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Wednesday, March 29, 2006
Pastors Picketing The DaVinci Code Theater
There have been two very different responses by the church in general to the upcoming release of "The DaVinci Code" in theaters. Many churches are using this as an opportunity to educate people about the errors of the movie; and compare the movie with what the Bible really says.The Da Vinci Code, written by Dan Brown, has been on the N.Y. Times bestseller list for 155 weeks.Some Burke County religious leaders have the book and an upcoming movie by the same name at the top of their own list.
They want to keep the movie out of Morganton's theater because of its religious theme and what they call inaccuracies.
Area pastors, 13 of them in all, met Tuesday morning at Timberwoods Restaurant to discuss the movie and what they could do to keep it out of the local cinema.
"This book was not birthed by Dan Brown," says the Rev. J.D. Mallory, pastor of Morganton's First Assembly of God. "It was birthed in the depths of Hell."
In the book, a detective finds clues hidden inside some of Leonardo Da Vinci's most famous works, including the Mona Lisa, about the secret location of an important religious relic. The book also, according to religious leaders, depicts Jesus as a mortal who married and has children.
Local religious leaders fear those who read the book and watch the movie will come away thinking it is fact instead of fiction.
The Rev. Michael Beshears, pastor of Calvin Heights Baptist Church, called the meeting of the pastors after the seeing the trailer for the Da Vinci Code at a movie with his family.
"I couldn't believe something like that is coming to Morganton," Beshears says. "I felt led to do something about it."
Beshears says he met with the manager of Marquee Cinemas about the movie, but was unsuccessful in his attempt to sway the manager's opinion.
Marquee Cinema Manager Garland Johnson says the decision to play the movie in Morganton isn't made by Marquee, but by Sony, who is distributing the movie.
This seems wrong to me from so many different perspectives. What will be gained, other than another blackeye on local Christianity in yet another American community. Why must some groups always be so negative? Why not use this as a learning tool to show exactly what the Bible does say; rather than making a scene (that will, by the way, have no impact) about what the Bible doesn't say.
Things like this make me angry. Argh.
Just my thoughts. What are yours?
Todd
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Comments
I don't think the problem is that they are protesting. We deserve to stand up for what we believe.
The problem is that they are not standing up for anything else that really matters. As vocal as they are about this movie and probably Harry Potter, they are equally SILENT on issues of social justice and compassion for the poor.
Posted by: eric | Mar 29, 2006 10:25:40 AM
I agree with Eric, why are we getting all worked up about a work of fiction and ignoring the real life issues around us? Dan Brown's book is a novel, nothing more. You don't see NASA or any other organization getting upset about what he has written about them in his books because they recognize it for what it is, fiction. The time we spend picketing or protesting may get us a spot on the media but not actually get anyone's attention in a truly productive way for building the Kingdom of God but if we spent the same amount of time on social justice issues and compassion for the poor we would actually have voice that makes a difference. And that would be in the REAL world.
There is a third treatment for the Da Vinci Code that many churches are choosing: ignore it. I read the book and found it an entertaining and thrilling piece of fiction with some interesting conspiracy theories that aren't even legitimate theories since they can't be proven. People fall for a lot of fiction as fact but most people aren't going to be willing to base their beliefs on a work of fiction. Why are we so threatened by this?
Posted by: Jessica | Mar 29, 2006 10:49:16 AM
I'm not a picketing kind of guy, but this might be more important than just a work of fiction. After seeing the movie JFK which is full of fiction and errors, people believe it to be true. The movie Farenhiet 911 is full of fiction and inacuracies, but to the viewers of that movie it has become truth. As the public watches this fiction they are inclined to say "See, I told you that religion stuff was all wrong!" Not going to picket, but will use it as a teaching lesson, the problem is the people that don't hear what we teach about this false doctrine will be the ones that are fooled by it.
Posted by: Bart | Mar 29, 2006 11:34:21 AM
I do not think this movie or the book is that big of a problem. The history channel has been doing coverage on this since the book came out. Each time they say this is just simply not true, the facts are not there. The author of the book say it is fiction. Granted I think he can find something less degrating to Christ to write about, but I think people no that there is not evidence, proof, or truth to the movie and the books claims that Christ was married and the Holy Grail is the blood line of Christ.
Posted by: Jade | Mar 29, 2006 11:50:42 AM
The problem with picketing is that I think it can seem very sort of wacked out and extreme in today's world. We have an abortion clinic at the corner of two streets I drive by almost every day, and there's always the same person or people sitting there hunched over in their chair with a sign that asks you to give them your baby. I wish that I thought that was making a difference. Or last weekend there was a picket in front of a fur store. Hehe, did I mention I live in Oregon...people are heavy into politics up here...
So in this case I just think it makes us (Christians)look like freaky people, because every time that one Christian person does something, in the eyes of the world, it represents every Christian...the world holds us to a higher standard than even itself...
I think an alternative might have been to organize some sort of event based on discussing what's true in the book and what's not - heh, I'd say with the author, but I understand he's tied up in legal proceedings right now... =P
Oh and btw, hi. I've been lurking for about a week now, and I love this place. I'm amazed at the intelligent discussion. :) Glad to have found you all.
Posted by: Jennifer | Mar 29, 2006 11:55:42 AM
Jade writes [The author of the book say it is fiction.{sic}]
Unfortunately, Dan Brown has claimed his historical details are accurate. They don't stand up, but some people are more likely to believe him (a novelist who writes a thrilling story but is not as highly skilled in the use of the English language--it's poorly written on a lot of levels) than a qualified historian.
If a fiction book or movie can shake your faith, what the heck is it built on?!?!
I look at this as an opportunity to tell the REAL story of Jesus. So I've educated myself somewhat on it. I wish more would do that instead of this picketing.
Posted by: Peter Hamm | Mar 29, 2006 12:26:06 PM
I didn't make it through the book; it just wasn't a page turner for me. But then, the subject matter was offensive to me so that probably had alot to do with it.
what has amazed me is how many people, who I thought had a critical thinking skill or two, just accepted the "facts" as presented.
Posted by: Julie | Mar 29, 2006 12:33:25 PM
Did the phrase "birthed in the depths of Hell" make anyone else laugh??
Are people so stupid today that they don't know a novel from a non-fiction book? A feature film from a documentary?? That's what those pastors think, I guess.
*sigh*
Posted by: Sarah | Mar 29, 2006 12:46:41 PM
Peter,
You are right when he claims historical things in his book are accurate, but he goes on to say in interviews that this is a work of fiction.
I plan to see the movie so I can point out inaccuracies that are there. History channel has some good material on this subject.
What I am saying is the experts are sayin this book is just not true. The facts are off, it is meant entertain and get this guys money. He knew going in that people would eat this story up if he made it believeable enough.
Many people who have written books before on this subject too and are saying there is no proof to this idea. Including the author Holy Blood Line, Holy Grail. (Which I think he is suing the author DaVinci Code)
Posted by: Jade | Mar 29, 2006 12:48:26 PM
I agree with Peter that this is "an opportunity to tell the REAL story of Jesus." Many people are and will continue to be convinced by what author Dan Brown says is essentially based on a true story. I believe that in order to appear more than just a bunch of prudes with their collective heads stuck in the sand, Christ-followers ought to read the book, read one or more refutations of it (there are several good ones that are both inexpensive and easy to read), and be prepared to help friends and co-workers separate fact from fiction. That means more than just saying, "it's a bunch of lies"; it means being able to demonstrate that, for example, the Bible was not simply "collated" by Constantine.
Posted by: Randy Ehle | Mar 29, 2006 12:49:24 PM
Anytime anyone asks me what I think about it, I try to turn the conversation to what I think about Jesus. Let them know it’s fiction and that you’re willing to talk to them about the truth about Christianity anytime they want.
And I’ve noticed since I became more vocal about my Christianity that people ask me about it a lot more, sometimes just to bait me and sometimes because they are interested. The guy sitting next to me at work was raised Anglican (in England) and is now a self-described pagan, which leads to some interesting conversations, but others ask me questions out of true interest.
Use the book and/or movie as a conversation starter, for conversations about the truth about Jesus Christ. Any opportunity to witness.
Posted by: DanielR | Mar 29, 2006 1:34:14 PM
I remember when "The Passion of the Christ" came out. Allot of controversy from many people. We believers felt pretty good in general that the world was finally going to get a taste of their own medicine. They were going to be exposed to something that was offensive to them and we enjoyed the thought of it.
Okay, I know we have a different motive. We want them to know the truth, but when the world wants to preach their message we get all jacked up. I don't get it.
I don't see anyone in the scriptures picketing, (correct me if I'm wrong please). Jesus didn't seem to care much about politics or worldly agendas. He said if His name be lifted up he would draw people to himself. Once that happens then people have a change of heart and are no longer duped by the lies of the enemy.
If we spent as much energy loving God and others as we do trying to change something only God can change, the heart of man, maybe the world wouldn't think we're idiots.
Posted by: Ed Mooneyhan | Mar 29, 2006 1:46:40 PM
Ed writes: [If we spent as much energy loving God and others as we do trying to change something only God can change, the heart of man, maybe the world wouldn't think we're idiots.]
AMEN. This kind of methodology is not just idiotic, its wrong. Can anyone think of one single NT example of Jesus or the disicples doing something similar to picketing pagan businesses?
They make me angry, because they are (IMHO) actually hurting the genuine and authentic and appropriate and otherwise effective efforts of others who are trying to reach lost people for Christ. Now, other churches in Morgantown trying to capitalize on the opportunity will be dismissed by those who see the movie and leave with questions. How sad.
Wendi
Posted by: wendi | Mar 29, 2006 3:11:59 PM
Amen Wendi,
It is so frustrating to try to witness to someone and have them say something like "You Christians scare me with your intolerance". (IMHO)Stuff like this does more harm than good.
Fred Phelps and the Westboro Baptist Church protesting war by picketing at the funerals of soldiers killed in Iraq is the most aggregious example I can think of.
Posted by: DanielR | Mar 29, 2006 3:54:04 PM
Picketing: Useless
Maybe the movie will get some to actually read the Bible and when they do read it--let the Holy Spirit work.
We shoot ourselves in the foot way too many times. This is as stupid as boycotting Mickey like my denom tried to do.
Posted by: Kevin B. | Mar 29, 2006 5:24:26 PM
How dare they boycott a movie that blasphemes the King of Kings and Lord of Lords!!! Shame on them. I see 15 comments in favor of blasphemy. Congratulations.
Posted by: John | Mar 29, 2006 6:31:03 PM
Good one John. Now why don't you formulate some thoughts that would cause us to think?
I don't think anyone here is in favor of blasphemy, just tired of people whose agenda is to tell the world what they already know, that they are sinners!
Jesus didn't have nearly the issues with sinners as some of his followers do. Maybe we think we deserve the grace of God? Maybe we think we're supperior to the lost? Maybe we have pride issues and it realy doesn't matter if others are saved as long as we can express our so called rights as Americans to protest everthing ungodley?
Bye the way, do we have rights according to scripture?
Have a great day.
Posted by: Ed Mooneyhan | Mar 29, 2006 6:54:31 PM
"people whose agenda is to tell the world what they already know"
Wow, they already know that they are sinners!!!!??? That's news to me. Ok if they already know the next step would be to encourage them to go see a movie that blasphemes the one they need forgiveness from. Does that make sense? Is that thought provoking enough for you? I can see my posts will be short on this one the theological content on this one is out of my league.
Posted by: John | Mar 29, 2006 7:12:38 PM
John, like Ed said, no one here has condoned blasphemy. What many of us are suggesting is that we as Christ-followers follow his example - go to where the "sinners" are (physically), meet them where they are (spiritually), and engage them in conversation that, by the power of the Holy Spirit, may turn them toward the Truth. As I have frequently mentioned elsewhere on this blog, I would note to whom Jesus directed his harshest criticism...the religious leaders. His most gracious words were directed toward "sinners." Paul met the people of Athens in their worship of an unknown god, and proclaimed to them "the God who made the world." In similar fashion, we can meet people who believe Dan Brown's version of Jesus and proclaim to them to truth about the Truth.
Posted by: Randy Ehle | Mar 29, 2006 8:00:39 PM
Randy,
Do you believe the picketers are acting like Pharisees?
Posted by: John | Mar 29, 2006 8:08:30 PM
I'd rather have an opportunity to talk to people about what IS the truth than an opportunity to picket what is not. Now I know that John may say that maybe picketing is that opportunity. And maybe you are right, brother. I personally was only pointing out the perception I felt that much (not all, can't be that stereotypical, lol) has about people who picket.
I don't see blasphemy in wanting to share the truth. And I did have an alternative to picketing (so I wouldn't be someone who just criticized without having a solution; i try not to do that). And i agree, I would not say that most people know they are sinners (or at least enough to confess themselves as such). Not sure picketing is the way to make them aware...unless those pastors have some Ray Comfort material with them... =P Then by all means... ;)
Posted by: Jennifer | Mar 29, 2006 8:24:37 PM
It seems to me a better use of our time, as believers, would be that instead of picketing we might hand our blankets and sandwiches to the homeless. Or visit those elderly in care facility all around our country which house the “forgotten” and lost.
Want to be like Jesus? Quite trying to garner the attention of the rich and powerful, and go to the poor and needy… that’s what Jesus did, should we do any different?
Just a thought,
Pastor Al
Posted by: Al | Mar 29, 2006 9:30:21 PM
John asked, "Do you believe the picketers are acting like Pharisees?" I'll broaden the scope and work with the term "religious leaders", rather than focus on one 1st-century sect. The religious leaders generally knew their scriptures extremely well and sought diligently to adhere to what scriptures taught. That, I think, is an admirable and desirable trait. I'll give the picketers the benefit of the doubt and assume that they, too, know scripture and seek to live it out.
On the flip side, the religious leaders shunned "sinners" and were quick to condemn them. They were more concerned about keeping the Law than about loving their neighbor. In this way, too, I believe the picketers may be like the religious leaders of Jesus' day. This, I think, is not an admirable trait, and one which Jesus condemned (cf Luke 10:30ff, 18:9ff).
Posted by: Randy Ehle | Mar 29, 2006 10:48:16 PM
It's better to use the book as an opportunity. Here's some free videos from a workplace lecture that we did:
http://www.professionallyspeaking.org/DaVinciCode/index.htm
Because of the book, people are asking questions. Where did the Bible come from? Who were the Gnostics? Many opportunities here...
...Bernie
Posted by: Bernie Dehler of FreeGoodNews.com | Mar 29, 2006 11:54:13 PM
PICKETING over PRAYING...
Jesus said, "He have not becasue you ask not"
Personally, I despise and have a great displeasure over this movie. But I pray about it everday that people will see that is a lie and not the truth. But that He will open their hearts and minds and they He will reveal the truth to them.
Posted by: Clairvoyent 1 | Mar 30, 2006 7:57:08 AM
