*SPOILER ALERT AT END OF CLIP*
so i just don’t get it. i’m so sorry. please don’t be a hater. but i just don’t get it. i kinda even liked the first one. but the new one is just kind-of embarrasing…
From My Phone
- © 2010 Natalie Grant//
*SPOILER ALERT AT END OF CLIP*
so i just don’t get it. i’m so sorry. please don’t be a hater. but i just don’t get it. i kinda even liked the first one. but the new one is just kind-of embarrasing…
Cha Cha
Not only did Jesus “hang” with sinners, He loved them & taught them. And Jesus also was with the Pharisees and taught them-but they would have none of His radical teachings because they loved looking holy and putting yokes on people. You who is without sin-cast the first stone.
There’s a great book “The Prodigal God” it explains what is still being produced in the church today, just as it was produces in Jesus’ day. Are we prodigal sons or elder brothers? I was surprised who I am-you might be too
For all everyone has said–I repeat what I said earlier- if the Holy Spirit living in you tells you not to do something don’t. What I add to this-don’t worry about what the Holy Spirit is telling other people what to do or not do, it distracts you from listening to the Holy Spirit.
We as believers get so caught up in what others are doing to harm their relationships with the Lord so much of the time, that we forget to focus on our own relationship with the Lord. The Lord does not ask us to mold others.
This debate is not about this movie, it really is about the enemy trying to get us all to focus on each other and telling each other what the Lord expects of us. What we each ought to be doing is focusing on the Lord instead, and asking Him what He expects of us. One cannot tell another what that is in any one thing, because we are all being molded in a different way, at a different point, and in different areas, to a different thing for the Lord.
Out of the Box says that several of the vampires are introduced as ones that believe in heaven and hell and that that means they were Christians in their human life. Well, let me first say that I have never read the books, nor watched the movies, and I never will, so maybe Stephanie Meyer is explicit about that making them Christians in their book. But, as I think is more accurately the case, this individual is allowing that small reference to something spiritual to turn into a thought that they are Christ-followers. This is such a very dangerous position for Christians to take. We are told that even demons believe in God and Jesus and heaven and hell and they shudder. So the simple belief is not enough. It is what you do with that belief.
Yes, following Miley”s example for “holy living” because she won’t see the movie is a great idea.
If the Holy Spirit speaks to u about a “grey area” th@ was for u & not for anyone else. Would Jesus watch this movie? He already has because he knows what’s in the mind of all men so the movie is no surprise. Would u watch this with your Pastor?I don’t think any pastor wants to be used to produce shame & guilt. Discernment is never intended for criticism but for intercession. Every author who passed judgment on Natalie’s heart, authenticity & the Holy Spirit’s control in her life-remember God knows the areas in your own life you have yet to surrender to Him & He continues to love & use you inspite of your personal preferences, even if you call the convictions
I’m confused as to why this conversation exploded into a debate? Instead of debating with one another over whether or not Natalie should have seen this movie (that’s her choice) let’s just love one another and not cause division.
Isn’t Satan crazy….he even divides Christians on silly things to shift our focus.
Where in this movie, or the books for that matter, are there “strong sexual undertones” or “witchcraft”? Have you seen the movies or read the books?
The Author of the books series, Stephanie Meyers, introduces several of her vampires as those who believe in heaven and hell (Christians in their human life) and are fighting the evil within and saddened to think that their souls are lost. She also makes abstinence before marriage an integral part of the plot.
As a teacher of teens, I have had the opportunity to speak with my students about their salvation as well as abstinence because of these books. If I had not read this series, I believe that door wouldn’t have been opened. Jesus Christ works n mysterious ways… Let’s not try to keep him in a box.
I have no problem with seeing the Twilight movies but this brings up a question i have always wanted to ask. My teenage nephew, whom watches many movies he shouldn’t, told me that “Held” was featured in a nude scene in the movie “Forgtting Sarah Marshall” and I have always wondered if that was true, and if so, how that happened?
Well… I was just curious because I follow Natalie on Twitter… This is a very interesting conversation… The part that intrigues me the most is the idea of what glorifies God. Because if you look at the stories God orchestrates with each of his people, they are filled with violence, sexual misadventures, evil, murder, malice, destruction, cursing, apathy… And it is the story of redemption, and good even in the character arcs of those seemingly ultimately evil, that is truth. What are we afraid of when we approach movies and entertainment? Is it truly that by viewing such vile things, we will hurt our relationship with a God who is ever pursuing, ever loving and unconditionally careful with us? Even though I do not love these particular movies (meaning Twilight) I do see that our role is to find beauty and redemptions where we might least expect it. Is this not what God does for us? To look at the stories set on the big screen and ask the question, “Where is this telling the truth?” and also, “Where is this lying to me?” in light of what we know of the Gospel will allow us to intelligently, and confidently be a part of the continuing cultural conversation that God has designed and placed us in. That is unless you think it is God’s call that you remove yourself from the cultural conversation. But I dare say, this is never his call on us, but rather our fear infused interpretation of some grossly misinterpreted scriptures. Thanks!
and Give Natalie a break. Please!
I’m taken aback you’d actually go watch it Natalie …even Miley Cyrus and Selena Gomez refuse to watch it cos of the content so surprised a christian artist would…..aaaah well each unto their own
One word…FICTION! In addition to the fact that this movie is based on a work of fiction, it also encourages moral behavior. Meaning abstinence and doing what is right.
This was just HILARIOUS!!!! Seriously, I haven’t laughed this hard at a video
It was just great! I love you Natalie!!!
I didn’t see the movie, but I love your reaction
“Why did they have to keep taking their shirts off and embarrassing themselves?”
haha, that was awesome!
Natalie… You ROCK. Be NATALIE! Continue to share your life and keep calling us to experience God.
Barry and Linda
I find it far easier to relate to a fellow Christian who does not alienate themselves from the world, or secretlywould watch a movie and then act as if he/she didn’t.
It’s a story, just like 1000’s of other stories. I can watch Dr. Suess without thinking that Thing 1 and Thing 2 are real and might open the door to practicing the occult.
All of life…all of Christianity is a drama that is unfolding for us and our spirits connect to a story.
If these types of things are weakness for you, than don’t watch them – but don’t stand in judgment of another because of your inability to decipher a story from reality. I’m assuming you think dancing and co-ed swimming is of the devil, too? sigh…
I want to see REAL Christians that are living and enjoying life not haters who chastise others.
I would imagine that Christ did enjoy stories, seeing as he created creativity.
Where were all these judgmental people when Chronicles of Narnia came out? Um, there’s a big ol’ witch in that too and I never reached for a book on occult after that!
I mean, I think everyone who even says the word vampire is going to hell. Oh shoot.
I really tire of so many believers with one-way mirrors…
I think for Natalie Grant (or any Christian for that fact) representing Christ should set no wicked thing before them! Psalms 101:3. The movie opens the door to vampirism and witchcraft. You have some young adults and youths wanting fangs and drink plasma, also the movie has strong sexual undertones. Christ followers should not be watching films like this. Romans 12:2 “Be ye not conformed to this world..”, and Ephesians 5:11 “And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them”.
Sorry Natalie Jesus didn’t just HANG with sinners, he taught sinners, there is a difference. I like to call this watered down Christians who make excuses for pleasing their flesh!
I think, we should let Natalie do what she wants. It’s just a movie, and I love those movies and I don’t see how it affects my walk with Jesus Christ.
All Mrs. Grant did was post a video blog-meaning her reaction to something:
& I don’t believe it makes her anyless of a godly woman.
If these are the battles you guys are choosing to pick, you might want to think of better/more meaningful ones if you’re truely trying to abide by God.
God Bless Natalie!! I just saw You, Jeremy Camp, and Bebo in Santa Rosa.
Awesome Awesome Awesome!
this is quite funny, i love how spiff is like they broke up i was cracking up, i agree Natalie i dont see what is so amazing about it! cute video
“Be holy because I am holy” -1 Peter 1:16
People say to be holy so you can join their holiness club.
God says to be holy to draw YOU close to HIM.
He wants to have intimacy with you.
Who are you living for?
God loves each and every person on this discussion and believe it or not, what you watch has alot to do with your relationship with God. God is not only our friend, but also our JUDGE. HE IS HOLY. HE IS RIGHTEOUS. Everyone must give an account for his/her life. We are accountable for the movies we watch, the thoughts we think, our motives, and the things we say. We are responsible for our actions. Look at God’s Word!
Are we suppose to judge others for what they do? NO. LOVE LOVE LOVE
Also, we need to correct in love as the HOLY SPIRIT leads.
God cares about everything!
God loves you.
Wow….people like you guys still exist in the church!! HAHAHAHA
When I was young It was don’t watch the smurfs and Never Ending story…Get a life people. The God of the universe is not overly concerned if you see twilight or not. Seriously…don’t you think it’s time for the religious, self righteous, forced unattainable standards and hypocrisies of “human” Beings as yourself to DIE already!!!!!!!! You scare people away…. JESUS SAVE ME FROM YOUR FOLLOWERS!!!!!!
What strikes me funny is Natalie is most likely off doing her music while you guys keep her wall interesting..I am sure there are subjects you can talk about and learn good stuff from each other..
ha ha Mandy I am sure all is forgiven, family works things through..Like I said I came in the end and didn’t read through all the posts. But glad to meet you all..Happy Holidays!
Me, too! Juilia is definitely right, and Jaqui is right to agree with her!;)
( Except I don’t necessarily like wine, just cause I don’t think it tastes good. lol. But that’s besides the point…. )
ANYWAY…
So we all forgive each other, and will not argue anymore. ( I never meant to offend anyone, either, so, just to let you all know… )
Sorry, Natalie if we offended YOU.
Now we won’t quarrel over this ANYMORE and we’ll be friends on Natalie’s blog!
I was gonna leave this conversation alone (and I will!) But I have to say, Julia, I agree 100% with everything you said!!
I am new to this conversation..
This is my thoughts. To some a glass of wine may be offensive, I love a glass of wine, and some times I love more than one lol I’ve have had to find my balance.
To some a movie may fall into a category that they feel conviction, so then maybe it’s not the best thing for “them” to see. But if another chooses to see that movie it’s not our place to have an opinion just because we won’t see it.
What if we had a christian brother or sister addicted to porn? we can’t judge them. If they gave us room to speak into their lives because we have favor, then sure we can help them, love them, but not judge them.
I think to many times we have our opinions , we’re self righteousness, and think it’s okay to push things on others, I know I have done this.
The poor people outside the churches, our families, it’s no wonder they won’t come into the Father’s house..they are not finding love.
At this point in my walk I pray to walk in the greatest of all, love. And that doesn’t mean I trade my faith or the truth of the gospel.
I just think If we introduce them to Jesus with our love and actions he will clean them up..it has to happen, that’s what love does. I makes us want to change, not because we are afraid of being in trouble, but because we now love.
I PERSONALLY AM SORRY FOR ANY OFFENSES I HAVE CAUSED BY THINGS I SAID THAT WERE WRONG. I DO NOT APOLOGIZE FOR STANDING UP FOR GOD’S WORD.
ALL THIS ARGUING IS REALLY SILLY.
NATALIE, I DON’T KNOW IF YOU CHECK BACK TO SEE THE COMMENTS, BUT I APOLOGIZE FOR THE UNEASINESS.
JACQUI & MANDY AND ANYONE ELSE I HAVE OFFENDED, I AM SORRY.
THIS HAS NOT BEEN A COMFORTABLE EXPERIENCE FOR ME EITHER.
JUST LIKE YOU, I AM WORKING OUT MY SALVATION AND TRYING TO KEEP A PURE HEART BEFORE JESUS.
GOD BLESS
Okay, Jaqui, don’t think I’m accusing Catholics or anyone else. My point was the exact opposite. So, yeah, I totally agree… LOTS of Catholics have a personal relationship with Jesus. I’m not Catholic, but I don’t think it’s bad to be. Honestly, I don’t.
Yeah, let’s quit this discussion. I think we all have shared enough opinion and can decide for ourselves if we like the movie or not.
I, personally, agree with Natalie. But I’m going to stay out of it from here on.
So, ta-ta!
Ps. Catalina, I promise, I’ll prepare my heart. I agree, we should be ready. But judging others just by their church really isn’t fair. Having a personal realtionship with Jesus totally doesn’t depend on the branch of church you go to! You should watch what you say about who’s going to Heaven. Maybe some people go to a Jehovah Witness or Mormon church every week, because their parents do, or something, but have a personal realtionship with Jesus. You can’t judge who’s going to Heaven. You’re right, that we know that without Jesus in your heart, and having him as your Savior, you aren’t going to Heaven. But the branch of the church you go to does not determine if you have that realtionship or not.
My whole thought on this is: if you even for one moment question your own wisdom and motive in seeing this movie–you ought to listen. The Lord gave you a helper, the holy Spirit, to guide you. That Spirit is going to guide you to do things, say things, see things, walk places, and act in a way that is pleasing to the Father. Yes what we see, what we hear, what we say, how we act, and where we go all influence whether or not the Lord is pleased with us. Regardless of how others view us, isn’t how the Lord views us even more important to us? It should be. Why do we bother to ask what others would think of us doing something–we ought to ask what the Lord would think. If the Holy Spirit is prompting you in any way not to do something–by all means listen! Whether it is this movie, another, going somewhere, saying something, an activity you take part in, everything we do.
We are a people who have gotten so good at justifying our actions by saying “it isn’t as bad as….” or “the world is bad we shouldn’t shelter ourselves from it” or “it doesn’t influence me because I am better then that.” The bible disagrees with all of those statement. Justification for doing something that is not pleasing to the Lord–no matter what body part you do it with–is still justifying sin. If it displeases the Lord it displeases Him fully-not in part. Listen to Helper the Lord has given you, don’t drown Him out with justifications and falsehoods told you to you by an enemy wishing to trip you up.
I for one choose not to go to movies that include themes I know are likely to put my mind on things that the Lord would not be pleased with. Themes that the enemy can have a field day with, whether real or not, vampires are one of those-because they come with a whole list of things are minds can dwell on that are in no way pleasing to the Lord.
The only way to Heaven is through Jesus. That is why I said what I said about Mormons and Jehovah Witnesses. They are standing on “sinking sand”. They don’t believe that Jesus is the only Son of God and the way to everlasting life. They don’t. Can they come out from that religion and follow Jesus? Yes! It’s about the relationship! My God-parents are catholics. They have a personal relationship with Jesus! They are going to heaven! I don’t judge Catholics. That is between you and God. God knows your heart. And believe it or not, there are people that sit in church week after week that don’t have a relationship with the Lord. It’s about the heart.
Let me tell you, Jesus is coming back soon and we are to be ready. Not just anyone is going with Him when He comes for His people. We are to be set apart. Look at Romans 12:1-2.
Hi Mandy… thanks for expressing your opinion in a respectful way! I hope I’m doing the same, I’m not trying to upset anyone…I think the bottom line in of all this is that we see God, and live our faith in different ways. Maybe that’s ok? I don’t think it would be right for us to judge one another based on that.
I don’t feel that unbelievers judge us on that. They’re bound to be far more interested in what we do than what movies we watch. It would be wrong for us to do those things because if we did, it might hurt people. But just watching it or contemplating it doesn’t really harm anybody. I don’t even expect you to agree with me, I’m just explaining how I see it. 
I personally don’t consider what I watch to be part of how I act, not really…to me, that’s like saying everyone who watches CSI is a criminal. Or that everyone who watches Shrek is into ogres.
Even though I haven’t watched Twilight, I don’t think that if I did, I would be ’saying no to God’ or ‘yes to the world’. I think He knows that if I chose to do so, it doesn’t mean I love Him any less!
We believe in the same God, and every Catholic I’ve ever met believes in Jesus! (by the way, that is A LOT of Catholics- I went through 13 years of Catholic schooling, and both my parents have worked in Catholic education!!) I know the Vatican has some strange ideas sometimes, but Catholics are very rarely horrible in the way people imagine!
A few reasons why I’m defending it- one, I was surprised that people felt so strongly against it based on their Christian values, and two, I felt a little hurt by people claiming to know that certain groups aren’t going to heaven. I’m actually Catholic (although currently non-practicing), and I feel that protestants treat us unfairly sometimes. We’re not all that different to you!
I guess I see Jesus as…God…but also really human. I like to imagine that he did a lot of things that are not mentioned in the Bible. Maybe he played games with his friends. Maybe he joked around from time to time. Does that make sense? I guess it makes the idea of a relationship with him seem like less of an abstract concept! You could be totally right, He might hate those kinds of movies. I’m just saying, I don’t assume to know either way!
I feel a little weird too…maybe we should e-mail or something if you want to continue the conversation.
Hopefully we haven’t offended Natalie or anything! Cause yep, she is awesome. The only Christian artist I like, actually!
Just listened to some of your music for the first time on “Reverbnation” I enjoyed it. I am a worship leader/songwriter also. Blessings to you and yours for the holidays..
I agree, Natalie. The movie isn’t worth anyone’s time.
Jaqui, I have to disagree with you… You said said how we act and what we believe is more important than what we watch for entertainment… isn’t what we watch for entertainment part of how we act?
And if we watch movies that aren’t glorifying to God, then what will unbelievers think when they look at us?
If we have no problem with watching the ‘messed up’ parts of this world, as you put it, for entertainment, then why is there something wrong with doing such things? If it’s not okay to live like the people in that movie, then it’s not okay to watch THEM live that way for entertainment.
We aren’t supposed to fill our minds with unGodly things. We are supposed to say yes to God and no to flesh ( the world ). If we stare at the messed up world, and just keep staring and staring and being tempted, while trying to back away, we’ll only be pulled into it. If we turn our backs and don’t look at it, it’s MUCH easier to say no.
I agree with you about who is and isn’t going to Heaven, though. Some Mormons might believe in Jesus. Catalina, some Catholics believe in only God, as well. But I’ve known many who believe in Jesus, too. It’s not fair to judge whether or not people are going to Heaven, by what branch, or whatever you want to call it, of the church they are in.
Back to the vampire business, we DO know Jesus would not sit down and watch a movie about a vampire. Vampires don’t exist. Magic doesn’t exist. Ghosts and all that yucky business are basically realted to Witchcraft, no matter how you put it. And think of it this way: Does a movie about vampires and warewolves glorify God? Well… does it NOT glorify him? ( I wouldn’t say all movies should be direct worship towards Him, but if it’s UNglorifying to Him, it’s bad. ) Well, no, I don’t think that movie glorifies God. So Jesus would not watch the movie, Jaqui. And if you haven’t even seen it, how come you’re defending it?
This is getting way too long, and I feel kind of mean, arguing over Natalie’s website. So I’m going to go eat supper. Natalie, thank you for sharing your opinion on the movie. I think you’re right.
And you’ve probably felt a little awkward, having this arguement going on over your blog??? But, know this: You are a GREAT singer and song writer! Thank you for doing your thing! You’re a wonderful person and we love you!
Mandy
Well, I did watch it, and wasn’t all that impressed.
Natalie, I just loved that video. You are so awesome
Your reaction to the movie made me laugh out loud, and what Tiffany said..nice, but if anyone is a Twlight fan, they should already know the ‘end’ results.
Wish you were doing your Christmas tour in Florida this year..Alabama and Georgia are just too far for me right now..I have to fly out to San Diego, or I would totally drive and see you
I started re-reading your book you wrote during Thanksgiving break..thank you so much for sharing what you went through..It is helping me to see that no matter what I have done to myself God still loves me
Thanks for being you!
Kelli
Natalie i totally agree! i haven’t seen either one…i’m not alowed to…but i don’t even want to! my friends all like it but i don’t see the point!! i don’t like vampires! the bible says to stay away from witch craft and stuff like that!!! YOU ROCK NATALIE!!!
i agree! actually i never saw either of them…
Also, “Touched By a Vampire” was written by a Christian author in order to show the Twilight series through a Christian mindset. Honestly, I hadn’t seen some of the problems before, and I’m very thankful that I invested in this book.
What I was saying earlier applies here. Please don’t judge a book by it’s cover. Please read it for yourself.
Melinda
Catalina, there are “attitudes and mindsets” everywhere on Earth. You’d have to leave the planet to escape it! I agree it’s important to know right from wrong, but analyzing every little thing and wondering what Jesus would think of it, when we don’t really know, kind of hurts my brain!
How do you know he wouldn’t sit down and enjoy the movie?
Also, I find it a little offensive that you’d assume to know who is and who is not going to heaven. The Bible clearly says we are not to judge others- only God can do that. Can you see into other people’s hearts? Do you know the depths of their individual relationships with God? No. So you’re being a bit unfair.
There are alot of people that believe in God and aren’t going to Heaven. The Mormons and Jehovah Wittnesses believe in God, but they are not going to Heaven. I don’t know about this Touched by a Vampire thing, but this does not sound Christian. Jacqui and Melinda, guard your hearts.
Thank you for the information about the movie not having witchcraft. That is a good thing. Let me tell you though, Jesus IS coming back soon and we DO need to be careful about what we watch!!!!!! Do you think it is pleasing to the Lord for us to watch whatever we want???? Even if you do not act like the characters, what about the attitudes and mind-sets that enter your spirit???? Whether or not you see anything wrong with a movie, you should pray about it.
im not that into the twilight series either but i still want 2 c it!but i still dont get y its extreamly populat!~_~
Touched by a Vampire??? What in the world?? That’s funny
I went to see it with 4 of my girlfriends from church Sunday night. I warned them that I fell asleep during the first one, and I was likely to laugh at parts of it. They invited me to come anyway. UGH . . .that vampire body glistening thing. Could I roll my eyes more??? I admit to laughing several times during this movie — not at anything that I think was supposed to be funny. I wish we’d seen The Blind Side as well!
I haven’t read any of the books or watched the movies, I might be the only one on Earth lol! I guess the concept of vampires just doesn’t interest me that much, or I’m worried it would scare me. Something like that!
Anyway, you’re funny!
And about whether or not it’s ok for Christians to see a movie like that, I say why not? We live in a messed up world, worse things happen than vampire movies! Isn’t how we act and what we believe far more important than what we choose to watch for entertainment?!
Hey! U should Have watched the Blind side I went and saw it! IT was awesome!!! U would really love it!!!:) LOVE you so very much!!!!!!! and don’t worry we all make choices in our lives that sometimes we wish we don’t! I lOVE u so very much! YOU are amazing! Keep on doing what u are called do 2!!!!! LOVE YOU!!!!!:)
Hi Natalie.
I know you probably don’t have a lot of time on your hands, but the movies make a whole lot more sense if you are able to read them. (They take their shirts off so that they don’t destroy a lot of clothing when they shape shift.)
And to Catalina, the movie doesn’t have witchcraft in it. It’s a story about vampires and werewolves, and was actually written by someone who professes a belief in God. I highly recommend reading the first book for yourself and then following it up with a book you can find at a Christian bookstore called “Touched by a Vampire.” This book is a part of our culture now, and we would do better to prepare ourselves with knowledge rather than just hear say.
Thank you for your time, and your music Natalie. May God bless you richly.
Hugs,
Melinda
I just posted my comment, but whether a movie has witchcraft or not, it is important what you put in front of you. As Christians, we should be careful what we watch. We should keep our spirits clean. God has called us to be holy……
I heard that TWIGHLIGHT is a movie with WITCHCRAFT in it. This is not a movie for God’s people.
Let me just give you food for thought……
1. Would Jesus sit and watch this?
2. Would you invite your Pastor to watch this with you?
I liked it, LOL
I cant wait to see New Moon. My boyfriend is taking me next friday. I’ve read all the books a million times, and i’m very excited!!
Its cool that you dont like it. Not everyone does.
Your awesome though, Natalie!!!