Movies that Imitate Christianity, Blogtalk – Susan Puzio

I just had another blogtalk with Susan Puzio addressing some of the things I had previously been involved with. We also looked at the NRB Proclaim 16 conference that went on this past week, the speakers and contributors and the movies that are being released.

I see there is a mix of Christianity, Catholicism with influences of other beliefs, most of which will not be backed up in scripture. Have a listen, watch the movie trailers linked at Proclaim 16 on the footer that I spoke of and use the information to help others avoid these pitfalls. With all the information we have available it is easy to connect the dots. By using our bible as reference it is just as easy to recognize false doctrine coming from these movies.

We need to rid ourselves of emotions and think clearly and soberly at these deceptions which will grow stronger and more convincing as time goes on. There is a real coming together of religions forming as one. The media, entertainment sectors of our society, as well as our government are helping it take shape. Many are blind and need help to see.

Movies that imitate real Christianity

References:

NRB “Mission Statement”

Proclaim 16 

Building the Sphere of Media Influence

Media Sphere Promotes Another False Jesus

Seth Dunn’s Review of War Room Movie

Seven Mountains Defined (not condoning the prophetic voice of C Jacobs)

Roots of Seven Mountains

Healing Room Beliefs

Grave Sucking Bethel

 

(Correction – During our chat I stated that Jesus warned us that many would come in His name and deceive as located in Matthew 18. That would be Matthew 24! oops!)

Building the Sphere of Media Influence

1 John 2:15 Do not love the world nor the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16 For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh and the lust of the eyes and the boastful pride of life, is not from the Father, but is from the world. 17 The world is passing away, and also its lusts; but the one who does the will of God lives forever.

Upcoming next month, Proclaim 16

Proclaim 16, the NRB International Christian Media Convention, is a four-day, jam-packed event that connects, equips, and edifies thousands of Christian communicators – from broadcasters to producers, writers to publishers, managers to pastors, artists to consultants. This is a “must attend” event for Christian communicators. You will hear outstanding internationally known speakers and artists, have the opportunity to attend numerous networking events, and receive helpful industry insights.

If you’ve attended before, you know the Convention is only half of the attraction. Experience our award-winning Exposition, featuring approximately 200 companies. The booths of the exhibit floor make up an active marketplace of products and services that can expand and enhance your organization. From innovative ideas and endeavors to must-have tools and equipment to organizations that influence millions around the world, the Expo has it all!

This event is a coming together under what can only be described the NAR (New Apostolic Reformation) 7 Mountains, the sphere of Media/Entertainment. If you aren’t familiar with the 7 Mountains, it’s based on the premise that we, as believers, must take over the world for Christ. Until this is accomplished Christ cannot return, the belief which is commonly referred to as “dominionism”. There are believed to be 7 areas (spheres, mountains, etc.) of societal or cultural influence, being Religion, Family, Education, Government, Media, Arts/Entertainment, Business. The 7 Mountains came around years back when scripture from 2 Corinthians 10 was taken out of context and applied as  personal direction to a small group of Christian friends. Since that time, the concept has been popularized by many people – C Peter Wagner, Cindy Jacobs, Bill Johnson, Rick Joyner, etc., and the most well known teacher of this theory is Lance Wallnau. For more information, please refer to  7 Mountain – Dominion and New Apostolic Reformation Categories here on my blog.

As the quote above states  scheduled speakers, include Rick Warren, Roma Downey, and the Kindrick Brothers, combined with supporters such as TBN, CBN, Regent University. See here for a line up of speakers, and here for the detailed schedule.

We know from previous research that Rick Warren is heavily into supporting what he terms Chrislam, the combining of Christian beliefs with Islam. We are also aware of his peace plan which mirrors that of the United Nations and that his methods for promoting Christianity is far from scriptural as with everything else he does.

We know that Roma Downey is Catholic and her version of what she deems Christianity is much different from that of the bible. Yet she and her husband have made a name for themselves through the media and false teaching.

We know that the Kindrick Brothers create some great movies- but at the core they are based on emotionalism, which is of the flesh and their themes are grounded in word of faith teaching. Their last movie The War Room starred a woman who heavily promotes contemplative prayer, who isn’t even an actress. I will not discount the thought there is a deliberate connection between the two. Having been an “intercessor” with an organization which had a “war room” I can attest these ideas are rooted in pride. Yes, we are called to pray, but not in the way this movie and word of faith teaches. Please understand that there is a difference. Read a well-written and informative review of the movie here.

We know the organizations of Trinity Broadcasting Network (TBN) and Christian Broadcasting Network (CBN, 700 Club) both promote false prophets and teachers of charismania, word of faith, the supernatural of false dreams and visions, etc.

We know that we are warned in scripture to not do as the pagans or unbelievers and to not be like them and have discussed this point often in exposing false teachings and the practice of other religions as part of Christianity.

We know that in the end times there will be a joining together of religions and this is the main concern I have with these types of gatherings. As with this event we can clearly see this taking place. Many of us are already aware because of the deception going on inside churches and para-church organizations as we have witnessed our churches becoming something other than what they once were and our warnings to wake up go unheeded.

Aside from that is also the fact that this method of spreading the gospel is based on man-made effort of the world and not on the reliance of the Holy Spirit and spiritual gifts, the things that set us apart from the world.

Instead, we see some of the most well known and influential people deemed as Christians joining forces with the Hollywood movie and film industry. We should seriously stop and think about that last point because most everything coming out of Hollywood shows a vehement hate for God and Christianity as a whole. Do I also need to point out the horror stories of forced sex, rape and molestation that goes along with Hollywood careers of wanna-be and established actors and actresses?

So why do these “movers and shakers” of Christianity join forces with them? I believe we have already had that answer given to us which we should take great heed to understand – Matthew 24. I would find it safe, though very sad to say that most of the speakers and exhibitors listed in the links above no longer stand for Jesus Christ. This is why our care and concern is needed when one claims to come in the name of Jesus and offers to teach others. And yes, they will often give the basics of the gospel correctly, but it is what they do and say after those words that will tell whether they are truly of God. It is also defined in who they join forces with. These are areas that we need to pay close attention to. It is not enough that someone uses the name of Jesus.

What is the fruit? Is it money? Is it fame and fortune? I believe this to be the case for Proclaim 16, as I see it as a set up for what is coming on the earth. Jesus said His kingdom is not of this world (John 8:36 )! Why are they trying to make it as though it is?

Have nothing to do with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose them. Ephesians 5:11

 

 

Olympic Ceremonies

Not long ago, I had a conversation with some other people regarding the opening ceremony of the Olympic games. Not being a fan, I didn’t watch it on TV but became quite concerned after seeing bits and pieces of it on the internet. 

After a good search and a plea for assistance we found there was no stream available to be watched.  Yeah, we can stream The Closer, but not the opening ceremony of the oh-so-important Olympic competition the masses flock to be a part of. Hmm…

I was able to see some of the still photos on the web along segments of home video. The symbolism was quite shocking, dark and sinister, but no relation at will with the games, or the athletes. Don’t you find that strange?

A much trusted researcher, whose knowledge and insight I am thankful for, has taken the time to put it all together. You will see these ceremonies have nothing to do with “the games” at all. I find that quite odd and quite disturbing.

So what is that message?

An in-depth look at the symbolism behind the Olympic Ceremonies

And as a side note, and because I think there is a very strong connection, we should also consider the symbolism presented during the 2012 Superbowl halftime show.

Are we entertained yet?

A Purpose Driven Beauty Queen

From Associated Press

LAS VEGAS – The newly-crowned Miss America, 17-year-old Teresa Scanlan, is a mostly home-schooled Christian who pointed heavenward when she was announced as the winner Saturday night.

According to the new Miss America, she wasn’t the only Christian contestant in this year’s pageant. “We know why we’re here and what we’re doing,” said Scanlan, “and we have a passion for it because we know it’s what God wants us to do. And so every person that I meet I know God has a reason why I’m meeting them. I just want to embrace that as much as I can this year.”

Scanlan told reporters that she and other Christian contestants had been at peace waiting for the judges’ decision, confident that it was ultimately in God’s hands. “We knew that whatever happened is His plan,” she shared. “And so whether I won or not, I just knew that the right person would be in the right place. So I guess I’m in the right place — and now I’m just so excited to see what He has in store.”

She says she and many of her fellow contestants are purpose-driven Christians. “Many of the girls who made it very high [in the competition] had a strong faith because that shows…the substance and purpose behind what we’re doing — and that’s why we’re driven.”

The former Miss Nebraska said she believes her faith was an advantage in the competition, since she didn’t have to think through and sort out her convictions beforehand. Scanlan said, “That’s the whole purpose behind who I am. I’m defined by what God has created me to be.”

After her year as Miss America, Scanlan plans to attend Patrick Henry College — a Christian school in Virginia — where she’ll study government and work toward a career in law or politics.

________

I have to ask what has happened to older Christian women who are called to teach the younger ones. Surely she has been given advice from older women! I guess they are too caught up in reading Rick Warren’s Purpose Driven garbage in finding their own purposes so that they can fulfill those destinies.

If we have to wonder if it is truly God’s will for women to conduct themselves this way then we have not bothered to read the scriptures, much less be trained up in what they say. Beauty pageants are as far away from God’s calling for women as pornography and prostitution! Harsh! Yes!

Titus 2:1-6

¹ But as for you, speak the things which are proper for sound doctrine: ² that the older men be sober, reverent, temperate, sound in faith, in love, in patience; ³ the older women likewise, that they be reverent in behavior, not slanderers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things— ⁴ that they admonish the young women to love their husbands, to love their children, ⁵ to be discreet, chaste, homemakers, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be blasphemed.

1 Timothy 2:8-12

⁸ I desire therefore that the men pray everywhere, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting; ⁹ in like manner also, that the women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with propriety and moderation, not with braided hair or gold or pearls or costly clothing, ¹⁰ but, which is proper for women professing godliness, with good works.

We know the truth as we find it written in the scriptures, not because we have found our plans to succeed! And when our plans don’t line up with the guidance of conduct in the bible then we certainly should consider that we are out of God’s will! And this newly crowned Miss America is still a child – only 17!

Proverbs 31

The Virtuous Wife

¹⁰ Who can find a virtuous wife?
For her worth is far above rubies.
¹¹ The heart of her husband safely trusts her;
So he will have no lack of gain.
¹² She does him good and not evil
All the days of her life.
¹³ She seeks wool and flax,
And willingly works with her hands.
¹⁴ She is like the merchant ships,
She brings her food from afar.
¹⁵ She also rises while it is yet night,
And provides food for her household,
And a portion for her maidservants.
¹⁶ She considers a field and buys it;
From her profits she plants a vineyard.
¹⁷ She girds herself with strength,
And strengthens her arms.
¹⁸ She perceives that her merchandise is good,
And her lamp does not go out by night.
¹⁹ She stretches out her hands to the distaff,
And her hand holds the spindle.
²⁰ She extends her hand to the poor,
Yes, she reaches out her hands to the needy.
²¹ She is not afraid of snow for her household,
For all her household is clothed with scarlet.
²² She makes tapestry for herself;
Her clothing is fine linen and purple.
²³ Her husband is known in the gates,
When he sits among the elders of the land.
²⁴ She makes linen garments and sells them,
And supplies sashes for the merchants.
²⁵ Strength and honor are her clothing;
She shall rejoice in time to come.
²⁶ She opens her mouth with wisdom,
And on her tongue is the law of kindness.
²⁷ She watches over the ways of her household,
And does not eat the bread of idleness.
²⁸ Her children rise up and call her blessed;
Her husband also, and he praises her:
²⁹ “ Many daughters have done well,
But you excel them all.”
³⁰ Charm is deceitful and beauty is passing,
But a woman who fears the LORD, she shall be praised.
³¹ Give her of the fruit of her hands,
And let her own works praise her in the gates.

Julia Roberts Converts to Hinduism via filming Eat, Pray, Love

The news of her conversion gave me the chills. I had to read it for myself – here it is. How many more will follow her steps given her influence and fame?

NEW DELHI: Her parents were Baptist and Catholic and she was born in Georgia, part of the US Bible Belt. But Hollywood superstar Julia Roberts says she is now a practising Hindu. Speaking to the September issue of Elle magazine, Roberts said she goes to the temple to “chant, pray and celebrate.”

Read more: Julia Roberts embraces Hinduism – India – The Times of India http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Julia-Roberts-embraces-Hinduism/articleshow/6267826.cms#ixzz0w8alZeLy

the evil in dark places

Just a little thought I had a few minutes ago. I was sending an e-mail to help a reader who asked for my advice. In referring to the false teachings going on these days I had this thought. It’s a little strange, but true. And since we’re dealing with some pretty strange teachings and manifestations, well…why not?

Did any of you ever watch those old black and white vampire movies? (I used to be horror crazy.) Remember, there was always some creepy guy watching out for the vampire, keeping him safe from the outside world – hidden away in the darkness. He was always quick to protect and maybe even give his own life for the vampire. He had nothing of his own and was sometimes portrayed as trance -like, as though under the influence of some unseen force.

It isn’t my intention to be cruel, but think about those who follow and protect the false teachers and prophets. They are very quick to lay down their all for the sake of the teacher, the vampire. Some are so entrenched they no longer see the truth, and have long forgotten what life was like when they lived purely for Jesus Christ. Just like the creepy movie character, they protect the evil hidden in the dark places.

Which Way to The Way?

While wondering around I came on a site about Martial Arts written by Gaylene Goodroad, a woman who practiced for quite a few years, earning two black belts.  She now warns others of its truth and the roots beneath this often-practiced religion disguised as a  self affirming, good-for-the-kiddies “sport” and self discipline.  She makes the link between MA and Contemplative Prayer or Meditation. Ahhh-HA! Fascinating!

You know how we have briefly discussed the CharisMANIA manifestations and the link to Kundalini in their shocking similarities? You will see the link between  the Kundalini “Serpent Power” and MA! More Ahhh-Ha!  Think Chuck Norris is one to follow?  Think again!

Make sure you take a look at the free PDF booklet offered on her site at the very bottom of the page. It is full of good information. As I write this I am reminded of a friend who takes her son to MA and claims she does not care if it is bad or not, as long as it helps him. It is no wonder with this mindset that other spiritual disciplines have crept into the church. They began in our homes!

Its been almost eighteen years since my conversion to Christ–and the renouncement of both my black belts–but it wasn’t until recently that I fully realized the close kinship between the spiritual roots of the martial arts and the Emergent/Contemplative spirituality engulfing the Church of Jesus Christ. After some research, I discovered that the devil’s lie from Genesis 3 has been cleverly repackaged and marketed to unsuspecting karate enthusiasts for hundreds of years, and is now simpatico among many professing Christians. Although I studied Okinawan and Japanese martial arts systems for thirteen years, I had unwittingly succumbed to a plethora of unbiblical beliefs and practices due to language differences among the many Eastern disciplines. For example, I hadn’t made the connection between “Do,” (meaning, “way“, in Japanese), with the Chinese (Confucianist) Tao/Dao, meaning the same thing. This becomes significant to the Christian, because the Do/Tao/Dao is synonymous with the Buddhist Yin/Yang philosophy which is pantheistic, not monotheistic, in nature. It is a spiritual “way“–or journey–diametrically opposed to biblical Christianity.

Follow the link to Gaylene’s blog and the PDF booklet. –

My Life in The Way – Gaylene Goodroad

**************************

The Soul and Treasure of Elton John

It astounds me, that most of the world’s most talented and gifted people cannot give honor to the

Elton John

God who died for them, the one who gave them their abilities to do what they do. They flat out deny Him, speaking their ignorance to the world of things they do not know, becoming a model for others to follow.

People don’t understand why I have a hard time listening to secular music. I believe writing, whether it is the music or the lyrics comes from within a person from the very soul. I believe it is a part of who a person is and epitomizes what they believe. This one believes Jesus, the Messiah was a gay man. I have nothing in common with that man’s soul belief therefore his music has nothing to offer me.

For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Matthew 6:21

The famous Elton John and his comment about Jesus being a compassionate, gay man told by NY Daily News.

“Religion promotes hatred and spite against gays,” the openly gay performer told the Observer’s Music Monthly magazine in 2006. “From my point of view, I would ban religion completely.

“”I think Jesus was a compassionate, super-intelligent gay man who understood human problems,” he tells Parade. “On the cross, he forgave the people who crucified him.”

Speaking to WGN-TV entertainment reporter, Dean Richards, John says his statement was taken out of context.

Video interview here

He said, “let me clarify. I’m not saying to everyone that he definitely was gay; that’s just how I see him from MY point of view as a compassionate gay person. I see him as a compassionate person who forgave people. That’s how “I” see him. Everyone’s individual faith is their own business.

Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled. Matthew 5:6

Elton John is partially right. Jesus was compassionate – Matthew 9:36. He did forgive those who crucified him – Luke 23:34.

But there is more –

Jesus is the promised Messiah -John 4:25 The woman said to Him, “I know that Messiah is coming” (who is called Christ). “When He comes, He will tell us all things”. 26 Jesus said to her “I who speak to you am He.”

He is God incarnate – John 1:1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was in the beginning with God. 14 And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.

Homosexuality is a sin – Leviticus 19:22 You shall not lie with a male as with a woman. It is an abomination.

Sin brings death – John 8:24″ Therefore I said to you that you will die in your sins; for do not believe that I am He, you will die in your sins.”

Freedom from the sin of death – John 8:34 “Jesus answered them, “Most assuredly, I say to you, whoever commits sin is a slave of sin. 35 And a slave does not abide in the house forever. 36 Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed.”

Revelation 21:7 – He who overcomes shall inherit all things, and I will be his God and he shall be My son. 8 But the cowardly, unbelieving, abominable, murderers, sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars shall have their part in the lake which burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death.

How sad this man cannot see the connection that in Jesus Christ we are free from sin, free to live eternally with the God who created us! What can the world and its lusts offer us in comparison? Nothing is as glorious!

We can make whatever conclusion we would like to, build whatever kind of belief system or religion that suits our own needs to allow us to continue to live the way we choose. But the truth remains the truth, and at the end of life we will all give an account for our choices.  Those who love and practice a lie  – Revelation 22:15 -will not enter in the kingdom of God. Revelation 21:27  But there shall by no means enter it anything that defiles, or causes an abomination or a lie, but only those who are written in the Lamb’s Book of life.

He who testifies to these things says, “Surely I am coming quickly.” Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus! Revelation 22:20.

The Beautiful Mystical Lies of Avatar

Some time back I went to see the movie Avatar with my husband. Normally, I take a peek on the internet before I go to get an idea of the movie, but this time I didn’t do that. I have to say after the first couple of minutes I hated the thing.  Yes, it was all so very colorful and wonderful. Yet, It was so strange, very close to Native American beliefs, goddess worship, mother earth and of course the selfish destructive ways of mankind.  But for  me and my experiences there was an eerie reminder of Charismania, that  same “plug in to the source” thing that brings the “knowing”, the power. It was too close to what I have worked so hard to rid myself of.

I told myself none of it really mattered, nothing in the movie is true. But I can’t even agree with myself on that because so many other people who do not know the Lord Jesus Christ and the plans God has for those who believe will be so blinded by this misguided tale. (Just like DaVinci Code.)

I wanted to write something about it but found that I could not remember enough detail to bring a good explanation. I attribute my forgetfulness to my great hatred of the film. But, this morning I came upon a great article, the best I have read and so want to share it here. I so appreciate the work done by the author Berit Kjos! It is with great hope and prayer that the beautiful and mystical lies of Avatar will be revealed and the truth be known. How great the Father’s love for us; Jesus Christ is the Savior and apart from Him there is none.

The article follows and here is the link –

The Mind Changing Myths of Avatar

By Berit Kjos
February 22, 2010

NewsWithViews.com

Blending Hinduism, Shamanism and Goddess Spirituality

“We…need to reawaken something very old…our understanding of Earth wisdom. We need to accept the invitation to the dance — the dance of unity of humans, plants, the Earth.”[1] Deep Ecology

“I propose that Cameron is alluding to that tenth avatar of Vishnu becoming manifest as the US marine in Pandora’s universe. The deliberate choice of the blue skin instantly, magically and metaphorically relates our protagonist to two previous avatars namely Rama and Krishna.”[2] Sita Wadhwani, Mumbai Editor

“When I woke up this morning after watching Avatar for the first time yesterday, the world seemed… gray. It was like my whole life, everything I’ve done and worked for, lost its meaning…. I live in a dying world.”[3] Avatar-forums.com

“…the whole world is under the sway of the evil one.” 1 John 5:19

The tall, long-tailed natives of Pandora, a distant earth-like moon, fit into a unified spiritual network that links all of nature. They ride through the skies on powerful birds, climb the stony walls of magnificent hanging mountains, worship their goddess, and despise the corporate monstrosity that has invaded their habitat in search of priceless resources.

Those earthly intruders intend to excavate Pandora’s most sacred spot. To avoid war, they brought a scientific team trained to befriend the indigenous Na’vi people and persuade them to move.

That team includes latecomer Jake Sully, a paraplegic Marine replacing his slain twin brother. After some training, his mind and consciousness would periodically be transferred to his Na’vi-like avatar — a body originally made to match his brother’s DNA.

Remember the Hindu word avatar? It refers to an incarnation or manifestation of a Hindu god. The most common avatars are incarnations of the god Vishnu, and they include the mischievous flute-playing Krishna (pictured below) and the bow-and-arrow carrying Rama (pictured above). Both are pictured with bluish skin — just like the native Na’vis.

Testing his new avatar legs, tail and body, Jake heads for the forest, admires the flowers, and faces a rhino-sized beast. This strange world is nothing like the gray, polluted earth he left behind![4]

Moments later, a snarling panther-like thanator chases him deeper into the woods where he meets the beautiful Neytiri who aims her bow and arrow at him. Fortunately, she receives a message from her mysterious goddess through a cloud of white flower-like creatures that settle on Jake — a clear sign that the goddess [Eywa] wants Neytiri to befriend this ignorant stranger. But first she scolds him for causing the death of other terrifying pursuers.

Hmmm. Do you wonder why Neytiri carries a bow and arrow when “all life is one”?[5]

Jake does his best to follow the sure-footed Neytiri (climbing, leaping, etc.) back to Hometree, her clan’s sacred domain. She introduces him to Mo’at, her psychic mother who happens to be the tribal tsahik (shaman speaking for Eywa). She tells her daughter to train this “dreamwalker” in their native ways. Some of the clan warriors look skeptical.

Jake is a good pupil, and his lessons on pantheistic unity soon shift his loyalty from his worldly mission to the tribe and Eywa. So when his commander prepares to destroy Hometree and much of the sacred forests, Jake springs into action. Through psychic linkage, he tames and rides the fiercest bird of all — the mighty Toruk, who became his “spirit animal” through a ritual Spirit Quest.[4] Speeding above the forests, he gathers Pandora’s tribes for war.

He prays to Eywa for help, and she answers his plea. She summons birds and beasts of every kind. With such an army, how could they lose?

Her final “miracle” is to transfer Jake’s life from his injured earthly body to his Na’vi avatar. Now, he’s one of them!

It all sounds good to earthlings who love the myth of pantheistic oneness! No wonder thousands of viewers became depressed (even suicidal) after visualizing Pandora’s wonders — then having to drop their 3-D glasses into the recycling bin at the exit! Ponder the potential effect of this seductive journey on those who love fantasy more than facts:

“Ever since I went to see ‘Avatar’ I have been depressed. Watching the wonderful world of Pandora and all the Na’vi made me want to be one of them. I can’t stop thinking about all the things that happened in the film… I even contemplate suicide thinking that if I do it I will be rebirthed in a world similar to Pandora…'”[3] (Mike at Avatar-forums.com)

The reality behind this mind-bending, feeling-based mythology is the existence of an occult spiritual system. Avatar’s promotion of pantheism and panentheism point to the “spiritual unity” at the heart of Hinduism, Native American shamanism and the worship of Mother Earth. They all clash with God’s truth.

“Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil; who put darkness for light, and light for darkness!” Isaiah 5:20-21

1. HINDU GODS AND THEIR AVATARS

Writer and director Sudipto Chattopadhyay believes that Cameron’s choice of the title (Avatar) reflects a Hindu perspective:

“The ancient Hindu scriptures have forever reiterated that whenever the world would be on the brink of disaster and mankind faces extinction… the divine Lord Vishnu would consider it his duty to manifest himself in mortal, palpable form to save mankind from the impending doomsday. …the Avatar is meant to be the savior, the messiah of his own race and people.”[2]

In Cameron’s mythical movie, planet Pandora was certainly facing a major disaster, and Jake — incarnated in his Na’vi avatar — seems to be the saving avatar. After all, he was chosen and approved by the goddess herself!

Chattopadhyay is not the only one affirming the Hindu suggestions in this movie. Rajan Zed, president of the Universal Society of Hinduism, repeats the need for intervention through an avatar — though he may not approve of this movie:

“’Avatar’, a Sanskrit term, means descent or incarnation. Hinduism is shaped by its traditional belief in the incarnation of Vishnu (the Preserver in Hindu trinity) into ten forms to establish dharma (divine law), which include Matsya, Kurma… Rama, Krishna, Buddha…. Hindus believe that without such intervention, the entire created universe would have gone into decline.”[6]

To better understand the pantheistic aspects of Hinduism, please check our Glossary of Religious Terms. For a glimpse of the dark side of Hinduism please read Let the Little Children Come.

2. GODDESS SPIRITUALITY

“The spiritual sense of our place in nature… can be traced to the origins of human civilization,”[7] wrote Al Gore in his 1990 book, Earth in the Balance.

Mr. Cameron would probably agree. Since he and Gore seem to think alike on some issues, ponder this next statement. Here Al Gore suggests that,

“a goddess religion was ubiquitous throughout much of the world until the antecedents of today’s religions…. The last vestige of organized goddess worship was eliminated by Christianity. …it seems obvious that a better understanding of a religious heritage preceding our own by so many thousands of years could offer us new insights…”[7]

Useful “new insights” from “goddess worship”? What might they be? In his next statement, Mr. Gore gives us a clue:

“The richness and diversity of our religious tradition throughout history is a spiritual resource long ignored by people of faith [Christians?] who are often afraid to open their minds to teachings first offered outside their own system of belief. But the emergence of a civilization in which knowledge moves freely and almost instantaneously throughout the world has… spurred a renewed investigation of the wisdom distilled by all faiths. This panreligious perspective may prove especially important where our global civilization’s responsibility for the earth is concerned.”[7]

Finally, Gore quotes Dr. Karan Singh, a Hindu environmentalist who wrote, “The Earth is our mother, and we are all her children.”[7] That should arouse fear rather than comfort, for when we look back to ancient goddess-worshipping cultures, we see unspeakable cruelty. [Read more]

“…they speak a vision of their own heart… They continually say to those who despise Me, ‘The Lord has said, ‘You shall have peace’ and to everyone who walks according to the dictates of his own heart, they say, ‘No evil shall come upon you.’” Jeremiah 23:16

3. NATIVE AMERICAN PANTHEISM, ANIMISM, AND SHAMANISM

According to Al Gore, Native American religions “offer a rich tapestry of ideas about our relationship to the earth.” He quotes Chief Seattle, who supposedly asked this question:

“Will you teach your children what we have taught our children? That the earth is our mother? . . . This we know: the earth does not belong to man, man belongs to the earth. All things are connected like the blood that unites us all.” [7]

Sounds like Pandora, doesn’t it? And it’s just as unreal. Those words were actually written by Ted Perry for a 1971 environmental movie. It was just the message they needed to persuade viewers of their point of view!

Likewise, the mythical Na’vi present “right” ideology. Largely patterned after today’s idealized views of Native Americans, they draw viewers into an unforgettable encounter with the “illusions of oneness.” Few realilze that behind the “beautiful side of paganism” lie the same human tendencies that bring pain and destruction to all parts of the world: greed, violence, competition, and war.

The late Dr. Clark Wissler, Curator Emeritus of the Department of Anthropology at the American Museum of Natural History, was recognized as a world authority on Native Americans. In his book, Indians of the United States, he describes all the admirable aspects of their culture: their love for their children, their hospitality and their beliefs.

He also had the courage to expose the sad facts. Stripping away the popular myth of perfect harmony, Wissler shows us that Native Americans struggle with the same human nature we do. Look at some popular myths in the light of additional facts.

• Harmony with nature? To stampede a herd of buffalo, hunters might set the grass on fire behind the flock. The escaping herd would “flounder into a swamp or tumble over a cliff.”

• Preserver of life? “The early Indian hunted the wild horse for food, which may be one of the reasons why they became extinct long before white men came to America.”

• Respect for all life? The Iroquois, noted for democratic self-government, “planned to destroy the Huron. It was not to be a war of subjugation; they hated the Huron intensely…. After taking the first town, the massacred the entire population. If they took captives, it was to torture them to death.” [8]

I don’t want to diminish the wrongs committed against Native Americans: killing, selling alcohol, taking their land, ignoring treaty obligations… Yet our children need to see these tragic violations in the light of the whole truth. Apart from our Creator and Savior, human nature everywhere will express its selfishness and violence. If we dismiss uncomfortable facts in order to prove a false ideal, we perpetuate the lies. We also hide the only solution that works –- trusting and following God.

Filling minds with occult visions will surely immunize the masses against the Truth of God. His reality is incompatible with mystical fantasy! Yet people has, through the ages, chosen to compromise God’s truths with their imagination. Remember the moral condition of the masses back in Noah’s days:

“…every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.” Genesis 6:5

Similar conditions will prevail when Jesus returns. (See Luke 17:20) Today’s occult movies and computer games, playing on the imaginations of impressionable children, could open a “Pandora’s Box” of paganism and spiritual bondage. So let’s heed His warnings:

“Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ.” Colossians 2:8

Endnotes:

1, Bill Devall and George Session, Deep Ecology (Salt Lake City: Gibbs Smith Publisher, 1985), p. ix.
2, “The religious backdrop to James Cameron’s ‘Avatar‘”
3, A comment by “Hill” at Avatar-forums.com
4, Avatar: The Na’vi Quest, Adapted from the movie by Nicole Pitesa, (Harper Festival, 2009), pp. 1, 57. This small book provides some details not explained in the movie.
5, The above book answers that question: The Na’vi were meat-eating hunters, but they had to had to understand the pantheistic oneness before they could take life. When Jake kills a hexapede, he prays: “I see you, brother, and thank you. Your spirit goes with Eywa, your body stays behind to become part of the people.”[p.39]
6, Hindus ask for a disclaimer with James Cameron’s ‘Avatar’
7, Al Gore, Earth in the Balance; Ecology and the Human Spirit (Houghton Mifflin, 1992), pp. 260, 258-259, 261.
8, Clark Wissler, PILD, Indians of the United States (New York. Anchor Books, Doubleday), pp. 270, 14, 287, 131.

© 2010 Berit Kjos – All Rights Reserved

What was Looking Back at the Man in the Mirror

I don’t know where I am going to go with this exactly. I just feel like ranting for a moment or two.

Partly, my problem is Michael Jackson.  Having lost a child, Michael’s death breaks my heart for his family. I know that loss, that pain, that empty place that never gets filled again. I know all ways that it comes back, in the little things, the holidays, in the faces of other family members, in our memories and little jokes and in our dreams.  I know every detail of what could have been, but never will be.

I look at the news on TV, I read the articles, but I see nothing from them, not even a hint of grief.  And this could be in part because they are grieving in private.  It could also be because the glorious media does not want us to see it that way. After all, they’ve honed that talent of getting us to listen and hear only what they deem important, or better said, what they deem the truth.

I watched with great anticipation the media coverage of his alleged child molestation charges both times.  Could it be true???  The media was right there waiting for him to be charged and found guilty, every moment they could grab they took advantage, every detail.  Criminals should be prosecuted.  Children should be protected, the public warned.  However, none of this took place.

Now, he has died, somewhat mysteriously, or at least that is what we are all being fed. One moment he was in bad health, the next it was good health, it was his heart, it wasn’t his heart. It was drugs, but then we don’t know that for sure either. One more detail means one more story. No matter, dead is still dead.

Forget the doubts, the allegations! He is a hero again- our hero, our “son”, the brightest and most talented of all time.  Some claim he is moon dancing on the streets of gold, someone else called him the prince of peace.  I’ve heard people say he was a giving, caring person. Was he?  Maybe so, in part. But maybe the goodness in him was buried so far down it couldn’t find its way out. Everyone with a story is on camera giving it. Everyone wants a chance to be known as a pal of the late, great Michael Jackson.

Farrah Fawcett died that very same day. Her funeral has taken place.  She was mourned and buried, someone said she was mourned like normal people morn their lost.  Not so with the death of Michael. Now we have another week of this charade, the mourners, the worshippers, the Michael story tellers and the big upcoming public funeral.  They will sell seats, maybe popcorn and cotton candy to bring in a few more bucks. If you can’t get in, you can watch it broadcast from big screen TVs. Or maybe from your own, something maybe HBO could pick up. Or we can package it and sell it later on, market it for Christmas on DVD – what a great gift it would make.

Michael did  not become famous on his own.  Had the public not worshipped him, his music, his moves, his lifestyle he would not have been famous.  He would not have been given the opportunity to inflict his disgust on so many for so long in so many different ways. And maybe there  never would have been the claims from those boys and thier families. The public only needed to stand up and say that it was wrong, gone too far, too explicit, not acceptable.  Isn’t that the stance taken with Elvis and his girating moves? Yes, and with good reason.

We don’t do that anymore.  We have freedom of speech, freedom of expression of our creativity. It’s music, after all! We have “choice”, and if  you don’t like it, don’t listen, turn it off, but let others alone.  Its our right, this is America, home of the free. Criminals are not prosecuted, children are not protected, the public is not warned. We have lost our dignity as a country.  We have no shame. We share in the sins of others.

I think the only thing left to do is to stuff  his body and parade him around on a float.  It’s summer, so why not send him around state to state as an act to the county fairs?  Then the public will have ample chance to pay homage to their king of pop.  And the money mongers will have thier fill of thier newest side show and will cash in big time. The media will experience more job security. No one cares about real news headlines anyway. Let’s bleed this man’s worth for every penny we can while we still can. Disgusting thoughts, aren’t they?

What is in the heart of a family who would allow any of this to continue for one more moment?

Even though I haven’t listened to his music for many years, I keep hearing some of his songs in my head – Ben, Billy Jean and the Man in the Mirror. I think of all the stories I heard of him over the years, his childhood, the abuse, the neglect and down right abandonment. What kind of a father takes his young sons to strip clubs to perform? It seems he was only alive to provide for his family, those who should have been providing for him, supporting him, loving him.   I wonder the horror that he endured as a child and as a man.  The pain and degredation that never healed, never left him.  I wonder about his dreams and the thoughts that went through his mind over the years. I wonder what he saw when he looked at himself in the mirror, or more importantly what was looking back at him.

I think of his children in the hands of those who made him who he is.

I wonder what kind of man he could have been otherwise.

The Lord says we reap what we sow.  He says that the sins of the fathers are passed to thier children, He says we share in evil when we do not speak against it.

Who is to blame?