How do japanese cartoons mix with theology?

[ArchiveD]

Hey, it's ArchiveoftheDead here, and I was wondering, how do these cartoons mix with christian theology and beliefs? I'm not a christian or an anime fan and so I'm wondering why you've decided to mix them together and why you feel you need to call yourselves christian anime fans.


Thanks,
ArchiveoftheDead

[Raiden no Kishi]

I'm not entirely sure what you mean. However, I believe that the reason we specify that we are both Christians and anime fans is because in mainstream Christian society, there is somewhat of a bias against anime, and we feel it necessary to point out that one can indeed be a fan of anime and a Christian at the same time, without compromising either.

As far as "How do these cartoons mix with Christian theology and beliefs," that's a bit of a vague question. What, specifically, do you mean by that?

.rai//

[ArchiveD]

What bias do you speak of? Do christian leaders or theologicans, church fathers etc. speak out against these cartoons?

Just wondering...

If there is, does that mean Christian theology says these cartoons are demonic and what not?

[Raiden no Kishi]

What bias do you speak of? Do christian leaders or theologicans, church fathers etc. speak out against these cartoons?

Just wondering...

Well, I, as well as others on this board [although specific names do not spring readily to mind] have experienced criticism for our fanhood, and there have been some Christian organizations that have published pieces criticizing anime [although most have been terribly biased and incomplete in their research].

It's a percieved bias based on personal experience.

.rai//

[ChristianKitsune]

You pose a question that is not entirely rare to ask. lol.

Many members here at CAA are Christians. and what Raiden no Kishi said, Christians can still be Christians and enjoy anime.

However, we do have a review section where the animes are looked at through a Christian perspective, and there are some anime that a lot of Christians probably stay away from.

As a Christian, I look at anime as fantasy, and nothing more. Like, I love bleach, but I don't believe that shinigamis and gods are real, I watch it because it's entertainment, as I would watch an american show with superheros and not believe that superheros are real.

Great question!

[ArchiveD]

Well, I, as well as others on this board [although specific names do not spring readily to mind] have experienced criticism for our fanhood, and there have been some Christian organizations that have published pieces criticizing anime [although most have been terribly biased and incomplete in their research].

It's a percieved bias based on personal experience.


Well can you tell me about these if you don't mind. I'm trying to do the most research I can on christians and what they believe so I'd like some insight into this.

[ArchiveD]

>>>>You pose a question that is not entirely rare to ask. lol.

Many members here at CAA are Christians. and what Raiden no Kishi said, Christians can still be Christians and enjoy anime.

However, we do have a review section where the animes are looked at through a Christian perspective, and there are some anime that a lot of Christians probably stay away from.

As a Christian, I look at anime as fantasy, and nothing more. Like, I love bleach, but I don't believe that shinigamis and gods are real, I watch it because it's entertainment, as I would watch an american show with superheros and not believe that superheros are real.

Great question!<<<<<

Well thank you, but I did get nasty comments on my youtube channel from christian anime fans, so I was wondering if these two things were teeming together or if they were seperate.

[Raiden no Kishi]

"If there is, does that mean Christian theology says these cartoons are demonic and what not?"

We see no conflict between Christian theology and being an anime fan. One must make it clear, however, that there is a considerable difference between Christian theology and the personal beliefs of those people who call themselves Christians. Some Christians would call anime demonic, but that is a ridiculous claim, and is not supported by Scripture [the Bible], which is the source of Christian theology. The Bible, having been written before the advent of any of the technology necessary for anime to exist, obviously doesn't speak to it specifically.

Also, we "feel the need to" call ourselves Christian anime fans because that's what we are. ^_^

"Well can you tell me about these if you don't mind. I'm trying to do the most research I can on christians and what they believe so I'd like some insight into this."

It's hard to nail down "what Christians believe" because we don't all believe the same thing, sadly. There are plenty of dissenting factions, which is a shame and [I believe] a blight on the image of Christians in general. If you want the best insight into what Christians SHOULD believe, I'd recommend the New Testament of the Bible in a good, word-for-word translation like the New American Standard. Might as well go straight to the source, no?

As far as criticism, I haven't had much criticism from my peers [praise God], but I have from my own mother. She used to be somewhat condemning of anime, although she has [thankfully] been open-minded enough to listen to my experience and trust my judgment. She still worries for me, but in more of a motherly "I-don't-want-anything-to-happen-to-my-son" way than anything. It's not a problem anymore. I'm sure others could offer you more examples.

"I did get nasty comments on my youtube channel from christian anime fans, so I was wondering if these two things were teeming together or if they were seperate."

I have no idea as to what happened on your YouTube channel, so I cannot speak to that. However, if they were "nasty" comments, then they certainly were not spoken [written?] in accord with the principles of Christianity.

I appreciate your interest. May I ask what inspired this particular inquiry?

.rai//

[ArchiveD]

Oops, posted twice.

[ArchiveD]

>>>I appreciate your interest. May I ask what inspired this particular inquiry?<<<<<

Well mainly because I get attacked by christians all the time, and it happens that a certain group of them on YouTube.com are also anime fans that are attacking me...so I assumed these two things were with some people combining into one big thing of hate.

[Ashley]

Well, I am sincerely sorry to hear that those who claim to follow Christ are clearly not following in His footsteps by attacking you.

I would say the most radical way that being a Christian anime fan has effected me is the difference in where "the line" is. For me, and most other Christians, what we consider inappropriate or "too far" is considerably more conservative than our secular otaku counterparts.

This is because as Christians we are trying to live pure, holy lives as defined by the Bible's standards. Because the Bible says premarital sex is wrong, for example, many Christians would be hesitant to watch a show that very blatantly supports this message.

However, like many others have said so eloquently, most of us are here for the fellowship of others like us, rather than synthesizing anime and theology is some post-modern Aquinas sort of way. I guess we're just living proof it IS possible to be a Christian and still enjoy things like video games, anime, and pocky.

[Raiden no Kishi]

>>>I appreciate your interest. May I ask what inspired this particular inquiry?<<<<<

Well mainly because I get attacked by christians all the time, and it happens that a certain group of them on YouTube.com are also anime fans that are attacking me...

Ah. Well, again, I can't speak to your particular situation, but I will say this: while it is a Christian's duty to stand firm in the truth taught by Scripture, it is also their duty to do so in a considerate and tactful manner. May I ask what they object to in particular?

.rai//

[ArchiveD]

Well I dont understand how calling people nasty names is against christianity, since Jesus called people fools all the time and vipers and such, but I guess the main reason why I came on here is wondering if Christians who like anime are really worse than the christians who don't, because I get nasty comments and messages from christians all the time, Ive lived through it, but the most nasty have been from these geeks on youtube which happen to be christian too. Being an atheist and one who doesnt watch cartoons makes me evil I guess in christians eyes.

[ArchiveD]

Oh they object to me being an atheist for one, and also for criticizing the historical evidence of Jesus, accepting evolution, a number of things, I can get more into detail if you want.

[Raiden no Kishi]

Well I dont understand how calling people nasty names is against christianity, since Jesus called people fools all the time and vipers and such

: : chuckles : : I suppose you have something of a point there. It's probably worth pointing out that the only people Christ treated that way were the religious leaders of that day who were corrupting Judaism [the predecessor to Christianity] and being pompus and self-righteous while being morally corrupt themselves. He also drove out the money-changers and opportunistic salesmen from the Temple physically [with a whip He made Himself] for much the same reason. He was kind and considerate to everyone else.

I guess the main reason why I came on here is wondering if Christians who like anime are really worse than the christians who don't, because I get nasty comments and messages from christians all the time, Ive lived through it, but the most nasty have been from these geeks on youtube which happen to be christian too. Being an atheist and one who doesnt watch cartoons makes me evil I guess in christians eyes.

: : sighs : :

Again, I don't know what your specific situation is, but you should find nothing of the sort here. Please don't take the people you've encountered as representatives of all Christiandom, because that would be a serious mistake. You will find this particular corner of the Internet to be much friendlier than what you describe. Hopefully, we here at CAA represent something more akin to what Christianity ought to look like. Regardless of who you are, we welcome all who are willing to respect us and this forum. ^_^

Also, I wouldn't say that you could call Christian anime fans "better" or "worse" than other Christians. I try to stay away from blanket statements.

"Oh they object to me being an atheist for one, and also for criticizing the historical evidence of Jesus, accepting evolution, a number of things, I can get more into detail if you want."

That's sufficient. There's no reason for Christians to attack you just because you're an atheist. Questioning the historical evidence of Jesus isn't wrong either ~ I would suggest [if you haven't] reading Josh McDowell's New Evidence That Demands a Verdict ~ it might be of interest to you. I haven't read the whole thing myself, but what I have read is well done. As to evolution, again, Biblical teaching contradicts the idea of naturalistic evolution [some would argue that God created the universe by "kicking off" an evolutionary process, but I personally doubt that], but [so long as you have been as respectful there as you have been here] I see no cause for any animosity [I'll bet I misspelled that too ~ dangit XD]

.rai//

[Doubleshadow]

To me, it is not an issue of what the name of a particular form of media is or where it originates, but what it's content is. Anime has its good and bad, just like Hollywood, Disney, or even classic literature (Titus Andronicus, anyone?). The Bible doesn't mention modern media, but it does warn not do anything that is going to make one stray away from God. If a series has something that that is obviously immoral being glorified, than I won't watch it.
I carefully research an anime or manga before I buy it, and stay away from series that will damage my walk with Him. I apply this to everything I watch, read, or listen to. I do not think watching a clean anime with good morals is any different than watching Cinderella or reading A Mid Summer Nights Dream.
I also make a distinction between entertainment and my devotion to Christ. Entertainment comes and goes and is fleeting. Christ is very real and I will be held accountable for how I spend my time and resources. It isn't just about one particular media, it's a question of is it God honoring. I could never watch TV or go to the movies but if I spent all my time sitting on my tail doing nothing or stirring up trouble I am not doing anything better.

As for other people badgering you, keep in mind people can be anyone they want on the 'Net. They may be misguided, uninformed, or downright liars.

[Majic]

How Does Anime Mix With Theology?

If CAA is any indication -- and it is -- very well, I would say.

[ArchiveD]

http://www.youtube.com/profile?user=ArchiveoftheDead

My youtube channel. Most of them found me posting on fellow atheist videos, and debating about Jesus and the cruelity and corruption of Christianity and The Bible, and so they came over and attacked me. Ive yet to make my own video, working on it, but I assume Ill be flooded with Christian hate for it.

[ArchiveD]

>>>.Questioning the historical evidence of Jesus isn't wrong either ~ I would suggest [if you haven't] reading Josh McDowell's New Evidence That Demands a Verdict ~ it might be of interest to you. <<<<<

Ive never read that but is it similar to Lee Strobals the case for Christ? That lee guy is downright creepy...

[Majic]

Not In His Name

Ive yet to make my own video, working on it, but I assume Ill be flooded with Christian hate for it.

You gotta love the irony of the expression "Christian hate".

There are many people who call themselves "Christians" but few who actually walk that path.

Try not to be too hard on them: at least they're trying.

[ArchiveD]

Well I've never felt christian love so I assume its just a thing christians claim to have to make themselves look better. I wasn't raised christian but I lived around christians and they never liked me.

[Majic]

All In The Family

I wasn't raised christian but I lived around christians and they never liked me.

Then shame on them for not seeing the truth within you: that we are all brothers and sisters.

Then again, brothers and sisters are known to fight all the time, so I guess that proves the metaphor.

I think I'm drifting somewhat off topic, but I just wanted to say that I hope your negative experiences with some Christians won't keep you from enjoying CAA, because this really is an excellent place to talk about anime -- and all sorts of things.

As you can see, I'm a new member myself, but I'm growing very fond of this place very rapidly.

Remember: everyone is unique. No one here can answer for what others do, only for themselves.

Life is too short to spend in bitterness.

Enjoy!

[Mr. SmartyPants]

>>>.Questioning the historical evidence of Jesus isn't wrong either ~ I would suggest [if you haven't] reading Josh McDowell's New Evidence That Demands a Verdict ~ it might be of interest to you. <<<<<

Ive never read that but is it similar to Lee Strobals the case for Christ? That lee guy is downright creepy...

If I recall, Lee Strobel is just a reporter. Josh McDowell is more of a famous historian/apologist, along the lines of Ravi Zacharias and Norm Geisler.

[ArchiveD]

Well life is the longest thing Ill experience but I dont spend it in bitterness.

[ArchiveD]

Lee is no reporter.

Lee Patrick Strobel, a former legal editor for the Chicago Tribune, is a Christian apologist and former teaching pastor of Willow Creek Community Church. He is best known for writing the semi-autobiographical bestsellers The Case for Christ, The Case for Faith, and The Case for a Creator. Strobel also hosted a television program called Faith Under Fire on PAX TV. His daughter, Alison, is also a Christian writer.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lee_Strobel

[RedMage]

He was a reporter, or rather in the journalism field, which is what SmartyPants meant.

[Mr. SmartyPants]

Lee is no reporter.

Lee Patrick Strobel, a former legal editor for the Chicago Tribune, is a Christian apologist and former teaching pastor of Willow Creek Community Church. He is best known for writing the semi-autobiographical bestsellers The Case for Christ, The Case for Faith, and The Case for a Creator. Strobel also hosted a television program called Faith Under Fire on PAX TV. His daughter, Alison, is also a Christian writer.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lee_Strobel

Correct. He was a reporter. My mistake.

[Eaglestrike]

Well life is the longest thing Ill experience but I dont spend it in bitterness.

How do you know it's the longest thing you'll experience?

And who is spending life in bitterness?

I skipped page 2 if this was already addressed but:

If you want to know what "Christians" believe, choose a more specific denomination as it'll take a book or two to address what Christians believe since the interpretations and applications of them vary greatly. Even on this forum I can promise you there are people with quite different concepts of this world and beyond.

[mitsuki lover]

This seems to have gotten from the question that was posed at the beginning of how Christianity and anime mix to a question of Christian apologetics.

As far as it goes my own personal view is that Christians are free to enjoy whatever type of entertainment that they like as long as it is within certain limits.
For example no Christian should condone watching hentai.That would be outside of
what I believe is permissible for Christians.
On the other hand we as Christians can and often do disagree on which anime,mainstream that is,are good to watch.
For example the Mods have a policy against mentioning Neon Genesis Evangelion
even though there are some of us who rather enjoy the series and find
nothing contradictory or wrong in it.

But that could be of course as much a conflict based on our differences in theology as any thing else.
You see we also represent different types of Christian theological views here.
I for one come from the Reformed Calvinistic tradition and hold the Amillennial
Preterist view of eschatology.


As far as Christian apologetics go.
The most famous book is of course C.S.Lewis' Mere Christianity.Though if you want a more entertaining book try Frank L.Short's two books:
The Parables of Peanuts and The Gospel According To Peanuts.

[RedMage]

Short's books are fun, but he was a universalist, which some of us would have a definite problem with, and it seeps into the work at times.

As Eaglestrike said, there are differing opinions on some things.