On March 1st my newsfeed exploded with angry moms. Our beloved Beauty and the Beast is GAY.
Well, not exactly. And perhaps that’s where we should start. Is this a “Gay” movie? Or is this just another worldly movie made by worldly people with worldly agendas? Believe me, I'm upset, too. But there is an important difference here worthy of a second look.
Al Mohler, at the recent Shepherd’s Conference, summarized this distinction well. He said there’s a difference between culture being infused into a movie and a movie glorifying a particular sin. Gay characters will be the norm in movies from now on. That's the agenda. The question we should ask is: Does it glorify the sin, or does it discuss/portray an aspect of culture?
This is the culture God has appointed for us to raise our children in. We need to know how to live in it and interact with it. Our kids are watching us. Our response to this issue will shape how they live within this culture. As we respond to Beauty and the Beast there are two words that should not characterize us as Christian parents.
Naive
If we expect the world to act Christian we will always be let down. Many are crying out, “How could Disney do this!?” Maybe instead our question should be, “What took them so long?” Disney is not a Christian company. Disney is acting exactly the way it is supposed to act.
I think deep down we hope the evil in this world will spare our kids. But evil is no respecter of persons. When we see Disney peddling homosexuality as normal it’s like watching someone pass out candy-covered cyanide to children. We gasp in horror and say, “What’s this world coming to?” But we already have the answer. God tells us that “the world is passing away, and also its lusts; but the one who does the will of God lives forever.” (1 John 2:17) For the Christian there are no surprises - only evidences of God’s promises coming true.
We should be angry at sin, but never shocked. Shock means we got too comfortable here. It means we made ourselves at home in the enemy camp and we were offended when the enemy tried to kill us in our sleep. It means we have forgotten that we are “aliens and strangers.” (1 Peter 2:11)
Fearful
Have you heard about the gay character in Bambi? How about in The Lion King, Pinocchio, or The Jungle Book? These are just a few of the movies I have heard Christians crossing off their lists this week because of suspicious homosexual undertones.
We can train ourselves to see evil everywhere, but that is not the mark of a discerning Christian. It taints our joy and makes us fearful. This is still God’s world. He created music. He created color. As discerning Christians we want to teach our kids how to take the good and leave the bad.
So What Do We Do?
Christians can take comfort in the fact that a gay Disney character doesn’t change anything. Thousands of years before Walt Disney was born King Solomon said, “There is nothing new under the sun.” (Ecclesiastes 1:9) Sin has always been sin. Mankind’s basic need for a savior is still the same. The hope of the gospel is still the same. And as God’s people, our job is still the same as well.
Yes, Hollywood has an agenda - but so do we. If Hollywood is trying to indoctrinate our kids then we must indoctrinate them first. You must speak of God’s word to your children “when you sit in your house and when you walk along the road and when you lie down and when you rise up.” (Deuteronomy 11:19)
We must raise alien children - children who are not surprised by or afraid of this culture, but know how to impact it for the gospel. We have the beautiful privilege of praying for our kids what Jesus prays for us: “I do not ask that You take them out of the world, but that You keep them from the evil one.” (John 17:15)
"Sara Wallace does a wonderful job of taking the practicals of motherhood and relating them to the gospel. I highly recommend this for moms who don't have a lot of time to sit down and do a big Bible study." - Jennifer
Get your copy of "The Gospel-Centered Mom" on
I really appreciate everything you have said here, and it's a great reminder of where are true home is. What I wrestle with is - Do I go see the movie? I was so excited about this movie, and now I'm so disappointed! (I wasn't planning on taking my daughter until I had seen it myself, even before this came out.) What is your opinion on actually seeing the movie?
ReplyDeleteMy thoughts too
DeleteGreat question! I think the point we want to think about is, "Am I making this world my home?" Christians might see it for the wrong reasons, and might also boycott it for the wrong reasons. If we choose to see it, we should be alert to unbiblical themes so we can guard our minds and talk to our kids about it. If we choose not to see it, we need to make sure we are not fearful of the world, or trying to force a Christian agenda on the world so we can be more comfortable here.
DeleteThis is just one verse of many that should answer your question.
DeletePsa 101:3a I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes:
There is a verse in the Bible that talks about eating meat offered to idols. It says there's nothing inherently wrong with eating the meat if you don't believe in its power, but if the person offering the meat TELLS you it was offered to idols, you shouldn't eat the meat for the sake of the one who told. They specifically told us this was going to be in this movie for a reason. I believe they are testing the waters to see if the culture will accept this, if it will affect their bottom line, otherwise, why tell? Therefore, I don't feel ok watching it, even by myself, because I don't want to send the message to the company that I'm ok with this. I've seen plenty of shows and movies with gay characters, and while I don't support that lifestyle, I was certainly in no danger of changing my mind just because of that moment in that movie. However, none of those movies made it a point to inform me that there would be a gay character, as if they wanted to see how I'd react. Now that I've been specifically told by the producers, for the sake of the one that told, I don't feel I should watch it and make them feel that it is acceptable to me.
DeleteWere you okay with a girl falling in love with an animal?
DeleteYes cause a talkiny animal isn't real.
DeleteI think Disney was wise to tell the public about this beforehand rather than wait for everyone to buy their tickets, go see the movie, and then have Christians blow up afterwards yelling st Disney that they should've mentioned that they were including a gay character before they took their kids to go see it. They know his is a hated and hot button topic, so I genuinely think they were looking out for the interests and opinions of the public.
DeleteEspecially because it's a remade classic. People would've gone expecting it to be exactly like the original and then freaking out that it wasn't.
DeleteBut had anyone watched the the same critical eye, in the classic, the same characters were gay. It was always there, it just wasn't pointed out. With the live action actors instead of animation it becomes more obvious.
DeleteGood article, great points. My question is rather "Will I financial support this agenda?" Yes, I want to see the movie (and can discern it's value to me as a Christian parent) but by doing so I stand with those who are willingly feeding this agenda machine. Buy a ticket (feed the agenda) - vs - Take a stand for traditional marriage and family (send $$ to Salvation Army). The first option satisfies the flesh, the other feeds the soul.
DeleteYou got that right. If you pay to see the movie (which you have to do) you are supporting it and then it is a witness that this is alright.
DeleteDisney did not tell everyone about the gay scene to warn people. They did it to increase the draw and support. They even said they were not sure that it was getting enough press. This gave them the "free" press they were looking for.
DeleteSo voting for a crazed, maniac murderer, that has had a dozen or more people killed...was a better choice?
DeleteI read a review by someone who got early tickets. She said that the gay thing was "surprisingly subtle". I don't know if that makes it any better. I have to see the film for a project so I'll let you guys know what I think.
DeleteWe have chosen to not pay to see the movie even thought we were very excited and had it on our calendar. We will either not see it at all or wait for it to come to the library so that we're not financially supporting the movie or the agenda. We in no way hate gay people but feel that we have the right to choose whether or not to support the agenda. We've taught our children (now all grown) to hate the sin but love the sinner! I believe that is what the Lord calls us to do.
DeleteChoosing what we do and don't participate in as Christians should probably lie in our personal convictions. It isn't just a movie portraying a gay character (bc homosexuality offends us) that should give us pause when deciding whether or not to go see it. There are many, many sins portrayed in pretty much every movie produced today by non-Christian companies. Blatant sexuality, nudity, profanity, violence...why aren't we offended by these as well. We should not expect non-Christians to act like Christians. However, we each have the personal choice of whether or not to financially support them. I've always loved going to movies. However, in light of some of the liberal out-spoken celebrities using their social/economic status to state and encourage others to support their liberal beliefs, I find myself less inclined to spend my money going to movies and thereby supporting them. Again, each personal should heed their own personal convictions based on how the Holy Spirit speaks to them. That being said, a person choosing not to see it and financially support it should not be criticized or bashed any more than those choosing to do so. We are called to be holy which means set apart. We for sure live in the world and deal with all of its issues - but we are not called to take part in them. We can either be a positive example to others by how we live our lives every day, or we can blend in and be no different. I say, don't let someone else's opinion dictate your decisions. Your relationship with God is yours - not someone else's. Heed the convictions brought about by YOUR relationship with God. Then again, don't be surprised if you are persecuted if you choose not to participate. Christ pretty much told us this WOULD happen... not that it might happen. You privately go about your business or share it with the world - if you share it, expect a response.
DeleteThis is spot on! Remember that homosexuality is mentioned in the same Bible verse with gossip and falsely accusing the brethren. You are right, ALL these things are sin and should be viewed as such. And it is a matter of personal conviction whether or not to take your children to see the movie. This article, on the other hand, is a watered-down grace message. Let the Holy Spirit lead, by all means.
DeleteI'm all for enacting on personal conviction as long as it's consistent. If you're not okay with normalizing sin in Beauty and the Beast, you must also not be okay with the Little Mermaid since Ariel disobeys her dad and it's never portrayed as a negative thing or sin. If you're not okay with financially supporting the liberal agenda in Beauty and the Beast, you must also be okay with never supporting any organization that financially supports the LGBT community including Disney, Starbucks, Target, Amazon, General Mills, Johnson & Johnson, and so many more. Seems like Christians want to pick and choose which sins they boycott based on convenience and what's in the headlines, not conviction.
DeleteIf you are a believer, you are truly missing out by not seeing this movie! Here is my review...take it or leave it. I did not read ANY commentary positive or negative until after I wrote this, and I still stand by it 100%:
DeleteBeauty and the Beast Movie Review
I was glad to get some time with one of my adult daughters on a rainy, Friday afternoon for a movie we had both anticipated, Beauty and the Beast. The real life remake was done well. I even felt like I was at a live performance at times and should applaud at the end of certain numbers. It was playful, lively and entertaining, but I was really taken back by the climax of the movie--the engaging way it was done, its story-telling ability, and its beauty.
I expect that stories are meant to be most gripping at this point. I know this story so well. It is supposed to bring you to the point of despair and give you the feeling that all is lost. There is sadness and a deep sense of loss as each of the characters begin to mourn the very last moments of his or her human qualities. As Cogsworth ticks for his last time and Lumiere swirls around for one last graceful bow there is such a longing for something or someone to sweep in and rescue them--to bring this “death” to a screeching hault! Even Sultan the little foot stool barks and attempts one last leap but fails mid air falling wrong side up to his final resting place. Overhead in the towering castle above, the beast cowers and is resigned to an empty, futile, and hideous life without love and without hope. It seems all is lost.
BUT then…..enters genuine, unrelenting, unconditional, uncalled-for LOVE. Belle realizes that she really does love the beast just as he is, and she is willing to leave all else behind. All at once everything and everyone is changed! Life is given. Renewal comes to a castle that had long been dark and forgotten, and hope enters a place and people that seemed to have been forgotten and left without promise. And all of us watching can’t help but rejoice. Quiet smiles and full hearts fill the theater and little squeals and applause scatter throughout.
It truly is a beautiful story, and truly does echo in many ways THE STORY, which is why, even if we don’t realize it, is the reason we all love it so. We know that we ourselves are not as we should be. We know that things around us are broken and need to be fixed. Without intervention it feels like death is coming, and it is! BUT God provided a way through genuine, unrelenting, unconditional, uncalled-for, LOVE by sending Jesus to not only be willing to sacrifice His life but to actually sacrifice His life so that we might truly live. Just as spring faithfully blooms and bursts forth from the dead of winter, He faithfully brings life to our dead lives. All is made new and hope restored. Yes, there is a reason why we love these stories. It is because written in our hearts is a desire to be restored, renewed, to be beautiful, to be truly loved and to live forever. (“I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.” Jesus)
”For the creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the sons of God. 20 For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of him who subjected it, in hope 21 that the creation itself will be set free from its bondage to corruption and obtain the freedom of the glory of the children of God. 22 For we know that the whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until now. 23 And not only the creation, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies. 24 For in this hope we were saved. Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what he sees? 25 But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience.” Romans 8
Beautiful..I love to see the eternal truth of Jesus in love story,s. I agree
DeleteI understand that Disney puts gays in movies now. But why did they need to change the story of a past movie. It's to get us in the theatre to see it portrayed as normal.
ReplyDeleteThis is actually what disappointed me as well. I'm not surprised one bit by the gay agenda in Hollywood but I was genuinely let down that they actually changed a character from the original.
DeleteAlso not trying to say Christians should accept homosexuality as acceptable and pleasing to God or teach theirs kids that it's acceptable, just that we should be able to address it as a sin but still respect and treat homosexuals as people.
DeleteLeFou was a gay/bisexual character in the old movie. It was just never announced, but if you go back and watch it is plain to see. They even said the script doesn't mention he is gay and the director mentioned that there is a gay moment, which is the two men dancing together. This has been blown way out of proportion.
DeleteHoly Spirit says love your neighbor as yourself and tell them the Good News that Jesus died for our sins. I also struggle with sin even though I hate it. God is my only strength to resist my temptations. And I have accepted Jesus as my Savior. I'm am not here to condemn sinners but to lead them to His love by loving them
DeleteYes, but my 3 1/2 year old granddaughter is not ready for that discussion. She loves the animated version, and will want to see this version. I agree we should teach out children the difference between the culture and God's ways, but she seems a little young to take in this difference
ReplyDeleteWhich probably means she won't "get" the homosexual agenda. We too often read our understanding into our little ones' minds. If our kids are old enough to sense there is a sinful portrayal of sexuality, then they are old enough to be instructed that this is, well, sinful.
DeleteYes but it's silently being ingrained into children's minds that this is normal.... especially because they don't sit there and realizing that there is the homosexual agenda there. It's Satan's sneaky ways of getting it into our heads that this is normal and no big deal... and innocent things like Disney movies are perfect.
DeleteFrom what I've heard from early previews, the gay thing is vague and it would go over your three year old's head.
DeleteYour 3-1/2 year old granddaughter is not old enough to go to this movie. This is a live action scarey movie. It is not a children's movie.
DeleteThe article that I read said that there is a scene in which the character will have an "exclusively gay moment". I think no matter the age, we, as Christians should avoid movies that display sin as being commonplace, even if it isn't specifically promoted or glorified. I had promised my 7-year-old that we would go see one of the first showings. Sadly, I had to sit her down and explain that they put bad things in the movie, and so neither of us would be watching it.
DeleteApparently the gay moment is 2 guys dancing together in a large party scene. I daresay that your kids wouldn't notice the "bad thing" unless it's pointed out as such.
DeleteI am giving my opinion here so you can take it or leave it, that being said your point is you don't want to have to talk to your granddaughter about the gay scence. The only gay scene is 2 men dancing and in the original they had gaston and lefou dancing in the original so if you are trying to shield her from the underline gay part you have kind of already exposed her to that and yet she has said nothing. As a teenager I had always questioned lefous intentions and it comes as no suprise if that was Disney's actual thought, he has so many sexual inuendas in so many of his other kids movies unfortunately but if your trying to shield her from this one movie which only shows 2 men dancing like it does in the original I'm afraid you already have like I have said before. Just a thought and like I said you don't have to watch it if you don't feel comfortable, that's your choice.
DeleteI honestly never saw Lefou as gay in the original film. I kind of got the idea that he was trying to live in Gaston's shadow so that people would think he was cool. Y'know how in high school there's always that nerdy kid that kisses up to the popular kid in hopes that he too will become popular? That's always what I thought Lefou was. I never in a million years would've thought he was gay
DeleteHey maybe indoctrinating anyone is wrong - why teach children what to believe instead of allowing to grow up and decide for themselves? Christianity is 100% anti-intellectualism and things like this just pisses me off. Have you never had a gay friend? This is about stepping out of the hetero-normative narrative (which you christians peddle like candy) and into one that is more realistic. The gays exist, and ARE BORN THAT WAY. Time to do away with your crutch of a bible (which you no doubt were indoctrinated into believing, because no adult who has taken a biology course NOT FROM A CHRISTIAN COLLEGE would agree that the bible is relevant in modern times) and to actually stand on your own instead of using it as fuel to dissect harmless Disney movies. Feel free to delete this, and stick your head so far into the sand that all you can hear is the blood rushing to fuel your own delusion. Or is that the holy spirit? Anyway, enjoy your close mindedness. I'm going to keep the windows open and see the movie. If I had children, they'd be seeing it too and we would PROUDLY discuss the representation of the homosexual community.
ReplyDeleteAngry much?
DeleteAnonymous, there is hope of forgiveness and eternal life for every gay, straight, religious, irreligious, intellectual, and non-intellectual person who calls on Jesus for salvation. There is hope for you. There is hope for me. No person, no matter how they are born or what they have done, is beyond God's forgiveness. That is really, truly great news. If you have a Bible and you are open to hearing more on this perspective, take a look at the book of John.
DeleteHi, Anonymous. You're position of "no indoctrination" is self-contradictory. You don't have any position to stand against if you want to say there is no position worth teaching and standing by. Your argument is for a position. There is no neutrality. We all will teach our children, and the anti-Christian (but pro-anything else) is anything but indoctrination-free.
DeleteI, as an irreligious person, do not want or need your deity. And with that, I'll stop commenting as this is your community.
DeleteBorn that way...this is the substance for validity of what is called a lifestyle, a preference. How far can born that way go? At what point do we determine that born that way is no longer okay? How can it be okay for one group's preferences, but not another? Where does the line go? And under whose authority do we consult for that line? Do we need a line? We MUST see beyond our own feelings, because the implications of born that way are hopelessness and dangerous to everyone of us. A Believer is simply one who has acknowledged their faulty born-that-ways and chosen the Creator as the authority to determine where the line actually is because they long for individually repaired relationship with their Creator, which transcends any human relationship because of its purity. Many vocal Believers become judgemental toward non-Believers, forgetting that all are faulty, including themselves, and that would be the popular understanding of who a "Christian" is: a bigot. But just as that is plain bigotry, so is the perception that all Christians are judgemental. Actually, there is only one Judge. He has every right as the only righteous One to call the line, and those who plug their ears and scream born that way are not rebelling against the Christian, but against their Maker. So may the Believers not take offense, because they themselves are not the ones to set the line. And may non-Believers not take offense against Believers, because it is not the Believers' Word they have issue with.
DeleteAnonymous you should look up lee stroble. He was an athiest journalist, highly educated NOT by a Christian college, in fact he was anti Christianity, and set out to prove God doesn't exist. I think you'd be surprised by his outcome
DeleteYou mentioned biology class. I took one at a public college. Biology teaches the Law of Biogenesis which states that a living thing cannot come from a nonliving thing. All living things come from a living thing. You called Christians non intellectual, but their veiw is closer to biology and creation then the majorty who haven't studies science in detail.
DeleteHi, Anonymous - I have to giggle a little at your idea that we shouldn't teach children anything but let them figure it out for themselves, particularly as I consider how that would likely play out with my kids and manners at my dinner table. With all due respect, that position is a little naive - we teach our kids whether we intend to or not. I am also sad that you see Christianity and intellectualism as incompatible because that says to me that you haven't encountered any thoughtful, articulate Christians. The reality is that historically there have been many people of sincere, deep faith who have contributed to their respective fields and did not see their faith and science as incompatible (e.g., Descartes, Galileo, Paschal, Handel, C.S. Lewis, Tolkien, to name just a few) - rather they saw it as a driving force behind their respective works. It seems only to be in recent years that we have tried to set up this false dichotomy between faith and reason. I do think you may have missed this author's point - mainly that Christians shouldn't be so reactionary around cultural issues such as homosexuality, and should be more willing to thoughtfully engage our kids instead of isolate them. And for me, thoughtfully engaging means that we always respond from a place of compassion and humility, and curiosity instead of judgement. Again, I'm sorry that hasn't been your experience with Christians but I would encourage you to set aside your own prejudgments that Christianity and reason are incompatible. Tim Keller's book The Reason for God may challenge some of your thinking in this area, if you are open to it.
DeleteLet me get this straight...since I believe in God, and I chose not to bend over for another guy...I am not intellectual? BTW...I love Disney. Also...your "Born that way" stance...was that validated to you by the HOE-LY Spirit that you seem to be full of. You have some nerve bashing Christians with your smug know it all attitude.
Delete@weneedlove Anonymous does not understand Biblical Christianity, or, more than likely the secular worldview he or she walks in. But your comment is a bit inappropriate. As a brother in Christ I would suggest a revision of your comments. Grace and peace to you!
DeleteI love that you responded to this article the way you have. You have just been put on so many prayer lists. I don't have to know your name but I pray Lord open the eyes of this persons heart to see who You are and that You are real. That they will be given the opportunity to choose who they will serve after they have become aware of Your truth Lord. Please bring this person to my mind often so I can pray for them. In Jesus name I pray, Amen!
DeleteThere are so many problems and false assumptions in your post. I wish you well and hopefully, you will be more open-minded some day.
ReplyDeleteBTW. My previous post was meant for Anonymous.
DeletePlease, explain to me my false assumptions. To bother to comment without pointing them out is futile to growth.
DeleteOne day every knee will bow, I hope you know HIM before that day comes.
DeleteWell balanced and in keeping with Prov 1:17. We do not hide our kids from every sinful aspect of the world, but give them age-appropriate guidance. No, I don't think we should put our kids in the lions' den to teach about lions. (Thus the error, I think, of submitting our children to public school - read anti-Christian - in the name of missionary activity or something similar. How can anyone who puts their children in public schools for 6 or more hours a day, 5 days a week, really think this portrayal of sin will make or break them? Priorities, friends, priorities!) We teach kids about lions outside the den, but with the goal of them being lion-trainers in the end. Guided exposure is biblical parenting. We don't simply allow our kids to learn the facts of life (and the perversion thereof), but bring them up in the fear and nurture of the Lord, which means pointing out the traps the world would set for them. Again, parents will make the call, but this is part-and-parcel of Christian parenting.
ReplyDeleteI also think that sometimes parents don't want to handle a tough question. "Mommy, why was that man acting so oddly?"
Personally, I think Christians should be as concerned about all sins as much as they are about the sin of homosexuality. Why speak out on homosexuality anymore than adultery or idolatry? You don't have a problem with two people having sex, as long as it is not two people of the same gender. God doesn't approve of either. And I cannot find one occasion in the Bible where God gives anyone a pass on any sin; I only find forgiveness when a person comes to Jesus Christ in repentance, asking for forgiveness.
ReplyDeleteYes, Anonymous, much to agree with here. But to state clearly that homosexuality is sin does not mean that there's no concern about other sins. That doesn't follow. It's a straw-man. But yes, we certainly do agree that there is forgiveness in the cross of Jesus, "when a person comes to Jesus Christ in repentance." And homosexuality is one of things for which we need to repent. By the way, this doesn't change my appreciation for Sara's post.
Delete☝��️ this guy. I am a Christian and have had a problem with this issue for a while. A lot of Christians seem to put sin on a scale like say 1-10. 10 being the worse. What actually is sin? Not types of sin but what is it? Well it's anything not bringing Glory to God. Someone posted earlier about Satan easing things in to sneak sin in our minds. Well too late. We humanize what we think is sin from bad sin to small sin. People not wanting to go see this over a gay scene. Ask yourselves when watching tv at home do you change the channels during commercials like say Budweiser or the many other commercials that promote sin? Pay attention to what you watch from now on and actually notice how much sinful things we watch. Satan has already numbed our minds to so many sins we don't notice most of them. I have a close family Member that I love dearly that is gay. I let her watch my children often. She comes over to play with them all of the time. Guess what tho. I will teach my children to hate the sin not the sinner. That sin is everywhere even in our house and our hearts. To shelter them from the world is dangerous. But to those who don't want to go over this one gay scene because you don't want to expose them to this type of sin. Then you need throw your tv out of the house because it promotes sin on many many levels all day long
DeleteI, anonymous, was raised in the church. Confirmed, worked at a Lutheran camp, and read the bible. Yes, all of it. Feel free to question my knowledge but know that indoctrinating your children will not stop them from realizing that your diatribe is false. I appreciate the message of love, but your need to question something as natural as ONE gay character in a Disney film (in which children will not even notice, really, the gay character) is ridiculous.
ReplyDeletePeople can go through the motions of going to a church building and doing acts of service without having a relationship with Jesus. That doesn't make our Lord a myth or false. It just means you haven't met the One True God personally. If you ask the Lord to show you if He is real. He will. I asked Him and it changed my life!
DeleteI think it's very interesting that parents seem to be very concerned about their children being exposed to the concept of homosexuality at a young age, but not the slightest bit concerned about exposing them at such a young age to the glorified concept of heterosexual romance that this movie and many other old Disney stories revolve entirely around. Why are Christian parents not at all concerned about raising their daughters to idealize romantic relationships from such a young age? By most conservative Christian standards, isn't a girl who gives away her virginity outside of marriage committing just as much sin as a girl engaging in homosexuality? If our agenda truly is to maintain our children's purity until they reach a more mature age, then perhaps we should reconsider the way we condition them to crave romance as well.
ReplyDeleteI definitely agree that I find it all interesting. I'm very happy to see parents realizing there's an agenda here that they don't support and don't want their kids to be endorsed in... I'm so glad they are stepping forward... I just wish they saw it in so many other movies out there!
DeleteRomance doesn't equal premarital sex
DeleteThat's why at the end of the movie it shows a wedding taking place, because they saved themselves for marriage. Atleast it does in every animated disney film involving romance. The little mermaid, Cinderella, Aladin, etc...
Deleteyou've missed one crucial point,my dear…
Deleteheterosexual love can be pre-marital (outside of biblical teaching) or marital; which clearly IS in line with biblical teaching
homosexual behavior will never find favor with GOD - whether it occurs IN or out of marriage b/c "samesex marriage" goes against both GOD and nature
so while you can hope and expect that premarital sex can be remedied by getting married,a same sex romance cant be sanctfied in marriage
ever tried sanitizing feces with bleach? under all the bleach…its still a pile of sh*t ❗
Anonymous, with respect, to say "Christianity is 100% anti-intellectual." is to say that Newton, Pascal, Bacon, Boyle, Descartes, et al, were anti-intellectual. Are you really willing to go there? That's quite a leap. I can't help but suspect that the root of your frustration toward Christianity is believers like me who are, at best, deeply flawed many times an exceedingly poor representation of what the speech, thoughts and actions of a follower of Christ should, ideally, look like. I urge you, as the author wisely and graciously said in her comment, to alllow Jesus himself to represent who he is by reading his words in the gospel of John. Believers like me will often disappoint you; he will not. Grace, love, and peace to you. Thank you for being open and sharing your thoughts.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteBut, also, this movie is as a wolf in sheep's clothing. We are becoming desensitized as the years pass on. Little by little..the devil is creeping in. In another 20 years, it won't only be a Gaston's admirer confessing his love for him in song...it will be an "innocent" little kiss, a "deeper" friendship between 2 of the same sex. Am I jumping too far ahead? No. It's called reality. There comes a time when we must simply no longer allowed our children to watch certain movies. In time..it will happen. Some day.
ReplyDeleteYou just described Jonathan and David.....can't have kids seeing that. Love?Eeeewwwww, gross! Jesus hates that!
DeleteIt doesn't say they kissed on the mouth or went to bed together. This world has forgotten that there is love in friendship. The world only sees the word love as meaning "in bed together having sex" or sexual acts. Don't be blind and ridiculous. Besides this makes no sense. Two boys can't naturally make a baby and two girls can't either. The idea that you were born gay is nuts. I have a friend that is a girl and I care for her deeply. I don't have a husband or a boyfriend. That doesn't mean I'm gay, it means I have a good friend. Accepting the gay concept is a way for people to live in sin and have everyone accept it so they can do what they want and feel OK with it.
DeleteWhy not teach children to critically think through complex religious and cultural issues instead of indoctrinating them? Seems like the best option.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteSheltering kids from worldly values without biblically preparing them creates a disaster when they leave the house. Seen it happen many times. This world is no more evil than since the days of Sodom and Gomorrah. Sin has just been suppressed at times, or considered taboo. Also no sin is worse than another; it all results in separation from God, with Jesus as the only source of redemption. So I'm not really worried about my kids as long as we talk through social issues and teach them why God says what he does. I am worried however about the mass of people who feel like they need to hide their kids from worldly values and never give them a chance to make constructive choices within a safe environment. We should be raising kids to be lights in a dark world. And today's world is no darker than it's ever been.
ReplyDeleteYou can't be differentiated as an alien, if you run with the masses. . .
ReplyDeleteKevin DeYoung likes to say that "worldliness is anything that makes sin seems normal, and righteousness seem strange". And that is exactly what Disney is up to here. Progressivism, on the whole, very rarely (almost never actually) advances by making arguments for its beliefs. It advances by demonizing people who oppose them (hater! bigot!), and by trying to make sin just seem normal.
ReplyDeleteSarah, I appreciate your thoughtful article. I'm wondering if your thoughts would be different if Disney were promoting pedophilia?
ReplyDeleteNeil, I freaking hope so, being a homosexual doesn't mean f***ing children. Although, I guess if your a priest of sorts it does....
DeleteFolks, please understand that we all can see that what this movie has done, based upon the reports of those that have seen it, is soft by many standards. But, please also understand that this is what is called conditioning. It takes time to condition someone to change their mind on a topic, or to nurture a mind to think a certain way. There is literally no reason to calm down on this agenda, and that is what it is, an agenda. Those promoting this lifestyle are doing it because they have no other choice - they can't reproduce - they can only recruit. I don't say that in a mean, nasty tone, just stating a reality. I also want to say that that this notion that if you object you hate homosexuals. I am sure that would be true for some, but not true for most. We can and should love homosexuals. But, there is a huge difference between loving and endorsing the sin of homosexuality. Friends, let's not be naïve on this. Hollywood is doing their best to draw a line in the sand... why don't we do our best in choosing a side. God is not silent on this issue.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteI have to politely disagree. I think that we should definitely raise our children with the morals and teachings of the Bible, however I also believe that we should never teach them to act as though someone different than them is beneath them. You don't agree that people in the LGBT+ community are born the way they are, fine, but don't tell kids that their friends or some stranger on the street isn't someone they should be friends with because of who they love. God is the only one that can judge us for our sins, and he loves us all. THAT is what Christians should be preaching about, an accepting, loving God, not the God that everyone seems to teach others, that if you're different you're wrong, because when we teach children that or tell that to people who haven't been saved, you're only scaring them away. The way to bring God back into our culture is to start accepting others for who they are, not to crucify and boycott movies for trying to do the same thing God wants us to do, to accept and love others.
ReplyDeleteThank you again for the reminder...great the way it was written and I do not think people are beneath me. God teaches me in the Word to abstain form certain things...then that I must do..I will boycott where it is necessary, and I won't let Hollywood or Disney etc. tell me what I should believe...or force some belief on me or my children, grandchildren through devious ways, esp. through children's movies...but yes I am not surprised.
ReplyDeleteI will not be viewing this movie because of my personal conviction from the Bible to shun the appearance of evil. I also grieve that many, many children will see this movie and be influenced to believe that it is ok for two members of the same sex to be attracted to each other. That is my concern. Of course, we all justify what we want to do whether it is right or wrong.
ReplyDeleteI understand Rebekah. 2 dudes dancing together is pretty disturbing to a child's mind. Not to mention the actual plot of the movie, which is a girl sacrificing herself to an animal to save her father and being kidnapped and imprisoned in a castle full of magical, talking household items until she falls in love with a beast. Because that part is super Bibical.
ReplyDeleteI honestly don't understand the purpose of this article. Christians need to "calm down" about the fact that more and more, Disney and other entertainment companies are placing homosexual characters and situations into their product, and presenting it as normal?
ReplyDeleteI mean, no, we shouldn't be spouting hate or attacking homosexuals. We should be praying for them to be saved by Christ and healed from their sins. But to say calm down? I'd say it is more like, bombard the company with emails, letters and phone calls, letting them know exactly how much money they will be losing by pushing immoral behavior to children, and attempting to make a sin appear wonderful and beautiful.
Imagine if Lot had told the angels, "calm down, guys, this is just the way the Sodomites are. Stop acting so shocked." I think every Christian has responsibility to be shocked and absolutely not uncalm, when a classic family cartoon is remade and Disney decides to push the gay agenda in the film, knowing full well millions will take their kids to see it. It is ridiculous.
Yes we know the world will get worse and worse until Christ returns, but we are to be a light in the dark for the world, not just say, oh well, that's the world for you, no reason to be upset. I am pretty sure it upsets God, who loves these homosexuals and can't stand to see them so decieved by the devil. And they are unabashedly aiming it at children more by the day. Sorry. Calming down and accepting is not something I would describe as Christian in this instance.
Jesus walks in the Temple, and says," oh you bunch of sinners, turning My Father's house into a den if thieves! Whatever, that's just the world, no need to get upset, let's go guys." Nope, he whipped them and drove them out. And these evil people are targeting our little boys and girls to corrupt them?
Absurd.
Now that there comment surely corrects the article. We shouldn't just accept it because it's the ways of the world. Will we change it? NO. Should we tolerate it? NO.
DeleteWe are to warn them that it is wrong. Warn them of the wrath of God. And then share the good news once they are convicted.
Its sad. I always thought the original film was very biblical in nature, what with a man being saved from himself by love. I loved the '91 film. I loved the 1946 French film. And I love the 1740 novel. A lot of people have told me I would make a good Belle on Broadway and that my range was perfect for the character. I wanted so badly to someday be in the stage production. But now after this, I fear the stage productions will all take after this new film and I don't want to be involved with that. Dreams=shattered
DeleteAmen!
DeleteHey, great work here! I love how you elevated this discussion beyond should-I-boycott-this-movie and reminded us that we are, in fact, the strangers here. I think our continual justice-seeking is often the fruit of expecting this world to be more like home. But if a mindset that I am a sojourner permeates how I see everything, then suddenly I am free to love, full of purpose, and steadily on mission. And then I can have a conversation with my neighbors about B & the B that goes: hey, I was a beast until Beauty saved me (instead of Darn that Disney!)
ReplyDeleteIt is crazy that people are all up in arms about this. it's a movie people, if you are still stuck in the fifties and have not realized that it's no longer OK to judge people based on who or how they love, things that should be private information anyways. We as a society have evolved in so many ways, we accept all people of every race, religion, and sexual orientation. It's not like homosexuals have a choice. If they did do you think they would go thru ridicule and judgrment? No they would lie to their "straight" significant other, and not b faithful. I'm ranting at this point, but just because a movie has a gay character, a Hispanic, a disabled person,a Christian, Buddhist what have you, it should not be a determining factor. You don't see non Christians going crazy when a Christian character or message is proudly displayed. Just because someone is different than you doesn't make them any less a child of God than you Christians
ReplyDelete"You don't see non Christians going crazy when a Christian character or message is proudly displayed."
DeleteWe do see this all the time. Every time we preach Jesus or hold a sign with a bible verse it never NOT causes more than one person to act all crazy and angry. Some even resort to violence and threats. It happens 100% of the time I do it.
Your judgment here is incorrect.
And if one is living for God they are a child of God, those who don't are considered a child of the devil according to the bible. So yes, some are less a child of God. You can disagree but your disagreement is with God since he said it and it isn't even my opinion. God bless you.
Can I get a copy of your "rule book"? I'm talking about the one that has all of these dates laid out and what is or is not acceptable as of that date. Your argument is a post hoc fallacy. The argument holds no weight when it is based solely on; "it's not the fifties anymore", or "After all it is 2017"!
DeleteAaaaand this whole comment section is why I left religion.
ReplyDeleteGood, religion is a joke, trust Jesus.
DeleteTrust him for what??
DeleteThis is a very well written article...I agree that we as Christians need to teach and train our children, but part of that should be that we pay attention to what the world is trying to teach them, and not allow it to be done unchecked. I am not afraid of the gay agenda (I am glad someone is stating that there is in fact an agenda), I am not naïve about what is going on...I know I am not of this world, but I know I must live in it...but I am not supposed to be conformed to this world, but be renewed by the word of God...why is it so hard for you, or anyone for that matter to understand that as a Christian we (I) still need to stand up for what is right and what is wrong. Daniel would not defile himself by eating the kings meat. He remained in service of the king, did his duties, but he would not go along with the "norm" of the day. When told the "law of the land" was to bow down to a statue, and pray to no on else, he bowed and prayed only to the One True God...He stayed true to the standard that God had set, and he was blessed for it. Why is it wrong for me, or Kate, or anyone, to say...I am saddened that this director has chosen to push an agenda (put the kings meat on the table in front of me) and I say..."sorry, sure the meat looks good, but I am not willing to defile my body by partaking of it"? I know the world is going in the wrong direction (away from God), and I don't expect all of society to follow God's standard, I actually expect them to continue to run from God...however that in no ways means that I (or any Christian) should sit back, be quiet, and "enjoy the ride". We are not supposed to hide our light under a basket, nor are we to partake in the advancement of sin (any sin). We also should not put down those that do, nor should we spout hateful words or ideas, or injure people....we still need to love. But showing love does not mean we stand by and approve of someone's sin. And as a Christian I better be dealing with any sin in my life...and as a Christian I need to be praying for this nation...and this world. Praying that people will have theirs eyes and ears opened by God. He wants none to perish, so I need to want none to perish...but if no one tells them, how will they hear? If no one stands up and proclaims the Gospel (not whisper it to those that already know it, or say it only when it is comfortable, or talk about it when you are in a safe place) then where is my love for others? If I love others, I need to tell them there is a God that loves them, and a God who wants them to be with Him for ever, but there is a separation from Him when we live in sin, and that we have all sinned and fall short of God's glory, and that we need to repent of our sins, call out to the Name of Jesus (the only way to get to the Father), and accept Him not only as our Savior, but as our Lord. I cannot be afraid of offending the man standing in front of an on coming bus and hope that he moves out of the way in time. I need to say something, I need to do something. Especially when the man is deaf and blind to the danger that is coming toward him. But ultimately it is still that mans decision if he will move out of the way or not. The thief comes to kill, steal, and destroy, but Jesus came that we may have life, and to have it to the full. Christians should stand out from the crowd, we should look, sound, act, differently than the world. Why is it so wrong for a Christian to take a stand. I never told anyone they cannot or should not see this movie, I applaud those that are taking a stand (as long as they do it in love), I am not offended if others go and see the movie. I don't think anyone is going to hell if they go see this or any other movie. I however choose to not eat the meat of the king.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteLook I'm a Pentecostal Preacher...We don't hate the sinner, God hates the sin...Either watch it or don't watch it...Hollywood and this world don't have biblical morals...I enjoyed the article, has some truth to it...if we don't educate our kids on the right way to live according to the word of God, and teach them to love everybody it's on us as parents...there is going to be folks in there work places that are drug users, homosexuals, fornicators, etc...so we gonna tell them not to go to work just because it's there??? Or we can teach them now to live there life as a light in this dark world, so when they grow up they will be a great Christian !
ReplyDeleteThe sitcom or movie with gay couples should be seen as wrong as the sitcom or movie with a straight couple living together not married. If they don't it is hypocrisy.
ReplyDeleteBut if they gay community cries out for tolerance and acceptance it is as much hypocrisy when they try to silence the Christians who proselytize in public as they shout us down demanding we shut up. Where is their tolerance and valuing/celebrating diversity? Don't be a hypocrite.
Thank you for stating that Disney is not a Christian company.
ReplyDeleteIt's all about MONEY! Can Disney appease the LGBT community by producing a movie with its first proclaimed gay moment and test the waters of their Christian audience and still make money! They could care less about influencing culture. If Christians ignore the testing then rest assured they will continue to relieve the pressure of the LGBT community to produce more movies in a similar fashion.
ReplyDeleteFor those of you that do not want to pay to see this movie because you dont want to support Disney and their "agenda" - Google what companies Disney owns and who owns them. Are you going to stop supporting all of Disney's businesses - Disney World holds a Gay Pride parade - are you never going to take your kids to Disney world - never watch another Star Wars or Marvel movie, never watch ABC any more - How about the Muppets, ESPN, Pixar, any Touchstone Movies, A&E, History - just to name a few. All I can say is - please stay home - more room in the theater for me and my family to stretch out and enjoy a wonderful movie.
ReplyDeleteYou all are acting as if someone being gay the worst thing in the world. Let me ask you this, would you stop loving your son or daughter if they came to you and said they were gay? Would you push the away? Now I am married and I have a son. I can tell you this, it doesn't matter who he brings home to meet me as long as they are a good person, treats my child right. I will still love my child and accept them for who they are! It is not our place to judge anyone! I am a person who is active in my church, and I believe love is love. Does someone being gay affect your life personnally? Do they stop you from living your life? If they wanted to get married does that marriage affect you? The answer is NO! No it doesn't because they have rights as humans. What if someone told you NO you can't marry the person you love because they don't like it!! Love is love!!! The world needs less people judging and more people supporting other people's choices. And if you don't like it, Oh well! life goes on!!!
ReplyDeleteWOW!! please do not step outside today or you may encounter one of those icky gay people. I hear that they even want to be treated as humans now. The nerve.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteAs Christian I will be going to watch this movie with my kids. As this article says we can't burry our heads in the sand. I believe the said issue with the movie is blown out of proportion and will not affect my kids. However I would like to ask all the Christian brothers and sisters here this... Why are you ok with a relationship between a young girl and a beast. How do you justify that?
ReplyDeletebecause they aren't COPULATING. they are FRIENDS
Delete#duhfactor ❗
How did the idea that Christians are anti-intellectual get so popular? How did homosexuality become "normal" when not too many years ago it wasn't? Both of these and many other ideas are ingrained into people, many without them knowing it. How? By the anti-God media (movies, songs, TV, news) that wants you to believe their way. Either read the book, "After The Ball" or at least a review of it here: http://www.massresistance.org/docs/issues/gay_strategies/after_the_ball.html to find out what is really going on. If someone says to me, "Let's do so-and-so because it is fun, but while we are doing it, I will be gradually poisoning you. But you won't know it until it is too late.", would I spend time with them. Absolutely not, unless I had taken an antidote and used the time to turn the tables on him and expose his plot. So why would I go watch a movie that has the express purpose of gradually changing my though processes to align with theirs, unless I was actively resisting their attempts and went to do something to change the situation. (I know, call me a conspiracy theorist and ignore everything I said.)
ReplyDeleteWhat about Jonathan and David? They were accepted
ReplyDeleteI hope they are not testing the waters for Frozen 2....
ReplyDeleteWell written! But we won't be dropping a dime into it. Mostly bc of the director Bill Condon and all he has revealed about the motive behind it. I think as Christians, it's not a "torn decision". If you have Christian values, you don't support it bc if we all make that decision, these guys see the effects of their agendas NOT being successful. Then just maybe they'll go back to good ole story telling. They're standing up for what they believe is right....so should we. ��
ReplyDeleteI disagree with this article.
ReplyDeleteThe things we will say and do to justify our desires. Everyone falls short there, self included. I don't have to read this mountain of replies to know that there's a huge push in the argument against one's moral compass. I believe a choice to not support something, movie, song, etc and/or allow your children to engage is NOT "freaking out" over it. We, as believers, don't need to go crazy over it; but we do have a responsibility to not support it... specifically referring to "the agenda." Your article used the term "angry" and this was also described in your Scripture reference of 1 Peter 2:11. I see contradiction in that alone. We should be angry that sinful nature continues to be more accepted as "the norm." We get to decide how much we will comply and allow this to fill our minds and hearts. Live and let God judge, because He intends to. We all need a Savior!
While everyone has the right to their own opinion and the right to voice that opinion, does it really make sense to put so much energy into stressing over this movie when there are so many things far more tragic in this country than two men dancing. If we as Christians and non
ReplyDeleteChristians put as much emphasis on things like children going to school hungry, children being bullied, homelessness, veterans living on the streets after dedicating their lives to protecting this land we call home, just think of the good that could be accomplished. We spend so much time critizing and judging certain lifestyles, which really aren't anyones business other than the ones living it. Todays society should be worried about raising our children to grow up being productive, selfsufficient adults wanting to help change this country for the better. If we as Americans continue down the path we are on, two men dancing will be the least of our childrens and grandchildrens worries. Stop putting so much emphasis on sexuality, color, religion, and anything else that makes us different and focus on learning to live together more peacefully and accepting of each other. Its time we take a stand on what's important in the country and to be honest, it sure isn't a movie. For those of you that want to see it, go see it. For those who don't, don't. But, by all means wake up and do more to make this a better place. I truly believe that is what God is expecting from all of us rather than worrying about our children not understanding the concept of two men dancing. But do they really care. Its adults that make it a bad thing, not our children.
In the last days men will call good bad and bad good. We are in the last days. Disney is falling under pressure from the Anti Christ which is anything that goes against God's commandments. I sympathize with anyone struggling with sin. Sin is a struggle and is difficult. As a parent I have the right to protect my child from falling into the pains of sin. Disney has fallen and I'm not going with them down to live with the Devil. I'll stay close to God and away from Satan's influences.
ReplyDeleteAmen! You took the words right out of my mouth!
DeleteJust wondering why all these "Christians" are never upset when someone kills someone in a movie. The last time I checked murder was a sin too. In the cartoon Gaston stabs the beast with the intent to kill him (they also sing about it). What about every other Disney and non Disney movie for that matter where the hero KILLS the villian. Are you not concerned about showing your children murder or is it ok to teach them that as long as the victim is a bad guy? If you are going to condemn a movie because it has a "sin" - then be consistent and condemn all movies - not just one with the sin you dont like at the time.
ReplyDelete'Guard your minds ppl... Or choose to remain brainwashed? I'm so incredibly sad by the viewpoint here. Extremely closed minded and ignorant... Your so called Christian beliefs hurt many ppl and you're all good with that... So so sad. Open your minds to that which is beyond your limited sight and ye shall find peace...'
ReplyDeleteWe should not encourage or support these type movies. It's that simple!
ReplyDeleteIsn't Mickey Mouse a wizard? I think Jesus stopped supporting Disney at that point. Shouldn't His followers?
ReplyDeleteI've seen the movie and I think that we as Christians should be much more concerned with the character of Gaston and how his sins are glossed over. Sure he dies at the end, but does it make attempted murder, vanity, and lying less serious that a 2 second subtext that children may or may not catch? Why is murder more easily forgiven than homosexuality? Are we so conditioned by culture that taking someone's life means less than how someone chooses to live theirs? We make decisions everyday. Many of our children (and ourselves) idolize celebrities and are blatantly encouraged to do so by society, do we freak out every time this happens? Why does homosexuality get the most attention when it may be the least harmful?
ReplyDeleteSince you decided to use AL Mohler to help explain why Christians can "calm down" about Beauty and the Beast, I thought I would point out what Mohler said specifically about this movie and topic. "What entertains us effectively reaches our minds, and once it reaches our minds it also reaches our hearts. But sometimes it almost short circuits that entire equation, going immediately from the entertainment interest to the heart. Sometimes it’s as if there really isn’t much cognitive interplay whatsoever. "But we also have to note that when we laugh at something and when we find something interesting and, not to mention, entertaining, effectively our thinking will become aligned with our hearts. That’s exactly why Hollywood is ground zero for so much of the change driving the moral revolution around us. But there is something even more ominous in all of this, and that’s this. We’re not here talking primarily about the effect upon adults, adults’ eyes and ears and minds and hearts, we’re talking about entertainment with an agenda, an agenda to reach eyes and ears and hearts and minds directed at children, and very effectively so.
ReplyDeleteI guess most of us suspected that it was only a matter of time before some film directors said something like,
“It is a nice, exclusively gay moment in a Disney movie.”
But now we know that that time is now. It may not be surprising, but it truly is shocking." Ironic how Mohler even says this IS shocking. To read full trascript: http://www.albertmohler.com/2017/03/02/briefing-03-02-17/
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteIf you are a believer, you are truly missing out by not seeing this movie! Here is my review...take it or leave it. I did not read ANY commentary positive or negative until after I wrote this, and I still stand by it 100%:
ReplyDeleteBeauty and the Beast Movie Review
I was glad to get some time with one of my adult daughters on a rainy, Friday afternoon for a movie we had both anticipated, Beauty and the Beast. The real life remake was done well. I even felt like I was at a live performance at times and should applaud at the end of certain numbers. It was playful, lively and entertaining, but I was really taken back by the climax of the movie--the engaging way it was done, its story-telling ability, and its beauty.
I expect that stories are meant to be most gripping at this point. I know this story so well. It is supposed to bring you to the point of despair and give you the feeling that all is lost. There is sadness and a deep sense of loss as each of the characters begin to mourn the very last moments of his or her human qualities. As Cogsworth ticks for his last time and Lumiere swirls around for one last graceful bow there is such a longing for something or someone to sweep in and rescue them--to bring this “death” to a screeching hault! Even Sultan the little foot stool barks and attempts one last leap but fails mid air falling wrong side up to his final resting place. Overhead in the towering castle above, the beast cowers and is resigned to an empty, futile, and hideous life without love and without hope. It seems all is lost.
BUT then…..enters genuine, unrelenting, unconditional, uncalled-for LOVE. Belle realizes that she really does love the beast just as he is, and she is willing to leave all else behind. All at once everything and everyone is changed! Life is given. Renewal comes to a castle that had long been dark and forgotten, and hope enters a place and people that seemed to have been forgotten and left without promise. And all of us watching can’t help but rejoice. Quiet smiles and full hearts fill the theater and little squeals and applause scatter throughout.
It truly is a beautiful story, and truly does echo in many ways THE STORY, which is why, even if we don’t realize it, is the reason we all love it so. We know that we ourselves are not as we should be. We know that things around us are broken and need to be fixed. Without intervention it feels like death is coming, and it is! BUT God provided a way through genuine, unrelenting, unconditional, uncalled-for, LOVE by sending Jesus to not only be willing to sacrifice His life but to actually sacrifice His life so that we might truly live. Just as spring faithfully blooms and bursts forth from the dead of winter, He faithfully brings life to our dead lives. All is made new and hope restored. Yes, there is a reason why we love these stories. It is because written in our hearts is a desire to be restored, renewed, to be beautiful, to be truly loved and to live forever. (“I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.” Jesus)
”For the creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the sons of God. 20 For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of him who subjected it, in hope 21 that the creation itself will be set free from its bondage to corruption and obtain the freedom of the glory of the children of God. 22 For we know that the whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until now. 23 And not only the creation, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies. 24 For in this hope we were saved. Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what he sees? 25 But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience.” Romans 8
I don't like this one bit. My two sweet great nieces were taken to this movie and loved it. Gay is not personhood its self defining behavior. We're all born into sin, defining your life by that sin, is opposing God. He makes the rules and we humbly accept them or humbly ask forgiveness for our transgressions.
ReplyDeleteJesus died for your sins, don't let him have died for nothing.
ReplyDeleteA RELATIONSHIP PROBLEM OF BREAK UP SOLVED BY GREAT DR OGOGODU
ReplyDeleteI am Sheniqua Denis my lover broke up with me,just because he saw me with my ex lover talking and then he think that we were dating so he broke up with me without let me to explain,try all my best to make him come back but when i came in contact with Dr Ogogodu who help me to get him back and today we are happy this man is a great man of God he can bring back people lover back to then and cure the sick and do some many other things you can email him Ogogodutempleofsolution@gmail.com or call +2348078999655
Your article is very good and useful, thank you very much for this content. : usefull site
ReplyDeleteI'm not a Mom, but a dad. But I've enjoyed the wisdom in this blog post. One thing that struck me when reading this, is this: Even good Christian movies ("War Room", "Courageous", etc.) that promote a good theme still lack in one essential ingredient: Real life and real time experiences in one's own personal walk with God. There's nothing more powerful to build strength in faith (that which induces a person to live holy and loving life) and having a genuine experience with God in one's life. (Exodus chapters 3 & 4...great example of experiencing God real time, and the effects this has on a person's life !!!)
ReplyDeleteWHY...why do you want to see this movie so bad? Disney can be the wolf in sheep's clothing and the pathetic Christian culture we live in that says, "How close to the edge can I get?" How many "Moms" are aware of that message they send to their kids whom they are so concerned about? Christians would object rightfully so to pornography--porn is black & white, clear, not hidden at all, not subtle which makes it easy to detect. Disney movies are subtle, with humanistic messages that stir emotions. The very massage your pastor teaches about the "world" come into our homes wrapped in cute stories and pretty people that tell us the greatest love is human love (which used to be between a man & woman, now it is self-love or love of self is the greatest love), man is the highest ideal, a "higher power" is the universe (clear idolatry), and because there is no nudity or cursing, moms take their kids to these movies. Really? Naive. The subtle messages embedded in the very ones you love. Then you ask, "Wow...I didn't see that!" Why? Because YOU allowed this to take place because you don't even see it in yourself "you can't impart what you don't possess"...but you feel proud that you keep your children away from porn and other obvious dangers. Hmmmm...
ReplyDelete