K-Pop Demon Hunters is absolutely over the top, in the best possible way. The film is funny, delightfully quirky, and bursting with playful animation. The soundtrack is ridiculously catchy and the characters turn out to be more layered than you might expect. But given the themes of witchcraft, demons and idols should Christian parents let their children watch this movie? Many Christian commentators say No. But our guest review Elise Harden shows that great Christian truths shine through in this animated film.
There’s a strong case against organised religion. But two things are worth considering. The Bible, a religious text, teaches that organised religion can go very wrong. And yet, the Bible also teaches that Jesus’ plan was organised religion - the church. For organised religion, like organised crime, does it better.
In the letter of James Christians are called to consider our trials and problems with great joy because of what God is doing through them. He loves us too much to leave us unchanged. This poem, The Weaver, beautifully captures the mystery of God’s great work in our lives.
Photo by Chris Curry on Unsplash
Can ChatGPT help us get further than blind men with an elephant when it comes to ultimate reality? I thought it was worth asking the question.
When I moved to Brisbane, everything changed. Finding a new church was exhausting but even more exhausting was wondering if I’m good enough. I started to doubt myself and this turned out to be a very good thing.
With thanks to Beth Rufener for the photo on Unsplash
My life has turned 180 degrees in the last two years through the work of Jesus in my heart and being involved in Risen Church. I was influenced by Jesus but now I’ve become a follower.
Many people think that the Old Testament is all about keeping the rules. But, here’s the thing. The Jews could never keep the rules. And the only way they could be rescued was by God saving them. In Isaiah we discover a God who saves by grace - looking forward to Jesus. Here is the gospel in Isaiah.
When we hear the word dogma we get worried. It just sounds bad! But before we race to reject Christian dogma we need to consider things a little more deeply. I want to suggest that there is even - good dogma.
Photo by Jason Betz on Unsplash (edited)
How can a good God create evil?
The problem with this argument is easily exposed. It is not the concept of God that is logically inconsistent. It is something else.
The article claims that evolution makes more sense but that isn’t the heart of their issue. Their issue is that religion offers no good answers or rather, ‘answers that sound like they’re making up excuses.’ I think that perspective can be challenged.
The writer’s experience from religion classes was that Christianity is about instilling values with the ultimate goal of eternal reward and avoiding suffering. This isn’t the Christian message but a misunderstanding and a very significant one.
Who is Jesus? Is he a good man? A teacher? A lunatic? A liar and a deceiver? A pretend Messiah? A man possessed by evil? A short sailing trip breaks all these categories for Jesus’ disciples.
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It’s a bold claim, ‘all arguments for God are ridiculously weak’. Is that really the case?
Photo by Priscilla Du Preez on Unsplash
God is just Santa Claus for adults. Witty? Yep. Snarky? Maybe? But does it hold up… I don’t think so.
With thanks - Photo by Priscilla Du Preez on Unsplash
Mark’s Gospel is short but punchy. It feels like the action version of the story of Jesus, with a kind of Bruce Willis, Die Hard feel, where events pile up on each other with barely a moment to spare. But there is a structure to Mark’s Gospel and understanding the structure opens the whole book up to us.
Deuteronomy starts pretty clear recapping the history of Israel. Then comes the 10 commandments and what it means to live in the land. But what’s with chapters 12 to 26 - they seem random? But are they?
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Why follow Jesus and not Buddha or Muhammed or Hinduism? And what’s with Christians who just know Jesus is the way to God? That was the essence of the question sent to me on messenger. Here’s my reply, with some extra details.
With thanks - photo by Jonathan Klok on Unsplash
A big scholar claims that Jesus never claimed to be God. Is he right? Nope he’s wrong. Let me show you from the Bible.
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Worried God won’t hear your prayer? If that’s you, here’s a prayer for you.
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Below is a short guide if you’re moving to the area to study at Griffith University. We’re a church with a bunch of students from Griffith University. We love connecting with and caring for students.
Deuteronomy is God’s living word given to us so that we might know God’s grace and love for his people. Read on to discover some of the key ideas and the structure of Deuteronomy. May this help you discover and read Deuteronomy.
Photo by Taylor Wilcox on Unsplash
