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Should Christians play violent video games?

 

10-22-13 05:48 PM
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God said Thou shalt not kill.  Jesus walked around saying how great it would be if everyone were nice to each other.  Religions generally preach peace and say violence is not the right way.

Does playing video games, where you have to beat people up, shoot them, stab them, or kill them, have any negative effect on Christians?  I'm curious as to how you folks feel when it comes to video game death.  Sure, it's not reality, but is the idea or the enjoyment of taking lives, even fake, wrong?
God said Thou shalt not kill.  Jesus walked around saying how great it would be if everyone were nice to each other.  Religions generally preach peace and say violence is not the right way.

Does playing video games, where you have to beat people up, shoot them, stab them, or kill them, have any negative effect on Christians?  I'm curious as to how you folks feel when it comes to video game death.  Sure, it's not reality, but is the idea or the enjoyment of taking lives, even fake, wrong?
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warmaker :

As a Christian, this is something that I struggled with for a long time (and with good reason) and not just with violent video games, but with video games in general.  Let me be clear, I have nothing against video games, I still play now and again, but within certain "limits".  When a simple "no" should do for the question that you've asked, there are a few things to consider for Christians who truly value their relationship with Jesus Christ, regardless of the form of entertainment.  These questions got me thinking as well and made me "review" how I spend my free time.  I apologise for the long-winded approach to the question and I'm honestly not trying to condemn anyone playing video games, or have a "holier-than-thou" attitude towards this, but I truly think it's important for every Christian on this forum (or anywhere) to consider this when they spend time with their pc / console / tv, or any form of entertainment for that matter - violent or not.

The Bible does not explicitly teach whether or not a Christian should play video games (again, violent or not), but the Bible’s principles still apply today regarding the best use of our time. When God shows us that a specific activity is controlling our lives, we should break away from it for a time (personally for me, video games was my achilles heel).  This "break" could be from food, movies, TV, music, video games, anything that distracts our attention from knowing and loving God and serving His people. While some of these things may not be bad in and of themselves, they become idols if they distract us from our first love (Colossians 3:5;Revelation 2:4). 

1. Will video games edify or merely entertain me?
To edify means to build up.  Will playing video games build up your love for God, knowledge of Him, and ministry to others? “‘Everything is permissible’—but not everything is beneficial. ‘Everything is permissible’—but not everything is constructive” (1 Corinthians 10:23-24; Romans 14:19).  When God gives us relaxation time, we should find uplifting activities to enjoy. Do we choose permissible over praiseworthy activities?  When we have a choice between good, better, and best, we should choose the best (Galatians 5:13-17).

2. Will playing video games obey self-will or God’s will?
God’s will for His children can be summed up in His greatest commandment: “’Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind’; and, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself’” (Luke 10:27).  Our will has been polluted by sin. Because we have been saved from our selfish desires, we should surrender our will (Philippians 3:7-9). God’s will transforms our will (Psalm 143:10).  Progressively, His desires for us become our deepest desires as well.
Many people believe the will of God is boring and humiliating.  They picture a monk in a lonely monastery or a resentful church janitor.  On the contrary, people who follow God’s will for their lives are the most joyful, adventurous people ever.  Reading biographies of history’s heroes such Hudson Taylor, Amy Carmichael, Corrie Ten Boom, and George Mueller will verify that. Certainly, these saints faced difficulty from the world, their own flesh, and the devil.  They may not have had much of this world’s possessions, but God accomplished great works through them. At first, His will seems impossible and too holy to be any fun, but God will give us the power to perform it and the desires to delight in it. “I delight to do Your will, O my God” (Psalm 40:8; see Hebrews 13:21).

3.  Does the video game glorify God?
Some video games glorify violence, lewdness, and dumb decisions (e.g., “I'm just going to see how many guys I can blow up if I pull the pin and run with this nade”.)  As Christians, our activities should bring glory to God (1 Corinthians 10:31) and help us to grow in the knowledge and grace of Christ.

4.  Will playing video games result in good works?
“For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them” (Ephesians 2:10; see also Titus 2:11-14 and 1 Peter 2:15). Laziness and selfishness violate God’s purpose for us—to do good works to others (1 Corinthians 15:58; see also Galatians 6:9-10).

5. Will playing video games exhibit self-control?
Many people have said that video games can become an addiction or an obsession. This was my problem.  I can testify of this.  There is no room in the Christian life for such things. Paul compares the Christian life to an athlete disciplining his body so he may win the prize. Christians have a greater motivation to live a set-apart life of self-control—eternal reward in heaven (1 Corinthians 9:25-27).

6.  Will playing video games redeem the time?
You will give account for how you use your limited minutes.  Spending hours at a time playing a video game can hardly be called a good use of time. “Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord's will is” (Ephesians 5:15-17). “Live for the rest of the time in the flesh no longer for human passions but for the will of God” (1 Peter 4:2; see also Colossians 4:5,James 4:14, and 1 Peter 1:14-22).

7. Does it pass the test of Philippians 4:8?
“Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things” (Philippians 4:8). When you play video games, is your mind focused on godly or secular things?

8.  Will playing video games fit in with my life purpose?
Paul wrote that in the final days people would be “…lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God” (2 Timothy 3:4).  Western culture fits that description.  We love to play. Non-Christians become addicted to entertainment such as movies, sports, and music because they do not have a purpose higher than to enjoy life before death.  These amusements cannot truly satisfy (Ecclesiastes 2:1). When Christians become addicted to the same things as non-Christians, can we truly say that we are exhibiting the new life “in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe” (Philippians 2:15)?  Or do we prove to others that we are really no different than they are and that Christ has not made a significant difference in our lives?  Paul considered knowing, loving, and obeying God to be his highest priority.  “I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ....I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death,” (Philippians 3:7-10). Will playing video games be showing my love for God or my love for the things of the world? (1 John 2:15-17).

9.  Will playing video games give me an eternal focus?
Christians have hope of eternal rewards in heaven if they are faithful on earth (see Matthew 6:19-21 and 1 Corinthians 3:11-16). If we focus on living for eternity rather than the passing pleasures of earth, we will have surrendered resources, time, and hearts for ministry (Colossians 3:1-2;23-24).  If our possessions or activities cause us to lose our eternal rewards, of what worth are they (Luke 12:33-37)? Christians often try to serve both God and their own desires, but Jesus clearly stated, “No one can serve two masters” (Matthew 6:24). God gives us joy through times of work and rest (Ecclesiastes 5:19; Matthew 11:28-29; Colossians 3:23-24).  We must find that balance between labor and recreation. When we do set aside time for relaxation as Jesus did (Mark 6:31), we should choose an edifying activity.
The question is not “Can I play (violent) video games?” but  “Would video games be the best choice?”  Will this edify me, show love to my neighbor, and glorify God?  We are to pursue praiseworthy activities, not simply permissible ones.  However He leads you, passionately follow Him above all else.  Prepare for eternity.  Every sacrifice will seem insignificant when we meet Jesus.
warmaker :

As a Christian, this is something that I struggled with for a long time (and with good reason) and not just with violent video games, but with video games in general.  Let me be clear, I have nothing against video games, I still play now and again, but within certain "limits".  When a simple "no" should do for the question that you've asked, there are a few things to consider for Christians who truly value their relationship with Jesus Christ, regardless of the form of entertainment.  These questions got me thinking as well and made me "review" how I spend my free time.  I apologise for the long-winded approach to the question and I'm honestly not trying to condemn anyone playing video games, or have a "holier-than-thou" attitude towards this, but I truly think it's important for every Christian on this forum (or anywhere) to consider this when they spend time with their pc / console / tv, or any form of entertainment for that matter - violent or not.

The Bible does not explicitly teach whether or not a Christian should play video games (again, violent or not), but the Bible’s principles still apply today regarding the best use of our time. When God shows us that a specific activity is controlling our lives, we should break away from it for a time (personally for me, video games was my achilles heel).  This "break" could be from food, movies, TV, music, video games, anything that distracts our attention from knowing and loving God and serving His people. While some of these things may not be bad in and of themselves, they become idols if they distract us from our first love (Colossians 3:5;Revelation 2:4). 

1. Will video games edify or merely entertain me?
To edify means to build up.  Will playing video games build up your love for God, knowledge of Him, and ministry to others? “‘Everything is permissible’—but not everything is beneficial. ‘Everything is permissible’—but not everything is constructive” (1 Corinthians 10:23-24; Romans 14:19).  When God gives us relaxation time, we should find uplifting activities to enjoy. Do we choose permissible over praiseworthy activities?  When we have a choice between good, better, and best, we should choose the best (Galatians 5:13-17).

2. Will playing video games obey self-will or God’s will?
God’s will for His children can be summed up in His greatest commandment: “’Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind’; and, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself’” (Luke 10:27).  Our will has been polluted by sin. Because we have been saved from our selfish desires, we should surrender our will (Philippians 3:7-9). God’s will transforms our will (Psalm 143:10).  Progressively, His desires for us become our deepest desires as well.
Many people believe the will of God is boring and humiliating.  They picture a monk in a lonely monastery or a resentful church janitor.  On the contrary, people who follow God’s will for their lives are the most joyful, adventurous people ever.  Reading biographies of history’s heroes such Hudson Taylor, Amy Carmichael, Corrie Ten Boom, and George Mueller will verify that. Certainly, these saints faced difficulty from the world, their own flesh, and the devil.  They may not have had much of this world’s possessions, but God accomplished great works through them. At first, His will seems impossible and too holy to be any fun, but God will give us the power to perform it and the desires to delight in it. “I delight to do Your will, O my God” (Psalm 40:8; see Hebrews 13:21).

3.  Does the video game glorify God?
Some video games glorify violence, lewdness, and dumb decisions (e.g., “I'm just going to see how many guys I can blow up if I pull the pin and run with this nade”.)  As Christians, our activities should bring glory to God (1 Corinthians 10:31) and help us to grow in the knowledge and grace of Christ.

4.  Will playing video games result in good works?
“For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them” (Ephesians 2:10; see also Titus 2:11-14 and 1 Peter 2:15). Laziness and selfishness violate God’s purpose for us—to do good works to others (1 Corinthians 15:58; see also Galatians 6:9-10).

5. Will playing video games exhibit self-control?
Many people have said that video games can become an addiction or an obsession. This was my problem.  I can testify of this.  There is no room in the Christian life for such things. Paul compares the Christian life to an athlete disciplining his body so he may win the prize. Christians have a greater motivation to live a set-apart life of self-control—eternal reward in heaven (1 Corinthians 9:25-27).

6.  Will playing video games redeem the time?
You will give account for how you use your limited minutes.  Spending hours at a time playing a video game can hardly be called a good use of time. “Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord's will is” (Ephesians 5:15-17). “Live for the rest of the time in the flesh no longer for human passions but for the will of God” (1 Peter 4:2; see also Colossians 4:5,James 4:14, and 1 Peter 1:14-22).

7. Does it pass the test of Philippians 4:8?
“Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things” (Philippians 4:8). When you play video games, is your mind focused on godly or secular things?

8.  Will playing video games fit in with my life purpose?
Paul wrote that in the final days people would be “…lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God” (2 Timothy 3:4).  Western culture fits that description.  We love to play. Non-Christians become addicted to entertainment such as movies, sports, and music because they do not have a purpose higher than to enjoy life before death.  These amusements cannot truly satisfy (Ecclesiastes 2:1). When Christians become addicted to the same things as non-Christians, can we truly say that we are exhibiting the new life “in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe” (Philippians 2:15)?  Or do we prove to others that we are really no different than they are and that Christ has not made a significant difference in our lives?  Paul considered knowing, loving, and obeying God to be his highest priority.  “I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ....I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death,” (Philippians 3:7-10). Will playing video games be showing my love for God or my love for the things of the world? (1 John 2:15-17).

9.  Will playing video games give me an eternal focus?
Christians have hope of eternal rewards in heaven if they are faithful on earth (see Matthew 6:19-21 and 1 Corinthians 3:11-16). If we focus on living for eternity rather than the passing pleasures of earth, we will have surrendered resources, time, and hearts for ministry (Colossians 3:1-2;23-24).  If our possessions or activities cause us to lose our eternal rewards, of what worth are they (Luke 12:33-37)? Christians often try to serve both God and their own desires, but Jesus clearly stated, “No one can serve two masters” (Matthew 6:24). God gives us joy through times of work and rest (Ecclesiastes 5:19; Matthew 11:28-29; Colossians 3:23-24).  We must find that balance between labor and recreation. When we do set aside time for relaxation as Jesus did (Mark 6:31), we should choose an edifying activity.
The question is not “Can I play (violent) video games?” but  “Would video games be the best choice?”  Will this edify me, show love to my neighbor, and glorify God?  We are to pursue praiseworthy activities, not simply permissible ones.  However He leads you, passionately follow Him above all else.  Prepare for eternity.  Every sacrifice will seem insignificant when we meet Jesus.
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Sure, why not?? They are NOT actually hurting anybody by playing violent gamez!!

I've asked David on the ask him anything thread if he would be getting Grand Theft Auto V and he said no because he's a Christian and that the way he feels of course!! I am NOT a Christian but I would MOST DEFINITLEY play GTA gamez even if I was a Christian, cuz like I said ur NOT actually hurting anybody by hitting Virtual People with bats!!
Sure, why not?? They are NOT actually hurting anybody by playing violent gamez!!

I've asked David on the ask him anything thread if he would be getting Grand Theft Auto V and he said no because he's a Christian and that the way he feels of course!! I am NOT a Christian but I would MOST DEFINITLEY play GTA gamez even if I was a Christian, cuz like I said ur NOT actually hurting anybody by hitting Virtual People with bats!!
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The Bible also has lots of sex and violence but nobody says you should not read the bible.
The Bible also has lots of sex and violence but nobody says you should not read the bible.
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I am pretty sure that simulated killing in a video game does not count. I don't see a reason why we shouldn't be allowed to play them. I think it is a little ridiculous to say that video games count as killing.
I am pretty sure that simulated killing in a video game does not count. I don't see a reason why we shouldn't be allowed to play them. I think it is a little ridiculous to say that video games count as killing.
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I usually don't post in threads like these. But I think they can.
One of my friends is christian and he plays lots of violent video games.

They are not real people. it's like saying christians shouldn't play games like legend of zelda or mario because you do kill animals and people.

Just think, toads are actually the brick blocks everyone breaks in mario game. So technically you are killing thousands upon thousands of virtual little men.
Lots of nintendo games have you kill real people. Think of super smash brothers. You are murdering all of your favourite nintendo icons.
Even now its a game inside of a game you still kill people in it.

But people are entitled to their own opinion and i think you get my point right now
I usually don't post in threads like these. But I think they can.
One of my friends is christian and he plays lots of violent video games.

They are not real people. it's like saying christians shouldn't play games like legend of zelda or mario because you do kill animals and people.

Just think, toads are actually the brick blocks everyone breaks in mario game. So technically you are killing thousands upon thousands of virtual little men.
Lots of nintendo games have you kill real people. Think of super smash brothers. You are murdering all of your favourite nintendo icons.
Even now its a game inside of a game you still kill people in it.

But people are entitled to their own opinion and i think you get my point right now
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Well yes they are . If you don't do something in real life then don't do it in a game . It charges a natural human urge for violence and domination . Sometimes it gets the better of us and others we can control it  . But either way you should not play them . But many people do and will always do so it has to do with your self control  
Well yes they are . If you don't do something in real life then don't do it in a game . It charges a natural human urge for violence and domination . Sometimes it gets the better of us and others we can control it  . But either way you should not play them . But many people do and will always do so it has to do with your self control  
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Thats the choice of the individual. Churches have to much control.
Nowadays faith seems not to belong to the holder. It is as everything in capitalism, where you are sold a product. If you alter it the manufacturer invalidates the warranty, e.g its no longer valid.
It seems stupid that people allow others to tell them they are practicing their faith wrong.
Thats the choice of the individual. Churches have to much control.
Nowadays faith seems not to belong to the holder. It is as everything in capitalism, where you are sold a product. If you alter it the manufacturer invalidates the warranty, e.g its no longer valid.
It seems stupid that people allow others to tell them they are practicing their faith wrong.
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I think only some is alright. Because it's simulated, and they pop up again in 5 seconds without a scratch, and if you're playing TF2, there isn't much realism at all. But I mean, GTA is obviously not the best game to play. Since you're killing innocent people, stealing, doing...unmentionable things to girls, and in general being awful. Well, you need to be careful if you do play GTA.
I think only some is alright. Because it's simulated, and they pop up again in 5 seconds without a scratch, and if you're playing TF2, there isn't much realism at all. But I mean, GTA is obviously not the best game to play. Since you're killing innocent people, stealing, doing...unmentionable things to girls, and in general being awful. Well, you need to be careful if you do play GTA.
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When you kill something in a video game it is all lines of code, just numbers.  Should Christians not use numbers?  Now as far as plots that involve blasphemy and such that is a real debate.
When you kill something in a video game it is all lines of code, just numbers.  Should Christians not use numbers?  Now as far as plots that involve blasphemy and such that is a real debate.
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I've spoken with the Jehovah's Witnesses before, and on one occasion he was mentioning how his grandson is always playing video games, and that it's a constant struggle to talk him out of it. The issue is more to do with the content of the games, I think.

I don't call myself a Christian, because I'm not Christ-like, and don't really put forth the effort to do so.
However, If I were to do my best to be a Christian, I feel that I would need to put video gaming and the majority of computer use behind me.

Perhaps video games could be considered a form of idolatry or... spiritualism?, not in the sense that you kneel down and worship them, but in that it's easy to be drawn in to the story (If applicable) and put in-game goals of points and story progress above those of what God desires.

I would say that a game like Skyrim is a good example. It's completely loaded with different sorts of gods and spirits and mythology and magically enchanted items and downright forces a player to go against every Christian ethic imaginable just to survive or make progress.

This is a tough question, I'll need to do a bit of digging to see if there's anything a bit more official on the topic.
I've spoken with the Jehovah's Witnesses before, and on one occasion he was mentioning how his grandson is always playing video games, and that it's a constant struggle to talk him out of it. The issue is more to do with the content of the games, I think.

I don't call myself a Christian, because I'm not Christ-like, and don't really put forth the effort to do so.
However, If I were to do my best to be a Christian, I feel that I would need to put video gaming and the majority of computer use behind me.

Perhaps video games could be considered a form of idolatry or... spiritualism?, not in the sense that you kneel down and worship them, but in that it's easy to be drawn in to the story (If applicable) and put in-game goals of points and story progress above those of what God desires.

I would say that a game like Skyrim is a good example. It's completely loaded with different sorts of gods and spirits and mythology and magically enchanted items and downright forces a player to go against every Christian ethic imaginable just to survive or make progress.

This is a tough question, I'll need to do a bit of digging to see if there's anything a bit more official on the topic.
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11-06-13 11:52 PM
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Weylin :  You are spot on when you use the word idolatry in conjunction with gaming, since we all know how addictive they can be.  Even an innocent sport game like for example, Mario Tennis, can become an idol if you spend all of your time playing the game with little or no room / time for God.  Then again, there are many distractions today, other than gaming, that can quickly burn away your personal time.  Just a side note, since you mentioned Jehovah's Witnesses in your post (I apologise if you already knew this) - Christians do not consider Jehovah's Witnesses as part of Christianity since they do not recognise Jesus as God.  They are considered as a cult, with different teachings than the Christian faith.  Just thought I should mention that.
Weylin :  You are spot on when you use the word idolatry in conjunction with gaming, since we all know how addictive they can be.  Even an innocent sport game like for example, Mario Tennis, can become an idol if you spend all of your time playing the game with little or no room / time for God.  Then again, there are many distractions today, other than gaming, that can quickly burn away your personal time.  Just a side note, since you mentioned Jehovah's Witnesses in your post (I apologise if you already knew this) - Christians do not consider Jehovah's Witnesses as part of Christianity since they do not recognise Jesus as God.  They are considered as a cult, with different teachings than the Christian faith.  Just thought I should mention that.
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11-07-13 01:48 AM
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SoL@R :
I don't understand how they are a cult.
They see there being 3 separate entities.
Jehovah (The God above all else, who has been and always will be.)
Jesus (The first creation of God, the son.)
The Holy Spirit (The force by which the works of God are accomplished)

I'm not a JW myself but they seem to have a take on several things that leaves far fewer questions than I had when I went to churches in the past.
Nothing seems particularly extreme or dangerous about their beliefs so it doesn't really strike me as a cult so much.
SoL@R :
I don't understand how they are a cult.
They see there being 3 separate entities.
Jehovah (The God above all else, who has been and always will be.)
Jesus (The first creation of God, the son.)
The Holy Spirit (The force by which the works of God are accomplished)

I'm not a JW myself but they seem to have a take on several things that leaves far fewer questions than I had when I went to churches in the past.
Nothing seems particularly extreme or dangerous about their beliefs so it doesn't really strike me as a cult so much.
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11-07-13 04:14 AM
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The real question is should be why christians are paying taxes and joining the military to support wars and why they are electing corrupt individuals who may or may not allow the killing of babies.

I think people forget video games are entertainment.
The real question is should be why christians are paying taxes and joining the military to support wars and why they are electing corrupt individuals who may or may not allow the killing of babies.

I think people forget video games are entertainment.
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The term "Christian" has been severely cheapened now days.

It really does not matter what you call yourself, what matters is how you lead your life.
What of those 'Christians' who are only good on Sundays and then go back to their bad behaviors every other day of the week?
Those who take that title for themselves and bring shame to it are the most damaging to Christianity.

I refuse to call myself a Christian because it will only encourage people to judge me more critically, and I am by no means a model Christian.
When I attend church, I am merely a guest, being there to learn and make acquaintances, and share what I've learned when appropriate.
The term "Christian" has been severely cheapened now days.

It really does not matter what you call yourself, what matters is how you lead your life.
What of those 'Christians' who are only good on Sundays and then go back to their bad behaviors every other day of the week?
Those who take that title for themselves and bring shame to it are the most damaging to Christianity.

I refuse to call myself a Christian because it will only encourage people to judge me more critically, and I am by no means a model Christian.
When I attend church, I am merely a guest, being there to learn and make acquaintances, and share what I've learned when appropriate.
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11-08-13 01:23 AM
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Weylin :  Thanks for your reply. We've been going a bit off topic and I'll be falling off the rails if I start talking about cults, since it's a whole separate thread. So I'll just try and explain this very briefly. The Christian definition of a cult (I'm honestly not trying to insult your intelligence ) is a religious group that denies one or more of the fundamentals of biblical truth. In other words, it is a group that teaches something that will cause a person to remain unsaved if he or she believes it. They claim to be part of a religion, yet they deny essential truths of that religion. In this case, JW's denies one or more of the fundamental truths of Christianity, but they are still claiming to be Christian. The two of the most common teachings of cults are that Jesus was not God and that salvation is not by faith alone. JW's specifically deny the deity of Christ. Yes, they recognise Jesus, but they believe that Jesus is a created being and that He is Michael the Archangel. This clearly contradicts many scriptures which clearly declare Jesus to be God (John 1:1,14,8:58,10:30)  That is only one example.  There are obviously much more to this, but like I said, I don't want to turn this into a novel so I'll stop here.  If there's more questions on the subject you are welcome to start a thread on it or PM me.

A quick note on your last post.  I agree.  The term has severely been cheapened and misused.  I don't think most people understand what it really means.  However, there are still a few true believers out there, who holds fast to God's Word and His teachings and live by it.  Being truly Christian doesn't mean you are better than anyone else, but you are better off.  True Christians still stumble - there's no denying that - but are not put down by it and doesn't wallow in a pit of condemnation.  The enemy (Satan) loves to make you believe that when you do something wrong, you are such a horrible person.  "What will the people think?  God will never forgive you! "  All lies.  He is not called "The Father of lies" for nothing.  Paul the apostle said in Romans 8:1, "There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit."  If you have truly given your heart and life to Jesus, there is no condemnation.  The enemy will come with his lies, but don't believe it, don't fall for it.  You will mess up sometimes, of course, but sincerely repent.  Turn away from that sin, ask God for His forgiveness and carry on and you can honestly believe that God has forgotten your sin.  Get back in the Word, prayer etc.  Doesn't matter what other people think.  Only God knows your heart.  I truly pray that all Christians will own up to that "title" and come to the point where they will say like Paul in Romans 1:16, "For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes..."

So.  What do you think about violence in video games?

UFO :   Good questions. We won't always know why people do what they do and why certain things happen.  All I do know is that Christians need to submit to the authorities, because God has placed them there.  Romans 13:1 says, "Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God."  Whatever those people in higher positions do, they will have to answer to the Ultimate Authority one day for every injustice they have performed.  In that I have peace and I do not fret over things like that, because God has got it sorted.


Weylin :  Thanks for your reply. We've been going a bit off topic and I'll be falling off the rails if I start talking about cults, since it's a whole separate thread. So I'll just try and explain this very briefly. The Christian definition of a cult (I'm honestly not trying to insult your intelligence ) is a religious group that denies one or more of the fundamentals of biblical truth. In other words, it is a group that teaches something that will cause a person to remain unsaved if he or she believes it. They claim to be part of a religion, yet they deny essential truths of that religion. In this case, JW's denies one or more of the fundamental truths of Christianity, but they are still claiming to be Christian. The two of the most common teachings of cults are that Jesus was not God and that salvation is not by faith alone. JW's specifically deny the deity of Christ. Yes, they recognise Jesus, but they believe that Jesus is a created being and that He is Michael the Archangel. This clearly contradicts many scriptures which clearly declare Jesus to be God (John 1:1,14,8:58,10:30)  That is only one example.  There are obviously much more to this, but like I said, I don't want to turn this into a novel so I'll stop here.  If there's more questions on the subject you are welcome to start a thread on it or PM me.

A quick note on your last post.  I agree.  The term has severely been cheapened and misused.  I don't think most people understand what it really means.  However, there are still a few true believers out there, who holds fast to God's Word and His teachings and live by it.  Being truly Christian doesn't mean you are better than anyone else, but you are better off.  True Christians still stumble - there's no denying that - but are not put down by it and doesn't wallow in a pit of condemnation.  The enemy (Satan) loves to make you believe that when you do something wrong, you are such a horrible person.  "What will the people think?  God will never forgive you! "  All lies.  He is not called "The Father of lies" for nothing.  Paul the apostle said in Romans 8:1, "There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit."  If you have truly given your heart and life to Jesus, there is no condemnation.  The enemy will come with his lies, but don't believe it, don't fall for it.  You will mess up sometimes, of course, but sincerely repent.  Turn away from that sin, ask God for His forgiveness and carry on and you can honestly believe that God has forgotten your sin.  Get back in the Word, prayer etc.  Doesn't matter what other people think.  Only God knows your heart.  I truly pray that all Christians will own up to that "title" and come to the point where they will say like Paul in Romans 1:16, "For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes..."

So.  What do you think about violence in video games?

UFO :   Good questions. We won't always know why people do what they do and why certain things happen.  All I do know is that Christians need to submit to the authorities, because God has placed them there.  Romans 13:1 says, "Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God."  Whatever those people in higher positions do, they will have to answer to the Ultimate Authority one day for every injustice they have performed.  In that I have peace and I do not fret over things like that, because God has got it sorted.


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(edited by SoL@R on 11-08-13 01:25 AM)     Post Rating: 1   Liked By: Singelli,

11-08-13 10:07 AM
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I am not sure it is a battle between whether they should or should not play video games with graphic content, they should be free rather than have set guidelines. Christians believe in a Heaven and a Hell and depending on how they live their life will decide the events of their after life. It is really about your own personal, moral decision. If you feel like playing the game is morally wrong then you simply do not play it, and the same applies for the opposite.
Some people think differently to others as we all should know. One person, christian or non-christian, may think that games such as the GTA series and Mortal Kombat are really bad for you and that we should not play them. On the other hand some one else, again christian or non-christian, may play those games and feel perfectly good and safe while playing them. 
Both of those people will have their own opinions on the games and obviously they are the opposite. For instance the person who is ok about playing the games could come up with the fact that it is not real to counter any accusations to breaking rules or anything similar (just keeping it so that it can come across to anyone not just christians, hence why I just put breaking the rules). 
As I said at the beginning it is their call. If christians want to play these games, there is no one stopping them do so. It is about what is right and wrong for you and not having rules to follow.
I am not sure it is a battle between whether they should or should not play video games with graphic content, they should be free rather than have set guidelines. Christians believe in a Heaven and a Hell and depending on how they live their life will decide the events of their after life. It is really about your own personal, moral decision. If you feel like playing the game is morally wrong then you simply do not play it, and the same applies for the opposite.
Some people think differently to others as we all should know. One person, christian or non-christian, may think that games such as the GTA series and Mortal Kombat are really bad for you and that we should not play them. On the other hand some one else, again christian or non-christian, may play those games and feel perfectly good and safe while playing them. 
Both of those people will have their own opinions on the games and obviously they are the opposite. For instance the person who is ok about playing the games could come up with the fact that it is not real to counter any accusations to breaking rules or anything similar (just keeping it so that it can come across to anyone not just christians, hence why I just put breaking the rules). 
As I said at the beginning it is their call. If christians want to play these games, there is no one stopping them do so. It is about what is right and wrong for you and not having rules to follow.
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11-08-13 10:23 AM
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MechaMento : But if you are going to make a commitment and say you are a part of something (religion, organization, etc), that means there ARE set rules. If you want to live your life based on what is morally right for you, then you can't really identify yourself with a group that has rules like Christianity does. You don't just identify yourself with a group and ignore all the rules that you don't think you should have to follow. Groups don't work like that. Now, with that said, I am not saying Christians should or should not play violent games. I'm not saying your opinion of people should follow their own morals is wrong. Just saying that the logic you used to explain it doesn't really work. If you choose to identify as a member of any group/organization, you are committing to the rules that go with it. You don't just get to pick and choose which rules you follow (though there are a lot of people who do exactly that).
MechaMento : But if you are going to make a commitment and say you are a part of something (religion, organization, etc), that means there ARE set rules. If you want to live your life based on what is morally right for you, then you can't really identify yourself with a group that has rules like Christianity does. You don't just identify yourself with a group and ignore all the rules that you don't think you should have to follow. Groups don't work like that. Now, with that said, I am not saying Christians should or should not play violent games. I'm not saying your opinion of people should follow their own morals is wrong. Just saying that the logic you used to explain it doesn't really work. If you choose to identify as a member of any group/organization, you are committing to the rules that go with it. You don't just get to pick and choose which rules you follow (though there are a lot of people who do exactly that).
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11-08-13 10:38 AM
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rcarter2 : I can see where you are coming from so I guess this post has a little more logic. There currently are not any rules, at least I do not think there are. This would mean they will have to make their own decisions whether something is wright or wrong as I said in the other post. I know that christians follow rules, the ten commandments, and they are told to follow them. Since video games do not fall into this, however they can contain content that breaks some of the commandments then it is their call whether they should play it or not.  
rcarter2 : I can see where you are coming from so I guess this post has a little more logic. There currently are not any rules, at least I do not think there are. This would mean they will have to make their own decisions whether something is wright or wrong as I said in the other post. I know that christians follow rules, the ten commandments, and they are told to follow them. Since video games do not fall into this, however they can contain content that breaks some of the commandments then it is their call whether they should play it or not.  
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SoL@R:

I think that video games should install proper values in children, There was a time when children would role play David and Goliath. It's just that the games that we should play should glorify God in one way or another.

The main problem with games nowadys is many do the opposite.

One porblem that I had for a while was playing as the bad guys.

I will not play a game just to do bad stuff.

The force unleashed has you play as Darth Vader's secret apprentice, but halfway through the game, he turns to the good side of the force- and that's kindof the story of all of us if you think about it.

I sorry to those of you who play it, but for me, it's mitts off with GTA. I don't see it instilling anything good in children. I mean, get younger children especially a copy of the Legend of Zelda or something. Good verses evil - and you're the good guy.


As for problems in games- they're all going to have them- just like movies, and even sports.

(you know, you score a touchdown, and your coach says "YEAH, that's a &@#$%#$irific job there son! keep it up!").

And the work place.

In everything in life, you eat the meat and spit out the bones- even when reading Christian literature.

But, if there are to many bones in your meat, then maybe you should eat something else. I mean, you don't want malnourished.

Might be nice to have a subterm to use though other than just calling yourself a Christian, just so that you're divided from the crowd. i e Baptist.
 But I totally agree that we should not be ashamed of the gospel at all.
SoL@R:

I think that video games should install proper values in children, There was a time when children would role play David and Goliath. It's just that the games that we should play should glorify God in one way or another.

The main problem with games nowadys is many do the opposite.

One porblem that I had for a while was playing as the bad guys.

I will not play a game just to do bad stuff.

The force unleashed has you play as Darth Vader's secret apprentice, but halfway through the game, he turns to the good side of the force- and that's kindof the story of all of us if you think about it.

I sorry to those of you who play it, but for me, it's mitts off with GTA. I don't see it instilling anything good in children. I mean, get younger children especially a copy of the Legend of Zelda or something. Good verses evil - and you're the good guy.


As for problems in games- they're all going to have them- just like movies, and even sports.

(you know, you score a touchdown, and your coach says "YEAH, that's a &@#$%#$irific job there son! keep it up!").

And the work place.

In everything in life, you eat the meat and spit out the bones- even when reading Christian literature.

But, if there are to many bones in your meat, then maybe you should eat something else. I mean, you don't want malnourished.

Might be nice to have a subterm to use though other than just calling yourself a Christian, just so that you're divided from the crowd. i e Baptist.
 But I totally agree that we should not be ashamed of the gospel at all.
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