This is what we call - entirely made up. So according to Bolz, there is an undefined "space" within us that is reserved for either spiritual nourishment or horror movies. It is odd that God would create us as such but then again, this is mentioned nowhere in the bible so I am guessing Shawn must have made it up. God so wants to give us divine peace, but we insisted on seeing The Ring last week? He so wants to impart wisdom and guidance to us but we had to go watch "Smile" the other day? What nonsense. The reality beloved is God is always there. He is always willing to lead us, guide us, and give us wisdom if we would be obedient and read His word.
"In the realm of spiritual warfare, there's a widely-held belief that whatever we focus on can gain a foothold in our lives. Horror films, with their focus on fear, violence and often the demonic, can serve as an invitation for oppressive forces. As a result, spiritually sensitive individuals might feel oppressed or burdened after consuming such content." - Shawn Bolz
This
is an oversimplification. The spiritual issue is not what we focus on but what
we place ahead of God. What we idolize. That can gain a foothold in our life
and drive us further away from God. Theoretically it could be horror movies,
but a far more deadly enemy is false teaching. That can gain a foothold and
soon take over completely. Have you ever tried reasoning with Joel Osteen
follower? How abut a Joseph Prince adherent? Ironically, it may be easier to
reach a fan of the Nightmare on Elm Street movies than a Steven Furtick
follower. By the way, the horror movie may only give you nightmares but
following false teaching? That could cost you eternity.
"Despite these findings, it's important to remember that there is a solution. By creating a space in our lives for positive, inspiring and faith-based content, we can counteract these negative influences. It's not about shunning the entirety of popular culture, but rather making discerning choices that align with our faith, values and mental health needs." - Shawn Bolz
Or we could not go to horror movies if they present problems in our lives? Not everything has to be resolved so piously. The real problem here, which we have been discussing, is what "faith-based content" is Bolz recommending? Bethel produced garbage? Modern churchianity IS popular culture now. They have spent decades seeking relevancy and now they have it! Maybe instead of watching Terror Train I should attend a Friday Bethel Prayer Service where anyone can falsely prophesy, and we can hear Bill Johnson tell us about the time angel feathers fell all around him in a diner. Or instead of attending that "Scream" Festival we can take the weeklong "School of the Prophets" at Bethel and be taught how to pretend to be a prophet! Now I am no fan of Scream, but I would wager that the Bethel "faith based" activities will do far more damage to me. That is the point.
Listen beloved, this is not an exercise in defending horror movies. This is about true spiritual warfare, waged against the enemies of God. The bible is replete with warnings against false teaching and prophets which can lead people away from Christ and shipwreck faith. Just one example of such a warning is found in the key verses today and exemplifies Shawn Bolz and Bethel Church. For Shawn Bolz is a false apostle, deceitful workman, disguising himself as an apostle of Christ. Do not fall for the disguise. Jason's machete is just a prop. Freddy's claws are not real. Shawn Bolz's theology is far, far more dangerous.
