaining about it. No one would dare make a movie about Muslims like this one right now.

Just from what i have heard and read...i agree with you..I also heard that they were going to use a song by The Elms...but they(The Elms) refused to let them after reading the script.

What clinched it for me, was the fact that they mock speaking in tongues. That is so incrediably offensive and appalling.

Well I haven't had much experience with speaking in tongues. I've only witnessed it twice. I find it quite a cool gift myself (don't have it). People just get freaked out over stuff like that... and then they put it in the movie because it is one of the "weird" things that "we" can do.

But I have seen the previews. I think the whole movie looks like crap. Plus Macaulay Culkin is in it. Have some extra crap!

well, i read the article about it in the super awesome magazine "Relevant." and came to the conclusion that this movie is and will be a super Christian mocker. alot of people that hold things against Christians will see it, love it and most likely quote it.
then again, this movie portrays Christians who are insanely stupid or don't really understand scripture if you think about it.
I've known so called "Christians" that this movie is going to show the world.
in one part of the movie, Christian poster child Mandy Moore slams a Bible down at a young pregnant girl yelling, "I am filled with Christ's love!"
gee, what better of a movie to release after the Passion then this one.
and also, i was at Blockbuster with some friends the other day and saw one of the most creepy sites which mankind should never be cursed of.
that's right, Mcully Culkin (or however you spell it) with gold glittery eyeliner and lipstick on a movie cover.
this guy is sick.
he's all, "I'm a gay party guy! isn't that great?"
waoh...sorry didn't mean to get sidetracked but basically, saved will be poop. end of story, yo.

i read about and I watched the trailor and it made me sick! I hope the movie turns out to be better than what the trailor made it look like because if it's worse I will be seriously p/oed, but you know it is the be expected that after "The Passion of Christ" Hollywood will turn out a movie mocking Christianity and Church and Religion and there are stereotypes about Christians just like there are stereotypes about everyone else but ya know if they want to mock the King who died and the gifts of the Spirit, that's where I draw the line! They have their stereotypes and good for them but who these hypocritical "Christians" are isn't who God is. Ok I am done ranting now.

I just get irritated when people think it okay to mock Christians but when it's turned the other way (Of course that isn't right to do either!), they get offended. Double standards galore!

get offended, get very offended. But handle the offense in this way. Study to show yourselves approved so that you have an answer ready for when someone who sees this movie makes uniformed statements. Just like when the Passion came out we needed to be ready for those who were interested. We need to show the true example of Christ's love and His trueth will prevail..

I'm going to see this. From what I've seen in the preview and in other such, it looks really funny. Maybe it's cause I'm not so uptight about my faith or easily offended, but I think that alot of what will be in this movie is a true perseption on how a lot of Xians act. Granted, a lot of it seems really off the wall, but I've met a lot of wacked out Xians too.

CJ

I guess I just haven't met very many 'wacked out xians'. I never went to a Christian school, so maybe that's why. I feel like I'm not going to be able to connect with this movie for that reason. While other teen films go to one extreme- that teenagers are sexaholic foul mouthed idiots- this film seems to go to the other extreme, that Christian teens are uptight book-burning judgemental hypoctrits. Note- it's not at all because I'm 'uptight' or anything about my faith, it's just because the characters seem like they aren't very true to life.
But we'll see.

I guess I just haven't met very many 'wacked out xians'. I never went to a Christian school, so maybe that's why. I feel like I'm not going to be able to connect with this movie for that reason. While other teen films go to one extreme- that teenagers are sexaholic foul mouthed idiots- this film seems to go to the other extreme, that Christian teens are uptight book-burning judgemental hypoctrits. Note- it's not at all because I'm 'uptight' or anything about my faith, it's just because the characters seem like they aren't very true to life.
But we'll see.

The movie's characters don't seem very true to life, and I feel like they're mocking Christian teenagers(being one).
I mean, the kids don't seem very different than non-Christian teens would be in a movie.
And I feel like they portray Christians as something wrong(such as what invaded said above)....

I don't know, I really don't want to see it.

The movie seems like nothing more than a typical stereo-typed movie. I wouldn't be surprised if Ned Flanders makes a cameo (short apperance) in the movie. But the problem is that they are protraying it as people with "real" faith, when it is a stereo-type of christians (the "I am filled with Christ's love" scene). although sometimes the stereo-types are true, there are alot of time that it is not. I guess the problem would be people who think that this is what Christianity is about, rather than this is a comical teen movie making fun of the Elitist "Super-Christians" and there attitude towards others who have made mistakes. I am personally somewhere in the middle with my oppinion of this movie.

The trailer doesn't show much, the synopsis gives a bit more info (if u can read it fast enough before it changes)

I think I'd have to see this before I make an opinion.

i dunno.... i'm not terribly inclined to get all angry about it... i think it'll be one of those movies that you go to laugh at because it's so stupid.... but i'm not gonna get too offended, simply because, as the Bible says, we're gonna be persecuted and mocked for being Christians, but in the end, we'll be rewarded, and the world will know that we really were correct. and then we can laugh at them. :D j/k.... :D

Yeah, I agree.

Phillipians 2:5-11 Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who being in the form of God did not consider it robbery to be equal God, but made himself of no reputation taking the form of the bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance of man, He humbled Himself, and became obedient to death, even death on a cross. Therefore God highly exalted Him, and gave Him the name which is above every name that at the name of Jesus every knee shoudl bow in heaven, on earth, and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

I think if we get mad about it(although I can't say I'm not)and go say "That movie's a load of crap" to people who aren't Christians, then I should say we're acting the same way.

there is a Christian review of the movie on this web site http://www.pluggedinonline.com/

I think that it looks offensive. It portrays Christians as one-sided. I emailed MGM complaining about it. No one would dare make a movie about Muslims like this one right now.
Eowyn said it. I read about it and read about it and saw the tailer. It's an offence, CJ, and I'd love to laugh about it, but it is an insult. But it's supposed to be that way, no matter how offended we are. We are supposed to be offended, if we want to show that it's inappropriate to offend anyone. But this movie offends, and then "takes it back" in the ending, in which secular critics who rated it said "it would have been better if they didn't go all Christian in the ending." But eowyn's right -- you'll never see a movie against Muslimism or any Middle-Eastern culture. We should be prepared when faced with questiuons about the movie. I am apalled, but I won't become enraged. It isn't Christian support, it isn't Christian comedy, it's mockery. I haven't seen anyone like the character Moore portays. Ever. I don't think you'll find one either. And you must realize that this movie was made right after Passion. Mandy, in an interview, said that true faith in God "isn't her thing." I'm shocked. My "buddy" Hunter would love it, and it would fire up a passionate hate for Christians within him. He'd find it hilarious. Many will. It makes me want to cry, but we are to be strong as the Tribulation grows close. These movies of False Teaching will confound and confuse, but we must offer support for all who are lost. God Bless,

A.D.

Granted, a lot of it seems really off the wall, but I've met a lot of wacked out Xians too.

So have I. I've met/seen/listened to more "Christians" like those portrayed in the movie than I care to count. My old church was filled with them.
And c'mon, what do you guys expect people to think? What they see of Christians are those people getting all freaked out b/c "oh my gosh! They have Harry Potter books in the library!" and Christian stations like AFR blaring out advertisements for websites like nogaymarraige.com. It's pathetic, it's moronic. Christians in America have earned this image. A lot of them pound non-Christians with the Bible b/c they've sinned, when what we are really supposed to be doing is showing people the love of Christ. I mean, even Jesus didn't come into the world to judge people! (John 3:17) I know we aren't supposed to be complacent as Christians and twiddle our thumbs as the world around us dies, but we can't change people by beating them over the head with the Bible. ::]
I think people should let this movie open their eyes rather than getting all ruffled. *prepares for the flameage*

So have I. I've met/seen/listened to more "Christians" like those portrayed in the movie than I care to count. My old church was filled with them
And c'mon, what do you guys expect people to think? What they see of Christians are those people getting all freaked out b/c "oh my gosh! They have Harry Potter books in the library!" and Christian stations like AFR blaring out advertisements for websites like nogaymarraige.com. It's pathetic, it's moronic. Christians in America have earned this image. A lot of them pound non-Christians with the Bible b/c they've sinned, when what we are really supposed to be doing is showing people the love of Christ. I mean, even Jesus didn't come into the world to judge people! (John 3:17) I know we aren't supposed to be complacent as Christians and twiddle our thumbs as the world around us dies, but we can't change people by beating them over the head with the Bible. ::]
I think people should let this movie open their eyes rather than getting all ruffled. *prepares for the flameage*
I won't let his movie open my eyes, but I'll let you. It's true that there are Christians trying to tell everyone we're sinners (which is true, but like you said, people don't want to hear they're evil all the time.) And there are many over-zealous Christians, too. But what we're trying to say is that this movie will make it harder for us to prove our point to them, and it will create a stereotype. This movie ruffles me cuz it'll make my teachings harder to prove, as if it isn't hard enough. But I disagree with you when you say that this is all pathetic and moronic. OK, maybe over-zealousness is a lil moronic, but you're being a little critical. I wouldn't see the movie, because it'd be exactly what the creators wanted. But I don't think we should respon even stronger now. Now, because of this movie, we have to be more passive with meekness and wisdom.
I guess I don't live in a state where I can see these strange phenomena (the people like in saved) because I haven't seen any. Actually, I've seen either Christians or non-Christians. No wannabes. But I guess Iowa isn't a good subject state, now is it? ::]

And there are many over-zealous Christians, too. But what we're trying to say is that this movie will make it harder for us to prove our point to them, and it will create a stereotype. This movie ruffles me cuz it'll make my teachings harder to prove, as if it isn't hard enough. But I disagree with you when you say that this is all pathetic and moronic. OK, maybe over-zealousness is a lil moronic, but you're being a little critical. I wouldn't see the movie, because it'd be exactly what the creators wanted. But I don't think we should respon even stronger now. Now, because of this movie, we have to be more passive with meekness and wisdom.
Don't you get it man? Because of all the over-zealous Christians there already is a stereotype. People already think that all Christians are like the ones in those movies. Over-zealous "Christians" already do make it harder to prove the Christian doctrine.
I'm not calling getting upset and offended pathetic and moronic. What I am calling those things is the fact that Christians can't get ruffled without starting some dumb petition, boycotting stuff, sending ten-page complaint letters to the heads of whatever company produced the offender, or all of the above.
Yes, sometimes there are very legitamite reasons for doing those things (like fighting against gay marraige). But Christian people just can't seem to do those things without getting over-zealous, which makes them seem hateful towards whatever they are fighting against.
But doing those things over a movie? Please. Alls that will do is just make the people who made the movie believe even more that they are right.

from what i heatd this movie is just a monkory and where gonna see loads of movies like this are pastor said Mandy More siad that CHirstenanty is the mosy underground thing

from what i heard this movie is just a mockery and we're gonna see loads of movies like this, our pastor said. Mandy Moore said that Chirstianity is the most underground thing
I agree. You're right. I'm not gonna post more on this till tomorrow. I'm outta brain juice.

I'd have to agree we shouldn't be "freaking out" about movies like this but there are somethings in this world that are sacred! It's like you wanna mock Christians go ahead I don't really care, you wanna mock Jesus and His death and the gifts of the Holy Spirit, I don't think so! We have to stand up for what we believe in and say "sorry I am not going to just sit here and let you mock my God", if we aren't going to stand up for Christ than what are we going to stand up for? He is the most important thing in this world and we are going to sit back and let people make stupid movies like this and not say something about it?

I'd have to agree we shouldn't be "freaking out" about movies like this but there are somethings in this world that are sacred! It's like you wanna mock Christians go ahead I don't really care, you wanna mock Jesus and His death and the gifts of the Holy Spirit, I don't think so! We have to stand up for what we believe in and say "sorry I am not going to just sit here and let you mock my God", if we aren't going to stand up for Christ than what are we going to stand up for? He is the most important thing in this world and we are going to sit back and let people make stupid movies like this and not say something about it?
FINALLY someone understood what I said. Yes, we shouldn't get angry, but we shouldn't get lazy either. A good scripture:

2 Thessalonians 3:13:

And And as for you, brother, never tire of doing what is right.

Just because stuff like this is bound to happen or will continue to happen doesn't mean we shouldn't make our point. But srely, you know, showing immediate backlash would only prove their point.

i saw the preview once and i was like 'woah.. that's really not cool!' i don't know anything else about it except what i saw in the preview, but it looked really stupid and i don't think that it will be a good movie.... it looked like all it was going to do was make fun of Christians.... i have a feeling that i'm not going to go see it lol

i don't know... i just went to the website and now i'm confused... they make it seem like a movie about find God. i think i'll read some reviews and learn more about it and then make my final decision.

just so you know, if you want this movie to do good in the box office, hold a protest for it outside one of the theatres. ;)

seriously, the teacher for my mass media class said that if you want your movie to earn a lot of money at the box office, raise some controversy. it's basically free publicity. people protest your movie, but the masses hear the message this way: Don't watch Saved!because it mocks Christianity and God!

Yeah this movie is going to be awful... granted, there were some funny parts (ex: the girl hitting the other girl with the Bible while screaming that she has the love of Christ in her..Me and my christian friends joke about stuff like that) but it's not worth it, especially with all the trash in it.

What's sadder than this movie though.. I read in a magazine that each of the actors and actresses in this movie went to different christian rallies and concerts and stuff to see how Christians acted..you'd think it would have clicked something in their heads, and that's the scary and heartbreaking part. We need to pray for them because hopefully, a seed was planted in one if not all of them.

it look pretty dumb ....

I really don't care if it does bad or good in the box office.
I will probably go see it regardless, just cuz I'm curious to see how it really turns out- a typical teen flick that's on a different extreme, or if it really has some depth.

i have seen the movie and i loved it .
If we cannot see the humor in it then why live life.
we Chritians arenot perfect , even some of us have a very shallow face. This movie was not meant to make us chrisitans feel Good . It was to amke us think about our faith to challenge us adn move foward


iF WE CANT TALK ABOUT THE FAILURES in the chrisitan subcuklture that we have all made tghen How can we ever move on and learn Teens have to deal withthis and not diconnect their fatih from the real world . all the things these teens were dealing with could possibley happen like
the gay boyfriend there was a qoute tehy mom and dad sent him off to Hope house to get fixed and then later on there was a quote the hope house is not really for the people that go ther it is for the people that send them there ,

the church would much rather sweep under the rug sin and not deal with it
the pastor whgo is having marriage trouble and finds conmfort in a church ladies arms

the chrisitan that thinks his or her view on life i correct and trys to force feed their shallow faith down trhe throats of the friends aka the chrisitan jewewls



mary the chrisitan girl who gets misgided and becomes pregnant thinking that is what jesus wanted her to do so her bnoyfriend could be healed of his gayness




hey
who was there to show her the war NO the church want they shunned her who accepted her it was the loving arms of the non christians kids

the movie is eye opening

the people who go to this movie who are pious and think that they are right will hate the movie and theink it is blasheomous

even so i felt that way going in but if i had not been in yiouth group meetings or teen outreaches that were like that i would of called the blasphemy


The movie was created to engage your mind

ro think out your own faith .


theionk theodf this quote

We all cant be right and we all cvant be wrong

also

it is ok to question your faith God want you to work out your salvation you cant be spoonfed the gospel or doctrine

you have to start from scratch milf pudding beefjerky and usda prime choise meat

God oeasnt want abubch of like minded people that are robots he wants is to search for his truth in him


aslo one thing that pisses me off about the christian subculture is a well known christian rock band had agreed to be in the movie the band members ok ed the scrpt so did the band smanagement but in the 11th hour the bands CHRISTIAN label de4cided to say no beacause they diud not want to lose money from their chrisitan fanbaser or so trehy called it their chrisitqan fans may be offended


my replay is so freaking what jesus offended people the word s he spoke were salt in the sinners wounds they hated him for it they even frewaking killed him for it

If a chrisitan lavel is so worried about the chrisitan fans then they must not gicve a damn about non believers .

I do not belive in chrisitan music and what it stands for i do stand for christ and wehat he stands for


there should no t be labels ther should not be walls but there is .

ther eis and it saddens me i am excited to see what theis film will do fr people that are caught in religion

alspo thje

there should not ne a christian music scene there should just be a music scene


think about it

who buys most of the chrisitan cds belivers do why because they want to feelk encouragesd


why do non believers by chrisitian cds


most of them do not



think about who and what you are buying in to

The movie doeas not criticize christiansd it only pints out or speaks oput against those whp are intolareant and wont open their hearts and minds to the way other thinks or at least realixe not everyone will agree here on earth

the film plainly speaks about chrisitans teens who make poor decisons ) lets think have we ever made poor decsions ) we cant jusdge It is messy when you try to portray life and it snitty gritty
so ther eis my 2 cents


if you would liek to aks me more on my belifs you can email me at makemeafunnyface@aol.com


nate

If a chrisitan lavel is so worried about the chrisitan fans then they must not gicve a damn about non believers .

I do not belive in chrisitan music and what it stands for i do stand for christ and wehat he stands for


there should no t be labels ther should not be walls but there is .

ther eis and it saddens me i am excited to see what theis film will do fr people that are caught in religion

alspo thje

there should not ne a christian music scene there should just be a music scene


think about it

who buys most of the chrisitan cds belivers do why because they want to feelk encouragesd


why do non believers by chrisitian cds


most of them do not



think about who and what you are buying in to

The movie doeas not criticize christiansd it only pints out or speaks oput against those whp are intolareant and wont open their hearts and minds to the way other thinks or at least realixe not everyone will agree here on earth

the film plainly speaks about chrisitans teens who make poor decisons ) lets think have we ever made poor decsions ) we cant jusdge It is messy when you try to portray life and it snitty gritty
so ther eis my 2 cents



interesting, "there should no t be labels ther should not be walls but there is ." could you show me where it says that in the word of God? Because from what I have read we are supposed to be "set apart" from the world!

You are right Christians listen to Christian music to be encouraged and to get away from all the crap in the world. But tht is what we are supposed to do. Christians are supposed to encourage and uplift other Christians.

"The movie doeas not criticize christiansd it only pints out or speaks oput against those whp are intolareant and wont open their hearts and minds to the way other thinks or at least realixe not everyone will agree here on earth"
no offense but that sounds just way too new agey for me, "won't open our hearts and minds to the way other thinks"?
Where in the Bible does it say we should tolerate sin?

You are right it is good for us to see where we are lacking and what we need to work on and I would probably agree with the movie if that was it's point, but it's not. The whole tone of the movie is disrespectful and disgusting. It takes what is sacred and Holy and mocks it! You know someone wants to make a movie about the faults of Christians great good for them but when you start mocking the gifts of the Spirit then it goes beyond mocking people and into mocking God.

Spell checking. Such a simple thing, yet something that obviously evades you. Would have made reading that much easier.

I'm going to speak generally here. I'm not speaking for myself, I want to see this film firsthand before I make any judgement on it.

Seems to me that most Christian's problem with this film ISNT them wanting to
'sweep under the rug sin and not deal with it '

It's the fact that it is seen as openly mocking Christians and the church. Portraying ALL Christian as either close minded bigotted fools or grade A hypocrites, or both.

Problems within the church are to be dealt BY THE CHURCH! The problems are NOT to go beyond the church for everyone outside to see and judge. But to be dealt within the church ALONE.

there should not ne a christian music scene there should just be a music scene

I for one am GLAD there IS a Christian music industry. I know it's not the greatest and it sucks in many areas but I'm glad that at least its there. I want to be able to get a CD by Christians using their talents for God's glory. I want to be able to go and look at a pile of CDs and not wonder to myself "Are these people glorifying God? Or Satan?"

We didn't draw the line that separates us from the world. We simply chose what side of it we're standing on.

The movie doeas not criticize christiansd it only pints out or speaks oput against those whp are intolareant and wont open their hearts and minds to the way other thinks or at least realixe not everyone will agree here on earth

Most non-Christians will take this film to show that this is what ALL Christians arel ike. Not just a minority.

i've gotta agree with scott on all points there.... even tho i didn't really understand 3/4 of that. punctuation and spell checkers are our friends.

we already have a thread for this movie.. i do believe!

we already have a thread for this movie.. i do believe!
Yes, we do. But it's ok for now.

Spell checking. Such a simple thing, yet something that obviously evades you. Would have made reading that much easier.

I'm going to speak generally here. I'm not speaking for myself, I want to see this film firsthand before I make any judgement on it.

Seems to me that most Christian's problem with this film ISNT them wanting to
'sweep under the rug sin and not deal with it '

It's the fact that it is seen as openly mocking Christians and the church. Portraying ALL Christian as either close minded bigotted fools or grade A hypocrites, or both.

Problems within the church are to be dealt BY THE CHURCH! The problems are NOT to go beyond the church for everyone outside to see and judge. But to be dealt within the church ALONE.



I for one am GLAD there IS a Christian music industry. I know it's not the greatest and it sucks in many areas but I'm glad that at least its there. I want to be able to get a CD by Christians using their talents for God's glory. I want to be able to go and look at a pile of CDs and not wonder to myself "Are these people glorifying God? Or Satan?"

We didn't draw the line that separates us from the world. We simply chose what side of it we're standing on.



Most non-Christians will take this film to show that this is what ALL Christians arel ike. Not just a minority.
Very true. People in the movie do exist (I used to be the opposite of them -- I followed rules instead of faith, which is the way my stepmom tried to raise me) but what skynes said is completely right. This movie doesn't help us spread God's word, I guess is what he says. For Christians who see this, and I wouldn't mind seeing it, it helps us to be ourselves without losing sight of God. But for non-believers, what in this movie encourages them to be Christian? Where in the movie does it have REA: Christians with REAL faith and a REAL church? I see none. I'm not offending what's in the movie, I just wish there was more of what isn't in it. That would have made me happy with it. It just misses the truth, is all. Just barely. I wish I could remember some Scriptures to help this, but I don't. Actually, Jude 4 tells us about these people in the movie. "For certain men, whose condemnation was written about long ago, have secretly slipped in among you. They are godless men, who change the grace of God into a liscence of immorality and deny Jesus Christ our only Sovereign and Lord." Also in Galatians 4:17 & 18 : "These people are zealous, to win you over; but for no good. What they want is to alienate you from [the rest of the Christians] so that you may be zealour for them. {18} It is fine to be zealous, provided that the purpose is good..." Did they have supporting scriptures (as like these ones) in the movie? If they did, I'm glad. But if they didn't, it surely doesn't help. Remember what Jesus said, though; "For whoever is not with you, is against you." I won't comment on that any more. It is up to you to translate it. I wouldn't mind if someone could tell me which verse that is :) .

This movie looks like pure crap to me. Through and through. And not because I'm disillusioned about 'real christians' or biased because I happen to be one... but because I wouldn't enjoy sitting through any movie that falsely portrays any religion by taking repeated stabs at it just for giggles. Should we make a movie documenting what we consider to be silly practices of Mormons or Muslims [what they consider to be truth and the reason for their existence] for our enjoyment? That's pretty sick, I think.

Anyway.

An online friend of mine who happens to be a youth pastor saw a pre-screening of this movie about a month ago when I first saw the trailer and he had this to say about it:

... christians were made to be some neuroticly hostile subculture. in the sub-text the movie is suggesting christians should accept sin and they're all hypocrites and the God they serve is powerless to improve any of them.

there wasn't one well balanced christians example in this movie. they try to make one (the pastors skater son) but he accepts homosexuality and says (about absolute right and wrong) "No! It's all (a) grey (area)!"

I really think this move ends up being entirely and purposely hostile towards true christians, not becuase they were right about the fact that there's ignorant hypocrites in our midsts; but that there isn't such a thing as a transformed believer that loves sinners and hates sin.

Pretty much sums it up.

As I said, unless I'm wrong and didn't say it, and I agree. It would have been a better movie if there was a real Christian in the movie, or at least a real guideline to how one can come to true faith. Unless I'm wrong, there isn't a Scripture in the movie -- at least one that hold true meaning against the way they act. I was a follower of law before, like the Galatians. I followed the "rules" of how a Christian should live, while losing touch with my faith. As a polar opposite, the ones in the movie were too overcome with being zealous, and thus, lost their faith. I lost mine by "following the rules." They lost theirs by doing the opposite, and being zealous. Like Paul said, being zealous isn't wrong at all -- provinding there is a pure cause and faith behind it. But in the movie they didn't have verses from the Bible or real Christians. It's a blow. I'd watch it, and be disgusted. But I'd watch it for only one reason: to keep myself from getting as lost are they are in the movie. Chances are, this movie will do more harm than good.

[QUOTE=skynes]



it '

It's the fact that it is seen as openly mocking Christians and the church. Portraying ALL Christian as either close minded bigotted fools or grade A hypocrites, or both.


not it did not mock chrisitnas it mocked the close mindedness of re;ogion


we dont serve religion . that is what the movie was showing . People who base their faith in religion Not in understanding the realyionship you must have to make it real

like when hilary fay threw the bible and said the love of christ fills me

then the pregnant girl said that the bible is not a weapon




Not all

Jesus said "I am THE Way, THE Truth, and THE Life and no one comes to the Father except through Me."

That sounds pretty narrow-minded, doesn't it? The problem with open minds is that they tend to spill out all over the place and make a mess.

I don't think so, but I could be wrong. But still, even if that is true, that is not what the people who need or want to see this movie (non-Christians) will see -- they'll laugh and mock Christians right alongside the movie, and start to form their own opinion about Christians based on this movie. No, we do not serve religion, as I had to learn the hard way yesterday, we serve the Almighty God, our Sovereign Creator. But that is NOT what non-Christians will see. This movie will only harden hearts to God's calling love, as it already has.

This movie looks like pure crap to me. Through and through. And not because I'm disillusioned about 'real christians' or biased because I happen to be one... but because I wouldn't enjoy sitting through any movie that falsely portrays any religion by taking repeated stabs at it just for giggles. Should we make a movie documenting what we consider to be silly practices of Mormons or Muslims [what they consider to be truth and the reason for their existence] for our enjoyment? That's pretty sick, I think.

Anyway.

An online friend of mine who happens to be a youth pastor saw a pre-screening of this movie about a month ago when I first saw the trailer and he had this to say about it:



Pretty much sums it up.


hereis ,y replay back have you even researched the movie read review try jonathans resources

saved the move .com

read the chritian guide and cast a nd screen bios yoiu can hear the vison straight from the get go plus why judge a movie by wjhat others are saying go see it for your se;lf the movie is fulfiling its purposes it is maing you think
it amkes you think i dont ever want to bedome that person

hereis ,y replay back have you even researched the movie read review try jonathans resources

saved the move .com

read the chritian guide and cast a nd screen bios yoiu can hear the vison straight from the get go plus why judge a movie by wjhat others are saying go see it for your se;lf the movie is fulfiling its purposes it is maing you think
it amkes you think i dont ever want to bedome that person


Yes, I formed my opinion based upon the website and the trailer. The 'christian guide' was a joke in itself. And Michael Stipe having a hand in creating this? That's amusing as well..

No, I don't need to see the entire movie to decide I think it looks stupid. If the movie is making you rethink christianity and your faith, then it is doing exactly what it set out to do.

Well done them. But again, no thank you.

Jesus said "I am THE Way, THE Truth, and THE Life and no one comes to the Father except through Me."

That sounds pretty narrow-minded, doesn't it? The problem with open minds is that they tend to spill out all over the place and make a mess.
chrisna where in the movie did they say jesus want the or t5he truth


they didnt they met in love and what s love

love =God




so before you start throwing out scripture out of context please go see the movie yourself then decide for your self


%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%% %%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%% %%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%
That sounds pretty narrow-minded, doesn't it? The problem with open minds is that they tend to spill out all over the place and make a mess

&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&

Yeah Love does make a mess when Love is not bound by human percption or tradition God is love Love is God .
the people that made the movie wants people to act more like christ and not what man thinks it means tobe a christian beacuse then it does make a mess

our sin is the mess when christ encounbtred our sin he knew what he must do and love did spill all over the place not all chritians act like they should

and i even said beofre going to see the movie i thought it was goong to blaspheomous but if you cant find homor in life then why live

chrisitans scre w up
non christians screw up
chrisitns have divorces
non chrisitns go through divorced
chrisitsns get pregnant out of wedlock
non belivers ger pregnant out of wedlock
chrisitns can deal with homosexual tendencies and struggle with the perversion
non chrisitns can deal with homosexual tendencies and struggle with the perversion


We are no better then them .
We have christ but that only acknowledgesd the fact he has shown us what he did

the point of the movie was not suppose to be a movie where everone one ehas all the right answeers by the end of the movie its not leavit to beaver . in life are tehre happy conclusions to every story no



now please do not get mad at me i am not trying to start anything and i am a believer who loves christ but trys to be relavant to the culture arouind me

be salt be light just dont lose your saltiness




adain i am not a jerk i juist like honest discussions

Yes, I formed my opinion based upon the website and the trailer. The 'christian guide' was a joke in itself. And Michael Stipe having a hand in creating this? That's amusing as well..

No, I don't need to see the entire movie to decide I think it looks stupid. If the movie is making you rethink christianity and your faith, then it is doing exactly what it set out to do.

Well done them. But again, no thank you.
Work out your salvation with fear and trembling read the relavant magazine review it rawks and also jonthans resources

2 intervierews diffrent views



i amnot trying to start a fight i just liek discusiion

the movie does not make you rethink your slavation or your chritianity

ot makes you see and rethionk Dead religion

praise god chrisitianity is not a religion it is a relationships




plus ot os good to see what the world sees ot shows us wha twe need to work on as a whole

First off, the world's view of love is not at all the same love that is God. It has been warped and perverted.

Secondly, I was not taking scripture out of context and I really don't take that accusation too well. The world believes that verse to be narrow-minded because it says Jesus is the only way to heaven. Well, unfortunately for most of the world, it is true. Narrow-minded or not.

Lastly, it is probably the third time I've seen you say life isn't worth living if we're not able to laugh at it. I'm glad my life consists of more than striving for a good laugh.

PS. I'm not a jerk either. Just very opinionated. :)

[QUOTE=disciple] Where in the movie does it have REA: Christians with REAL faith and a REAL church? I see none.

to reply back to you where in the media do you see christians try to share their view correctly aND WITH LOVE

it sure isnt when you hear christians in the media talk about gays or other current events .


another quote i am replying too

That would have made me happy with it

i also foind anothe article on it

by christianity today a very well known and respected magazine






Home > Movies > Commentaries

Saved! Is Right on the Money
Many Christians are condemning this movie without even seeing it. But I think it was quite true to real life.
by Anastasia McAteer | posted 06/08/04

There's been outcry aplenty from Christians—and some Christian critics—about the teen satire Saved! But I'm not in that camp.

My husband and I recently went to see Saved!, and his words echoed my first reaction to the film: "This is the movie we wanted to make when we were in college."

We both studied film at Christian universities (Biola and Wheaton), we went to the Coalition for Christian Colleges and Universities' Los Angeles Film Studies Center, and we went out into Hollywood to make our difference. We've since found other callings, and Brian Dannelly, the director of Saved!, has filled in for us what we wish we could have done.

I would have been proud to have made this movie. It absolutely reflects my experience in all accuracy. And its message is exactly what I wanted to say to my friends in the pews. Is it possible that Christians wouldn't deride it if someone like me, a confessing Christian with the right evangelical pedigree, would have made the film? Would it then have been a "searing look into the faults of the church with a message that could stand to be echoed in the pulpit"? I wonder.

I didn't find anything in the movie to be over the top. I don't know where people are getting that. It's absolutely the way evangelical schools are, it's the way evangelicals act, it's the way we are in our bubble.

Every character in Saved! has several real-life counterparts that I personally have met. Maybe we don't realize how weird we look, and thus the accusation of satire. But I look around the church and the movie is what I see.

I personally related most to Jena Malone's wonderful mantra when she was worried she might be pregnant: "Please let it be cancer, please let it be cancer!" I remember, as a Christian teen, thinking nothing could possibly be worse, even death, than getting pregnant. And after seeing how my friends who got pregnant (three in youth group in one year) were ostracized, I saw I was right.

The thing I think that most critics are not getting is that every character in the film, except the Jewish girl, is in fact a Christian—or at least a seeker. There's no Christian vs. Non-Christian thing going on. They are all representing different people within the body of Christ.

Therefore, there can be no complaint of the Christians being the villains, because the Christians are the heroes too! In fact, I thought the most admirable Christian in the entire movie was Patrick. And he came out looking the best and got the girl. It's just like when Jewish groups complained about The Passion, and we all said "Duh! They're all Jewish! Not just the villains!"

Speaking of taking our own medicine, I'm so disappointed that nobody learned anything from The Passion. Christians were all up in arms about Jewish groups condemning the film without seeing it. I had a glimmer of hope that we'd learned our lesson about this. But no, here we are back to the idea that we can condemn a piece of art without even bothering to experience it. That's just ignorant.

just curious, is that the same Christianity Today that i know of? the one who's web site is www.christianitytoday.com?

if so, that's the the review found on their website (http://www.christianitytoday.com/movies/reviews/saved.html). the reviewer had the same complaints a lot of the people here did. "The problem is a lack of balance between hypocritical, judgmental Christians and loving, accepting Christians. In fact, the movie almost exclusively shows two kinds of people—hypocritical, judgmental Christians who cause problems, and loving, accepting non-Christians who make things right."

also, where did you hear about the Christian band that backed out? 'cause i heard from a very trusted friend that the Elms were that band. in fact, this is what he said.

I also heard that they were going to use a song by The Elms...but they(The Elms) refused to let them after reading the script.

sorry to tell you, but i will believe him over you, an anonymous poster, any day.

Yes, I agree Mike. This is just an example of ourselves, yes, but you are acting like ALL Christians are the ones in the news. The ones in the news are right. And not all churches are the same. Maybe they are, but they have different intent. You speak with such hatred and bitterness about this. But I won't stray -- Mike said it best. You pointed out a completely different review (or at least the wrong part) and it is obvious that Christianity Today shares may feeling -- there isn't a balance between the two in the movie -- there's only two kinds of people: hypocrtitical, judgemental Christians who cause problems, and loving, accepting non-Christians who make things right. I will repeat myself -- that would have made me happy if there had been a balance, my quotes are linked, and not meant to be separated. It would have made me happier, and Christianity Today also, if there had been a true balance between the two. And I'll tell you something: The news doesn't want to show kind, loving Christians who show love and respect and guide correctly, they want the HARDCORE juice, the skinny. They want people to see haters and bigotry and fallacy and apathy. They don't want people to see kind, loving Christians. But it's in God's plan for the world for that to happen, so I ACCEPT it. I don't make a movie showing people only one side of the spectrum for both non-Christians and Christians alike.

then the pregnant girl said that the bible is not a weapon

Ephesians 6:17 "...and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God"

Hebrews 4:12 "For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. "

There's one unscriptural quote from the movie already. Got any more ammunition for me?

lol, go Scott! Go Scott! Go Scott! lol

yeh i agree with ^ WOOHOO!!!

WOOWOOO! lol, ok.

Ephesians 6:17 "...and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God"

Hebrews 4:12 "For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. "

There's one unscriptural quote from the movie already. Got any more ammunition for me?


why didnt you quote the begining of that quote you took it out of context to make you feel better

hilary fay just threw the bible the word of God at her mary and mary said the bible isnt a weapon .



the bible is living truth christians and non christians at timesa misintepret scripture and use it a s weapons thats what i was talking about

truth is a weapon love ias a weapon anything can be weapon if you want tit to be



what i was trying to point out was this

in all thiose scripture it said in the sprit

the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God"



piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. "




so when hilary fay threw the bible at mary and saif i am filled with christ love and mary replaied the the bible is not a weapon
it is talking about


using and misusing what they think is right



and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. "

[QUOTE=disciple] You pointed out a completely different review (or at least the wrong part) and it is obvious that Christianity Today shares my feeling --

no i wanted to show 2 diffrent articlews sharing 2 diffrent views

i like tohear what people have to say

A bit confusing your post was, but I still stick by Scott.

Talk About It Discussion starters
1. How do the Christians in this film resemble or differ from Christians you know? How does the model of Christianity you see in your family, church and school stack up against how the Bible instructs Christians to live? How about the model of faith depicted in Saved!?

2. What direct criticisms or arguments about Christians in this movie made you angry? Which challenged you or made you think?

3. According to the movie, what does it mean to be saved? What does it mean to you? What does the Bible say?

4. The movie contends Christians need to be more accepting and tolerant of others. One character says, "If God meant us to be the same, why did he make us different?" Can you balance love and acceptance while standing against sin? How?

5. Mary has a crisis of faith. Is it understandable? What good comes of it? Should we raise questions about God? Why or why not?

The film's distributor also has released its own Bible Study for youth groups based on the movie.

Wise. I won't take up anyone's time in replying.

Sword of the Spirit which is the word of God.

The Spirit has a sword, a weapon. That weapon is the word of God. The Bible is a weapon. It's what we use to fight against evil.

Jesus Christ ALSO has a weapon Revelation 1:16 "..out of His mouth went a sharp two-edged sword..."

What comes out of mouths? WORDS! So Jesus' words are a two edged sword.

Explain to me why again the Bible isn't a weapon?

GO SCOTT! You say stuff like that better than I. I am better at supporting people and encouraging them. You're the one that speaks to people.

Michael Janke of CMCentral's review of Saved! (http://www.cmcentral.com/videofilm/29.html)

OK, I pretty much dislike most everything from this site, but for the sake of discussion, here's a fairly interesting review of the film by Michael Janke.

Sword of the Spirit which is the word of God.

The Spirit has a sword, a weapon. That weapon is the word of God. The Bible is a weapon. It's what we use to fight against evil.

Jesus Christ ALSO has a weapon Revelation 1:16 "..out of His mouth went a sharp two-edged sword..."

What comes out of mouths? WORDS! So Jesus' words are a two edged sword.

Explain to me why again the Bible isn't a weapon?



sorry it has been a long while since my last post i have a life heheheh

what i mean in the movie i felt the director was saying truth is truth but man perverts truth Using the bible att imes to fit ones own sense of right . like for instance
hilary faye who is a believer who thinks her way is the only way and everyone else is wrong desiced to trhow the bible at the pregnant girl saying i am filled woth christ love then throws the bible at the other girl

the girl picks up the bible and says the bible is not a weapon . you can take thart anyway you wna tit is opewn ended


in the physical she threw it at her like a weapn like the chrisitan wanted to fix the broken person or backsildden person by osmossis by beating it in to him or her that is when the bible is not used for its intended purpose



We are not to use the bible for our own gain to make us feel better about who we are .

jesus christ does that threw the word not us


so no in that situation i think the writers used that phrase t drive the point home

We dont change people chrst des
we dont change people and we are not to use the bible as a weapon to make us feel better about ourselves i think you misread what i was dayoing

the bible clealry speaks of the word of gpd being like a sword

i amnot saing any diffrent but when used like it was in themovie

it should not of been a wea[on


physicly and mentaly


hey i am in no way trying to start something or anything like nor am i seeking your favor hewre on the board

The movie is about thinking outside the box. A great part in the film is when Jenna Malone (the pregnant teen) says that if God wanted us all to be the same them why did he make us so different. I think some people are missing the point.

!!I'm sorry, but I had to start a board that was actually about the movie, and if you have some religious comments to make, then do so, but only if they're relevant to ehis discussion (

I believe in the Divinity of Jesus Christ. But I also choose to have a sense of humor about my faith. Some people just don't have a sense of humor about anything, so when something like "Saved" or "Bruce Almighty" comes out they protest without even having seen it.

Many people have said it, so I'll just reinforce it. This is not Anti-Christian, it's Anti-Fanatacism. Jesus said to not be ashamed of your faith, but He also said not to make a show of it either. The key is finding a nice balance. Be open about your faith, but don't cram it down people's throats. I have personally met people like Hilary Fey, so naturally I found her character to be hysterical. I laughed heartily at countless points while watching this film.



I was just thinking about this movie and how it relates to the whole "coming-of-age" process...like wanting to be popular versus fitting in with the misfits. Besides the religious banter on other boards, I thought that the general idea was that sometimes events in your life make you question wanting to be part of the popular crowd. It was evident in Heathers, Mean Girls, and just about any other teen movie that involves popularity. I think that Mary was struggling less with her religious faith and more with just feeling alienated from her clique. It happens even when religion is not part of the picture--someone who's part of the clique makes some faux pas (like having a crush on a guy some other, more powerful clique member likes) and then is booted out for their transgression.
Also, how did you feel about the character development in this story? Did you think that Mary showed significant emotional change throughout the movie? I happen to think her growth seemed stunted throughout...the movie went further away from her internal struggle and more towards the battle with Hilary


Faye and her cronies.



I think that my beliefs are the true ones. Jesus can't be simultaneously the Messiah and not the Messiah. But I don't think Non-Christians are evil merely because they have chosen a different path. Basically, my message is this: God loves everyone, even those who don't believe in Him. And secondly, He has a sense of humor. So lighten up and just get along. Have a nice day, ladies and gents!

Batman and Gandhi are the same person. WAKE UP, PEOPLE!!!

AND YOU FREAKING PEOPLE WONDER WHY THE MEDIA MAKWA MOVIEAS LIKE SAVED




ARE YOU DOWN WITH GOD




see we live in a bubble opnm your minds and live outside of the box




American "Christian" Idol Coming Soon!
Emulating the world. - I've been wondering just how long it would take before someone hoped to cash in on a "Christian" version of the popular "American Idol."

As far as I'm concerned it wasn't a long enough period. And yes you can surmise from that comment that I think it's a bad idea. Although folk are encouraged to attempt to change my mind.

Here's the down and dirty which was reported by the AP on WFTV.com.

The company that manages such greats as 'N Sync and that bastion of morality Britney Spears, is looking to capitalize upon the stratospheric popularity of the American Idol Television show by creating a "Christian" version.

No surprise really, since the popular TV show spurred a Country Music version along with several other wannabees that popped up across the boob-tube.

So now we have a Christianized version that will be debuting on, of all places, the posh Trinity Broadcasting Network. The show will be titled, "Gifted."

That program title may not be the best choice since it provides a launching point for comedic response by those who would mock the program.

Need an example of the sort of joke I mean?

Well, contestants will be found via a bus tour to the Trinity TV stations across the nation which will conclude in Hollywood.

Imagine if you will, the following line, "Two 'Gifted' contestants boarded 'The Short Bus' for Hollywood."

Okay, don't send comments saying, I'm mean and despicable. It's just an example of what they are in for.

The whole idea of a "Christian" American Idol I find, well frankly, contrary to the Word of God. Specifically, because the desire of this program is not to spread the Word of God, but to make a killing financially.

Of course the people behind this whole scheme aren't couching it in those terms:

"It is our goal to wrap God's message -- His love -- in acceptance, and in a way that blends seamlessly into `pop' culture while still upholding the values we, as Christians, value most," Wright Generation's mission statement reads.

Wrap God's message? Does that make anyone's else's ears perk up into alert mode?

Why does the message of God have to blend "seamlessly into 'pop' culture"? Shouldn't it be the other way around?

Oh, and they're looking for specific people. No old foggies over 24-years of age. I guess your "Gifts" are a bit wasted past that point.

The age group sought is pretty narrow, 18-24. But those are your most marketable and attractive bunch I suppose, ala N'Sync and sex-kitten Britney Spears. Sex sales, and sales is what it's all about:

Eight winners will go on to the finals, where the television audience will choose the ultimate winner, whose career will then be managed by Wright and Crouch. [Italics inserted]

What we have here is yet another example of some in the Church setting aside the robes made white by the blood of the Lamb for the tattered garments of the world.

The Great Separation continue

The Great Separation continuea

Christian Version Of American Idol Could Soon Hit TV

POSTED: 6:38 am EDT June 18, 2004
UPDATED: 8:34 am EDT June 18, 2004

ORLANDO, Fla. -- The management company that represents Britney Spears and 'N Sync wants to create a Christian version of the popular American Idol TV show.



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"Gifted" is scheduled to debut in October on Trinity Broadcasting Network, the Costa Mesa, Calif.-based conglomerate that features such well-known evangelists as Benny Hinn, and reaches 70 million homes.

The Orlando-based Wright Entertainment Group is part of a joint venture with Matt Crouch, son of the founders of Trinity Broadcasting Network, to create the talent-search show, Wright spokesman Philip McIntyre told the Orlando Sentinel for Friday editions.

McIntyre said the joint venture, called Wright Generation, is negotiating with a private investor to finance the project.

"It is our goal to wrap God's message -- His love -- in acceptance, and in a way that blends seamlessly into `pop' culture while still upholding the values we, as Christians, value most," Wright Generation's mission statement reads.

A cross-country summer bus tour to 11 Trinity stations is planned, where auditions will be held for solo singers, ages 18-24.

The tour is scheduled to begin July 26. It will stop in Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Tennessee, Illinois, Texas, Oklahoma, Colorado, New York, California and Washington state. The contestants will perform gospel or contemporary spiritual songs.

Two finalists will be chosen at each stop. When tour is complete, 24 finalists will be flown to Hollywood. They will perform before a live studio audience, where they will be critiqued by celebrity judges.

Eight winners will go on to the finals, where the television audience will choose the ultimate winner, whose career will then be managed by Wright and Crouch.
Copyright 2004 by The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

*coughspellcheckercough*


and scott meant that the word of the Lord is a weapon, not the physical book itself. what i enterpret from your posts is that you think that the Bible's not a weapon, except in the physical form (actually hitting people with it). now, perhaps i misread it because of the many typos, but that's what i got out of it.

AND YOU FREAKING PEOPLE WONDER WHY THE MEDIA MAKWA MOVIEAS LIKE SAVED




ARE YOU DOWN WITH GOD




see we live in a bubble opnm your minds and live outside of the box




American "Christian" Idol Coming Soon!
Emulating the world. - I've been wondering just how long it would take before someone hoped to cash in on a "Christian" version of the popular "American Idol."

As far as I'm concerned it wasn't a long enough period. And yes you can surmise from that comment that I think it's a bad idea. Although folk are encouraged to attempt to change my mind.

Here's the down and dirty which was reported by the AP on WFTV.com.

The company that manages such greats as 'N Sync and that bastion of morality Britney Spears, is looking to capitalize upon the stratospheric popularity of the American Idol Television show by creating a "Christian" version.

No surprise really, since the popular TV show spurred a Country Music version along with several other wannabees that popped up across the boob-tube.

So now we have a Christianized version that will be debuting on, of all places, the posh Trinity Broadcasting Network. The show will be titled, "Gifted."

That program title may not be the best choice since it provides a launching point for comedic response by those who would mock the program.

Need an example of the sort of joke I mean?

Well, contestants will be found via a bus tour to the Trinity TV stations across the nation which will conclude in Hollywood.

Imagine if you will, the following line, "Two 'Gifted' contestants boarded 'The Short Bus' for Hollywood."

Okay, don't send comments saying, I'm mean and despicable. It's just an example of what they are in for.

The whole idea of a "Christian" American Idol I find, well frankly, contrary to the Word of God. Specifically, because the desire of this program is not to spread the Word of God, but to make a killing financially.

Of course the people behind this whole scheme aren't couching it in those terms:

"It is our goal to wrap God's message -- His love -- in acceptance, and in a way that blends seamlessly into `pop' culture while still upholding the values we, as Christians, value most," Wright Generation's mission statement reads.

Wrap God's message? Does that make anyone's else's ears perk up into alert mode?

Why does the message of God have to blend "seamlessly into 'pop' culture"? Shouldn't it be the other way around?

Oh, and they're looking for specific people. No old foggies over 24-years of age. I guess your "Gifts" are a bit wasted past that point.

The age group sought is pretty narrow, 18-24. But those are your most marketable and attractive bunch I suppose, ala N'Sync and sex-kitten Britney Spears. Sex sales, and sales is what it's all about:

Eight winners will go on to the finals, where the television audience will choose the ultimate winner, whose career will then be managed by Wright and Crouch. [Italics inserted]

What we have here is yet another example of some in the Church setting aside the robes made white by the blood of the Lamb for the tattered garments of the world.

The Great Separation continue
I personally think it's a great idea. I mean, even though I can actually watch the occasional AI (why did john have to go??? lol j/k) it doesn't make me a bad person. The age group is used to help target it at the age group it was meant to be targeted at: teenagers. How many teenagers wanna watch 30-40 year old people duke it out on TV? None. The point is to welcome children my age into Christian music and the talent therein. And if the Word of God spurrs there within the children's hearts, that's God's work. They are trying to HELP us, whoever you are, and if Christians out there keep trying to bite off the arms with which we reach, people will see us as just an army that kills off wounded and healthy soldiers at the instinct of all this. People will want to start watching movies where we KILL each other over this because of ire-laced Christians like you. I wish I could have someone like fire-inside to help me with this, because she and Scott can handle cannibals like you best. You're acting like a dog waiting to be put down! This world may be evil but we can do our best to rise up out of these ashes, and it seems like every time Christians in the media try to make an honest effort to rise up out of the image of the people is 'Saved!' you shoot them down. You are the church symbolized in that movie! Overzealous, hateful, and and obviously scarred.

I will read all these posts when the certain anonymous individual registers to get a screen name and then compiles all his/her posts into one so that they don't have to continually update and double/triple/quadruple post. And that spell check thing's nice also.

Amen, brother... and what's with all this "[glow]" and "&quot" stuff? It REALLY annoys me, and makes it SO hard to read it. I spend five minutes trying to understand those sentences...

its all abouththe benjamins in the christian american idol
thats what saddens me its not about the real thing its sad

anyway i think its funny that you would rather make fun of me then actually dealing with the what is said .


like no one decided to answer my discussion questions that i wrote out on page three or 4 on this post . but hey thats cool

you do what you will i just wanted to talk about the stuff

not have people shout at me or make fun of me


thnaks for showing the love yo

we are never going to agree if you dont show love but its ok to disagree with me that is your right . and i am not like the people in the movie saved . i see more people like that on this board then me but hey i am not trying tostart anything with you people i have much love

but this thread was to created i thought to talk things out flesh it out a lil bit what i mena by that is camp out chew on it let our minds engage on it


hey i may be playing the devils advocate alil bit but its meant to make us think


but hey by the way my name is ante and i dont feel like registring

im too fat and lazy





thnaks for showing the love yo[/QUOTE]

The point is to welcome children my age into Christian music and the talent therein. And if the Word of God spurrs there within the children's hearts, that's God's work. They are trying to HELP us,



to reply back to this

there should not be a chrisitan music scene there should just be music be salt be light dont lose your saltiness .

now i am in no way seeing be and like the culture i am saying this thought we dont need a chrisitan american idol we need to have believers working in the secular culture to preserve the things of GOd

salt is good for preserving and adding flavor


so by creating an american idol which fuels fire to the chrisitian bubble the christian culture has created you are just preaching to the choir


my encouragement to all is this


be salt
be light
make a diffrence inthe culture that surrounds you
be relvant in this proggresive culture that we live in .
we lve in he world but were not of this wrld

Well, I apologize on behalf of my friends, but I am sure they would have been nicer, permitting that you had been nicer first. No one replied to your thoughts because, most likely, we're thinking about them. And I don't think anyone was shouting. But anyways, Gifted isn't about the money, but if you want to believe that every Christian in the public and personal world is corrupt, you can keep that belief. Only God is in charge of judgement, though, so I want you to keep that in mind. If you want to judge, or hold judgement, that is your own personal, at the loss of a better owrd, thing. I am not yelling at you right now. Nor am I angry. Nor am I judgemental. Are you? Are you angry? You sound enfuriated (spelling!) but the Internet is not a good medium for displaying emotions. If you want to hold embittered opinions, that's OK by me. But don't think of the people, think of God. God bless,

A.D.

Talk About It Discussion starters
1. How do the Christians in this film resemble or differ from Christians you know? How does the model of Christianity you see in your family, church and school stack up against how the Bible instructs Christians to live? How about the model of faith depicted in Saved!?

2. What direct criticisms or arguments about Christians in this movie made you angry? Which challenged you or made you think?

3. According to the movie, what does it mean to be saved? What does it mean to you? What does the Bible say?

4. The movie contends Christians need to be more accepting and tolerant of others. One character says, "If God meant us to be the same, why did he make us different?" Can you balance love and acceptance while standing against sin? How?

5. Mary has a crisis of faith. Is it understandable? What good comes of it? Should we raise questions about God? Why or why not?

The film's distributor also has released its own Bible Study for youth groups based on the movie.


thenlets start over think about thesae and lets discuss lets have fun chatting

Well, the only one I can answer is #1, because there is a family that lives a block from me... their kids are Christians EXACTLY like in the movie (from what I hear... I met one, and she seemed ok :-\). I haven't known them well, but they relate to the people from the church in that movie. They act like they are better than everyone else just because they are Christian... they act like Christianity is an exclusive club. I have not much to say right now, but I should soon :).

Here's how I see it:

I haven't yet seen the movie. Christians should not be offended. They should rejoice. Once again, Christianity is in the spotlight of Hollywood attention and for that we should be thankful. God's word will prevail, I am confident of that, despite Christians who do nothing but complain. So what if we're offended? We were called to be persecuted for Christ. These teen comedies always exaggerate. This is just another exaggeration. We jump on Christian bandwagons. Think about it:

- VeggieTales
- I Kissed Dating Goodbye
- The Prayer of Jabez
- W.W.J.D. / F.R.O.G.
- Promise rings
- the Left Behind series
- that anti- Harry Potter book
- The use of MS PowerPoint and a contemporary praise band that features six to eight mediocre singers in a horizontal line each holding their own microphone or sharing with one other person.
- The Dove Awards
- The Purpose Driven Life

Some people gain a forum within the Christian community and it becomes the general consensus of the unthinking Christian followers. Don't follow these guys. Follow Christ. Read their stuff and use discernment. Same with these movies.

What about the Chronicles of Riddick? Haven't seen that either, but the trailer seemed to make it portray the aliens as representative of organized religion in general. Vin Diesel fights them and becomes the hero for it.

Sorry my flow of thought is a little jumpy...I'm tired.

Whoa. That list disrespects some of the very pillars of the Christian community. Replace Veggie Tales with Bible MAn, The Dove awards are fine too. Purpose driven life, what do you have against it. But you wanna know what angers me? Left Behind is on there. That series SAVED me and if it weren't for Timothy LaHaye and Jerry B, I wouldn't be here. I'd be rotting in hell for commiting suicide. That is cold how you would disrespect valuable pillars of Christian society. What singers? I HOPE you aren't talking about the Gaither Vocal band! These are all things that have led me to Jesus! Veggie Tales, Left Behind, Gaither, and all that. I admit that an anti-HP book is extreme, but that isn't Christian. That's hate. I didn't want it to come to this, but I hope someone comes to support me! I'm too tired to say what I really want to say. But I think you should re-think some of that post... it wasn't nice. Man, and don't think I'm yellin' here, I'm just a bit disappointed here.

just so you know, if you want this movie to do good in the box office, hold a protest for it outside one of the theatres. ;)

seriously, the teacher for my mass media class said that if you want your movie to earn a lot of money at the box office, raise some controversy. it's basically free publicity. people protest your movie, but the masses hear the message this way: Don't watch Saved!because it mocks Christianity and God!

That is exactly right! Frankly I will be there because I want to be more informed. It's true that some people try to censor Christianity. And it's true that some Christians try to censor things from their children or their congregation or complain that something should be abandoned. Such censorship is unconstitutional. What I think they should make an ammendment to the constitution that states anyone who has done enough research on a topic should be allowed to promote or protest it. Others should keep their mouths shut. For it is better to keep your mouth shut and be thought a fool than to open it up and remove all doubt, and thats exactly what Christians do. They'll probably think my idea is censoring them. It's not. It's just making them work for their right to be heard. It's a good thing in the long run. It keeps them from sounding dumb. Most Christians are not dumb...they just speak before thinking. Unbelievers do the opposite. No wonder they come off as making more sense. It's like saying "I believe the Bible is the word of God because it says so in 2nd Timothy."

I'm gonna reply in the morning, because I know you said a lot of right stuff in there, but I am too tired to say anything on this right now. But yes, we Christians often act on instinct. My instinct has been good to me since I was forgiven, but not this late in the night... God bless


A.D.

Ephesians 6:17 "...and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God"

Hebrews 4:12 "For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. "

There's one unscriptural quote from the movie already. Got any more ammunition for me?

You're right and so is Nate. You are using a figurative passage by the way but I forgive you because of 2 Timothy 3:16 All scripture is God-breathed and useful for teaching, correcting, rebuking, etc etc... You can use the Bible to correct and rebuke people, but you need to do it in love and tact. The person was literally hitting the girl with the Bible. In that sense it is not a weapon!

I personally think it's a great idea. I mean, even though I can actually watch the occasional AI (why did john have to go??? lol j/k) it doesn't make me a bad person. The age group is used to help target it at the age group it was meant to be targeted at: teenagers. How many teenagers wanna watch 30-40 year old people duke it out on TV? None. The point is to welcome children my age into Christian music and the talent therein. And if the Word of God spurrs there within the children's hearts, that's God's work. They are trying to HELP us, whoever you are, and if Christians out there keep trying to bite off the arms with which we reach, people will see us as just an army that kills off wounded and healthy soldiers at the instinct of all this. People will want to start watching movies where we KILL each other over this because of ire-laced Christians like you. I wish I could have someone like fire-inside to help me with this, because she and Scott can handle cannibals like you best. You're acting like a dog waiting to be put down! This world may be evil but we can do our best to rise up out of these ashes, and it seems like every time Christians in the media try to make an honest effort to rise up out of the image of the people is 'Saved!' you shoot them down. You are the church symbolized in that movie! Overzealous, hateful, and and obviously scarred.

Au contraire - This isn't an honest effort. Christians are like Pepsi Cola. We never come up with anything original, we always steal our ideas from Coke. When we do come up with our own ideas it's not good - remember Crystal Pepsi?

its all abouththe benjamins in the christian american idol
thats what saddens me its not about the real thing its sad

anyway i think its funny that you would rather make fun of me then actually dealing with the what is said .


like no one decided to answer my discussion questions that i wrote out on page three or 4 on this post . but hey thats cool

you do what you will i just wanted to talk about the stuff

not have people shout at me or make fun of me


thnaks for showing the love yo

Go Nate Dogg!!!

its all abouththe benjamins in the christian american idol
thats what saddens me its not about the real thing its sad

anyway i think its funny that you would rather make fun of me then actually dealing with the what is said .


like no one decided to answer my discussion questions that i wrote out on page three or 4 on this post . but hey thats cool

you do what you will i just wanted to talk about the stuff

not have people shout at me or make fun of me


thnaks for showing the love yo

Go Nate Dogg!!!

P.S. They are right about one very important thing: You need to learn to use the spell checker or something cause your posts are a mess!

Whoa. That list disrespects some of the very pillars of the Christian community. Replace Veggie Tales with Bible MAn, The Dove awards are fine too. Purpose driven life, what do you have against it. But you wanna know what angers me? Left Behind is on there. That series SAVED me and if it weren't for Timothy LaHaye and Jerry B, I wouldn't be here. I'd be rotting in hell for commiting suicide. That is cold how you would disrespect valuable pillars of Christian society. What singers? I HOPE you aren't talking about the Gaither Vocal band! These are all things that have led me to Jesus! Veggie Tales, Left Behind, Gaither, and all that. I admit that an anti-HP book is extreme, but that isn't Christian. That's hate. I didn't want it to come to this, but I hope someone comes to support me! I'm too tired to say what I really want to say. But I think you should re-think some of that post... it wasn't nice. Man, and don't think I'm yellin' here, I'm just a bit disappointed here.

Sorry - I wasn't saying there was anything wrong with ANY of that stuff. I was merely stating that we Christians tend to take it too far and make our own little pop culture out of it. I am glad that you came to Christ by reading the books. I praise God for it! And I praise God for all the people who will come to Christ because they know Christians who are NOT like the ones portrayed in Saved! As for the generic band I mentioned, I was not referring to the Gaithers, but rather to the praise team found in many of our local churches. It just seems odd to me that contemporary christianity likes to have that many BGV's in the band. I'm sure all of our churches got it from the Gaithers. That's fine. It's just amusing. Where else do you see an arrangement of musicians in quite that form besides a contemporary evangelical service?

I hereby claim that I have joined the message board and am responsible for all "Unregistered Guest" psts on Monday June 21 from 1:09 AM to 2:37 AM. (Not the badly spelled ones - I know him but its not me).

The person was literally hitting the girl with the Bible. In that sense it is not a weapon!

Yeah I know its not a physical weapon. Not once that I remember reading was the argument "The Bible is not a physical weapon" it was always "The Bible is not a weapon"

adding that little word physical in the sentence really changes the meaning of it

Sorry - but rather to the praise team found in many of our local churches. It just seems odd to me that contemporary christianity likes to have that many BGV's in the band. I'm sure all of our churches got it from the Gaithers. That's fine. It's just amusing. Where else do you see an arrangement of musicians in quite that form besides a contemporary evangelical service?

And....it amazing how many churches have had division over these things....I attend a small rural church.... and for the most part we still sing out of hymnals with a pianist...I am on the board of directors and the pastor and i have had disscussion on getting a powerpoint etc....but after prayer about it we didnt feel it was time to change things yet....God hasnt directed us that way yet....

Bottom line is....we need to praise with a TRUE heart of worship.....God loves that...he dont care if its the greatest worship band ever or a little child singing "Jesus Loves Me" if it comes from the heart...He accepts it.

its all abouththe benjamins in the christian american idol
thats what saddens me its not about the real thing its sad

anyway i think its funny that you would rather make fun of me then actually dealing with the what is said .


like no one decided to answer my discussion questions that i wrote out on page three or 4 on this post . but hey thats cool

you do what you will i just wanted to talk about the stuff

not have people shout at me or make fun of me


thnaks for showing the love yo


a question: if you don't like the way we react to what you say, why do you continue to stick around and try to convert us to your way of thinking? not to be rude or anything, but it doesn't make much sense.... :-\

ah yes... that could pose a problem...

Everybody please remember our rules of the boards....Everyones opinion needs to be respected...Lets try to play nice...we can agree to disagree with stooping to name-calling etc..... which will not be tolerated

That is exactly right! Frankly I will be there because I want to be more informed. It's true that some people try to censor Christianity. And it's true that some Christians try to censor things from their children or their congregation or complain that something should be abandoned. Such censorship is unconstitutional. What I think they should make an ammendment to the constitution that states anyone who has done enough research on a topic should be allowed to promote or protest it. Others should keep their mouths shut. For it is better to keep your mouth shut and be thought a fool than to open it up and remove all doubt, and thats exactly what Christians do. They'll probably think my idea is censoring them. It's not. It's just making them work for their right to be heard. It's a good thing in the long run. It keeps them from sounding dumb. Most Christians are not dumb...they just speak before thinking. Unbelievers do the opposite. No wonder they come off as making more sense. It's like saying "I believe the Bible is the word of God because it says so in 2nd Timothy."

How many 'unregistered' posts are from different people? Ugh. Confusing.

Anyway.

To unregistered number 1:

I admire your passion concerning this movie. I genuinely hope you enjoy it. But please, do me one favor: Please stop pushing it as if it were gospel. It's a film very loosely based upon a perception of christianity for entertainment purposes. Perhaps we're all looking too deeply for the 'truth' that may or may not even exist in this film, which in the end is going to make everyone look either too fanatical or too apathetic. I am not one of those people who jump on the 'christian bandwagon' as was mentioned earlier. I do not and will not embrace all things that come from Hollywood or Tennessee simply because it has a 'christian' tag associated with it. I'm not avoiding this movie because it has potential to offend me and make me search for the real truth. I'm avoiding it because it just looks stupid. I loved Bruce Almighty, by the way. LOVED IT.

How many 'unregistered' posts are from different people? Ugh. Confusing.

Anyway.

To unregistered number 1:

I admire your passion concerning this movie. I genuinely hope you enjoy it. But please, do me one favor: Please stop pushing it as if it were gospel. It's a film very loosely based upon a perception of christianity for entertainment purposes. Perhaps we're all looking too deeply for the 'truth' that may or may not even exist in this film, which in the end is going to make everyone look either too fanatical or too apathetic. I am not one of those people who jump on the 'christian bandwagon' as was mentioned earlier. I do not and will not embrace all things that come from Hollywood or Tennessee simply because it has a 'christian' tag associated with it. I'm not avoiding this movie because it has potential to offend me and make me search for the real truth. I'm avoiding it because it just looks stupid. I loved Bruce Almighty, by the way. LOVED IT.
That's too true. That's why I (have tried as hard as I can -- must put a disclaimer on this :P) not to 'persure' the truth. I only ask questions ;D.

Yeah, I didn't watch Bruce Almighty. It sounded just as stupid as this movie does :P! I have to try and rate things on a normal level first, but I skipped that for this movie 'cuz it'd be BORING for me... as both a Christian AND a person... another 'popularized' movie for me, so it really doesn't matter to me anymore! :P

Here's how I see it:

I haven't yet seen the movie. Christians should not be offended. They should rejoice. Once again, Christianity is in the spotlight of Hollywood attention and for that we should be thankful. God's word will prevail, I am confident of that, despite Christians who do nothing but complain. So what if we're offended? We were called to be persecuted for Christ. These teen comedies always exaggerate. This is just another exaggeration. We jump on Christian bandwagons. Think about it:

- VeggieTales
- I Kissed Dating Goodbye
- The Prayer of Jabez
- W.W.J.D. / F.R.O.G.
- Promise rings
- the Left Behind series
- that anti- Harry Potter book
- The use of MS PowerPoint and a contemporary praise band that features six to eight mediocre singers in a horizontal line each holding their own microphone or sharing with one other person.
- The Dove Awards
- The Purpose Driven Life

Some people gain a forum within the Christian community and it becomes the general consensus of the unthinking Christian followers. Don't follow these guys. Follow Christ. Read their stuff and use discernment. Same with these movies.

What about the Chronicles of Riddick? Haven't seen that either, but the trailer seemed to make it portray the aliens as representative of organized religion in general. Vin Diesel fights them and becomes the hero for it.

Sorry my flow of thought is a little jumpy...I'm tired.

this was not me writing this a nother uinregisteresd user

i am nte this is not thae work of fat and lazy nate

but the other unregistred guy or girl has some valid poitns

... oy, but yes, I knew that wasn't you. You're not that sporadic. I STILL don't find any reason to rejoice... I have dissed the idea of applying Christian focus to this movie, and decided to see it as a movie... and it's horrible. Boring for me, man. I don't see any valuable points.

I admire your passion concerning this movie. I genuinely hope you enjoy it. But please, do me one favor: Please stop pushing it as if it were gospel. It's a film very loosely based upon a perception of christianity for entertainment purposes. Perhaps we're all looking too deeply for the 'truth' that may or may not even exist in this film, which in the end is going to make everyone look either too fanatical or too apathetic. I am not one of those people who jump on the 'christian bandwagon' as was mentioned earlier. I do not and will not embrace all things that come from Hollywood or Tennessee simply because it has a 'christian' tag associated with it. I'm not avoiding this movie because it has potential to offend me and make me search for the real truth. I'm avoiding it because it just looks stupid. I loved Bruce Almighty, by the way. LOVED IT.
Chrishna has some good points here. not just the part about Bruce Almighty being good either. ;) this movie is just a perception of reality. it may or may not be a good perception. in fact, those discussion questions you posted are good. but a smart Christian (since this seems to be the focus of the discussion now) does that for everything. whether you read a book, watch a movie, listen to a song, or play a video game, you should be analyzing it and seeing how it works with Christianity, if there's any truths that it points out or ignores.

you could view this movie on the same scale as the Matrix (only when considering this topic. The Matrix was much better, i'm sure most everyone will agree). i talked a lot about Christianity and Jesus and the parallels between this movie and the Truth. but it was only a movie. it had flaws. a lot of Zen Bhuddist philosophies were also intertwined in the film (that whole "free your mind" stuff specifically). does that mean you can't talk about God when it has something like that? no, but it does help you see it's not gospel, it's not a perfect allegory. neither is Saved!. it's not an exact representation (in many cases, from what i've seen, it's far from exact).

Yes, but as for the posts about PowerPoint and Contemporary music church bands... that's MY church! I love their music and their use of powerpoint is fine by me (actually, it's required in Youth Group). I don't think you're getting the point. I am sorry about my post sounding offensive... (it felt like a sucker-punch, and trust me, I know what it feels like) but adding on about it being about CHURCHES... that's bad, man. I love my church dearly, but I DO understand what you're saying. There are some generic churches like that (i.e., my last one) and it bugs me. Yes, that is something we should look closely at... but it shouldn't bother us. If it gets in the way of service, like the over-use of powerpoint or the lack of fath behind the music, then you should start paying attention. I do give you that.

But here's something else: there isn't a going too far. All these things are done out of faith. Veggie Tales is just clean, Christian comedy that supports Biblical values so that we know what our children our watching. Valuable point #2: We do shield our children too much. We shouldn't overprotect our kids, but nor should we allow everything. We must find a medium.

But there is no pop-culture Christianity. There is in the music industry, (there are some artists that are imitating the pop ideal) and that IS money-mongering. Plus One comes to mind. But the things you've mentioned aren't the right Items to mention. Try thinking more along the lines of the music industry and other things like that. But we don't have a pop-culturized Christian media... except that of which I mentioned. Yes, we should pay attention... but not to a degree as to automatically judge everything as guilty until proven innocent.

actually, i'd have to disagree with ya there Disciple. the Pop-culture Christianity of which you speak (and which i refer to as the Christian Ghetto) is found in the Left Behind books, the WWJD bracelets, the Christian movies ("Joshua" comes to mind) and, yes like you said, the Christian music industry.

that doesn't mean God can't use the Memory Verse mints found at Christian bookstores. God could use a simple rock to reach one of His, but that doesn't mean we should package them and sell them by the dozen.

personally, i don't like the Left Behind books (i will finish the series tho, so i won't die of curiosity) because they have gotten repetitive. not because they have become commericialized (which they have). that still doesn't mean there isn't a Christian Ghetto where Christians feel the need to have substitutes for anything in the "secular" market. why do we need shirts that say "Jesus Inside" via the Intel logo? why do we need little cards that say "give the Master Charge of your life?" (back when MasterCard was MasterCharge)? why do we need bands who smell, taste and sound like their mainstream counterparts? THAT is one thing i like about Saved! (without having seen it), it makes fun of that Christian Ghetto.

(again, nothing against those things specifically. God could use anything. what i think is stupid is what my neighbor thinks is a gift from God Himself)

I didn't know about those things. I have plenty of GOOD Christian t-shirts, but then again, they might not compare by standard. Hey, to each their own with LB, but I'm faithful to the series. Hey; the best things about the Bible are repetitive. That's why enjoy reading both.

There's not much I can say about this. Our views are obviously different. There's no problem with that. I just wish people wouldn't judge so much...

Yes, WWJD is just a bit over the top... but some people need those kinda reminders... the candies... yeah, those people need a like outside of money, but I see your point, guys...

As I always have said, everything is good and pure at first, by that I mean like these ideas, but mankind always has misused them. All these things are fine till given a dash of this and a spin of that... except Left behind... by which I say this:

It has been a saying of mine: "To each their own." By that I mean opinion and tastes, too.

Anyway.

To unregistered number 1:

I admire your passion concerning this movie. I genuinely hope you enjoy it. But please, do me one favor: Please stop pushing it as if it were gospel. It's a film very loosely based upon a perception of christianity for entertainment purposes. Perhaps we're all looking too deeply for the 'truth' that may or may not even exist in this film, which in the end is going to make everyone look either too fanatical or too apathetic. I am not one of those people who jump on the 'christian bandwagon' as was mentioned earlier. I do not and will not embrace all things that come from Hollywood or Tennessee simply because it has a 'christian' tag associated with it. I'm not avoiding this movie because it has potential to offend me and make me search for the real truth. I'm avoiding it because it just looks stupid. I loved Bruce Almighty, by the way. LOVED IT.


hey thanks for responding im nate by the way


i am not saying it was the gospel
i am trying to let people know we can learn from certain truth in the movie and learn from it
WE can laugh we can disagreea about the movie and i am fine withthat

but i do not belive we should be close minded



here is something i found which is coolfor alot of opinions i say

here are some darn good books to get your read on

Roaring lions
the final roar by bob briner

faith God and rock and roll

the Gospel according to tony soprano

and The Christian Culture Survival Guide: The Misadventures of an Outsider on the Inside."


check ema out on relavant magazine


adios l;lovelies

But there is no pop-culture Christianity. There is in the music industry, (there are some artists that are imitating the pop ideal) and that IS money-mongering. Plus One comes to mind. But the things you've mentioned aren't the right Items to mention. Try thinking more along the lines of the music industry and other things like that. But we don't have a pop-culturized Christian media... except that of which I mentioned. Yes, we should pay attention... but not to a degree as to automatically judge everything as guilty until proven innocent.


om i hate diagree there is a chrisitan pop subculture that christians have vreated to make them feel better about ourselves .

jesus said i have come to bring you new life not a life tha tmakes you feel better emotions is a scrything

dont bas eyour opinions on how ypou feel we cant trust our hearst it dark dank and nasty no good thing come from the heart of man


only christ can clean mans haert and make it new


!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!
But we don't have a pop-culturized Christian media... except that of which I mentioned. Yes, we should pay attention... but not to a degree as to automatically judge everything as guilty until proven innocent.[/QUOTE]

another ridicoulus thing there is a charistian subculture and i dont jusge the people or their haert i judge the freuit

disciple
please do not thinki am being rude but you need to be awakened


I didn't know about those things. I have plenty of GOOD Christian t-shirts, but then again, they might not compare by standard. Hey, to each their own with LB, but I'm faithful to the series. Hey; the best things about the Bible are repetitive. That's why enjoy reading both.

There's not much I can say about this. Our views are obviously different. There's no problem with that. I just wish people wouldn't judge so much...

Yes, WWJD is just a bit over the top... but some people need those kinda reminders... the candies... yeah, those people need a like outside of money, but I see your point, guys...

As I always have said, everything is good and pure at first, by that I mean like these ideas, but mankind always has misused them. All these things are fine till given a dash of this and a spin of that... except Left behind... by which I say this:

It has been a saying of mine: "To each their own." By that I mean opinion and tastes, too.


iw ould much rather live out my faith infront of people then where a chrisitan tshirt so they can tell a diffrence ion me then just reading it on a shirt

that is the hard thing youve been sucked in and you dont even know


heres a cool review about the

isurvived the chrisitan subcluture book by the OLD CCM magasine editor
Matthew Paul Turner 'Takes Five'
A humorous view of quirky Christian culture
From the Journal Sentinel
Posted: June 2, 2004
Like a not-so-mad scientist playing with fire and gunpowder, Matthew Paul Turner juggles edgy humor and religion in his just-released book, "The Christian Culture Survival Guide: The Misadventures of an Outsider on the Inside." Christian music is big business, and millions of people buy Bible-based "VeggieTales" videos. But when outsiders enter churches, Turner writes, they may face egotistical pastors and other challenges. He blends reminiscences and commentary with lists such as "Five never-fail ways to stay awake during any sermon." To prepare, he visited 52 churches, from Protestant and Catholic to non-denominational. Turner, 30, is a writer, speaker and former editor of CCM magazine. While editor from 2001-'03, he did a weekly spot on the Fish, Milwaukee's WFZH-FM (105.3). Raised a Baptist, he is a Presbyterian and lives in Nashville, Tenn. He spoke with Journal Sentinel reporter Tom Heinen.

'Takes Five'


Photo/File
Matthew Paul Turner



Q. Christian culture?

A. Anything that is done, celebrated, worn, listened to. Anything from the "Left Behind" books to everything surrounding "The Passion of the Christ," to Rick Warren's (book), "The Purpose-Drive Life." I focus in on the quirkiness of Christian culture, the T-shirts, the fish-symbol bumper stickers . . . sandals that leave Scripture verses in the sand. That kind of stuff tends to be cheesy and give Christianity a bad name.

Q. You also focus on internal church culture, such as "Five questions you never want a pastor to ask you."

A. Most of the book deals with the issues of the church, what drives people away. So many times it's bad personalities, cheesy people who in no way act like a follower of Jesus. I grew up in such a legalistic, fundamental, strict background that so much of who I was in God was based on rules, on all the things that I did not do. I didn't go to movies, to bars, smoke or have sex. I realized later that my relationship with God is not built on rules. It's built on my relationship with Jesus.

Q. Why humor?

A. If you go into a church and you've not experienced Christianity, it is a little bit different, a little bit strange. You see people lifting their hands, you see people jumping up and down. It's humorous. I faced some really weird stuff. When I was in second grade, I had Barbie dolls burnt in front of me to explain hell. My pastor sets it on fire with a lighter. Kids are screaming. Smoke's filling up the room.

Q. You give creative ideas for old What Would Jesus Do bracelets. The top one: They make great collars for small dogs and cats, "even your ferret can get its Jesus-love on." What's the reaction been to your humor?.

A. It's been very mixed. A lot of people who get the book think it's absolutely the funniest book they've ever read inside the Christian culture. Even some really conservative people have gotten it. Then there's other people who just think that anything remotely making fun of the church or talking about things of the church in a humorous manner is either irreverent or not cool.

Q. The book includes serious advice, such as "Five teachings of Christ to survive on." What was your intent?

A. So many people have walked away from their faith because of the church. I have countless friends who have just been completely offended by the actions of the church, and now they no longer worship or celebrate their faith in any fashion. And I'm hoping that this book can make people laugh, relate to it and realize that what they experienced has very little to do with their relationship with God

I don't mean anything by this, I don't, but you should try to keep an eye on your fingers, mine tend to slip on the keyboard too, but I try to check my spelling before I post. It makes it much easier to read :)

Yes, I have been thinking since I posted that, and my opinion is changing, now that I have heard about these things... but try to see things through intent... that's how I see things, and I'm fine with my life so far :)

But I have to disagree... BUT ONLY TO A POINT! You're right that we shouldn't base our opinions on our heart... but SOME of what our hearts say is right, I must add. I have struggles with not enough heart, so that's the way it is for me... yes, much of mankind is corrupt in heart... I'd say everyone has been tainted to their own degree. But try to think more positively of the human heart... God designed it pure, no matter what this world has done to it :) God bless,

A.D.

A CHRISTIAN CULTURE SURVIVAL GUIDE
The Misadventures of an insider on the outside

By Matthew Paul Turner
Foreword by Stephen Baldwin


By taking a hilarious look at the peculiarities and churchisms that have been added to this thing called Christianity, The Christian Culture Survival Guide leaves you with a knowing smile and the reassurance that true faith is only found in Jesus—not in the gift aisle at the Heaven Sent Christian Bookstore.

You know You've Survived Christian Culture If ...

—You've ever thrown out all your "secular" CDs ... only to replace them a year later.
—Your vocabulary has ever been peppered with words like "burden" or "fellowship."
—For graduation, you were given a Thomas Kinkade painting.
—You've actually tried a pack of Testamints.
—You was your car with a T-shirt that says "GAP—God Answers Prayer."


INCLUDING:
Christian Conventions to Forced Conversions: Being Introduced to Jesus
Fanatical, Evangelical or Liturgical: Finding the Right Church
Fearless Leaders: Trusting the Ordained
Head and Shoulders, Knees and Toes: Fitting Into Your New Church Body
This Little Light Of Mine: Shining In Sunday School
Fun-Filled Friday Nights: Rocking As A Tween Or Teen In the Church Scene
Binges and Bibles: Walking the Narrow Way On Campus
First Base to Homerun: Dating [Christian Style]
Masturbation, Prozac and Bud Light: Discussing the Big Taboos
W.W.J.D., F.R.O.G., and D.O.G.: Finding Your Way in Christian Retail
Can I Get an Hallelujah!?: Reviving Yourself at a Revival
Left Behind, TBN and Mega-Churches: Following Jesus In the 21st Century

hers te table of contents

1. The Salvation Experience
2. The Church
3. The Pastor
4. Church Involvement 5. The Worship Service 6. Getting Along With Christians
7. Boycotts and Extremes
8. The Dating and Sex Chapter (PG-13)
9. Christian Entertainment and Bookstores
10. Awakening Your Christian Life

The Christian Culture Survival Guide is one of the most hilarious books I have ever read! ... If you feel like you’re missing something in your spiritual walk, this book is for you.”
—Jaci Velasquez, singer

“I found myself laughing, shaking my head, sighing and smiling all because I could relate.”
—Owen Thomas, The Elms

"Matthew Turner's The Christian Culture Survival Guide reconnects us with spirited and often humorous musings that challenge the status quo and inspire new looks at timeless topics. Matthew writes the way I hope our movies will look—straight up, cutting edge, fun."
—Stephen Baldwin, actor

"The Christian Culture Survival Guide is a must-read for anyone who has ever walked through the doors of a church. Throughout the entire book I laughed, related and cheered at Turner's blatant honesty. From Christian stereotypes to the sometimes silliness done in the name of the Father, this books cover it all with a humorous grace not found in other books
about the church."
—Andy Argyrakis, Chicago Tribune contributing writer

“If you’re ready for a new, honest and even hilarious take on Christianity and today’s culture, this is your book.”
—Christa Farris, Editor of CCM Magazine and CCMMagazine.com

"Witty, insightful, edgy, cynical, hopeful, faithful, disturbing, indicting, and provocative. I promise you this: you will not come away from it with a neutral response. The story of Matt's life points to how unwelcome we Christians often can be to outsiders (and other insiders for that matter). Hitting a little too close to home, his Survival Guide is likely to be blackballed by some of the more powerful within the Christian establishment. Definitely my kind of book!"
—Will Penner, speaker, author and editor of Youthworker Journal

disciple
please do not thinki am being rude but you need to be awakened





iw ould much rather live out my faith infront of people then where a chrisitan tshirt so they can tell a diffrence ion me then just reading it on a shirt

that is the hard thing youve been sucked in and you dont even know


heres a cool review about the

isurvived the chrisitan subcluture book by the OLD CCM magasine editor
Matthew Paul Turner 'Takes Five'
A humorous view of quirky Christian culture
From the Journal Sentinel
Posted: June 2, 2004
Like a not-so-mad scientist playing with fire and gunpowder, Matthew Paul Turner juggles edgy humor and religion in his just-released book, "The Christian Culture Survival Guide: The Misadventures of an Outsider on the Inside." Christian music is big business, and millions of people buy Bible-based "VeggieTales" videos. But when outsiders enter churches, Turner writes, they may face egotistical pastors and other challenges. He blends reminiscences and commentary with lists such as "Five never-fail ways to stay awake during any sermon." To prepare, he visited 52 churches, from Protestant and Catholic to non-denominational. Turner, 30, is a writer, speaker and former editor of CCM magazine. While editor from 2001-'03, he did a weekly spot on the Fish, Milwaukee's WFZH-FM (105.3). Raised a Baptist, he is a Presbyterian and lives in Nashville, Tenn. He spoke with Journal Sentinel reporter Tom Heinen.

'Takes Five'


Photo/File
Matthew Paul Turner



Q. Christian culture?

A. Anything that is done, celebrated, worn, listened to. Anything from the "Left Behind" books to everything surrounding "The Passion of the Christ," to Rick Warren's (book), "The Purpose-Drive Life." I focus in on the quirkiness of Christian culture, the T-shirts, the fish-symbol bumper stickers . . . sandals that leave Scripture verses in the sand. That kind of stuff tends to be cheesy and give Christianity a bad name.

Q. You also focus on internal church culture, such as "Five questions you never want a pastor to ask you."

A. Most of the book deals with the issues of the church, what drives people away. So many times it's bad personalities, cheesy people who in no way act like a follower of Jesus. I grew up in such a legalistic, fundamental, strict background that so much of who I was in God was based on rules, on all the things that I did not do. I didn't go to movies, to bars, smoke or have sex. I realized later that my relationship with God is not built on rules. It's built on my relationship with Jesus.

Q. Why humor?

A. If you go into a church and you've not experienced Christianity, it is a little bit different, a little bit strange. You see people lifting their hands, you see people jumping up and down. It's humorous. I faced some really weird stuff. When I was in second grade, I had Barbie dolls burnt in front of me to explain hell. My pastor sets it on fire with a lighter. Kids are screaming. Smoke's filling up the room.

Q. You give creative ideas for old What Would Jesus Do bracelets. The top one: They make great collars for small dogs and cats, "even your ferret can get its Jesus-love on." What's the reaction been to your humor?.

A. It's been very mixed. A lot of people who get the book think it's absolutely the funniest book they've ever read inside the Christian culture. Even some really conservative people have gotten it. Then there's other people who just think that anything remotely making fun of the church or talking about things of the church in a humorous manner is either irreverent or not cool.

Q. The book includes serious advice, such as "Five teachings of Christ to survive on." What was your intent?

A. So many people have walked away from their faith because of the church. I have countless friends who have just been completely offended by the actions of the church, and now they no longer worship or celebrate their faith in any fashion. And I'm hoping that this book can make people laugh, relate to it and realize that what they experienced has very little to do with their relationship with God
Whoa. His opinion is bigoted. I love my T-shirts. I don't use them to speak for me at all. I use them to tell people who I am as a person now.

I am not gonna say much on this. ^Sorry if I sounded rude^. I am just gonna have to ignore that... I don't want to get angry...

OK. Here it is. I wouldn't read the book if my life depended on it. He sounds like a dishonest man. My T-shirts don't say "Jesus Inside" like Mike said, but they have SCRIPTURES. Isaiah 40:31, to be specific.

I love my "Jesus - that's my final answer" T-shirt, and my "When the Rapture occurs, this shirt will be empty!" (only because a good joke comes with it and it has a cross on the front) is funny.

I love my church. It is an honest church. Everyone on the staff is Christian, and no one carries any pride. That man is quite judgemental.

Like I said, my thoughts on this are scattered. You act like I have been deceived my whole life. I'll collect myself and read later... God bless,

A.D.

disciple we may disagree but i respect that just keep a open mind to others views as well we can alllearen from each othe r BRO

no beef

[QUOTE=disciple]Whoa. His opinion is bigoted. I love my T-shirts. I don't use them to speak for me at all. I use them to tell people who I am as a person now.

are you saying my views are bigoted or the books view


can i ask you a staight up question does your t shirt live for you ?
does it amke everyday s decsions that will affect the people around

i would much rahter live my life out in front of people

the bible says

Non chrisitians will know us by our love


not a our chrisitan t shirts

OK. Here it is. I wouldn't read the book if my life depended on it. He sounds like a dishonest man. My T-shirts don't say "Jesus Inside" like Mike said, but they have SCRIPTURES. Isaiah 40:31, to be specific.





you are jusding the same thing you told me not to do


He is very well respected and was the editor FOr ccm

contempary christion music magazine

which is the best for thee chrisitns band

ccm magazine even says go out and by the bookl eve many xhrisitns muscuicians say go by the book why beacyuse there is truth people need to know about it

I meant the author, not you :) Definitely not you! You've already helped me out!

I don't let my shirts live for me. But it opens the topic easily. I wear them, not use them. They are just shirts to me. My best ones, but just shirts.

which is the best for thee chrisitns band

ccm magazine even says go out and by the book even many Chrisitns musicians say go buy the book. why? beacyuse there is truth people need to know about it
As for the first sentence, I need you to retype it^ because I couldn't guess what it is.

... but I'm not one of them, as for the paragraph. I don't need to know the Truth, I already know it! ;D

As for the first sentence, I need you to retype it^ because I couldn't guess what it is.

... but I'm not one of them, as for the paragraph. I don't need to know the Truth, I already know it! ;D


enlighten me on your truth yuou say on the chrisitan culture since you say there is none


enlighten me please






i am a bit sacrastic but i do want to hear back your responce your opionis valid ro you imnay diasagree with you but hey man keep your mind open and we can learn from eachg poother yo

I was being sarcastic too! What a coincidence! lol ::]

I meant the Truth, the Word, lol, sorry, 'cause I can't help being sarcastic.

But my opinion was formed like this before I became a Christian.... yeah, WWJD and dog collars and such are extreme. I have always felt that way, bt of course, back then I didn't know what it meant, but now I do. It's just like a cliche now. But its true. In a situation where you can offer forth the Word of God, think about how Jesus did it. I'll post more in a sec.

The little Jesus trinkets are not bad things, but we can't possibly think that they are going to be the most effective way of spreading the Gospel. The heart of man decietful above all things and desparately wicked after the fall. We need to follow God's leading through His word.

The little Jesus trinkets are not bad things, but we can't possibly think that they are going to be the most effective way of spreading the Gospel. The heart of man decietful above all things and desparately wicked after the fall. We need to follow God's leading through His word.
Amen. Trinkets should be WORN not USED.

Amen. Trinkets should be WORN not USED.
ypu remind me of a chrisian jewel

*chuckles* lol, but I was being serious! lol

I thought it was a hilarious movie, reguardless of stereotypes. ::] I could see how Christians would take great offense to it though.

Yeah. But it'd be boring for me. I don't like pop-culture movies anyway.

Pop-Culture is usually somewhat ridiculous

Yep... exactly my point...

LOL...nice to talk to ya 'gin. But this time...i guess...is bout pop culture & movies! Which aren't ALL bad

Not ALL... but still...

:afro: LOL...ok

Pop-Culture is usually somewhat ridiculous
There’s always been this diametrically opposed balance between secular and Christian. Have you ever wondered where that came from? Or did you just assume that it’s always been there from the beginning of Christianity? And have you ever noticed how it’s affected music today? Bands like P.O.D. and Creed are constantly being referred to as either Christian or secular in a frenzied attempt to label and categorize anything that might renegotiate the age-old boundaries.

The Enlightenment in the 17th and 18th centuries was an awakening to the reason, logic and science of man. It also focused on the humanity of man and his overall responsibility for the environment and the world around him, culminating in a humanitarian interest in the arts, philosophy and science. As a result, it basically separated church from state—the state of affairs we currently find ourselves in—and created continuities of history. These continuities of history for the secular and the Christian developed over time so that the secular had its own way of relating to the world; Christianity likewise had its own way of relating to the world. The result has been the psychological separation that we know today.

However, if anything has been going against that trend for the past century, it’s been pop music. Over the past 50 years, Christianity and pop music have blended, clashed and fought with secular ideas. Just think of Madonna’s controversial career, pseudo-Christian bands like Creed and crossover newbies like Jars of Clay and DC Talk. Until recently, there has always been a distinction between Christian music and secular music. But bands like P.O.D. and Lifehouse have reached wide mainstream appeal, despite the media’s attention towards their Christian messages. One cannot dispute the success P.O.D. has garnered in the past couple of years, from scoring the Matrix: Reloaded soundtrack to holding the number one spot on TRL with singles “Alive” and “Youth of the Nation.”

The most interesting thing about P.O.D. is that they possess a mixture of mainstream success and explicitly Christian lyrics and messages. Their mission to infiltrate the world without deviating from their calling is impressive—even recently booting guitarist Marcos from the tribe in order to maintain the course and stay true to the mission. In P.O.D. we see an intersection between Christianity and the secular, and not just a Christian band that’s trying to “make it in the real world.”

The problem with most Christian or “spiritual” music today is that it’s too pluralistic. This has never been more embodied in the past six years than in Creed. Creed’s popularity and massive appeal (selling well over 20 million units so far) owes in large part to its watered-down spirituality—ironically, one that is without one particular creed. Pluralism in the postmodern world is not only the way in which the world reconciles the schism created by the Enlightenment, but it is also a threat to the viability of the Enlightenment. To blend Eastern mysticism with Native American animism and postmodern Christianity is seen as non-threatening and eveb appealing.

It’s no wonder then that Creed dwarfs P.O.D.’s record sales, despite P.O.D.’s visibility and public success. Still, music is such a culturally-defined and potent force that we need to consider for a moment the context P.O.D. and other Christian bands are operating in. Unlike most bands that identify themselves as Christian, P.O.D. embraces the secular culture and yet identifies with Christianity. Their lyrics are historically derived from the continuity of religious history. (I’m not ashamed of the Most High/ Even if I die tonight, if I die tonight/ This I pledge, and I’ll take it to my death.) In this sense, they differ very little from the historical voices of Augustine or Pascal, who proclaim Christianity as a moral and aesthetic historical argument. The validity of P.O.D.’s voice relies partly on their particular blend of hardcore/rap-core/reggae/nu-metal. The unusual blend of musical styles seems to encompass the secular in a way that reconstructs the context in which religion is able to come into the secular.

Because of the aggressive nature of the style of music, lyrics like, I surrender, giving up all that is me/ Yielding to you, are detached from their historical Christian context and placed into a secular context. Written as a song of overt adoration addressed to God, which in the Christian context might be label as worship, “Portrait” subtly removes the stereotypes of religion often associated with such lyrics as, Christ—Jah flesh; Christ—light within; Christ—beginning and the end. Instead of stereotypes often associated with denomination or theology, the punk-rap-nu-metal style is able to legitimize the belonging of such lyrics in a secular subculture. P.O.D.’s ability to embrace so many different styles is indicative of the Evangelical Christianity it embraces, in which they are infiltrating top ranks.

“Set It Off” is working several different undercurrents, which persist throughout the album and are subversive to the secular, yet still exist to co-exist within the framework of a secular mainstream culture. P.O.D. talks of Armageddon, of battles and sides and of Babylon—in short, religious vernacular with historically Christian backgrounds. What is interesting about “Set It Off” is that in the midst of this biblical context, P.O.D. places itself as participants within this history. Our time has come … When opportunity knocks/ Break the locks and rush the gates, they say. It’s as if their role in this history is to carry on what Christians have been doing for the past two centuries, except in a modern rock context—Underground blaze the sound to Armageddon.

P.O.D. is able to speak to masculinity, religious warfare and spiritual aggression in secular terms that unravel the backgrounds of such biblically-charged ideas into West Coast street vernacular, disarming any perception of potential threat. The battle against Babylon becomes a battle against “crews,” or street tribes; against real and fake—We real and we’ve outlasted/ Your phoniness, so you best to come correct; and against weak and strong—Overpower the strong tower/ Infiltrate top ranks/ Count down the final hour. These terms offset a historical interpretation to the biblical motifs and attempt to “secularize” them. This translation is culture specific, removing it from historical interpretation into a more synthesized and unified history.

If Christian bands want to infiltrate the world to be in it but not of it, they need to synthesize the culture, but also stay true to their mission. Otherwise, the world will recognize ambiguity and weak intentions with pluralism and turn the Christian mission into a Creed-like Behind the Music story. Props to the ones who subvert the Enlightenment by getting in the game and staying true to the cause.

from fat and lazy nate

Amen, brother! I love what P.O.D. has done, and you have stolen the words outta my mouth. A couple funny things:

DC Talk isn't new. They've been around since the 80's. I love their song "Jesus Freak" because it is true that we are often labeled as 'Jesus Freaks' because the secular world doesn't know how to identify with us., thus, the cause of lebels.

And a second thing; I don't this she was being serious to that degree. She was saying stuff like MTV and all that...


WORD about what you said of Creed. I like their music, it's just... man, he STILL disappoints me. And don't ask me why I like their music, 'cause I dunno.

God bless,
A.D.

to get to know unregistered

Here is my vision

Music has an influence on American and the world’s teen culture. I have a vision that Only God can accomplish. I have a vision for music teens and God. Music connects teens to God on a daily basis through cd. Lets face it kids come home turn on TRL or do homework in the back they put a cd in and they do what listen to music it consumes the average teen 6-8 hours whether its on a cd , radio TV commercials .music is everywhere . When most bands get signed to a major Christian label a lot of the time they are young and some of them are so swept up by the marketing and image, they sometimes get lost in the business and never find the ministry, also sometimes bands have never been disciple or held accountable for their actions. I want to be that person that disciples them. If people of weak faith are reaching out to people of weak faith they will produce more people of weak faith you can only create what you are in your own walk.
I think there is a need for this in the music scene.

If you think of the big picture I am still staying true to the calling of youth ministry. Youth ministry is all about expanding the realm of your influence. That’s why a lot of layperson and youth pastors spend so much time working on training their volunteer leaders to lead teens. The youth pastors know they can’t do it on their own and they train the people that will be doing ministry with him. Therefore he is expanding his realm of influence. so whether I become a road manager and/or road pastor I will still be doing youth ministry ,because if I am influencing the musicians to grow and go deeper with God their lyrics will go deeper and it will influence people to go deeper .

I will be leaving Columbia sc in dec to move to Nashville to start school my 2nd undergrad im 22 at Belmont University. For the music business degree (management)

Here is a little about me


I came to Christ when I was 16 years old. The summer between my 8th grade year and 9th grade year my lil sister holly Danielle was in the hospital the doctors had no clue of what was a matter with her come to find out my mother was making my sister sick at that item holly was only 14 MO old. So the doctors called the police and my sister was taken away then 5 months after that my mother got sentenced to five years in prison. And I became an independent student living in my own apartment working 40 hours a week just to survive and go to school. I turned to the only salvation I knew at that time and that was drugs and alcohol but you see this salvation was only temporary the next morning

I would still be in the same situation before. then one day there was this girl that was like lets go to young life and I was like sure Then I started getting involved in young life and went to a camp and there a seed was planted a couple weeks after that my young life leader lead me to Christ. Then I wanted to make a difference in my school for Christ. Boy was it hard I was known in my school as the guy whose Mom in jail and he has his own apartment and he has a party every weekend my friends once called dawg homie whatever to bible boy but that didn't stop me I became my fca president my junior year of high school and it was then that I knew God was preparing me to lead. I wanted to work with teens so I went searching around for some bible colleges and I found one that was reputable I found Ciu Columbia international University and this is where I am to this day
CIU has been great for the biblical perspective on the world and I praise God for the spiritual aspect. But you see my friend it only trained me for one aspect of what God is calling me to do that is why I want to go to Belmont for the Music business management degree. I need the technical side of things that I lacked at CIU.


Last year the first semester of senior year I was on the way back from the current youth group I am a volunteer leader at going back to CIU to turn in for the night. it was down pouring and an 18 wheeler jackknifed on the interstate and my car went underneath it I spent 40 minutes underneath that truck not moving I just remembering singing Jesus loves me (in that type of situation all I remember saying was that) and Jesus give me peace he did. Still to this day I do not remember calling the youth pastor I am working with saying this is big Nate I got into a wreck IM bleeding bad and IM underneath an 18 wheeler meet at the hospital. I made a call and had no idea that I did. I spent 1 week in the hospital and only came out with a broken right wrist and a broken leg. The ER staff said my head was 4 inches up my head would have been severed off.


So I had plenty of time to look at my life ,press pause on life and really think why I am here on earth and how I can be most effective for God while I’m here on earth . The more and more I thought I don’t see myself working in the church or at least not right now in my life. My life and the circumstances God has allowed me to experience have opened me up for Ministry but in a unique and creative way. I believe God started to do this in me when I was 18 there was a man named Vic who did Christian shows at a place called the warehouse he took me under his wings taught me how to promote shows read riders for musicians told me how to deal with booking agents and all that then when I was 19 he left the warehouse and I did the last 7 shows they had planned at the warehouse this is where I believe God started to work with me about where he was leading me next. I saw a lot of stuff over the years working with musicians on the side here in Columbia
I am an independent t promoter I do at 3 different venues depending on the type of show it is I do shows at CIU (Columbia international university ) a bible college I bring there what I call youth pastor friendly rock the band s I have worked with at that venue is water deep, ten shekel shirt, Andrew Peterson, ,justified ,pillar ,skillet ,Jeremy camp, telecast ,doc summers band, Jill Philips, Randall good game Puddlleglum AKA the swift ,then I do shows at a bar in town called new brookland tavern there I have worked with starflyer 59 ,stretch Armstrong ,cool hand Luke ,lights for Nero, evoka, Monday in London ,poison the well ,hopes fall and many others then I do shows that are designed for teens that moms and dad wont let them go to the bar shows at a place called Jeremiah's house
I brought to Jeremiah's house subtotal, courage riley ,zuzus petal


then back in high school my senior year I brought blindside, lutikriss (now known as Norma Jean),stairwell ,dear Ephesus, five iron frenzy
I have been doing shows since I was 18 IM now 22 so have been doing this well for a while there were many more bands I have worked with but its too numerous and Time consuming to write down all the bands Have worked with I have done about 40 shows in the past couple years at least 1-3 a month every month at different venues.

Since I have done a lot of shows and seen many bands that are on different levels of their walk I see a need 1 and I am trying to respond to that need in a timely manner, but being at ciu has only prepared me for the spiritual side of things But believe Belmont will help with the technical the business side of things. I need to put feet to my vision > I am a dreamer a visionary type of person and visionaries can dream big but sometimes forget how it will work applicably in the real world . This is where you the Flicker records staff would help me. These are some things that I wanted to share with you about some factors in my life that have leaded me here to you. I was wondering if you have internship positions either for sales marketing (road pastor/ road manager (aka the gimps hehehe j/k)


So if you want a go getter to train and equip for a ministry and business then I am your person that is quick and eager to learn the ins and outs then imp your person



How have I changed since I met Christ??
My heart is still dark: something I cannot trust. So I cling to Jesus Christ himself he is my strength and my portion forever. . I am a new creation the things of old being passed away. I am in a continual process to be made holy that wont end until I meet Jesus and become fully holy in his sight. There is nothing I can do that deserves Christ love. All I can do is receive it and rest in his grace that I don’t deserve. I said all that to say this I have changed because there was a renewal in my heart. I may stumble at times. But my intentions of my heart are to please Christ in everything I do. I may not have all the right answers but I know someone who does so I cling to him and his word .I know longer am a slave to sin but a slave to Christ so I have new ownership and I will trust and obey him no matter what the cost are .

My way of thinking about the world has changed since I met Christ I have a desire to be relevant to the culture we live in. I am not in to church jargon or a Christian subculture (it is very prevalent the CCM Genre contemporary music scene 89.7). I seek to use the secular world not to change people but just to present the Gospel. My Job is not to change people just to present the Gospel in a relevant way In that the gospel changes people I Don’t the Gospel does it for me. I am slat and if I lose my saltiness then my whole ministry is Gone. Salt is good for 2 things preserving things and adding flavor. So as a believer in this progressive culture we live in I seek to preserve the things of God and to add flavor to the culture that surrounds me.


thanks for your time

jah blesses

i am 23 now and i do not wish to attend belmont only thing that has changed

1. Christians need to play a bigger role in the marketplace and in the world. Rather than retreating from culture or merely criticizing it,

2. Christians need to focus on making a statement to people by example, friendliness and professional competence. Making a dramatic impact on society means to show how Jesus and his gospel are relevant to all of life.

3. Quote from Barry Landis
"We do a very poor job of challenging committed Christians to see business leadership as a ministry and as a mission field. This has been and continues to be a tragedy both for our society and for God’s Kingdom."

Amen, brother! I, too, have been in a situation that could have been fatal... twice. Though I didn't make the decision to go to Christ in both situations, I am here now with Him. Your testamony has inspired me to continue on with my servanthood and since you have come my opinion has rested a little easier in some places more than others. May God bless you for your survival and feel free to join panheads,

A.D.

Yes. Some people have tried to use music and everything to reach out to people, and most Christians like to shoot them down. All we can do is pray and do our best to make the right impact. God bless,

A.D.

Wow Nate you cleaned up your spelling. I agree. I have a lot of respect for P.O.D. because of they way they battle it out on the front lines. Unfortunately I don't know personally of anyone who got saved from listening to their music but perhaps you could tell me of one. Not to be critical. What they do is a vital ministry because it gets people thinking. As long as people listen to and contemplate the lyrics they should get a clear message. Anyway - sorry for not posting lately. I am a bit tired. Saw the movie by the way.

Hmm? How boring was it (as a person)?

I don't think anyone gets saved by the music... but I do think it sets them on the path if they are willing.

Dude I remember when Chris came up on the hall and told us you were in the hospital. And then I had to do your laundry a few times and it was nasty...

And then I had to do your laundry a few times and it was nasty...
Admirable sentiments* lol

[QUOTE=SuperKate]interesting, "there should no t be labels ther should not be walls but there is ." could you show me where it says that in the word of God? Because from what I have read we are supposed to be "set apart" from the world!

super kate then why does the Bible tell us to be in and not of it the world . we are to be slat and light to the vculture that saurrounds you . you are set apart that does nto excude us from joining the culture to be salt and light and preserving the things of God in the culture

interesting, "there should no t be labels ther should not be walls but there is ." could you show me where it says that in the word of God? Because from what I have read we are supposed to be "set apart" from the world!

super kate then why does the Bible tell us to be in and not of it the world . we are to be slat and light to the vculture that saurrounds you . you are set apart that does nto excude us from joining the culture to be salt and light and preserving the things of God in the culture
i can't speak for Kate, but i think that's what she meant. being in the world, but not of it means that you're living a live that's not secluded in a little Christian bubble, yet you live differently. if you're living differently, then you're set apart. not set apart in the physical sense of being set aside off to ourselves. but set apart in the holy sense. we are God's and He calls us to "be Holy because [He is] holy." so i think you're really both on the same page here. ;)

True. That's what I was thinking. I live in this world, but I am doing my best not to be of. So far, I am succeeding, I think. I try not to let foolish things get in the way of my relationship with God, like this movie. Pshaw. Whatever. All's I'm gonna do is be ready if I am confronted. And I am ready.

Actor Stephen Baldwin was a speaker at creation and he made a statement about this movie that went something like this.

" I have in the works to make some good Christian movies...and oh by the way...Saved is not a good Christian movie"

To which i say..Rock On Steve!!!

Yup! Said like a pro!

Actor Stephen Baldwin was a speaker at creation and he made a statement about this movie that went something like this.

" I have in the works to make some good Christian movies...and oh by the way...Saved is not a good Christian movie"

To which i say..Rock On Steve!!!
Actor Stephen Baldwin was a speaker at creation and he made a statement about this movie that went something like this.

" I have in the works to make some good Christian movies...and oh by the way...Saved is not a good Christian movie"

To which i say..Rock On Steve!!!



thats all nice and all But the movie saved was not and was never set forth called a christian movie .

there is no chrisitian move called saved . So stepehen baldwin must of said the word wrong or you are wording his words Wrong

dude saved was never marketed as a christian movie .

only a Viewpoint of what some people not all people think of believers.


And stpehn baldwins movie called getr real or something like that i forget the name of it

its kinda lame feeding off of im cool and jesus is cool so lets grab a skates and booogie yo

its kind of cheeesy .

i do think it is a noble idea


most christian movies suck you have to have a strong drink to get through all 89 minutes

strong drinkl means coff of course heheherhe

lol, coffee... I would never drink it, so I'll never see it :P but yes, I see what you have been saying.

most christian movies suck you have to have a strong drink to get through all 89 minutes

Unfortunately I'll have to agree. Most Christian movies do suck horribly. Left Behind wasn't too bad and Omega Code I quite liked but the majority of them look like something made in the 70s!

thats all nice and all But the movie saved was not and was never set forth called a christian movie .

there is no chrisitian move called saved . So stepehen baldwin must of said the word wrong or you are wording his words Wrong

dude saved was never marketed as a christian movie .

only a Viewpoint of what some people not all people think of believers.


And stpehn baldwins movie called getr real or something like that i forget the name of it

its kinda lame feeding off of im cool and jesus is cool so lets grab a skates and booogie yo

its kind of cheeesy .

i do think it is a noble idea


most christian movies suck you have to have a strong drink to get through all 89 minutes

strong drinkl means coff of course heheherhe

all's J3 did was post a quote. why are you going off on him? It's just a plain statement that it's "not a good christain movie".... No where did that quote say "it's a christian movie". It just said what is was not. And from the reviews I've read I would agree. Good grief.

Also just to let you know. We have threads on POD, mainstream/crossover bands (which DC talk never crossed over), and testamonies, already. You just gotta spend a minute or two looking for them. Let's try and keep the thoughts on the thread topic at hand. So if one topic leads your thoughts on another check and see if there is a thread on that topic and post there. Especialy since you can be a bit long winded (which is something I and many others have a tendancy to do, especialy in The Hill). Usualy when our thoughts are that deep and long it's Hill worthy...

^^ thanks Rach

As for the quote about Saved...my wife also heard him and he did call it a Christian movie...as to if it is or not i guess thats a matter of opinion...they sell recordings of the seminars but i didnt get one of Baldwins..if i had i would send you a copy so you can hear it all yourself.

You know i learned a long time ago that you have to really be careful when you speak negative about someone's ministry no matter what it is....after all God says He uses the foolish things to confound the wise....tearing down ministries does nothing to edify the body...i am reminded of something that happened in our church about 10 years ago....someone felt to start a puppet ministry and some in the church felt it lame and foolish...but our pastor gave it his blessing....a little boy asked his dad to start coming to church to see the puppets....and to make a long story short he (the dad) wound up giving his life to Christ and is a very valuable member of our church now....he often says if it wasnt for the puppets he prolly would have never came to church.

There were somethings that (in my opinion) Baldwin needs to work out but he is still a fairly new convert so he is still learning of Gods ways and will grow deeper in time and if his skateboard ministry is out of Gods will...God will take care of it....He doesnt need our help.

Ok....old guy is done(at least for now) :P

ya I don't it's important whether or not Baldwin thinks the movie was a christian movie or not. The important thing was it wasn't good. I do think it's admirable that he is trying to be involved in the ministry. It must be very difficult to be a Baldwin an actor and a new christian. I think we should all say a prayer for him. It would be great if Steven got in to doing some christian film making. Just look at the success of Kirk Cameron, Chelsea Noble, and Willie Aymes. I say keep up the good work.

Unfortunately I'll have to agree. Most Christian movies do suck horribly. Left Behind wasn't too bad and Omega Code I quite liked but the majority of them look like something made in the 70s!
Yes, most of them are quite cheap. Left Behind was OK and Tribulation Force was even better (actually quite good) and Omega Code, though I didn't get to see it all the way through, was impressive. But has anyone seen those TV movies that are about Old Testament stories? Like the one about the technicolor dreamcoat? Those were quite addictive to watch, and I only use that word for the fact that they were always on way too late in the night for me to watch... I wish that we still had that channel :'(


Anyways, this movie shouldn't upset anyone unless someone is pushing it like the gospel. If anyone says that this movie alone is true, and nothing else is, they're wrong... sorry if that made no sense, I think it came out wrong :P But what I am getting at is if we "ruffle our feathers" over this and show our angry side, we only show weakness and shame, for we are to be shrewd as snakes and all that... getting 'uppety' over this only proves the movie right, even if it's not actually saying it's all true.

^^
You know i learned a long time ago that you have to really be careful when you speak negative about someone's ministry no matter what it is....after all God says He uses the foolish things to confound the wise....tearing down ministries does nothing to edify the body...

) :P
hey like i said before i love to talk to people that have a difftrrence of opinions all of it is valid because it comes from us notice i did not say right or wrong just valid




Almolst all of the christian films i have seen which is about 30 have all sucked bad , scripture out of context poor acting

chrisitians are supppose to be doing everyhting they do with excellence

i beielve for the most part chrisitnas have not been fdoing what needs to be done in the arts

thats why we have such horrible ministry
and its called constructive criticsm



we need to be roaring lambs stop talking and do or fincance theones that do


so i am not saying stop im saying suppport

the bible also says that you can reprove and that is what i am doing there needs to be a reformationin the church ewspeccially withthe media .


now 3{16 imight add very original hehehe

its ok if we dont agree i am fine with that but you did put words inmy mouth or read into something that was criticsms we all need sometimes its called correction


we al;l need it even chrisitians in the media

Also just to let you know. We have threads on POD, mainstream/crossover bands (which DC talk never crossed over), and testamonies, already. You just gotta spend a minute or two looking for them. Let's try and keep the thoughts on the thread topic at hand. So if one topic leads your thoughts on another check and see if there is a thread on that topic and post there. Especialy since you can be a bit long winded (which is something I and many others have a tendancy to do, especialy in The Hill). Usualy when our thoughts are that deep and long it's Hill worthy...



to reply back this thread was about the movie saves was a inthe media nad how the world thinks about us and portrays us
i brought uop P.OD. and other bands like chevelle and evanescance and other stuff like that beacuse they are in the media all the time all have diffrent reactiosn when talking about their faith soi it is valid under the gen disusioon . i can understand if i was promotinghtem telling peeps tro go out and buy all their nerwe stuff or tellling nreewsd aboutthe band but i want it a was all relating to how chrisitns are peervieved go back and read

im not stupiod if i want o talk about hte bands and promote i would of talked nothin but bands bands bands but i was proving a point


you talk to me like you are above me


for real you really need to re read your post yo
we do need tpo have a avoice int he cultuire arounf us


thats what they are doing i was pointing that out and under this thread .


now if i ever want to talka bout how cool a band is or whatever i would go to the band page . and do tha tthere ,but i was replying back to A new film about 'real' faith..."Saved!"

and i was just provingmy point

and its ok tobe long winded not all things that are lenghty is hill material

if you think that then move this whole threrad


i mean mars hill was about paul using the culture aroubf him to teach others about God so dont move me or my quote move the whole thread


so either redesign yoiur post arrangements or deal withit

ya I don't it's important whether or not Baldwin thinks the movie was a christian movie or not. The important thing was it wasn't good. I do think it's admirable that he is trying to be involved in the ministry. It must be very difficult to be a Baldwin an actor and a new christian. I think we should all say a prayer for him. It would be great if Steven got in to doing some christian film making. Just look at the success of Kirk Cameron, Chelsea Noble, and Willie Aymes. I say keep up the good work.



How can ypu say the movie saved was bad !!!!
im not saying it was good +++


i feel that We can teradch teens to look at what the world thinks of us and we can look inward .i saw the movie and sitttinginthat doimlit place i had 2 choices be 1 would be hate and not Let God teachme or 2. let God teach me .

listen Not all christians have the answers , not all chrisitns stand up for christ wheter be it they are young in christ and are saced or jus tplain scared or stubborn the movie portrayed that . it showed chrisitns at a crisis intheir faith ands was confused that real all these things happen to real people ,.

it showed a chrisitan charater questioning aGod

We have all Question God ( work ouit your salvation with featr and trembling .


No i dont belive the movei is biblical based and alot of theology is horrible .


But you can Glean truth fromthis movie

it would be good fordiscusion sarter amd a great bible study
on charactor ( what to be and what not to

What Does God say on sex ?
Tolarance too little ot toomuch


cant you see the movie may of not been your cup of tee but it can teach us what to watch out for




mrs skillt tos

please do not think i am being rude


i amnot trying to forvemu opinion on u and i hope u are not withme i respect your opinion i really do but i like to discuss .


and my words are not done in hast hate or heatedness its done out of love

OK. The beginning of your post is true! I never looked at it that way! I think this movie could be used as well. I think I'll use this movie as a tool in the future! Thank you for saying that, Nate. I never looked at that way. God bless,



A.D.

the reason Skilletosis brought up the fact of the other threads we have and Mars Hill is that it seems you're using this movie as a rather large launching pad for a lot of other topics, the overall theme of which would be "Christians in the Media." myself being a Christian and looking into being a journalist, i wouldn't mind this being a topic (where it would fit perfectly in the Hill. and no, Mars Hill doesn't just have to be stuff about Christianity. it could be any and all "deep stuff" that you want to talk about).

basically, it seems that many of your posts fit here, but would fit better in another thread more suited to your overall thesis.

no, i'm not trying to talk down to you. i'm not trying to rag on you. and knowing Skilletosis, i know she wasn't either. both of us are just trying to point things out in a friendly way. :)

General Discussion
Feel free to talk about anything and everything in this board.

i believe the topic of saved the movie and whatever spouts from that fall under anything and everything .

if not then get rid of the gen discussion board .


yes the topic saved the movie started in the genral discussion look back at the person who started the thread it wasnt me to please go bark at him not me .


now if a topic starts in the gen discusion you have to know people of diffrent opnions will speak then other people react and say things back to them you cantpredict or control what the other will say .

now i am following the guide of this thread

i understand if i starteed a thread of a deep spiritual matter then i would mov eit to the deep spiritual

i did not start the thread in the wrong place the invaded did

[[IMG]i love david hasselhof

that was random! :P

i believe the topic of saved the movie and whatever spouts from that fall under anything and everything .

if not then get rid of the gen discussion board .


yes the topic saved the movie started in the genral discussion look back at the person who started the thread it wasnt me to please go bark at him not me .


now if a topic starts in the gen discusion you have to know people of diffrent opnions will speak then other people react and say things back to them you cantpredict or control what the other will say .

now i am following the guide of this thread

i understand if i starteed a thread of a deep spiritual matter then i would mov eit to the deep spiritual

i did not start the thread in the wrong place the invaded did

In order to keep a message board a nice place for all members and guests to come to there needs to be some order to it. In order for there to be order the founder of these wonderful boards Will has carefully picked a group of moderators who's job it is to help him keep the boards running smoothly. So please reread the http://panheads.org/boards/showthread.php?t=241 (take heed of the language rule :-X ). Also please reread the last posts by unshakable and myself. Yes this is the General Discussion Forum. But the Thread is reguarding the movie saved. If we go off on rabbit trails it just creates chaos, and confusion. Sometimes we do get off topic a bit(hey what can I say but it happens). But when it gets out of hand our job is to nudge it back on track. That's what we are supposed to do. To argue with that is to disrespect the boards and all the members of it. :'( If you have any further questions feel free to pm us. :)

NOTE: i'm not trying to be rude to anyone, this is my opinion.


i really don't see why you continue to try to make us agree with your perspectives on "saved". no offense, but i see absolutely no point in continuing to argue, since many people have stated their opinion, and seem unlikely to change their stance. :-\

just a thought....

well, I changed my opinion.... and it pro'ly won't change again.

i'm going to lock this thread for a couple of reasons.

one: everyone has said their piece. this has now turned into a rehashing of everyone's thoughts, again. when it gets to this point in topics, it's a downward spiral from there the vast majority of the time.

two: this topic has mostly turned away from talking about Saved! as a movie and now has turned to talking about Christians in the Media, how they are represented and how they act. it would be best for the organizational standpoint of the boards to start a whole new topic on that. it's large enough that by keeping it secluded to only Saved! is a diservice.

i'm not locking this thread because i disagree with some of the posts. in fact, i agree with many of them. i don't completely like that they are posted in a thread about a movie, since they would do better in another topic more suited for them (i.e. where they could be better directed towards the topic, where people could feel more inclined to jump in if they haven't seen Saved! or other movies...).

again, this is to keep discussion more focused on what it should be. :) it's all in love (& i'm not just saying that either).