Is Harry Potter Biblical?

[lovely]

Aero,

I do not consider myself in a position to decide what is best for other households, and I respect every believer's liberty in Christ. I actually believe that the Holy Spirit should be the one who convinces us and changes our hearts on every matter...even the smaller ones...otherwise we are doing the work of cleaning ourselves. The Holy Spirit's conviction on a believer can change them for good, if God decides they need it.

By God's grace, I have moved beyond desiring anything that remotely protrays witchcraft as something harmless or good. Witches and Wizards working for the good reminds me of Saul disobeying God and saying he did it only to be able to make it a sacrifice to God. The principal is, obedience is better than sacrifice. There are many wonderful books, videos, tapes, etc. that teach the children the Truth in a way that does not make evil good, and so I do not see the benefit of those that contain witchcraft.

When I was a single person, I didn't take these things seriously either. I had friends who were very heavy into the occult, and I just wrote it off as nonsense...I didn't even believe in the stuff at all, and they were actually practicing witchcraft. They would have Taro Card parties, and all kinds of things in the name of 'entertainment'. God eventually made me more sensitive to it, and I distanced myself. As time went on I became more and more senstitive about offending God in my entertainment personally...mostly with sexual immorality and other such things. God eventually changed my heart about witchcraft as well. It was not a burden, it was a blessing because God was giving me the grace to please Him.

After having my first child, I was already prepared to be careful, but still little things would sneak in...videos and books would be given to us that had just one little thing in them. Why? I began to feel that the deceiver really wanted to plant those things in our home. I started becoming more vigilant about it, and even today we will come across something now and again that is not appropriate. My children are also very quick to catch it now, because they know that we do not want to use things that portay evil as good for our entertainment...we want to obey the Lord, and now they try to imitate us in this. We just want things that edify and relate rich spiritual truth that can help them overcome...it is just too important to me to add in the things of darkness, esepcially when I know it breaks the principal of obedience is better than sacrifice.

Anyway, I do not condemn others in this at all, but I do warn them that the trade off is not worth it when there are alternatives that are rich in Truth, and will lead our children toward the Lord and His perfect law of Love. Witchcraft is not the only thing we watch for either. Disobedience to parents is another. Those movies where the children disobey the parents and still win the day...the parents, especially the fathers, are portrayed as bafoons. I want my children to honor God by honoring their parents, and so I do not put those images in front of them to emulate. I especially want them to honor their dad and follow him, because he can show them Godly wisdom. When I see these types of books and movies, it angers me, because I am jealous for the hearts of my children as God is jealous for my heart.

As far as the 'evil' tag on Harry Potter, I can not compromise about that...it is evil to portay evil as doing something good. Satan is never doing good, though he likes to appear to be, and the abominations never promote good. I want my children to be able to see right and wrong in a world that loves to blurr the lines. I don't want them to imiate satan, or think in those terms, but I want them to imitate God. Ephesians 5

I don't condemn you, or others, but this is where God has me and I would prefer not to return to things that I have been liberated from by God's grace...I am free to please Him and obey Him now under the New Covenant of Christ Jesus, and part of that involves speaking the truth of what I have learned. It would be a compromise to say that it is not evil, but instead I think I should speak the truth boldy before others out of love.

All that being said, please know that I do not condemn you, or others, if you feel you can redeem these things, because I have been there myself and I was a believer who loved God. I do not doubt that you are as well. If God shows you, then I am sure you will turn from it. If He doesn't, then He is busy teaching you other things that will fulfill His plan for you in the body, and who am I to quarrel with that?

Captain Sarcastic,

I appreciate your zeal for defending what you believe. I don't agree with you, and I believe I have given scriptural evidence as to why I believe what I believe. I am not sure what fundamental propaganda you are referring to exactly, but I assure you I have not read it, and have no intention of bashing the author of Harry Potter. If she is my sister, I give her grace, but I pray that she would rethink how she uses her gift. I just want to please God like every believer, and God's Word would have me imitate Christ and Holiness. He would also have me protect the minds and eyes of the souls He has entrusted me to not lead astray. I don't think I would look good with a millstone around my neck. It would be deceitful to promote anything other than what the Lord has taught me about this subject. So, this is where I remain planted.

The Lord bless you both.

 

[Captain Sarcastic]

[quote="Captain Sarcastic":3mf6461a]All you HP-bashers are offering is strawmen arguments...that is, you're attacking a misperception of a valid point. Obviously, REAL witchcraft is an abomination to the Lord. None of you have yet proven that HP is REAL witchcraft. It is FICTION. In fact, I've heard REAL witches complain that HP MISREPRESENTS them. This in itself nullifies your argument.

If any of you can prove that HP is a primer for REAL witchcraft, please do so. Until then, you're indulging in fundamentalist propaganda of epic fail proportions.

Dude all it takes is for thoughts to be planted in your mind, making you want to explore further. And if you are not well grounded, you can be drawn by it, and it happens all the time. And yes it is fantasy, but it can and does plant seeds, depending upon who you are, you can take it to the next level. Many, many, many people are easily persuaded, more so than others. Movies have changed peoples lives for years and that can't be denied, now can it ? [/quote:3mf6461a]

With all due respect, that's patently nonsense. I'm living proof that you're wrong. While I enjoyed the books, the only religion I wish to pursue is following Jesus Christ. IMO, your argument is the typical fundy claptrap issued to persuade others to adopt a "sheep mentality" regarding young Mr. Potter. :gah

 

[Captain Sarcastic]

I think we would all agree that a vast majority of mainstream movies depict sinful acts. However, these same movies often times depict great deeds and inspirational insights that move people that watch them. Harry Potter is no different. At its core, it is a story of good vs. evil and establishes many good themes and behaviors that serve as a good example for kids to emulate.

The issue of establishing what is real and what is make believe as well as those that are easily influenced is a parental issue. Parents should be regulating what their kids watch and do to ensure that if they think they are not quite ready for these concepts they should not be exposed to them. If they are exposed to "make believe" material parents should actively discuss it with them to help them separate fact from fiction.

I respect those that disagree and want to not expose their children to this material. At the same time, I would ask that folks don't place the "evil" tag on Harry Potter due to them making this decision for themselves. I do not consider it a sin for me and my family to be entertained by a story that is well told that also is inspirational and uplifting. Looking more closely at Harry Potter there are some very good things the stories promote that dare I say embrace the values of Christianity.

Just some additional thoughts from me.

And good thoughts these are, too. ;)

Did anybody actually read the link I posted earlier to John Granger, a Christian minister and HP fan? He views the HP series as clever metaphors for the battle between good and evil...as I do.

In fact, JK Rowling has said pretty much the exact same things. As a writer myself, I know where she's coming from.

 

[JoJo]

Although I did not create this forum topic, I have expressed my opinions on it. I am grateful for everyone's input because it sheds light for me on how Christians view this form of entertainment. I never wished to see a rift created among the brethren.

My feelings about the Harry Potter series have only changed in one way: that I was wrong to point fingers at it specifically. Many of you have pointed out that if we are to avoid movies and books that depict witchcraft (whether real or pretend), we would be wise to avoid entertainment that promote other sinful acts for the sheer reason of making it more interesting or to make a moral point. I realize the list will be long, but I agree with lovely -- there are many forms of entertainment out there that glorify the Lord.

I remain concerned that the enemy is using subtle forms of entertainment to reach our children. I am also concerned that we have wool over our eyes.

Captain Sarcastic, I also appreciate your point of view, though no doubt it could be expressed without such a harsh tone. Yes I did click on your link, but it led me to a general page about the man. Did you click on my link?

 

[Captain Sarcastic]

LOL, I have read that link before. It's worthy of a chuckle or three. It ranks right up there with Jack Chick and his sensationalistic propaganda.

Yeah, I do have a bit of a disgruntled tone concerning this HP debacle. I get upset when certain Christians think it's their God-ordained duty to tell other Christians what to think. God's given us all brains. It's up to use to use them to think for ourselves.

 

[JoJo]

Captain Sarcastic, if you only value the opinions of those you agree with, why do you participate in a public forum?

 

[Captain Sarcastic]

You need to ask yourself the same question, I guess.

I guess if you can't disprove the points I make, then you have to "shoot the messenger," right?

So it would seem.

 

[MISFIT]

If you like it and it does not cause you to stumble...read it! If it does cause you to stumble...DON'T READ IT! And that's the bottom line 'cuz MISFIT said so. (yes MISFIT is a pro-wrestling fan. * he says as he hangs his head in shame )

 

[JoJo]

[quote:1mrr1bjr]Captain Sarcastic, if you only value the opinions of those you agree with, why do you participate in a public forum?

You need to ask yourself the same question, I guess.[/quote:1mrr1bjr]

I have asked myself the same question. In fact, I have already addressed that in this thread:

I am grateful for everyone's input because it sheds light for me on how Christians view this form of entertainment. I never wished to see a rift created among the brethren.

In answer to this statement...

I guess if you can't disprove the points I make, then you have to "shoot the messenger," right?

...I have no desire to try to "prove" to you or anyone else that the devil uses subtle ways of reaching our children. This is general knowledge to anyone who doesn't deny that the devil is out to kill, steal and destroy.

If any messenger has been shot, it has been me. I am truly sorry you do not value my opinion, but if you would kindly refrain from your accusatory remarks, I would appreciate it.

Meanwhile, I stand firm when I say that the wool has been pulled over our eyes, not just from entertainment that promotes sorcery (whether real or so-called pretend), but from entertainment that uses violence, profanity, sexual promiscuity and other things to make a buck.

 

[lovely]

JoJo,

I am sorry the tone went so south in this thread, and sad that you were made to feel that anyone would not value your opinion as a sister in Christ.

The Lord bless you.

 

[Captain Sarcastic]

If you like it and it does not cause you to stumble...read it! If it does cause you to stumble...DON'T READ IT! And that's the bottom line 'cuz MISFIT said so. (yes MISFIT is a pro-wrestling fan. * he says as he hangs his head in shame )

Wisdom indeed.

 

[Lewis]

If you like it and it does not cause you to stumble...read it! If it does cause you to stumble...DON'T READ IT! And that's the bottom line 'cuz MISFIT said so. (yes MISFIT is a pro-wrestling fan. * he says as he hangs his head in shame )

That is like a principle, that Paul was talking about in the 14th chapter of Romans

 

[lovely]

<lovely clears throat>

I do not consider myself in a position to decide what is best for other households, and I respect every believer's liberty in Christ. I actually believe that the Holy Spirit should be the one who convinces us and changes our hearts on every matter...even the smaller ones...otherwise we are doing the work of cleaning ourselves. The Holy Spirit's conviction on a believer can change them for good, if God decides they need it.

Misfit I have never hit anyone before on these forums, but I have to give you the chair. Read the above quote. I must say, (and maybe it's because my husband does this too, which drive me absolutely crazy inside) that men sure to have a knack for repackaging and idea and bottom lining it with things like 'cuz MISFIT said so'.

<clears throat again> More of the same below, brother.

All that being said, please know that I do not condemn you, or others, if you feel you can redeem these things, because I have been there myself and I was a believer who loved God. I do not doubt that you are as well. If God shows you, then I am sure you will turn from it. If He doesn't, then He is busy teaching you other things that will fulfill His plan for you in the body, and who am I to quarrel with that?

As you can see, liberty in Christ has already been covered, but nonetheless, I will do my female duty. ;)

If you like it and it does not cause you to stumble...read it! If it does cause you to stumble...DON'T READ IT! And that's the bottom line 'cuz MISFIT said so. (yes MISFIT is a pro-wrestling fan. * he says as he hangs his head in shame )

Great post, MISFIT!!!! Very wise, brother.

Sorry, I couldn't help myself.

On a more serious note, I appreciate you lightening up the thread and making us smile, and for that I will give you full credit and a hearty, "May the Lord bless you!" And, you did boil it down, which I always have a problem doing. The Lord bless you for that too.

 

[MISFIT]

I know you already said basically the same thing lovely, I was just adding my final thought on this.

 

[Sparkey]

MISFIT wrote:
If you like it and it does not cause you to stumble...read it! If it does cause you to stumble...DON'T READ IT! And that's the bottom line 'cuz MISFIT said so. (yes MISFIT is a pro-wrestling fan. * he says as he hangs his head in shame )

As far as "stumbling" goes, I seem to remember a verse that is concerned not only with my stumbling but also the stumbling stones that I set before my brothers and sisters. Have we not yet been brought to a place where our judgment is fine tuned enough to resolve simple matters? Know you not that you will judge Angels? I, for one, am not yet there and need improvement in this area, so please ask the Lord to forgive if I offend.

It is clear to me that each here loves God and is known of God. 1Cor Chapter 8 is directly related to this conversation. The book of James teaches that the tongue is a fire, "If anyone among you thinks he is religious, and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this one's religion is useless. Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their trouble, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world." We are also told to be wise as serpents and to remain harmless as doves, yes? - Doesn't this cover it?

I am a very new member of this forum and as such it is not my place to admonish or speak by way of exhortation to the elder members, but I am emboldened by the commandment of love. As a dad I've heard so many arguments between my children that I learned to tune them out and only pay attention when it seemed like my sons would come to blows. Do you think that God has a "dad filter" through which he listens to our conversations? Do Angels? Not trying to derail the conversation here - the questions are rhetorical only. I think God does have a "Dad Filter" called "Grace".

Being a single dad, I would hesitate to challenge any mother's right to raise their children in the Lord according to how they see fit. On the other hand, I'm a grandpa and old enough; although I haven't read any of the Harry Potter books, I have seen (and enjoyed) the movies and don't think they can stumble a mature mind, grounded in Christ.

PS - Sorry Misfit if it seemed like I was singling you out. I very much liked your comment and have watched Pro Wrestling myself (watched it with my kids even) and suffered from the decision by them pouncing on me mightily :crazy

 

[Mark62]

Hi Folks

Quickly scanned the posts and offer the following:

Is Harry Potter Biblical? No brainer really, of course not.

Should Christians read Harry Potter? Should Christians read any fiction by a non-Christian author? Should Christians read any fantasy novels? Why single Harry Potter out?

I have read all the Harry Potter books and seen the movies. One of my teenage boys has read the books and both boys have seen the movies and own them on DVD.

The main problem for some Christians is that these books are in the fantasy genre. But unlike most fantasy novels which are set in mythical worlds, Harry Potter's mythical world is set amongst our real one. Then we have the next "logical" step is that they promote witchcraft.

I don't have a problem with them as they are fiction and should be treated as such. JK Rowling has never promoted them as anything else, as far as I am aware. So if fantasy novels are your thing, go for it. If not, don't read them.

A parents, it is how we engage our children about such books and any other issues as they negotiate their way in the world and how we help ground them in their faith that is the important thing.

 

[handy]

Hi Folks

Quickly scanned the posts and offer the following:

Is Harry Potter Biblical? No brainer really, of course not.

Should Christians read Harry Potter? Should Christians read any fiction by a non-Christian author? Should Christians read any fantasy novels? Why single Harry Potter out?

I have read all the Harry Potter books and seen the movies. One of my teenage boys has read the books and both boys have seen the movies and own them on DVD.

The main problem for some Christians is that these books are in the fantasy genre. But unlike most fantasy novels which are set in mythical worlds, Harry Potter's mythical world is set amongst our real one. Then we have the next "logical" step is that they promote witchcraft.

I don't have a problem with them as they are fiction and should be treated as such. JK Rowling has never promoted them as anything else, as far as I am aware. So if fantasy novels are your thing, go for it. If not, don't read them.

A parents, it is how we engage our children about such books and any other issues as they negotiate their way in the world and how we help ground them in their faith that is the important thing.

 

[Tissue]

Harry Potter is Biblical. The crux of the seventh book, the overwhelming turning point, is

SPOILER

when Harry reads a verse from 1 Corinthians on a gravestone: 'The last enemy that shall be defeated is Death'.

Once one has actually read the series, one is confronted by the amazing Christian themes carried throughout.

If anyone tells you that Harry Potter is Satanic, you can be sure they have never read them.

 

[JoJo]

I think each Christian should rely on his/her own discernment. In my opinion, anything that promotes sorcery or magic or whatever (even if it's just "pretend") should not be labeled as "biblical."

 

[Nick]

Harry Potter is Biblical. The crux of the seventh book, the overwhelming turning point, is

SPOILER

when Harry reads a verse from 1 Corinthians on a gravestone: 'The last enemy that shall be defeated is Death'.

Once one has actually read the series, one is confronted by the amazing Christian themes carried throughout.

If anyone tells you that Harry Potter is Satanic, you can be sure they have never read them.

Yes, I spot some Christian themes running throughout the entire series.