Your
Comments
Harry
Potter & Witchcraft - #8
Your
responses to
Chart: Harry Potter Overview
Harry Potter & The Order of the Phoenix - "It's
just fantasy" and other deceptions
new
Twelve
reasons not
to see Harry Potter movies
|
Bewitched
by Harry Potter
Harry Potter Lures Kids to Witchcraft - with praise from Christian leaders
Harry
Potter and D&D |
Harry Potter and the Power of Suggestion
Movie Magic and
Unconscious Learning |
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
Home ~ Index
For all previous Harry
Potter comments, click here:
Potter 1,
2, 3,
4, 5,
6, 7
From Amanda:
I'm guessing you people are the ones who wrote those slanderous comments about
Harry Potter... AND the author? I think it was the "12 reasons not to see Harry
Potter movies" that got to me the most. I'd like to start off by saying, you are
two very ugly people (which is completely out of relevance, but I thought I'd
say that anyway..). Second, I believe in God and Jesus. Although, I am
non-denominational. That way, I won't have to sit there and persecute everyone
else for what they write and/or believe in. Not only has Rowlands denied being a
Satanist, not once is Satan even mentioned in her books.
Have you ever looked up the
meaning of "slanderous", Amanda?
About magic... As you God-experts should know, He doesn't limit us to anything.
Sure, He sets rules, but allows us to make choices. If people want to make
fantasy a reality, then let them. Just keep your opinions to yourself, because
they're irritating.
We can't stop anyone from making
occult fantasy a reality, Amanda. But we can post God's warnings. Then every one
can choose how to respond to those warnings.
You say our opinions irritate
you. Why then do you read them? And why should we lose our freedom to state our
views while you can freely write your angry opinions
I know I'm being a hypocrite for saying so, though... but you people need to
lighten up. Seriously, I feel very sorry for your children - if you've ever had
any. They probably never had a chance to learn about the world without you
interfering with that. It's disgusting. Religion is the main reason people can't
get along. About a week ago, my Mom told me about her church when she was
little. They weren't allowed to have certain things. The church discouraged
having a TV. And they weren't allowed to go to the movies, unless it was rated
G. I mean, God, people with ideas in their heads are scary! Dreamers should be
shot! Anyone that thinks outside of the Bible mustn't be allowed to walk the
earth! Right? I think not.
That's what you and many other
fans of occult entertainment seem to be saying, Amanda. But Christians don't say
that. Those who truly follow God would want to reach out to unbelievers with
love and compassion. His missionaries have always been willing to risk their
lives by traveling to poor, lawless parts of the world in order to free people
who longed for release from bondage to occult forces and deadly diseases.
This world doesn't belong to you or your thoughts, and there are people that
don't want to be "saved." If God wants someone to believe in Him, he would make
them Himself. But to your dismay, we have choices! Magic is fantasy. If people
want to practice with that, sure. That's fine. It's their choice. FREEDOM. They
should be able to do what they will without you being such jerks about it.
Have some decency. Quit talking so big about persecution, when you're the ones
doing it.
How do you define
persecution, Amanda? We have posted some examples on this page:
Don't
Mention Jesus
Treat others how you want to be treated. I know many very wonderful Christians.
Safe to say, you're not included in that list. They're kind no matter what. Have
you ever met a Wiccan/Pagan, or someone who practices magic?
Many, Amanda. You can read
some of our discussions in
A Twist of Faith -
chapter 1 and Chapter
4.
The latter begins with my talk with a young
witch/teacher/lesbian as we were walking together among the majestic redwood
trees in Muir Woods.
Then read some of the testimonies
of neopagans who longed to escape from demonic torment and were finally freed
through the grace of God. You can find them at the beginning of
Chapter 3 and the end of
Chapter 6.
Don't talk big about things you know nothing about. "Don't question the thought,
it's what's always been told," is probably what you practice. Try to look at
things (life) from a different angle. Yes, from what you know, God has always
been there, and apparently, it's been said from the beginning of time. Nothing
can be proven to the point that it can't be questioned. That's the truth. Pure
and simple. I believe in God from personal experiences, not from the ___ you
people spew.
The rest of
Amanda's first letter was posted
at Multiple Topics
Second letter from Amanda:
Okay, I've taken this time to reply to the message you have on your site
directed to me.
'Have you ever looked up the meaning of "slanderous", Amanda?'
"Slander" is simply something that isn't true, or a false statement, dear. Maybe
I should have written you with different wording, so you may have understood. My
fault.
Here is the Random House
Unabridged Dictionary definition: "1. defamation, calumny; rumors full of
slander. 2. Malicious, false, defamatory statement or report...."
My articles were based on facts,
quotes and primarily Ms Rowling's own writings. My purpose was to equip
Christian families with accurate information (presented from a Christian
perspective), not to maliciously defame anyone.
Just to tell you, I am not a fan of Harry Potter. In
fact, a friend sent me the link to your site because she was disturbed with the
things you said about her favorite book and movie. In the end, I was also upset.
'Those who truly follow God would want to reach out to unbelievers with love and
compassion.'
Who are you to judge the way someone feels about God? Seriously? Do you think
you're some sort of disciple? Well, here's some news.. chances are, you're not.
You can try to make fantasy a reality (haha) all you want. I don't care.
However, it's irritating that you're not only competing with, but also arguing
with a 16-year-old. Those remarks about Harry Potter on your site were offending
to fans, and I'm sure if the author read it, she too would be very offended. You
can try to act compassionate and loving all you want, but in the end, you're
only insulting people. Making them hate Christians more so. Instigating fights.
You open these doors to yourself. I have no doubt in my mind that you're not a
"good" Christian. I don't care, really.
You say you know Wiccans and Pagans. I didn't take the time out of my life to
read that page. But have you ever just had a "normal" conversation with one?
Without including religion? It's highly doubtful. I have. A lot of my friends
are Wiccans and Pagans. And that's why they choose not to hate other religions.
If I am nice (also not judgmental, mind you) and they know what religion I am,
then how quick do you suppose they think, "Hey, people that believe in God
aren't so bad, after all"? Because it's the truth. You people are seemingly
raised to judge others - the exact opposite of what you're taught to do. You
need to find a better way to tell the gospel.
Amanda, we are critiquing
books and other forms of entertainment and cultural influences. We are judging
the message communicated to the Christian community, not people. We didn't judge
you or Ms. Rowling, we judged her teachings to be contrary to God's Word. Please
see What to judge
or not to judge
From Amy:
I read the posted Harry Potter comments quite
often. I am amazed at how defensive people are about Harry Potter. People say
they are just harmless fun, and don't harm children. What would people think
about a book like this:
Little Terrorists: Set in the Middle East
three young boys become close friends as they train together in a terror camp.
You'll follow them as they attend their classes which teach them how to make
bombs and plan terror attacks. Sometimes they get into trouble and even use
what they have learned on their teachers. Follow them as they bond together
and learn that friendship and loyalty to allah are the most important things
in life.
People would be outraged if there was a child's
book that explained in detail how to make bombs and plan terror attacks. Also,
terrorism isn't entertainment, it is real. Witchcraft shouldn't be
entertainment either. Witchcraft is real and it destroys lives. There are real
witches out there just like there are real terrorist.
Thank you, Amy.
From
Kristina Lynn: I would like to praise
you on the success of your web site. As I was reading your webpages, I begame
VERY DISPLEASED with some of what i read. I am a christian also, but as I came
accross an article ''12 reasons not to read Harry Potter books'' I would just
like to say that I am discusted by the fact that you would put that on a
CHRISTIAN web site. God has taught us to be kind and truthfull, and you say
that these books are sitanic and not to go to them, well I think that you
should'nt be making judgements about these books.
I have read these books along with my children,
THERE IS NOTHING SATANIC ABOUT THESE HARRY POTTER NOVELS! If you read this
books Harry does countless acts of kindness and bravary. I would like to
praise J.K. Rowling on the great work she has done with these books. She has
made the chearector Harry have many choices where he could have power,
mortality, and many other gifts that a ''wisard'' would prize, but Harry
chooses ''good'' over ''evil'', so I definately think that these Harry Potter
books are not satanic.
Also I am displeased how you twisted the words
of the child actors who portray the roles of Harry Potter, his friend Ron
Weasley, and Harry & Ron's foe, making the children sound like they are evil,
and like being trouble makers. You make it sound like your children have never
done anything to break the rules. Nobody, ABSOLUTLY, NOBODY IS PERFECT. Not
even you and your ''christian'' website, which I find ''anti-christian'' that
you would make these children sound like little ''devil worshipers''.
I didn't say that,
Kristina. Nor did I say that the books were satanic. But I did say that they
teach occult reasoning and principles. Please read Harry
Potter Overview
and
Harry Potter & The Order of the Phoenix - "It's
just fantasy" and other deceptions.
They are only children, don't put them through
that kind of ridacule from other ''christians'' that visit your website and
are saticfied with it.
Kristina, are you saying a
child who recognizes the occult themes and suggestions in Harry Potter, then
-- out of true concern -- warns her friends about those spiritual messages,
would be ridiculing her friends?
God calls His
followers to be "watchmen" who are alert to spiritual threats to our faith and
ready to warn others. The main danger in the Old Testament was the interest in
and pursuit of pagan gods and practices. Once again we are seeing the same
kind of fascination. Children in Christian families are captivated by
seductive occult myths and practices. We need to be alert and encourage each
other to stay true to God and His Word. See
2 Timothy 4:3-4,
discernment, and
Watchman in Christ and
Gal. 6:1-4.
Yes, I understand that Harry Potter does'nt
exist, but thats just it, these books don't exist, they are not real, so why
try to make such a fuss over the books?
I answered that
question in
Harry Potter and the Power of Suggestion.
Would you please read that article -- asking God to show you His heart and
will concerning Harry Potter?
Why try to stop people from reading these
books? Is it that you have nothing better to do than try to stop people,
children, from reading these wonderful books? To try to make trouble for the
author J.K. Rowling? I don't think that you should be putting this kind of
negativaty on your websites, because I know that children come to this ''christian''
website and I don't think that children should be influenced by your
negativity.
If you want to read
something positive, Kristian, please read some of the stories about brave
children who triumphed against all kinds of hostility because they refused to
compromise:
True Stories. Then see
the
Armor of God
I just thought that you should know that i will
not be letting my children go to your website and that I will tell other
people not to go to your website either, I think that the negativity that you
are putting on your website, saying ''don't read these books!'' '' these books
are bad!'' ''you should all HATE the author!'' ''you should HATE the actors
that play in the movies based on the books!'' is ''satanic''. I think that
saying all those mean and hateful things is ''satanic''! I know that you will
try to ignor this letter and not show on your website that THERE ARE PEOPLE
WHO LOVE GOD AND HARRY POTTER AND THAT THOSE PEOPLE ARE NOT SATANIC, but it
just show that your website is not about god, it's about what you think people
will beleive you say about god. I am discusted with your website, but I'm not
going to go make a webpage saying ''12 reasons why you should not visit the
website Crossroads.com'' unlike you I am a real christian and will not sink
down to your leval of hatred. I am a christian. I am better than that.
Jack Baldwin: Thank you so much for
your true testimony of our Lord Jesus Christ. I have read some of the articles
sent to you regarding Harry Potter. I find it amazing that one could say I
love God and I love Harry Potter in the same sentence. First of all they are
using the word love in two different meanings. I would hope the the love to
God is Agape love which we must always have toward Him and others. This is
relational love that goes deeper than any other love. Please do not let your
readers be confused with the different forms of love.
I love pizza, I love Harry Potter, I love fast
cars are just examples of a way we show that we may enjoy that particular
item. Please write a summary to be included with the next person that writes
that the love HP and they love God!!
By the way I agree that we should refrain from
involving ourselves with any type of occult practices and evil things in this
world. We are in the world but not of it!!!!
Thank you, Jack.
From Paul Archer: In reference to your
article on Harry Potter and its satanic nature and the messages it delivers to
our children. i would like to state that i am a catholic christian and have
been raised by my parents to read, take in and understand television, movies,
media and other forms of communication/entertainment. i was raised like
this in order to prevent my mind being polluted with thoughts of satanism or
going against my religion and own personal beliefs, as i was taught to
understand and recognise what is good and what is "evil". i have learnt, that
it is impossible to understand happiness unless you experience sadness, that
it is not possible to concieve what is good unless you experience what is
evil.
Who told you that,
Paul? That's certainly not a Christian notion. But it does match the message
given Eve by the serpent in the garden. Read the section below the chart on
this page: Three kinds of
temptation
the bible, particularly the old testament,
cannot teach everything that is to be experience or that which is right or
wrong in life. if this were so the bible would be much too long for one
individual to read, understand and base ones life upon. it is a guide. it is a
guide to ensure that the great commandment in christian life is able to follow
"love one another as god loves us" to "love your enemy" and if struck by
another to "turn the other cheek and ask to be struck again".
Listen to what Jesus
told us: “‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with
all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the first and great
commandment." Matthew 22:37-38
“He who has My
commandments and keeps them, it is he who loves Me. And he who loves Me
will be loved by My Father, and I will love him and manifest Myself to him.”
John 14:21
He wants us to make it
our aim to know and do His will -- that which pleases Him -- not
search for exciting or evil experiences. Those experiences will blind you to
what is good, not help you understand it.
Of course - only by His
Spirit in us can we know and do what pleases Him. I can't do
anything good apart from His grace and His life in me. By myself I would fail,
but I trust Jesus to accomplish it all in me -- moment by moment.
how can every aspect of life be so closely
referenced in one book? it cannot. therefore the bible is not to be so
literally understood. through a metaphorical understanding of the messages
included in the bible can one be guided and helped to understand lifes
experiences. one cannot however as i have stated before understand lifes
experiences if they are not first experienced personally.
By what great
authority or source of wisdom do you deny what God says, Paul? Or is this just
your preferred opinion?
on a personal note however i see no wrong in
harry potter. it may refer to witches and shape shifting and whatever but it
does not have satanic messages.
I didn't say it had
"satanic messages." But the power behind witchcraft, shape shifting and other
pagan or occult practices are not from God. In fact, He presents them as
expressions of the enemy of good throughout the Bible. Look at some of the
other Scriptures in
Harry Potter & The Order of the Phoenix
and
Twelve
reasons not
to see Harry Potter movies
it is a classic battle between good and evil.
it teaches children to understand good and evil, and understanding which is
taught within all christian education systems today.
The battle is between
"white" magic and "black" magic, Paul. God tells us to avoid both, since both
sides use the forces of evil.
also in reference to your own comments to other
peoples letters, you claim to understand, follow and have based your life as a
christian. how can you question others in a manner as you did "you call
yourself a christian?". what is it of your buisness to judge the devotion and
degree of belief of others?
Have you read some of
the letters that Harry Potter fans send me? Who is judging who, Paul?
Keep in mind, I am sharing
what God's Word says about books, movies, RPGs and other popular
entertainment. I'm not attacking people. But please notice that many people
are personally attacking me. I don't mind that, because my goal is to please
my Lord. I have no desire to compromise my faith to please people. But I
do want you to see what is actually happening.
By the way, here are some
Scriptures that shows us what God wants us to
judge.
here you disobey one of the ten commandments
"thou shalt not judge others". i admit myself i am not the ideal christian
because there is no such thing as the ideal christian. i know that to a lot of
things which i have stated in this letter you can reply by quoting the old
testament. this would be the action of a fundamental christian who has failed
to keep up with the need to interpret the word within the context of the
times.
You mean, we should keep
changing the Bible to fit our changing culture? What about these Scriptures:
Psalm 119:11
i know that you may choose to ignore my letter
as you could possible pass judgement once again as i have given you the
information that i am a catholic, yet i will not pass judgement upon you being
a fundamental christian instead i am writing to you as a human being to
another human being following my conscience shaped by a strict catholic
upbringing to another conscience, shaped by a strict christian upbringing.
please post this letter to PROVE that you
accept my argument and feel free to attempt to CORRECT ME WRONG.
From Paul Adderson: Just surfed on into your
site and have read with interest your views on Harry Potter. I have to say
that I'm pretty disappointed. We in the UK have heard of how the American
Christian groups have been up in arms over something so harmless as Harry
Potter and to see your contributors foaming at the mouth denouncing the
books/movies as evil and ways in which to turn kids to the occult is just
laughable.
As if it's not hard enough these days being a Christian, we've got idiots like
you spouting off garbage like there's no tomorrow. Your views on Harry Potter
are pathetic and give Christians a bad name.
Yours disapprovingly,
I am not surprised at your
disapproval, Paul. Christians who refuse
to compromise have always stirred hostility and rage in those who want their
churches and lives to blend with the world and please the masses. This
morning, I was reading about the persecution of British "Nonconformists" in
17th century England. They included Puritans, Baptists and others who wanted
to follow God rather than the man-made dictates of the institutional Anglican
church. During the reigns of King James I and King Charles who followed him,
many were forced to flee and found freedom in America.
It would be easier to
justify occult entertainment if people like Andy and me could be shamed or
pressured into silence. But whether our visitors (who come of their own free
will) like it or not, we have to share what we believe God has shown us. Keep
in mind, we are not trying to ban Harry Potter or tell you what to do. But we
do want to encourage those who ask for help and "have ears to hear" what the
Bible tells us.
Jesus told His friends long
ago, "If you were of the
world, the world would love its own. Yet because you are not of the world, but
I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you.... If they
persecuted Me they will persecute you... for they do not know the One who sent
Me." John 15:19-21
From Ian: I am 29 years old, live in
England, and very close to Hogwarts. I was raised in a Church of England/Elim
Pentecostal Church household, have studied Christian Theology at University (
as well as Philosophy ), and still think that you are speaking absolute
rubbish about Harry Potter ! Every " born again "Christian I have ever had the
misfortune to meet, have been " Holier than Thou ", and Hypocrites - including
you !
Okay, you profess to be Christs soldiers (
Good, Pure souls ), and yet you still read the Harry Potter books. Are you not
GUILTY of disobeying the Holy Bible yourselves by actually reading about
sorcery/witchcraft ? Are you not yourselves disobeying the CRUEL, TYRANICAL (
EVIL ) JEHOVAH of the Old Testement? Will he be pleased that you yourselves
have completely ignored his commandments - your EXCUSE being that you want to
save all of His divine children from this evil Harry Potter ?
Hypocracy is alive and living in America !
WISE, GOOD, UNHYPOCRITICAL FOLK OF THE WORLD - IGNORE THESE IDIOTS. TRUST
CHRIST ( NOT EVIL JEHOVAH ), TRUST IN LOVE, AND TRUST IN HARRY POTTER. By the
way, I have read the Holy Bible 20 times, and I know it inside out - so dont
bother quoting at me. Signed, angry & saved by Jesus !
Ian, even though you know the
Bible "inside out," let me remind you of a few Scriptures that you might have
forgotten (I often need such reminders):
"...have no fellowship with
the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose them." Ephesians
5:11
Romans 12:2-9,
Isaiah 5:20,
Galatians 6:7-8,
Colossians 2:8,
Deuteronomy 18:9-12
Second letter
from Ian: I am very sorry if I came
across as rude - if you met me I am one of the most loving, warm & friendly
human beings you could ever meet. Plus, I am normally polite to the point of
shyness ( typical Englishman I guess ! ). I honestly wish you no malice, only
love and happiness for you and your family. Its just that I think the Harry
Potter books are brilliant, and in the great Christian tradition of of other
British Writers - like C.S Lewis & Tolkien ( wonderful books with Christian
themes ). We live in a western society with a solid Judeo/Christian tradition,
and the Harry Potter books show these themes very, very clearly.
Ian, these so-called
"Christian" themes that supposedly help readers to better understand
"Christian" love, sacrifice, loyalty, etc. are more likely to have the
opposite effect. By offering an occult counterfeit of the perfect sacrifice
and love of Jesus Christ, they confuse a person's understanding of Biblical
truth and cheapen what Jesus accomplished by His atonement and death for us.
They also prompt readers to accept (love, approve and justify) the pagan
worldview and practices which He told us to shun.
Other "Christian themes" or
symbols such as the Phoenix (resurrection) and the unicorn (purity, strength,
healing), they are linked to pagan myths and meanings that promote the very
beliefs that God forbids. See
Symbols and their meaning.
Again, sorry if I was rude before - I apologise (
and you are not idiots ! ). My last word on the matter is, if Jesus Christ our
saviour returned to Earth tommorrow - I truly believe that he would read Harry
Potter himself, and smile at the huge amount of happiness & love it is
generating around the world. Respectfully yours,
From Jenni: You've heard from me
before, so I'll make this short and sweet. Harry Potter is NOT the only
fantasy book aimed towards children. Why endlessly persecute ONE series?
None of the others fantasies
sold over 8 million in their first week after release. No other fantasy has so
thoroughly captivated the hearts and minds of millions of children around the
world. None of the others have created a new global "language" or a common
delight in a contemporary form of paganism. No other book is training
children around the world to love and learn actual occult skills
used in actual occult orders. If you haven't already, please read
The Order of the Phoenix.
One doesn't "persecute" a
book. One "persecutes" people. Persecution involves hating certain groups of
people and denying them the right to express their opinion and share their
particular beliefs with each other without threats to their lives, property
and community.
Keep in mind, I neither hate
nor threaten you. I don't ask you to stop reading Harry Potter. Nor do I
suggest banning the books.
Besides, if kids are stupid enough to not know
the difference between fiction and real life, the parents are to blame. I know
you'll just twist my words as usual to reflect your conformist, neo-nazi
views, so I don't care if you post it to the website or not.
From Heather: i am 14. i love harry potter.
i even bought the 5th book the day after it came out. you people said that
harry potter makes children believe in witchcraft and wizardry. if you ever
read the books you just might know how we really feel about the FICTIONAL
books.
you know, god loves ALL of his children. no
matter what they read or watch. for example: say i was walking down the street
and i happen to say to my friend that i met along the way , hey , i love
magic. i also believe in hogwarts school of witchcraft and wizardry. do you
possibly think that god, my true father is going to say " i hate her and she
is going to burn in hell"?
Heather, I wonder how well
you really know our holy and just God. For example, in Psalm 5O, he warns
people who have rejected His truth and have followed the natural course of
their human nature that there will be consequences. He says,
"What right have you to
declare My statutes, or take My covenant in your mouth, seeing you hate
instruction and cast My words behind you? ... You thought that I was
altogether like you; but I will rebuke you...." Psalm
50:16-21
Heather, would you please
read these two descriptions of our God. These are not based on His own
revelation of Himself in the Bible -- not on my opinion:
The Lord,
The Way
and El
Shaddai, the Lord God Almighty.
Now i am not trying to offend you. seriously.
because i totally believe in god and his ways. but i can't believe how you
take one simple story that is so not true and change it into a totally
different thing. you seem to have your own opinion and so do all of the
millions of people and i who LOVE harry potter. all the things that these
little children are saying such as "i love harry potter, i want to be a witch/
wizard" will be grown out of when they are older.
i mean come on you shouldn't judge things by
their appearance. you have absolutely no idea what you are talking about. the
books do not say to go find a stick scream alohomora (open door) to a door and
then you will be a witch/wizard! we all know that the harry potter world
doesn't exist!!!!!!!! o.k. now, i also wanted to ask you a favor. i just want
you to give it one chance and you will see what it's really about. it's not
about changing our beliefs. it's a fictional story of some kids life who had
lost his parents at the age of one from a murder. it was horrible. and then he
finally gets to be happy when he goes to learn magic in a non real world.
That world is all too real
in the minds and imagination of Potter fans, Heather. Please read
Harry Potter
& The Order of the Phoenix
please, watch the movie. you'll love it. you
really will. at first i thought it was a dumb book when it first came out. but
then my best friend introduced it to me. and then i loved it. please take me
seriously and watch or read the book/movie. please you will not regret it.and
also when i get angry at my parents or my two sisters then i go to my room and
read harry potter. it takes me away to a fictional magic world and makes me
less angry. it's all about imagination. everyone including me know that it's
fake.
From C. D.:
I
just wanted to say that the books are all well written and have a great story
to them. I think that since you seem to be so intranced by your christianity,
and that it is as wonderful for you, that is great. But it doesn't give you or
any of the people who post on your site the right to call other peoples'
religions or spiritual values "lies".
Where did I call "other
people's religions...lies," CD?
I appreciate your desire not
to offend people with different beliefs, but on this website we do try to give
people opportunities to post opinions that oppose ours. That helps us all
understand the spiritual influences that are fast changing the world we live
in.
No one said that the bible is the only way,
infact unless god came down and spoke with you directly in your home, your
just working on the faith that there is a god. What about people who just lead
good decent lives, and don't bother anybody, why should they be talked down to
and called liars and bad people by you. Who are you or anyone else to judge
anybody? You are no better then anybody else. No matter what religion or
spitituality you believe in. Everyone is entitled to thier beliefs, whithout
christian people running around bad mouthing everyone all the time.
Its not our intention to
badmouth anyone, C.D. Could you give an example?
Keep in mind, our
goal is to help Christian parents raise children who trust God and want to
follow Him. Therefore, we do review books and critique popular entertainment
for Christian families. But, while we judge influences and cultural messages
from a Biblical perspective, we try to avoid criticizing people -- even
those who disagree with us. Here are some Bible verses that show our
position: when
to judge
Harry potter is just a book, a fun ,exciting
read. It is not destroying kids, it isn't dangerous for kids... it is
teaching them the basics of life underneath the story.
Yes, and that is part of my
concern. It teaches entirely different basics. Its values, beliefs and
worldview contradict and deny the Biblical view on page after page.
Like not everyone are good people, but you have
to try to be a good person yourself. And that along with fun and games, comes
hard work, studying, and determination.
I think its great. And on a furthur note I would just like to say, that this
letter is not a personal attack on anyone, it is just aimed out there at the
few intolerant christian people who believe they know everything, are above
and better then everyone else, and can insult anyones religion or spiritual
values because they "believe" that thier religion is the only one.
None of use were alive 2000 years ago. And so none of really know what
happened. God could be very real.... he could be one of many gods, he could
possibly be the best written story of all time, but we don't know...we "were
not there".
No, but there were plenty of
eyewitnesses who heard the teachings of Jesus and saw Him after His
resurrection. There testimonies were written in the gospels and verified
through various documents found by archeologists and recorded by historians.
Lets everyone just be tolerant of everyone
else, and for god sakes leave Harry Potter alone!
P.s This is not an attack on any one person, just a reminder that we should
all be nice and treat people how we would like to be treated.
From Fabienne:
I just read Brendan's comment on your HP articles.
His sentence, "It is a simple innocent story just like Little Red Riding Hood
and the like" makes it clear he has no idea how little innocence there is in
folk tales such as "Little Red Riding Hood". I would like to suggest he do
some research on the matter, perhaps starting with the following webpages:
'Little Red Riding Hood' by Prof. Waller Hastings, Northern State University,
SD
http://www.northern.edu/hastingw/redhood.htm
"The Origin and Evolution of Fairy Tales"
http://www.geocities.com/WallStreet/Floor/2391/essays/essay22.htm
He will see that fairy tales are far from
innocent, and I pray that he and others will have their eyes opened to the
fact that HP is just as far from being simple and innocent!
Thank you, Fabienne, for these very interesting links.
From Holly
(not the the one who wrote earlier):
I've had a whole night to think about your site
and it comes down to this... I hate that site. See, I've never even thought
about fiction as evil before...I've read it, I've wrote it-and yes,
occasionaly I've thought 'Where is God in all of this' as Christians, we all
do that. But until I was unlucky enough to stumble upon your site I never
seriously thought about what was okay to read and what wasnt -- I mean if that
were true there should be an eleventh commandment that says 'Thow shall not
read non'Christain novels'. But then, your site did get me thinking about
it-drove me crazy for awhile.
And then at about midnight it hit me...I was sitting there surrounded by every
fantasy novel I'd ever purchased, plus a Bible so that I could read all of the
passages you recommended, and I realized that I was waisting my time.
A book by itself cannot be evil! It's simply a collection of thoughts and
ideas. And granted some people take those ideas too far. But the fact is ANY
idea can be misinterrpreted and misused, including (and your gonna hate me for
this one) Christianity.
I've read the Harry Potter Books about
six times and Im not evil - Im not brewing potions in my bedroom or joining a
cult or hearing voices telling me to sacrifice animals to the Harry Potter
gods.
I appreciate your honesty,
Holly. But would you please read my last article on this topic -- and some of
the links that help explain my reasons for concern? You are not really
answering my concerns. If you have some specific questions after reading it, I
would love to answer you.
From Jeff Wallace:
I just scanned over several of the responses you
have received. As Jeff the seminarian student in Atlanta says, I too am struck
by the many negative, angry and defensive comments you get on Potter. I
believe I have said it already to you, but I just want to encourage you and
support you 100% as a fellow believer, that you are right on the mark
completely about the Potter books.
I notice that you post mostly the negative
responses (and I read your reasons for doing so, and I think they are very
good reasons). Frankly I am shocked at how many people say they are Christian,
yet are fully comfortable with the whole Potter darkness. It could not be more
Occultism 101 (now 102, 103, etc.....) if it tried.
Occultism is springing up now in the popular
culture all over the place, and is doing so at the same time our society, the
world, and popular culture is falling rapidly in a very amoral, dark, anti
Christ direction. It is very dissappointing to see so many people that do not
see this as a bad thing.
I would like to encourage those many of you
that wrote Berit stating you think she is wrong in her critique, to reconsider
what God's Word says about the occult world, and in so doing I would ask you
to pray and ask the Lord to reveal to you his will. Crossroad.to has posted
some scriptures that make it clear that the occult world is an abomination to
God. It is not something to take lightly nor to allow our kids to take as
casual entertainment. Please, for your child's sake don't allow this or other
similar occultic entertainment to become a window into your child's heart and
life.
Hopefully, some of you are going to start seeing that, Satan operates often in
a smooth and deceptive way, to appear harmless and innocent, while at the same
time manipulating his way into the lives of those that are not seeing fully
his deception.
Thank you, Jeff!
From Holly:
Hello...I don't expect you to read this, and I
won't be to disapointed if you never answer, but I have these feelings that
I'd like to get out.
Let me start by saying that I felt many of your thoughts and insights on
Christianity were very inspirational, especially since I've resently been
through a tough time spiritually. I know your hearts are in the right place,
but...
I am a big fan of literature, and the reason for that is J.K Rowling's Harry
Potter. Oh, I can just imagine how many emails you get like this! Well, humor
me...I started reading the Harry Potter Books when I was about 10, at my
mother's suggestion. They got me excited about reading, I loved them, used to
talk about them all the time. But the thing of it is, whenever I got a little,
err, over-enthusiastic my mother was always there to say "Remember, Holly,
it's just fiction. Now say your prays and go to sleep."
And that is why I do not believe that any book or movie alone is enough to
corrupt a child's thoughts or, more importantly, their spirit. As long as the
child has a good healthy mind and someone like my mom to remind them that it
is only fiction and keep them from getting confused about who really has the
authoritive power (which is God) there is no reason for them not to enjoy
these books.
Again these are just my thoughts, and (assuming you have not clicked off in
frustration) I'd like to hear yours. You seem like good people whose oppinions
should be listened to, which I am willing to do. It is possible that I am way
off base in my thinking...please email me. Good Health and God Bless
Holly, we are all involved
in a spiritual war these days -- whether we know it or not. The occult
entertainment that is pressing into our lives and minds is neither innocent
nor ineffective in changing our values and thinking. The fact that most of it
looks like mere fantasy makes it all the more easy to justify and accept it.
The powerful influence of
occult entertainment is shown and explained in
Overview and
Application of Harry Potter,
"Ask Peter" - Find Biblical answers to questions about
occult entertainment
and
Harry
Potter and the Power of Suggestion
From Brendan:
I would simply like to say that I am positively
OUTRAGED at what I just read on your Page. Children all around the world are
enjoying Harry Potter and why shouldn't they?! The Harry Potter series has
motivated children to read that hadn't read before. I myself have witnessed
this.
And I must say you are very foolish to take the
material on the magazine seriously. It is simply a marketing gimick to get
kids to buy the magazine. Most children know that there is not magic in the
world and that it is scientifically impossible.
Occult magic is very
real -- and children are trained in occult thinking through today's
entertainment. What you think and "dream" (or imagine) does change your
beliefs and values. Please read
Role-Playing Games & Popular
Occultism and
The Imagination
And if they don't, then they have an open mind,
which is another positive effect of Harry Potter on the world. It opened minds
and brought children and adults alike into a different world that is every
child's dream. I don't understand why you would want to deprive a child of
his/her dream.
The thing that ticked me off the most was all
your religous relations to the books/movies. In NO WAY is Harry Potter
promoting witchcraft and sorcery or whatever else you want to call it. It is a
simple innocent story just like Little Red Riding Hood and the like. A little
girl asked a priest if there are dogs in heaven and the priest initially
replied no. Then as he thought about it he concluded that "If it takes your
dog to make you happy in heaven, there'll be a dog in
heaven."
You can take out dog there and substitute
anything and it would be true.
Even Harry Potter because God hates nothing. NOTHING. God does not hate, he
loves. He may DISLIKE something but only Satan hates. By saying that he hates
you are joining forces with Satan.
Please read what God
Himself has told us about things that distort or destroy our faith in Him and
undermine the joyful fellowship He offers His people. You might start with
these Scriptures. Some specifically mentions what God hates or considers
abominable: Psalm
36:1-3, Deut 18:9-12
and
God's Justice
Anonymous:
I think you're being hippicritical. God teaches us
to 'love thy neighbor as you would love thy self' doesnt He? That means love
everyone , not just who you choose to.
You have twisted the
meaning of that command. Yes, we are to "love our neighbor" as we love
ourselves. But that means exposing destructive practices and encouraging each
other to follow God, for He alone can bring us peace and victory. Agape "love"
does not mean ignoring evil and "respecting" practices that twist God's truth
or prompt us to crave what He calls abominations. See
Twelve
reasons not
to see Harry Potter movies
and
John 13:34
This whole website is based on God isn't it?
And yet you sit there and slam on Harry Potter because it supposidly doesn't
agree with Christianity. The Harry Potter books aren't just about witchcraft
and they aren't at all about Satanism, it has Christmas and Easter in there
after all. It's about good overcoming evil, love overcoming hatred( Harry's
touch at the end of the Sorcerer's Stone), and exceptence of people, things,
and wolrds different from one another. So, all that said, Harry Potter is
accually a great movie and book series for children.
Both Christmas and Easter
were pagan feasts that were appropriated and adapted to Biblical events. The
Christmas and Easter "holidays" in Ms Rowling's books were stripped of any Christian
meaning.
Anonymous:
shcools are using
childrens excitment in harry potter to help spark childrens desire to read
but you must be against such things as education. oh and saying that harry
potter books delude people how about that book the bible what a load of tripe
filled with b.s. that can never happen.
It can't? On what kinds of facts and research do you base your personal opinion?
Please read
Harry Potter and the Power of Suggestion.
Perhaps it will change your mind.
Anonymous:
Coming from an all
Catholic family, we are true and live by the Gospel, but honestly I must say ,
this is not 1939 anymore ,,, if people dont raise there childeren to
understand and learn right from wrong and truth from fiction, then there
should be no t.v. and no Easter Bunny and no Santa Claus.
Our childeren are
15, 11, 7 and they all loved Harry Potter and they have all been Confirmed and
we go to Church every Sunday + and we live by our Lord ... If familys dont
raise their childeren to learn the right things then they won't. I must say I
would rather my childeren watch Harry Potter than sit at home after school and
watch MTV or one of these survivor shows or any other junk TV.
Don't do either. There are
far better alternatives. Go for a hike and enjoy God's creation. Find a
good, non-occult book to read. Help someone in need.
Honestly, from the
long list of discrepancies that you have from T.V. shows to What ever else you
should really get out and enjoy our beautiful world more, instead of PLAYING
on the internet and critizeing all others I really dont thing God would be
obliged to you putting down others hard work and I dont think God wants you
to sit at home (ignoring) all the beauty he made while you find reasons to
Hate on others.
From Robert:
You said, "Blind to the true nature of God,
children will synthesize or blend Biblical truth with the pagan beliefs and
magical practices demonstrated in the Harry Potter movie. In the end, you
distort and destroy any remnant of true Christian faith. For our God cannot be
molded to match pagan gods."
Isn't this the way the Christian belief was first integrated into the "Pagan"
world?
With pagan symbolism being combined with the symbolism of the New Testament
beliefs?
That’s right, Robert. It happened again and again throughout history. And
each time it distorted the faith of those who accepted the new synthesis.
It's
happening today as well. That's why so many who proclaim to be
Christians know little or nothing about Jesus Christ, the One they
supposedly follow. And that's why I have a problem with the buttons that
ask, "What would Jesus do?" If people don't know His heart and will, how can
they answer that question?
From Pamela:
When I was a child, my favorite shows were "I
Dreamed of Jeanie" and "Bewitched." I watched these everyday with my
grandmother who was probably one of the most loyal Christians that you could
ever meet.
I remember running around in make-shift genie and witch coustumes, "riding" my
grandmothers brooms, and pretending be Jeanie or Samantha. I even decorated a
corner of my bedroom at one point to look like the inside of a genie bottle.
I am 26 yeard old now and expecting my first child with my husband. And I am
proud to say that I am a devout Roman Catholic -- no I didn't become a witch
from pretending to hold magic power at the knod of my head or the wiggle of my
nose as a child -- and I am an avid "Harry Potter" fan. I am currently in the
process of painting the nursery with owls and brooms and a cute little Harry
Potter boarder.
Which bring my reason for writing, as your site accuses "Harry Potter" of
turning kids to the occult. Rubbish.
How broad a study have you
done, Pamela, that makes you so certain? Or do you base your conclusion on
your own subjective experience.
If you read the books, many, many things will
become clear to you. The most important being that magic is not the center of
the stories!
Harry learns the difference between good and evil and standing up for what is
good, no matter what the cost. ...
As a devout Roman
Catholic, do you see magic and witchcraft as "good?" What about God's warnings
that tell us the opposite?
Professor Dumbledore teaches Harry about the
power of love and honesty of evil... that evil will always be around, but that
our choices and our love and defeat it and protect us.
I could go on and on and on, but I'll spare you. Besides I don't think you'd
read it anyway.
My point is, kids love the idea of magic. The thoughts are put into their
heads at a young age when they watch their fist Disney cartoons, which are all
full of magic and witches and fantasy. Children long to go to "The Magic
Kingdom" at least once in their lives.
Imagination is a wonderful thing to have and kids who have a stong foundation
know the difference between reality and imaginary.
Sure there will be the occasional nut who will take it seriously and want to
go to Hogwarts. On the same note, there are also nuts who read the Bible and
take certains parts so seriously that they take their lives in mass suicides
or they go on a killing rampage in the name of God.
With the way the world if today, I want my child to have a strong foundation
in the church, but I also want to balance his/her life with a strong
imaginationa -- and the ability to know what is what.
And if he/she runs around the house holding a stick at a doorknob yelling "Alohamora!"
thinking that it will open, I will smile and know that my child is reading and
learning to use his or her creative brain instead of being brainwashed by the
television ... or wackos who think that everything with the word "magic" in it
is evil.
By the way, have you seen "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz" recently?
Pamela, please read
these three articles. They will help you understand the power of your
imagination to sway your thinking and turn your heart from God to all kinds of
seductive counterfeits:
Harry Potter and the Power of Suggestion
Movie Magic and
Unconscious Learning
Role-Playing Games & Popular Occultism
Second
letter from
Stephanie:
Well, just Christmas in itself is a Christain
holiday. If Harry Potter was a Satanist wouldn't it be deadly for him to
celebrate Christmas?
No. Most of our secular
Christmas traditions were adopted from pagan customs that celebrated winter
solstice and other mythical traditions. Unless you personally believe in Jesus
Christ as your Lord and Savior, there is little Biblical meaning in what has
now become a very secular holiday. See
Where
is Christ in Christmas?
Besides that, in England, where the story takes
place, there is no seperation between church and state. Which means that most
of England is Christian, and which would make Harry Potter and probably most
of the peopel at Hogwarts Christain.
Many European countries
traditionally joined religion to state funds and regulations. That proved
deadly to genuine Christianity. England, like Norway where I grew up, have
little tolerance for Biblical Christianity these days. Paganism is far more
popular. That's why the masses love Harry Potter. So does satan. Hogwarts fits
his timeless schemes very well. See
The Nature and Tactics of
Satan and
Biblical versus Cultural Christianity
Stephanie Maynard:
I was reading your article about Harry
Potter and I must say, I am disgusted. It seems that in your great effort for
Christianity, you neglected to truly "read the books." The evil in the books
that is done is done by the evil characters. Of course it is to be expected
that evil wizards do evil things.
The title character, Harry Potter does in no
way, worship Satan or Hell. You can give me any example from the book and I
can show you that Harry Potter is not Satanic. In every book, there is a
chapter entitled "Christmas" The entire school of Hogwarts celebrates
Christmas. Correct me if I am wrong, but Christmas is a Christian holiday.
I didn't see anything
Christian in their celebration, Stephanie.
I myself believe whole-heartinly in God and
worship the Heavenly Father. The so-called "spells" in Harry Potter are
nothing more than the Latin name for the desired efferct. "Lumos" in Latin
means, light, therefore, when Harry says 'Lumos" his wand emits light. You
cannot tell me that Latin is Satanic when so much of it appears in our
everyday language.
The whole "Potion" issue, you should note, is
basically Medivel Medicine, things that were used hundreds of years ago. Most
of which are helpful. You should also note that poisons, love potions and
things of that sort are banned at Hogwarts. The list goes on and on.
I wrote about medieval magic
and alchemy in
Role-Playing
Games & Popular Occultism. You
may want to read that article.
But I am a firm believer in God, and in that
Harry Potter is not Satanic and evil. Any example from the book I can show you
why it is not evil. Also keep in mind, that the Bible has many violent things
in it and mentions demons more times than Harry Potter.
But
the Bible shows the violence from God's perspective. We see His warnings
against witchcraft and we see His call to holiness and separation from occult
practices. Please read
Twelve
reasons not
to see Harry Potter movies
J.K. Rowling has helped children pick up books
instead of staring mindlessly at the TV. What is so evil about that?
Replacing one wrong with a
another wrong doesn't make it right, Stephanie. There are lots of better ways
to spend time and have fun than either "mindless" television or Harry Potter
books.
And by reading the genre of fantasy, we can
open our minds to accept the impossible in today's "modern" world. A boy at my
school thinks Harry Potter is stupid, because it is impossible. He goes to
church, but does not believe in God, because it's impossible. Again I must
stress that I am a firm believer in God, yet enjoy Harry Potter at the same
time. The whole basic plot of the books is good vs. evil. Good being Harry
Potter, Dumbledore and his friends. Evil being Lord Voldemort and the Death
Eaters. Harry Potter is the hero of the books and is on the "good" side. I beg
of you, please do not condem these books, they are wonderful novels and have
touched many hearts, including mine.
From Alex:
Dear Religion Fanatic, I don't understand any of
the logic in you're pages against harry potter. If you can offer me one piece
of proof that I cannot rebutte then I will be most shocked and amazed. You're
logic makes absolutely no sense to me. I have been encouraged by my pastor at
my CHRISTAIN church to read the harry potter books, because even thought they
have refernces to magic and sorcerery, they can teach us more about the values
of Friendship and Bravery then he can.
Alex, I know that there are
many churches led by pastors who have little love for God's Word or respect
for His guidelines. I suggest you check the Bible yourself. Read some
of the passages that I mentioned in my articles. Or just click on these two: Deut
18:9-12 and
Rom
12:2-9.
If the problems with Harry
Potter magic still don't make sense, this next passage might explain why:
“Eye has
not seen, nor ear heard, nor have entered into the heart of man, the things
which God has prepared for those who love Him.”
"But God has revealed them to us through His Spirit. ... Even so no one
knows the things of God except the Spirit of God. Now we have received, not
the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might know
the things that have been freely given to us by God....
"But the
natural man does not receive the things of the Spirit of God, for they are
foolishness to him; nor can he know them, because they are spiritually
discerned." 1 Corinthians 2:9-16
If you decide that you would like to know God and His
saving truths, go to
What
it means to be a Christian
From
Fabienne: With regards to HP, I agree
with Dennis too -- and I do not understand how anyone who claims to love Jesus
Christ can even begin to see any good in those books. Surely whatever "good"
there might be is overwhelmed by the evil and horror that permeates the
stories.
A friend (who is not a believer!) gave my children the first book when it
first came out, and I read it before considering whether to pass it on to my
children. [I have always done this until my children reached the age of
twelve, by which time they had a foundation by which to judge for themselves
most books they were likely to have access to.] Of course our friend asked if
the children had enjoyed the book and I explained to him why we hadn't let
them have it. He said he hadn't read it himself but had bought it for his
children and mine because he'd heard it was very popular, but he would be more
careful what books he got for his children in future. He had always assumed
children's books were harmless fun, and was very surprised to hear there are
many books written for children which are quite the opposite. (I had worked as
a school librarian for two years so I had a pretty good idea of what children
were being offered to read.)
I have skimmed through the other three HP books and have seen enough to know
that those books are anything but Christian -- any Christian who gives them to
their children to read ought to examine their relationship with God. Are they
sure they are walking in His light? By no stretch of the imagination do these
books fit in with Philippians 4:8 or Romans 12:2 -- rather, they should be
shunned.
If anyone thinks the HP books are good, they
ought to read Ephesians 5!
Several of my children were visiting in a (Christian!) home where a video was
put on for the children -- guess which one. My youngest came home and told me
she was very surprised that the adults had put on that video for visiting
children when by their own admission they hadn't seen what was in it.
Too many people think that a book, film, TV programme, computer game which is
aimed at children is "safe" because it was made for children!
How awful it is to hear a young child speak with disdain of someone because
they believe that HP and similar books are not good. How awful it is to be
shunned by Christians because one has pointed out that such books are harmful
to their children. However, that is the kind of "love" the HP books foster.
Anyone who does not say the HP books are good is a "Muggle" and to be
despised.
Many years ago, a friend gave me a book of stories by Stephen King to read. I
was not a Christian then, but even so I could not understand why anyone would
want to read such nightmarish stuff. I can see very little difference between
those stories and the HP and similar books so many parents are giving their
children these days.
And I get tired of the arguments about "meat offered to idols" and "weaker
brothers" that I've often heard when the HP subject comes up. What goes into
our stomachs does not affect our relationship to God (unless we are guilty of
gluttony or causing someone to stumble in their faith), but surely everything
we allow into our minds and hearts has a direct effect on our walk with Him.
How careful we should be about what we feed into the hearts and minds of the
children God has entrusted to us!
Thank you, Fabienne. You
mentioned Ephesians 5. Here is a portion of it:
"But fornication and all
uncleanness or covetousness, let it not even be named among you, as is fitting
for saints; neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor coarse jesting,
which are not fitting, but rather giving of thanks. For this you know, that
no fornicator, unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, has any
inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God. Let no one deceive you with
empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the
sons of disobedience. Therefore do not be partakers with them.
"For you were once darkness, but now you
are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light (for the fruit of the
Spirit is in all goodness, righteousness, and truth), finding out what is
acceptable to the Lord. And have no fellowship with the unfruitful
works of darkness, but rather expose them. For it is shameful even to
speak of those things which are done by them in secret. But all things that
are exposed are made manifest by the light, for whatever makes manifest is
light. Therefore He says: 'Awake, you who sleep, arise from the dead,
and Christ will give you light.'
"See then that you walk circumspectly,
not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil.
Therefore do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is."
Ephesians 5:3-17
From Dennis:
I read the news posting "In Defense of Harry
Potter", which began with the phrase "The books are Christian in at least two
senses."
Hogwash!!
There is no way these books are Christian, not in any way shape or form! I
will call it like I see it, which is that anyone that thinks these books are
Christian, or that these books foster Christian principles is either an
unbeliever or if a true believer, one who has not learned hardly anything at
all about God's Word and has little or no understanding of what the
fundamental truths of Christianity are. I will even go as far as to say that
anyone that professes our Lord Jesus Christ and still maintains that the Harry
Potter books are "Christian" is a false professor, as this person has clearly
demonstrated no knowledge of the Word of God! I am sorry, but this is what I
see with regard to the subject of the Harry Potter books.
Thank you, Dennis. I agree
with you.
From Frank:
I've read all 4 Harry Potter books twice and
seen both movies (I've involunatarily seen the first one five or six times).
Additionally, I am a Harry Potter fanfiction writer (I noticed that you never
mentioned fanfiction anywhere), meaning that I write short stories that
involve Harry Potter and the gang in little adventures.
To tell you the truth, I have been very
troubled by this whole Harry Potter debate, because I understand both sides
very well (though not well enough to pick a side:). I understand that magic
and all of that is evil, but I also understand that alot of people treat HP
(as I'll refer to Harry Potter from here on out) as nothing more than a great
piece of literature. Of course, I have taken my fandom a little further,
seeing as how I write short stories, but I chose the HP medium more for the
humorous opportunities than the occult (I rarely ever use magic in my
stories).
What I'm getting at is: is it possible for
people to read HP without being an abomination? Is HP the sin or does it lead
us to it? What about the people who have been HP nuts since 1998 (or 97; I
forget:) who have no interest in the occult (are you going to respond with
'They obviously do have an interest since they are reading the books'?)?
What about the wiccans who say that most HP
stuff doesnt really parallel (did i spell that right?) the real occult? What
about us fanfiction writers? Is there anything wrong with that? I'm not trying
to be aggresive, I just would appreciate answers:)
I'm not one of those people who's going to go
out of my way to defend HP; in my opinion, it's not worth going out on a limb
for. However, I still am a fan of the books (you must admit, they are well
written). When it all comes down to it, I guess I'm just waiting for a real
convincing bit of whatever from one side or the other; I'm pretty open minded
about it (although I wouldn't burn the books; they're worth a couple of bucks,
at least. jk)
Thank you for your time! I have found your web
site interesting, intriguing, informing, and a bunch of other 'i' words.
Frank, I really appreciate
your willingness to read our pages.
I'm not sure how to answer
your questions, Frank, because I don't know where you are coming from. My
Harry Potter articles are directed to Christians, and I believe they outline
the various reasons why Harry wizardry and Hogwarts' lessons clash with
Biblical faith and God's guidelines. But my arguments don't really apply to
those who don't want to follow the God I love.
The main reasons why I
believe that Christians who love the Harry Potter stories would compromise
their faith is spelled out in
Twelve
reasons not
to see Harry Potter movies.
But each of the other HP articles listed at the top of this page bring
additional arguments.
From Sophie:
I was wondering if it was you who
wrote the Harry Potter column. Because if you did you are rude and insane.
Harry Potter is not evil. first of all kids
read it for the enjoyment of read. When they're read it takes them away to a
magicial place (that by the way DOESN'T exist) anyone with a brain would know
that. It lets them get away from their troubles for a little bit and read
about someone elses. Why does anyone read a book, for exciting adventures and
to enjoy something.
Actually, some of us
read books because they help us understand the real world, provide useful
information and model wonderful lives that increase our faith in God and help
us become better persons. Take a look at this page:
Carina's Favorite
Books
Second, these books are read by mostly
pre-teens and tennagers so they know that the book is FICTIONAL (not real) so
they know it's make-believe. The books aren't making them turn on God but so
people already believes is witchcraft.
So you should really think about your morals.
Cutting a book down just because is "evil" you guys make me sick. You probably
hurt J.K. Rowling's feelings because you think it's nonchristain.
Lance
(South Africa):
Hello folks. Have you been to
http://www.petitiononline.com/harryrox/petition.html ?
I must say this link provides quite a laugh. At least everyone who wanted to
sign this petition landed up being side-tracked to your webpage at
crossroad.to It kind of wants to attract a headline entitled "Curiosity
killed the Potter Petition" :)
By the way, you've done a great job in support of Christianity with your
website. Keep it up!
Yes, we noticed the traffic
and saw the site -- and laughed with you.
God is so good! He uses all
kinds of ways to draw people to His truth.
Anonymous:
IT IS JUST A FICTIONAL STORY!! What
I'm not understanding is why you have to make such a big deal out of something
so sinister. I've read the Harry Potter books and seen the movies and nothing
ever made me think about how this goes against my christianism until I was
dumb enough to actually read this extremly worthless site!
But NO!! You have to make a big deal about it
and say, "If your young child were to read Harry Potter they might actually
use their imaginations and then turn into an anti-christian person." So what
do you do?? You go on and take all of the fun out of Harry Potter!! Well you
know what?!?! Your the reason why people like me (rebels or commonly known as
teenagers) go against what you say and will only further believe in Harry
Potter and witchcraft (OMG!! Did she just type in witchcraft?!?!). I'm sorry
but I find that Harry Potter really brings out the kid in me!! You couldnt be
worried about something more important like the possibility of war, or
starvation aroud the world, or even our economy.....no, we must go against
Harry Potter because we have nothing better to do with our lives and want to
crush the imaginations of young children everywhere by making their parents
forbid them to read or watch Harry Potter. I'll bet with you one thing, J.K
Rowling is making more money then you'll ever see!!!
I'm sorry if I sound rude or mean, but poeple like you make me soo mad and are
the reason why so many teenagers go against our elders!!!
We
wrote about Harry Potter --
knowing it would offend many of his fans -- because we wanted to awaken you to
"how this goes against [your] christianism." I won't repeat what I wrote in
the articles listed at the top of this page, but since you identify with "christianism"
you would be wise to read some of God's warnings to His people.
The statement you attribute
to me in your second paragraph is your interpretation, not my words.
Yes, I know that most of
today's teenagers, trained to follow the group and reject parental and other
authorities, will rebel against those who share God's truth and wisdom. Human
nature will always clash with God's standards, and -- apart from His help and
strength -- no one can follow His way.
My wonderful Lord doesn't
force anyone to follow Him. But those who seek Him, give their lives to Him
and appreciate His guidelines will enjoy the kinds of peace, freedom and
victory that you can hardly imagine. Please see
Harry Potter and the Power of Suggestion
and
What
it means to be a Christian
From Debra:
I was very upset when I read your views on the
Harry Potter book and what you think it is sayin to its young readers. By
judging the book and judgin the author isnt that going against what God
himself wants you to do?
No. Please read this
page: "When
to judge." It shows that we
must judge or evaluate beliefs, values and behavior according to God's
guidelines or standards. He call us to live by His Word and follow His way --
not by our own strength or wisdom, but by the strength and joy He willingly
gives to those who love Him and want to do His will.
Personally i have been Christian my whole life,
and lately i have been studying several different cultures and they are all
basically the same. As far as Wicca goes, it does not endorse hurting people
or the sufferings of others, its main views are that you should treat
everything kindly as you would want to be treated. And as far as their spells
go (that is if you believe that they do work then you must also believe all
that they say will happen when casting a spell). It is said that if you cast a
spell it will come back at you times three. That works for good and bad
spells. So if you casted a spell that would help heal someone then they will
be healed quicker and if they cast a harming spell it will just come back and
hurt the castor. Therefore even if these kids become Wiccan they will not be
able to hurt you or any others.
Contemporary
Wicca and postmodern neopaganism sound nice, kind and gentle, but the
spiritual forces behind their spells are anything but loving. That's why
historical expressions of witchcraft and shamanism involved all kinds of
spiritual oppression and extreme fear of its spells and curses. See some of
the examples on these pages:
African Witchcraft and
Occult news.
And i dont see why everyone is so afraid of
other religions anyway, everyone has the right to believe what they want to.
When God created us did he not give us the freedom to choose?
Yes, but our ability
to choose is limited by our own human nature with all its wants and cravings.
Apart from Him, we are unable to make wise choices that bring peace and true
freedom in Him. And those "other religions" turn us away from God,
so that we can no longer know or follow His wonderful ways. See
Deut
8:10-20 and
Deut 18:9-12. The alternative is to
turn from those "other gods" and seek Him instead. For He
says,
"..you
will seek Me and find Me,
when you search for Me with all your heart."
Jeremiah 29:13
From Kristin:
I believe that each person has the
right to choose what they believe in so I'm not trying to say what you believe
is wrong or anything. I was raised Christian and went to a Protestant church
every week. I was taught about God and had a strong belief in him. I also
read many fantasy books some which you might consider occult.
My mom, also a strong Christian woman, always
encouraged me to read. She thought that having an imagination was a good
thing and I knew what I was reading wasn't true because my mother taught me
that. I think as long as you let your kids know what is real and what isn't
they should be able to read whatever they want. When you don't allow them to
read things like this it's like saying there's some truth to it and that's why
you don't want them exposed to that.
There is a very enticing
reality in those fantasy books, Kristin. My goal is to help parents explain to
their children how this kind of literature can distort and dull their
understanding of God. Then, hopefully, their children will choose to read
books that will really encourage and help them.
Now having said that. I am no longer
Christian. Some where along the way my beliefs changed. I practice Wicca.
Now that might upset you but it is a religion. And it is not based on getting
power and using it. It is about communing with nature. I don't think there's
anything wrong with that. There are a lot of different religions in this
world and who is to say which one is right and which ones aren't? Maybe I am
wrong. not in what I believe. I don't believe there is anything wrong with
what I believe but it may not be the real truth, but no one knows what the
real truth is.
Maybe there is a God. I just don't happen to
believe there is. Does that make me a bad person? I think that everyone
should have the opportunity to discover for themselves what they believe to be
true. I hope that when your kids get older they find a way to read Harry
Potter and enjoy it for the good writing that it is. I don't think that J.K.
Rowling was trying to convince kids that to beocme Pagan. She was just
writing an entertaining story and she did it wonderfully. I think you
yourself are missing out on something really enjoyable and I feel sorry for
you.
I don't think I can convince
you that the Bible is truth, Kristin, so I won't even try.
Let me just tell you that
this former skeptic once doubted the reliability of His Word. I tried to read
the Bible, but it didn't make sense to me. Then, one day, He opened my eyes
and mind -- and suddenly everything became clear. Everything fit together.
Yet, apart from the wonders of His amazing grace, I could easily believe as
you do, Kristin.
From Lain:
I came across the 10 Reasons now to see
the Harry Potter movie. I find that quite strange...I mean hey, I'm a
Christian, a very strong one indeed. But I read Harry Potter books and watch
the videos. Well...You say it's wrong, right? I get it that in the Bible
it says that witchcraft and wizardry is wrong and that it's a great Sin to
practice this.
Let me note something else to you: The Wizard
of Oz. A movie classic. There's witches in that movie and book, isn't there?
No one seemed to complain about that... What about the movie "Hocus Pocus?"
Witches on halloween. I'm not trying to prove you wrong and say that your
opinion is wrong but look here, I'm giving reasons on why it isn't bad and
it's just as good as anything else. Exceptional for opinions of course.
My spelling is bad because I'm actually quite
young. But I'm making you look at the stuff around you to see that Harry
Potter is not the only magic tv/book there ever was. I get the point that it
offended people in some sort of way with their religion...But what about the
other things? They didn't seem to mind them. Thanks for your time.
Lain, are you telling me
that the witchcraft in Harry Potter is okay because most people have accepted
the occult suggestions in the Wizard of Oz? That's not much of an
argument, and it makes no sense from a Biblical perspective.
The fact "that Harry Potter
is not the only magic tv/book there ever was," doesn't make its popular
occultism good. Instead it shows the corruption of our culture. It also
reminds us that paganism appeals to our human nature. That's why a lot of
people are turning God's values upside-down and drifting away from His loving
guidelines. See
Isaiah 5:20.
With increasing exposure to
occultism, the public is becoming increasingly desensitized to what God warns
us to avoid. People do what feels-good at the moment and don't even try to
please God. That's very sad, because when a nation turns its back on
God, God withdraws His protection and lets us suffer the consequences. Here is
a chart and picture that might help explain my concern:
America's Spiritual Slide.
Please pray that God show
you His way. And don't just follow what the crowds do. Remember,
"Blessed
is the man who
-
Walks
not in the counsel of the ungodly,
-
Nor
stands in the path of sinners,
-
Nor
sits in the
seat of the
scornful
[mockers];
But
his delight is in the law of the Lord,
And
in His law he meditates day and night.
He
shall be like a tree
Planted
by the rivers of water,
That
brings forth its fruit in its season,
Whose
leaf also shall not wither;
And
whatever he does shall prosper."
Psalm
1:1-6