The Bible is the sole holy Christian text, in which can be found the basic teachings of Christianity, the life and times of Jesus and his ancestors. The bible is divided into the Old and New Testaments.
The Old Testament, also being holy to Islam and Judaism, speaks of Jesus’ ancestors (the Jews), who were promised a messiah by God. Apart from chronological information, it contains many accounts of the people’s belief in God.
The New Testament highlights the life of Jesus and the changes he caused to the lives of the people. Christians believed Jesus to be the messiah spoken of, and wait for his return.
Christianity in the present day is divided into three branches. Roman Catholicism is the original form, which descended from Christ himself. The Eastern Orthodoxy spread through the works of King Constantine. The Protestants split from the Roman Catholics during the Reformation, and certain policies and practices of the Catholics were labelled wrong and eliminated.
Archive for June, 2008
Christianity begins in Rome with the birth of Jesus, a Jew who was born to virgin Mary. At around 30 years of age, he had a vision receiving the blessings of God, and since then the miracle began and he spread his teachings. He educated the masses, but 12 special disciples were taught privately. The people believed him to be their saviour and messiah who would bring the ‘Kingdom of God’ to life.
Gradually, though, the Roman opposition against Jesus mounted. The Romans attempted to silence him and his teachings forever…he was crucified. His followers scattered at such an unexpected and drastic event. But when women went to anoint his body 3 days later, the tomb was found empty! Supposedly, an angel had told them that Christ had risen! After initial incredulity, the followers started believing. They claimed that Jesus had attained heaven in front of their eyes! Slowly and steadily, the followers of Jesus grew, and they were now called ‘Christians’.
Veggie tales is a series of computer animated videos about a family of ‘veggies’ who discover and learn about life using Bible Themes such as The Good Samaritan and David & Goliath. Let’s see how ‘Veggie Tales’ shapes up in our Discernment test…
1. What does it teach you?
Veggie tales teaches you about God’s perspective on different issues we all face using Bible stories as the basis. The characters learn about forgiving others, where God is when you’re scared, telling the truth and how rumours can hurt.
2. Does it have anything to do with supernatural power?
The stories all relate to the power of God and his supernatural workings. Each story has a Biblical basis with Scripture references through out the story. Eg in Episode 3 the Scripture is “Love your neighbour as yourself” — Leviticus 19:18.
3. Does it have any symbols or characteristics that link it to New Age or Occult powers?
No, Veggie tales does not contain occultic symbols or New Age themes.
4. Does it teach anything about violence or immorality and their consequences?
No. Veggie tales does not portray violence in a positive way. Moral themes are the basis for each show. Eg. in “Loving your Neighbour” Junior asparagus is trying to decide whether to invite the new boy to his birthday party because he comes from a different country and talks funny. His adventure teaches him that we need to accept others just the way they are.
5. Does it build Godly character?
The characters are friendly and happy. They are easy to relate to because they express human emotions that the viewer can relate to, e.g. remorse, compassion, forgiveness, joy etc. Children are challenged to develop Godly characteristics.