Excellent parodies of the Mac/PC commericals from Community Christian Church:
– ht to ysmarko –
UPDATE: The church that produced these videos now has hi-re versions available for purchase, in case you want to show them in your church or group.
Christian vs. Christ-follower
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November 1, 2006 at 14:45
Hey, I like your vids. I would go into detail about how much I agree with the idea expressed in each one, but I think its enough to just say, I like it, its contemporary, truthful, and… well… like you say… “christian” no more. So keep it up! ttyl
November 1, 2006 at 17:38
I think there is a danger with the video that it will have the opposite of its intended effect which hopefully is to allow the Christian to relax a little around others so that both of you have a chance to look inwardly when one is discussing God’s word and what a relationship with Jesus means. After all we are supposed to grow in him and reflect his image but though we strive for perfection – we also realize that there are times that when we are weak we can be strong because our help comes from the Lord.
But some people may not see the other person as mocking Christians and pretending to be a Christian when he is really just chilling out and being everything to every body not necessarily trying that hard to win some.
November 1, 2006 at 18:35
Normally I would love a video series like this one. But I don’t think alienating an entire Christian sub-culture is what a “Christ-follower” would do. But Jesus DID exhort the Pharisees and hypocrites of His day, so maybe it’s just the slight undertone of arrogance in this video series that catches my attention. We’re all brothers and sisters, and while we don’t all get along or agree on petty differences I don’t think we need to fight fire with fire by making fun of others.
November 1, 2006 at 18:56
Some of this makes me a little nervous.
Can we simply keep our old listening habits and not be affected by them?
Yes, I understand that he specifically references the pretty harmless U2 but giving carte-blanche to listen to whatever you like is not right. Not only is most of the music in the world not God-honoring, much of it is actively opposed to the things that a Christ-follower should be filling his head with and filling his heart with.
Yes, I’m a classic rock fan. No, I’m not fond of much of the contemporary Christian garbage that’s out there. But we are understating the power that music holds to shape our thoughts and our hearts.
The implication that a christ-follower can listen to anything and be as worldly as the rest of the population and still be a christ-follower is, in my view, completely wrong.
Phillipians 4:8. “Whatever is true…”
November 1, 2006 at 19:31
Great Videos! I think this hits the nail on the head. We need to be less Religious and more Christ Like! Less on hypocrisy and more on the side of Genuine disciples of Jesus.
I think with these videos we need to get less focused on the details of what was said and more focused on the fact that saying, doing and listening to all the “right things” is not what Christ is looking for in his Followers.
November 1, 2006 at 20:16
I guess I ought to like the videos, I love clever parodies, but they feel a little smarmy and self righteous. “We’re the real Christ followers, you’re not”
I like clever parodies but here’s the problem. The guy in the suit is my Dad. He loves the Lord with all his heart but was brought up in a generation that dressed up to go to church. He only listens to Hymns or classical music. He sent my younger brother to Christian School. He always carries the Bible, he loves it. He reads a lot of Christian books. I suppose I am a little bit like the other guy…I listen to Jazz, rock, blues, roots, folk and Christian music and I wear jeans to church. But I love my Dad and we sit in the same pew every Sunday and worship together.
I can understand mocking pharisees, but I really want to make sure they are the bad kind. The kind that are “white-washed tombs filled with dead-mens bones”, who withold money from poor parents, who are “son of hell” as he calls them in Matt 23, not just culturally stunted. Does anyone doubt that underneath the guy in the suit loves the Lord? Paul and Nicodemus were pharisees too.
I’m with Kirby. Plus I think U-2 is a shibboleth.
November 1, 2006 at 20:53
Two thoughts:
First, the quality of the videos is really great. The actors get the comic timing down perfectly.
Secondly, in response to some of the comments above—you guys make some good points, but I think you might be taking the videos a bit too seriously. When I watched the videos I saw Christians poking fun at some of their own foibles and making some clever points in the process—I didn’t sense any mean-spirited mockery of other Christians. Heaven knows I’ve exactly fit, at times in my life, some of the stereotypes they’re teasing; but it’s fun to have a laugh at our own expense sometimes.
November 1, 2006 at 22:32
After being away from church for about 20 years I thought I needed to be like the guy on the left. (You should see my stack of Bibles.) Now after 18 months back I am finding I identify with, and aspire to be more like the guy on the right.
But I am just one person. I have come across both “lefties” and “righties” that I respect and admire. The key is can both of these well intentioned people look at each other through the loving eyes of Jesus, not the judgmental eyes of man?
November 2, 2006 at 08:28
I’m a little confused by the first one – what’s wrong with books? Study is a spiritual discipline. Reading the Bible, devotionals, and yes, even “rule books” of ethics has a long and honorable history within the church. The video reminds me a little bit too much of the “cool kids” who made fun of me and my friends for loving books.
Apple wants consumers to see Macs as “cool” so that sales will increase, but that’s the wrong message entirely for Christians, Christ-followers, or whatever you want to call yourself. (Considering that the word “Christian” is one of the few trappings of the modern church that dates to the New Testament – Acts 11:26 – we should be cautious about devaluing the word. There might be more impact in reinvesting the word with its true meaning.) I would love to see a more conservative church create a parody going the opposite direction – though their PCs would probably crash before they could finish editing their video.
November 2, 2006 at 08:52
Wow. I missed the parody of BOTH sides. What I did not miss was an arrogance that looks nothing like Jesus.
Acts 11:26 ”...; and the disciples were first called Christians in Antioch.” NASB
Acts 26:28 “And Agrippa replied to Paul, ‘In a short time you will persuade me to become a Christian.’” NASB
So you want to be a Christ follower. Jesus speaking – “And he who does not take his cross and follow after Me is not worthy of Me. He who has found his life shall lose it, and he who has lost his life for my sake shall find it.” Matthew 11:38,39 NASB
If the answer is anything other than Jesus walking with us, dying for us and rising to intercede for us with the Father than you have found the wrong answer. A more culturally hip Christ Follower is still focusing on the fact that he has found his life and therefore he can walk confidantly before God and look down on others both Christian and non-christian. None of us are very good followers or representatives. That is, to borrow a phrase from a great writer, what is so amazing about grace.
November 2, 2006 at 11:02
Sometimes I really, really don’t like living on the West Coast. By the time I read the Think Christian dispatch, all the good comments have been taken! ;]
Mark (No. 12): I agree that calling one’s self a Christian is nothing to be ashamed of. Call me a dinosaur at 35, but if it’s in the Bible, it’s “profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.” (2 Tim. 3:16)
Having said that, I can see where Christ-followers are coming from. I’m halfway through “Leadership Next: Changing Leaders In A Changing Culture”, Eddie Gibbs’ exploration of how the postmodern world has changed how churches carry on their business of evangelizing. Gibbs is a professor of church growth at Fuller Seminary and frequently holds seminars on the emerging church. It’s required reading for one of my seminary courses. Regardless of one’s opinion on the Emerging Church, I would strongly recommed this book.
November 2, 2006 at 12:42
There are a lot of good points in these videos and I got a smile from most of it. What I noticed most was in the first video the ‘Christ-follower’ didn’t have or recognize the ‘manual’..the Bible. Although there are times that religious study gets over-done, the core truths of Christ and his followers are in the Bible. God’s Holy word is what we need to keep us centered – Acts 17:11. How can we effective follow Christ and be His example to the world if we don’t know His teachings? Give the Christ follower a Bible.
November 2, 2006 at 18:58
Funny, but I would like the “Christ Follower” to be a little less arrogant & a little more loving. We can witness to people w/o having a self righteous attitude about it. What’s the old saying, “You catch more flies w/ honey than w/ vinegar?” (Hope I didn’t accidentally post this twice; I don’t think it went through the first time!)
November 2, 2006 at 23:45
Hmmm.
Obvious contrast, that’s for sure. However, i don’t believe everyone that wears a suit and tie is just putting on a display. You can take the same stand from an opposite view, not every person in casual dress is ‘not’ putting on a display either. You see, it comes from within the heart. God does looks upon the heart, appearances are not the deciding factor by God’s judgement, although you may be able to discern by them what YOU should do.
I happen to have ‘christian’ friends in many different shapes and styles. The point is not to be a judge but to be a “servant” of the Most High. So what will you do with the videos? So what will you do with your heart? Will you build up or tear down? Will you seek peace or cause friction? Will you exhort or exhasperate? The choice is yours, the choice is mine, the One we will give account to is God.
November 3, 2006 at 23:05
I’m not sure what I enjoyed more. The videos or some of the responses. I love these videos because they use humor to cut to the heart of where we are. I can always tell when something makes me uncomfortable because I start to respond to what I’ve heard, either by justifying my actions or denying I would ever act in such a way myself.
Personally, I enjoy reading the church history books, and even Christian music. That being said, The Christ follower has a great point. Jesus is what being a “Christian” is all about. At the end of times, those little “J-Pods, I love that, the stacks of books, our tradition of worshipping on a Sunday vs. a Saturday etc.” will all pass away. At the end of the day it will be did we accept Jesus and choose to follow Him. Just that simple. Oh, on the Saturday vs. Sunday, I laughed out loud loudly. “Do you think Jesus would worship on Saturday.” Well duh! Too funny.
Guess that means I like “Christian” humor, even “Contempory Christian Humor”.
November 4, 2006 at 12:36
I LOVED these videos. I am an alternative Christ-follower, complete with piercings and tattoos, and I think that the message sent here is that the inside of the cup is what’s important. Dressing up, the books, J-Pod, the bumper stickers, Saturday worship, these are all exterior things that the church has focused on instead of focusing on the fact that by creating a Christian sub-culture that so many of us get lost in. Satan, in essence, is able to put us into a place that we no longer have any cultural relevance to the outside world and are rendered as ineffective witnesses. People look at us and say, “Yea, in their world everything is okay, they don’t have any problems, but they don’t live in reality.” When that happens they see us as people living in a fantasy land, not in the reality that they are facing. Of course, when we live somewhat in their reality, they see we are just normal people with the influence of God on our lives, and that we deal with the real world so much better because of it. And THAT’S what makes Christ attractive.
November 4, 2006 at 13:11
It makes some good points. We as Christians should not be judgmental. We should not be so concerned in way some one dresses. But the Word does tell us to come out from the world and be different. Christians need to take a stand and hold up a standard of holiness without being self-righteous.
November 4, 2006 at 20:47
Kathie Lee Gifford a long time ago used the term “religious nerd” to actually make a great point in trying to differentiate herself from those people who are either judgmental of others (something definitely not Christ-like) or who do not respect the free-will of other people. And, this campaign reminds me of that same line of thinking.
A month or so ago, I was on a commuter train, and all of a sudden another passenger stood and addressed the entire car by professing his faith in Christianity. Before doing so, an entire group of people had separated and positioned themselves near every other passenger so that they could address each of them personally as a captive audience. Now, that kind of action embarrasses me as a Christian or a follower of Christ. So many people in the general public have been offended by these and other such tactics that the word, “Christian”, now has a negative connotation. So, this campaign appeals to me, and I think all of us can benefit from gaining the perspective that the advertisements show.
Additionally, it’s good for us to also differ in our interpretations of Scripture, itself. Independent thought, critical analysis, and posing real theological questions to ourselves and to others is a healthy and beneficial thing to do in our respective spiritual journeys.
November 4, 2006 at 22:25
Hello, my name is Bill… and I’m a Christian.
Actually, I see nothing wrong with being a Christian. I am sorry that Christ Followers feel the need to mock me and my beliefs. You have the right to believe what you believe in, I guess. It is a free country… for now. I just don’t see the need to make fun of another’s belief in order build yours up. I am reminded of scripture… 1 John, 4:7-8——- “Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love.”
November 5, 2006 at 07:05
Pretty interesting, I totally get your point but your wording is so wrong… Christian means little Christ. Just because some “Christians” don’t display that, doesn’t mean that the word should suffer. So kudos on the idea but maybe a little more logic should go into your presentation.
November 5, 2006 at 13:19
I’m thinking you could replace the man on the left with the Pope and the man on the right with Ghandi and the message wouldn’t change. It’s more like “Hi, I’m a Christian” and “Hi, I’m a person who does good but can still fit into the crowd without anyone knowing I’m a ‘Christ-follower.’” If you look like the world and act like the world, aren’t you going to be taken as being of the world and not simply in the world? If that’s the case, how are you letting your light shine (not that you aren’t, I’m literally asking how you are doing it because I don’t know)? I asked this of someone else many months ago and her response was “people know I’m a Christian.” Yeah? Which people? The ones you are friends with and with whom you go to church?
“Hi, I’m a ‘Christ-follower’ though I don’t read Christian books (including the Bible) or listen to Christian music, or subscribe to any kind of Christian teaching other than ‘love one another.’” So the question is, “What kind of fruit are you producing, if any?” One thing is for certain. If you DON’T wear a WWJD bracelet and DON’T have a Christian bumper stick on your car and DON’T tell anyone you are a Christian and DON’T listen to Christian music, then when you act like you are just another part of the world the world will not know the difference. It certainly is the safe approach.
November 5, 2006 at 22:00
The other james,
You make some good points, the person who doesn’t looks the same and acts the same as the rest of the world yet calls themselves a Christian is clearly wrong. However, is it that worse than someone who wears the WWJD bracelet, has the bumper stickers, listens to Christian Music and still acts the same as the rest of the world. Is being a hypocrite worse than having no distinction in a society we wish to change?
It strikes me that perhaps we should focus on what the individuals do… not what they look like; be they hipsters or men-in-suits… they will know us by our love after all.
November 9, 2006 at 00:44
Some of the comments above are unfair. This campaign is not mocking anyone or persuading people to disregard Scripture. The advertisements are trying to promote a way of expressing one’s faith to other people without offending their sensibilities. Such a thing is necessary to opening minds and hearts to greater knowledge about the teachings of Christ.
I’m disheartened by the way that some people view Christianity because it seems fundamentalists and televangelists have a stranglehold on the general public’s perception of the same basic system of belief to which I happen to subscribe. Oftentimes, they are not representative of me or of Christian theology, itself. So, by stripping away the trappings of Christian group-think, hopefully, Christians, or followers of Christ, will be able to intuit a purer and more personal discovery of the universe that anyone and everyone can understand.
November 11, 2006 at 07:50
This is nice. I would not end it with “Christian No More” though. For even though man has made that name “Christian” into almost a mockery, it is still what we were first called in Antioch and what we should be called until Christ’s return. However, I LOVE “Christ Follower” and I am going to use that.
November 11, 2006 at 09:27
These videos are an excellent example that depict why there “has been a 92% increase in the number of unchurched Americans in the last thirteen years. In 1991 there were 39 million unchurched Americans compared with 75 million currently. (2004)” Did those numbers scare you? Well they should! (See barna.com to read the rest of these statistics; keyword ‘unchurched’.)
For the most part, these are Christians and seekers who have a bad taste in their mouths from behaviors they’ve encountered IN church from ‘churchy’ Christians such at the self righteous gentleman’s behaviors we see displayed in these videos. And is it any wonder, who can relate to these people? And why aren’t their preachers pointing out their foibles from the pulpit and offering some correction? I think it’s because they’re the ones that come every week with their little white envelopes in their pockets.
I’m not the one to give definitive answers, but I can tell you from personal experience that I left the church because of hypocrites like these whose behaviors are sanctioned by the ‘church’. I applaud the makers of these videos for creating some controversy and pointing these things out in a non-threatening and humorous way. Do you think that if just one person in every city reading this would post a link to these videos in their own church bulletins, attitudes would change? With God’s help, anything is possible.
November 12, 2006 at 11:53
PS-Wouldn’t it have a bit more impact if a video were produced which showed both the ‘Christian’ and the ‘Christ Follower’ learning to see Jesus in one another somehow, and provoking one another to LOVE and good works, instead of pitting them against one another?
Just a thought….........obviously, with the creativity and acting ability available here, this could be done and have a greater impact for the Kingdom of God! And instead of creating more division in the Body of Christ, it would promote unity of the Spirit in the midst of diversity, for the greater cause of reaching out to a world who has yet to see an expression of love amongst Jesus’ disciples that would cause them to sit up, take notice, and be drawn to Him.
“They took note that these men had been WITH Jesus.” (Acts 4:13)
Being with Jesus is the only thing that gives us the grace to live and be WITH one another!
November 15, 2006 at 20:32
Great work guys! Ignore the wowsers and keep doing ing what you’re doing.
November 15, 2006 at 20:37
I laughed. That was at least part of the point, right? The guy on the left seems to be wearing his Christianity like it’s a Boy Scout Badge. Is he saying,: “Look at me, I’m so holy.” or is he saying, “Here I am, and if you have questions, I’ll try to answer them.” The second guy is trying to “blend in.” Is he hiding out, or does he want people to get to know him in relationship before he hits ‘em with ‘The Word’? The truth is that both approaches have merit IF they come from the heart. What is tearing the church apart—and driving people away—is the idea that there is only one way to follow Christ. Just like Mac and MS, there are strengths and weaknesses in ALL of us.
November 15, 2006 at 20:37
I like it. It is fresh, funny, and shows how rediculous christian pop culture has become. I especially like the one about the music. I am a jazz musician and like to think that much of my music is about God, but most of the time there are no lyrics, can that be on your jpod? John Coltrane did an album called A Love Supreme and it was not only his dedication to God, but also some of the most innovating music of its time, and its improvisations, emotions and spirituality are still perplexing people. Nice job on these, I think they are very powerful!
November 15, 2006 at 21:29
Not that many people will read down this far, but…
Yawn – we like to think we’re different from the “same old religion” don’t we. Well, I’ve been part of the whole movement for many years before realizing that the ways it was being expressed (at the many different churches I attended – I moved a few times) was all just the same concepts with different sets of rules.
Are there truly progressive christians out there? Yes – and I’m glad for them. However, these videos come from a sub culture of the religious right that still…
—believes the rest of the world needs salvation from absolute depravity (easy to argue against with scripture – but think about it in a humanitarian manner, and then try to argue to me that under the current interpretation of the gospel we haven’t made god into a tyrant),
—sees every cultural history as inherently evil / ignorant except their own,
—marginalizes gay/lesbian/transgender/bisexual people among us – picking and choosing what (outdated) ethical rules to apply to our world from a 2000 year old text,
—etc.
Please don’t think I want to bash Christianity here – I don’t. I have, however, had enough of people claiming to be revolutionary/new/on target with religion without doing anything to help people here in the real world!
Help people. Do so without any agenda – even a passive one – of “winning them to god.” ...and maybe some day I’ll change my tune. For now, christianity is dead to me. Even hip “christ-following” christianity – because from what i’ve seen, it’s no different.
November 15, 2006 at 21:32
There is a term that I have found useful. Its the word “Churchianity.” I believe that this is what the videos are trying to express. The other thing that I thought they addressed is communication. Most dialog that I read that is “Christian” is largely internal dialog. When I read that people are embarrassed of how Christianity is presented I don’t read that they are embarrassed of Christ, but are embarrassed of many Christians ignorance of what they are communicating.
Christians often come across as passive-aggressive or as victims. If someone disagrees or doesn’t want to hear what they have to say some will label that as persecution. Often its just irritation, nothing more. I have often observed a group of Christians get all excited that they really got through to someone because that someone was polite. In truth that someone was simply tolerating them.
Its not a problem of doctrine, witnessing, or disrespect. Its a problem of maturity, awareness and wisdom. I believe this is due to the way Christians are being educated and trained. Its not a simple solution, but the declining membership and irrelevant dialog is evidence of a needed shift in Christian awareness.
Anyway, that’s my take on it.
November 15, 2006 at 22:35
The first thing I noticed in the “commercials” was that the Christ Follower didn’t need to say much while the traditional Christian spoke. The real issue was the idolatry of the latter. The assumption was that if one is not actively reading the trendy books and KJV, listening to the Christian music, and traditionally dressing for worship then one’s salvation is questionable. There is no arguement—these items are a form of idolatry. And you will notice in scripture that it is always open season on idolatry.
On the other hand, how appropriate is the mocking of the Christ-follower of the traditional Christian? Perhaps it would be better stated that the mocking was of the idolatry. Difficult to not nail the person in possession of the idolatry and that’s a sticking point.
November 16, 2006 at 00:02
I really can relate to both of these guys. I think you have done a great job of highlighting the importance of being God’s people in practice (Christ follower) not just in pretence (Christian).
November 16, 2006 at 00:14
I’m a little amazed at how strong the response has been to these videos. I’m a pastor and wear a coat and tie almost every “Sunday” and love to read and study. I really don’t think the criticism is aobut wearing suits or reading. It about thinking you have to in order to be doing “what Jesus would do”.
This is great creativity, (a mark of one created in the image of the Creator), it is a great reminder of the need for “Christ alone, and faith alone”
November 16, 2006 at 00:45
An “A” for being creative, and I get the point you’re trying to make. But isn’t the real point that both of these men are wrong in what they represent?
Yes, once bumper stickers, bracelets and offering envelopes become a necessary part of our walk, we have become like some of the Pharisees.
But Jesus said our righteousness needs to exceed that of the Pharisees. Which means there is a righteous standard that we’re all called to obey.
And the man on the right represents today’s popular brand of Christianity that says once I’ve walked down the aisle, I’m forgiven and God will love me just the way I am. I can do whatever I want, as long as it’s “in Jesus’ name.”
My bible doesn’t appear to agree with that.
Both men are following their own set of rules, which is legalism. But Jesus said that if we love Him, we’ll obey His commandments. Which is not legalism, but obedience.
May God call us ‘servants’ when we meet Him.
November 16, 2006 at 10:21
I love these! They are great. I once was the Christian, but now I am trying to be a Christ follower. I think the only people who will dislike these or misunderstand them are the ones who are convicted by them.
Once, I was on a missions trip in Russia and one of the interpreter was a Russian pastor. He said to me “we need Jesus followers not western religious B.S.” That is what people are hungry for, Christ followers.
November 16, 2006 at 10:28
Warning: if you have no exposure to Christian satire, do not view these videos.
I love satire. I love poking fun at the silly things we do to “show” our faith, e.g. how many xtian symbols we can possibly cram onto our temples of the Holy Spirit, vehicles, bookshelves, walls, and under our skin. We all still fall to the sin of pride. Thank G-d for grace.
I know both of these people. My grandfather is a very proper Lutheran pastor and honestly believes that xtian music with drums (even the contempo) is truly wrong and unholy and doesn’t agree with my tattoo. Others like myself went through hell and back and have kept our halos looser. But we all love and serve G-d and we get along. We are united in faith, not conformed to each other’s opinions.
It’s all about internal attitude. Are you studying to learn more and renew your mind or are you trying to impress and get all the right answers in Bible study class? Are you listening to xtian music to keep up with your friends or does it bring you peace? Do you shun public displays of your faith because you’re worried about what others may think or will it actually land you in jail?
They will know we are xtians by our love, not our accessories. Live it.
November 16, 2006 at 11:50
Your video is ironic. You have successfully depicted two Pharisees as two Christians.
November 16, 2006 at 12:05
I retract my earlier statement. Maybe both of these guys are Christians but they need to BOTH learn that Christians come in many colors, shapes, and sizes.
November 17, 2006 at 14:55
Loved the vids!
For those who don’t understand the satire and complain. I understand where you’re coming from. But some need to understand semantics. Yes it was at Antioch that Christians were first called Christians. But first – it wasn’t the English word – it was Greek – so there is nothing holy about the English word. Second – words change meaning over time. At Antioch to call someone a ‘little Christ’ was to identify them with Jesus. Today, in America, “Christian” carries baggage and many non-Chrisitans understand “Chrisitan” to mean “legalistic, un-forgiving, etc” Even in Christian circles the word ‘Christian’ can carry baggage. Saying “Christ-follower” is a way to escape the baggage than now comes with the word “Christian” That is what these videos are showing. Get away from everything that has been added to being a Christian and concentrate on following Christ.
November 19, 2006 at 12:22
It is intersting to me that Christians hold on to the name that was given to them as a derogitory put down with such a tenacity.
It started off as a derogitory put down and now is totally smeared by the christian fundamentalist reputation.
November 19, 2006 at 17:16
Swell discussion & comments thus far. Our culture is changing every day, sometimes for the better, other times for the worse. I just wanted to emphasize that while there are many different flavors of Christianity, most point towards the Saviour. (Sort of an all-Christian-paths-lead-to-Jesus form of Christian Universalism…also called Ecumenicalism). Anyways, like a few people posted above, I think it’d be neat if the final commercial(s) showed the “Christian” and the “Christ-follower” coming together and finding common ground in their beliefs (sort of how Catholics and Protestants, Lefties and Righties, Calvinists and Arminians, etc. need to unify together in their foundation… which is Christ.
Overall, the videos were fun… made me laugh and think at the same time…kind of like http://www.larknews.com does (a Christian parody news-site).
November 22, 2006 at 01:24
Okay, first I must say that I laughed at these quite a bit and deifinitely identified more with the guy on the right, but a few days have gone by and I just can’t shake a couple of thoughts about these. First of all, while you could call these creative, it’s doing exactly what the Christian subculture has always done. It takes a creative idea someone else had (i.e. the ad genious who came up with the Mac commercials) and makes them Christian. Seriously, if you really want to change the way I think, come up with something that is different from everything else I’m being inundated with.
As far as the message of the videos goes, I think it’s a classic example of putting emphasis in the wrong place. I live in Washington, land of microbrews and I can’t tell you how many times the “I’m a cool Christian because I drink beer” conversation has come up, as if drinking beer has pointed thousands to Christ. Now I enjoy a good pint as much as the next guy (if you can get Boundry Bay Scotch Ale where you live, consider yourself blessed) but how does that show people I care about them as much as Jesus does? Instead of constantly trying to prove that Christianity is not lame, why not spend our time living out the truth of the gospel and see what develops. Just a thought.
November 22, 2006 at 04:51
I think the videos are good. I like the phrase “christian” no more. I would love to give my little piece on christianity today, but I think that’s what most christians do these days. They overanalyze. I think we need to love God and love others. Two most important commandments. I also think we need to agree to disagree more. Anyway, that’s my little spcheel.
November 22, 2006 at 11:07
hmmm. Well, I attend a church that plays U2 and Switchfoot radio tunes as a means to attract the unchurched person to get to know our Lord. I really like these videos. I do not see them as judgmental at all. If you were to go back and take a real good look at what Jesus did and said about the hypocrites of His time, you’ll see he was no Mr. Rogers about it. These are tame compared to the things HE said out loud.
I dont see these as making fun of Christians. I see these as making a point about what you do for show. I love to dress up for church. Even though mine is very casual. I even like to read all those books. But I dont carry them around so people can see what a good Christian I am. I think these videos are helping us to shine a light on our motives for our traditions. And if we are truly striving for perfection…....well how can we complain about the light.
November 25, 2006 at 19:25
This is hilarious. Seriously, I have worked in Christian retail, and oooh, goodness, does that first one hit the mark. Definitely a light-hearted example of the difference between a showy material facade of belief and what actually makes a disciple of Christ. As for some of the previous comments, this is just a funny video. It’s not even shooting down a subculture. It’s just poking fun at people who go overboard with the Christian merchandise and forget about what’s really important. Really fun. I might show this to some of my non-Christian friends, too.
November 26, 2006 at 02:59
I get the point of these videos and certainley understand the differance. I do however feel that dividing the body is the most dangerous thing that could ever happen to the church. Can there be no diversity amongst believers? I am a Christian and a Christ follower. The slogan “Christian no more” is very offensive to me and should be to anyone who follow Christ’s teachings.
I am not sure what good could come from these videos, but I certainly do see the harm that could come. Satan comes to us in many disguises. Pay attention to what the point is here.
November 26, 2006 at 14:39
“I like your Christ. I do not like your Christians, for they are so very unlike your Christ.” -Gandhi
Man, these videos are awesome. I’m not trying to alienate anyone, because I think tolerance is key, but I do believe that so much religion is perverted today. I think that to follow a God or religion well, a person or group needs to understand the meaning and true intent of that religion. The purpose behind a belief system is infinitely more important than particulars, especially those that are artificially injected into a religion by mankind for political purpose and gain…
To put it bluntly, so many Christians don’t really follow Christ. I’m sorry to say it, and I’m sure if Christ exists that he isn’t pissed off about it or anything, but maybe he just wants you guys to wake up and think about things in a more object manner.
November 26, 2006 at 15:30
A lot of people who left comments here missed the point, it would seem. Especially in the first one, which wasn’t to show that reading the Bible and other books is wrong or uncool, it’s to show that carrying all those books around and letting everyone know “Hey look! I’m holier than thou art!” is a really hypocritical thing to do. It does not, by any means, say that reading the bible is wrong. Furthermore, when it comes to Christian music, lots of Christian music is good, as well as apealing to kids. I mean, I love Relient K and Thousand Foot Crutch, but I also like DC Talk and Hillsong, and even some old hymns are good every now and then. You can listen to most music, if you’re a Christian, but there’s some stuff that’s just selling sex and drugs and other immoralities.
Now, as for the Christian/Christ-Follower thing; both are fine. But if you’re the Christian, don’t be a hypocrite, and if you’re the Christ-follower, don’t be smug and superior about it.
November 26, 2006 at 21:50
I sincerely hope the intent was to encourage us to steer clear of both characterisations. Let’s look at Mr. “I’m a Christ follower.” All I have to go on to verify that assertion is that he just stands there with his hands in his pockets and says so. No evidence or examples or concrete clues presented that he actually is.
At least Mr. “Christian,” silly and stereotypical though the examples are, is actually enthusiastic, engaged, exhibits any concern for standards and is excited about and doing something! Misguided? Maybe, but he’s by far the more interesting character and I think I’d rather hang out with him.
From my long experience, I find he’s the type of guy that’s ultimately going to be the more changeable and fruitful of the two. Like they say, you can only steer a boat that’s already moving. Hands-in-his-pockets seems relatively inert and apathetic. Go back and look again. Please don’t want me to be more like him.
This site is clearly concerned about the relavance of our witness and presence in the world. Good. However, the only “relevance” the world really wants from me as a Christian is capitulation to its pluralism, perversity, compromise and tolerance of the intolerable. In terms of relevance to the prime realities, the world is infinitely more out of tune with God’s eternal righteousness and Kingdom purposes (which is what counts) than I am out of tune with the world’s preferred ways of hearing and doing things.
The world will not really respond much to my “relevance” (unfortunately understood by many Christians to be looking and behaving more like the world does in order to earn respect and a hearing), because all I have to offer is deeply and unavoidably shocking and offensive to it (Christ Himself and all the truth that He embodies). I’m not talking about how its delivered, but the actual message itself, faithfully and fully presented.
Look carefully at Acts 5. That’s just one of numerous examples where the witness of the apostles and disciples was so shocking and challenging that their audiences became rabidly intent on killing them. Do you think they had any angst or protracted discussions in their jail cells about how they could be more relevant? If the core question of life is how we re-establish mankind’s cataclysmic and universal broken relationship with God, then it is the world and its current direction and all its religious systems that are catastrophically irrelevant and out of tune with that purpose.
Ironically, what makes our two examples in the videos so unworthy of emulation is that they are both actually modelled after worldly and cultural patterns and both far from the radical and peculiar people God wants of His witnesses.
November 27, 2006 at 20:15
If anyone cares to hear a few thoughts from a sympathetic atheist, I would say to those of you who are the overly J-happy types: no matter how much you think you are worshipping your God you are driving more people away from Christ than drawing them nearer.
Please don’t try to use the above fact as part of some [ :)—admin]-backwards ‘proof’ along the lines of many being called but few chosen… etc.
This is just about plainly not emulating what Jesus was trying to accomplish during his (fictional or not) lifetime.
Jesus was not like the guy on the left, who chastises his brother about his plain-looking clothes, or lack of identifying badge/jewelry. Rewatch the first video and see who is criticizing who.
And please… do tell… how many of those several thousand who attended the original Sermon on the Mount had their handy bibles and hymn books to follow what the preacher said? Uh-huh. Thought so.
The whole point of these videos is plain as daylight to any of us outsiders. Your own benevolent co-believers are telling you to loosen up, but you are so wound up into your way of worshiping and honoring Christ you’d probably chastise Christ himself for being unshaven.
What I read from the story of Christ’s message was about humility, love, compassion, and basically getting along with the system (rendering to Caesar, slaves obeying masters, etc) and letting your non-believing neighbors be persuaded by your example, not by overly-professing words, or public prayers, or holier-than-thou fetish props.
None of us outsiders are at any risk of being converted by the guy on the left. The guy on the right is much more dangerous: he actually seems NICE.
So have a good day, all of you. Be healthy. And enjoy long lives, even the prudish ones!
November 27, 2006 at 21:54
Amidst all these questions and heavy discussion it is important to ask:
Is there a wrong way to love?
November 28, 2006 at 14:41
Wow.
Thank you Mike. I hope one of the nice guys is able to introduce you to the Christ I know, he is a rather neat guy!
As for the rest of this. No matter what kind of Christian you are, there could be offense somewhere in this page. Either in the video’s or in some of the comments. But we can CHOOSE not to be offended. There are many good points in here. And all are cause for thought. And isn’t that really the point? Doesn’t iron sharpen iron?
I think both characters up there have some flaws to work out. The guy on the right is very judgemental of the one on the left and the one on the left is rather smug. But boy, they are both funny. I can laugh at myself.
I dont feel this is dividing the church. And I am certain that Jesus thought more of making people pay attention to their own hypocrisy than trying to keep everybody happy friends. It isnt about who shows off God more. It’s about who is actually READING the bible. And who is actually LIVING like Christ. You can be an example without all the bumber stickers.
So I am walking away as a person who is a little more like the guy on the left but still seeing this a challenge to behave with a little less judgement for the guy on the right. I need him in my life too. We are all one body. What word you use is irrelevant. If you are a disciple of Christ, we are on the same side. Enjoy your differences. Give thanks for them. They challenge us all to be better.
November 28, 2006 at 14:55
I think the point of these videos that a lot of people are missing is we don’t have to be an uptight suit and tie kind of person to be a christian.
What God is looking for is not someone who wears jeans to church or not someone who wears a suit to church, He is looking for someone who will follow Him and love Him and to show His love and share it.
If we cannot see that than we have sadly misunderstood what God wants us from us.
November 28, 2006 at 18:45
I LOVE these videos! Sometimes it is difficult to explain to people what the difference between a Christian and a follower is, but these videos hit the nail on the head.
November 28, 2006 at 21:12
I get it. The aim of the videos is to make a light-hearted point that Christians are to follow Christ in their hearts, and not only in appearances. A good point for sure.
Now, I don’t want to beat a straw-man and criticize these videos for saying something they’re not; however, I think a word of caution is warranted.
Mike has a good point a few posts up: “You are so wound up into your way of worshiping and honoring…” (emphasis added). So true. The danger of these videos is that the Christ-Follower’s way of worshiping and honoring God would somehow be mistaken for the “right way”. Others have pointed this out as well, but there is a certain smugness in the attitude of the Christ-Follower that suggests to me he too is focusing on appearances, as if wearing suits, reading books, studying the bible, listening to Christian music, or even being un-cool is somehow incompatible with following Christ—clearly not the case.
I’m especially troubled by the “Christian No More” tag at the end of the videos. Again, I get. It really means “Christian-like-that-guy-on-the-left No More”. But Christians have been cycling though labels so often lately, I think we’re missing the point. To some extent, people wince at the word “Christian”, because it represents a way of life that they don’t want or don’t understand, or both. Jesus said we should expect this, and take count it as blessing (Luke 6:22). But “Christian” has also been tainted by Christians who have behaved badly. Giving ourselves a new name isn’t going to change either of these things. “Christ-Follower” only has a better connotation because it’s new and hasn’t had enough time to be associated with either well or poorly behaving Christians. But the first time some swaggering “Christ-Following” preacher cheats on his wife, swindles his congregates, and blames the nation’s problems on Democrats and fags, you can bet “Christ-Follower” will lose its luster.
If we are to be “little Christs” (Christians) or Christ-Followers, then we must first humble ourselves—as Christ did. I didn’t see much of that in these videos.
Mike had another good point: “None of us outsiders are at any risk of being converted by the guy on the left.” Indeed, both men are uncompelling. The truth is, none come to God but by the grace and power of God. And to that end I hope we can learn to live.
December 7, 2006 at 10:35
You know the thing that ticks me off most about American Evangelicalism? Not the fact everyone thinks they must listen to “Christian” music, or thinking you have to dress a certain way, but the fact that the people and churches are not original. How many times have we seen a church or organization take a popular product, or song, or advertisement, and copy it to make a “funny” clip to show in your church services? Come on, if you are going to be critical of the current Christian church in America, don’t copy something already done. Get off your lazy—- and come up with something original.
December 7, 2006 at 10:35
Nice idea – really nice idea.. but you could do it better..
It’s a weak point, the geeky christian and cool christ follower. You’d be better off getting straight to the point and highlighting the fact that following christ, genuninely with your heart is different to being a christian..
It’s not about being geeky or dumb (a lot of christians are very intelligent) – the real point is about being hypocritical, and religious and having an unbalanced faith (fanatical/dogmatic, or other extreme: just at weekends)... These are the sort of qualities that we see more in christians, and less in christ followers.
BTW I’m not a christ follower, or christian. Ex penetecostal, but still follow the teachings of Jesus – I have no problem considering him a Lord, btw – and I’m not offended that you believe him to be christ – I hope you don’t feel my comments any less valid because of this.
December 7, 2006 at 10:38
Don’t disregard or demean a title just because there have been distortions of it’s true meaning. The problem is not with the title “Christian.” In fact, “Christian” is used in the Bible to identify true Christ followers in 1 Peter 4:16. Furthermore, Christians are labeled as those who may suffer for the glory of God.
I wish the guy on the right were someone who had truly given up earthly pleasures for the sake of the gospel; who had loved his enemies with Christ’s love; who had supported some or himself had gone into the world to preach the gospel; who had counted it gain to suffer for the sake of Christ. Not merely someone who dressed sloppy, criticized his professed brother (albeit subtlety), and went to a Saturday service.
Having an anti-establishment mindset no more makes someone a Christian than one who follows rules instead of Christ. A true Christian is one who has fully accepted Jesus Christ as their substitutionary sacrifice for their sin through His perfect lfe, death, and resurrection on the third day by confessing with their mouths that Jesus is Lord and accepting Him into their heart. They die to sin and the law and are then under grace and joined to Righteousness, having the inheritance of eternal life. Christ as the treasure of their lives defines Christians, and certainly a western culture fad does not.
December 7, 2006 at 10:46
Well, done with the videos. They are very thought-provoking; however, there is a problem of unity.
The believers, christians, christ-followers, or whatever need unity these videos can be devisive. While I think having the offering envelope in your front pocket isn’t a good think (widow’s mite parable), I think poking fun at people who feel called to research God’s work extensively and scholarly is going to bring divisions. YES, wearing your faith on your sleeves like that is just what the pharasees did in Jesus’ time, but smart christians are good to have around. And, what’s the problem with the word “christian.” While I do associate with the guy on the right more than the guy on the left, I have trouble with the phrase “christian no more.”
December 7, 2006 at 10:51
love it! I’m a Christian, more like the guy on the right. The guy on the left is most of the world’s view of Christians. Ha, whoever did this is great… kinda long though.
December 7, 2006 at 11:01
I like these vids. I really don’t like the Christian church as it is, which is why I have become a Buddhist. I really like these because it points out some of the reasons I abandoned Christianity. It really makes good points of how Christianity has changed isn’t like Jesus intended it to be.
December 7, 2006 at 11:16
Watching these videos was fun. Reading some of the comments was disturbing. Come on, people, give it a rest! For the love!
Reading about the danger…the danger is that people are dying and going to Hell. Some of this is happening because of religion, because of the “striving for perfection” that we do.
We do our best, we love the Lord, we get to know Him. We leave the judgement up to Him and the recognizing of real danger up to the Holy Spirit to discern with in us.
Wake up, Church. Let people know we are HIS disciples by our fruit, not our piety. Love God, love people, minister out of that. And let go of all the self-projected rules we make up in an effort to control people, ourselves and God.
December 7, 2006 at 11:21
Amazing—both guys seem to think that one can be a Christian on a purely individualistic basis, as well as hang on to a certain sub-cultural smugness. I guess this is American Evangelicalism’s own corporate culture telling folks that they can, “have it your way.” It may be cute, but it epitomizes all that’s gone wrong with American Christianity. Maybe both of these guys need to spend a little less time arguing one-on-one and a little more time gathered at Word and Table with the community of the faithful.
December 7, 2006 at 11:22
Sometimes people NEED to be made fun of. People can see these as devise or take them to heart and learn something.
December 7, 2006 at 11:46
Oh no, a negative viewpoint. Watch this one never make it on the page.
Jesus would have never made fun of anyone like that. This only shows that you’re just like the Christian in the video; as you say one thing while doing everything that you’re saying you don’t do. Since you’re supposedly following Christ I’ll just assume you’re not paying attention. These are more smug and annoying than the “clever” ads they were imitating.
Try actually following Christ if you’re going to talk the talk. Sell that fancy camera and your computer and donate the money to the poor. Maybe your house too. I think the only thing Christians and Christ Followers haven’t done yet, is actually follow Christ and give everything away and live only to teach the word of god. What, is that following too closely for you?
So maybe “Faux Christ Follower” is a better title.
December 7, 2006 at 12:02
This seems to me like the age-old pitfall of trying to build yourself up by tearing someone else down. What makes this particularly interesting to me is that the last thing we need is for people who believe in Jesus Christ to start tearing each other down.
A better video might show both people learning from each other how to better live their lives. NONE OF US are perfect, and none of us worship GOD perfectly. We can all learn things from each other that will strengthen us and help us strengthen those around us.
December 7, 2006 at 12:48
“Is there a wrong way to love?”
I know I am a Christian. I read my Bible and I do my devotions, and I would love to go to church every Sunday, but I am away from home and I don’t know the Christians in the local churches.
I am a disciple of Christ, and other Christians make me nervous, because I don’t know how to “act like them.” I’m worried I’ll stub my toe and go “aw dammit.”
I get nervous when I go into churches and I hear people talking politics, because I don’t want anyone to know what it says on my voter registration card.
I’ve never believed I was good enough to be a “Christian” even though I try everyday to show people by my actions that I am a Christian. I can testify and evangelize to the unchurched and I can talk for hours about the powerful transformative love of Christ, because I believe so much. But whenever I go to a new church I feel like an outsider, like my way is the wrong way.
I wanted to go to seminary to learn more about Jesus and serve his people. But I was so afraid of what people would think of me.
I suppose that with prayer I’ll grow stronger in my faith and maybe some day I’ll feel comfortable walking into anyone’s church for a worship service. But still these videos and the commentary that ensued made me cry, because I’m church-sick (homesick for a church community) and it’s so difficult to find a place where I can be accepted as another sister in Christ, without reservation.
I guess what I’m saying is that the person on the left unintentionally terrifies people like me, because we just feel… devalued.
... I hope that made sense.
December 7, 2006 at 13:02
Mathew 6:5-6 And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly.
December 7, 2006 at 13:13
@ Bob Bobbington
I take it you’re on a fancy library computer at the moment.
Jesus and his followers certainly spoke out about the practices they saw wrong within the temple. And they even used creative storytelling to make their points. How does this differ?
December 7, 2006 at 13:17
I agree with the videos wholeheartedly! What I see in my home non-denominational Christian church today has me quite disillusioned. I’m not sure the church is practicing what Jesus preached. The kind of faith the church seems to be calling for people to practice is a flimsy, skin deep faith. Why worry about how you look to the world, as long as you look to God for guidance, hope and truth. As any of us who were blessed to be in Sunday School as children will remember, the church IS the people.
December 7, 2006 at 13:21
Right so i am not meant to call myself a christian anymore. and i should healthly judge those who dont do things my way?? Dont get me wrong i like this i like the whole idea. But is this not just another desperate search to differentiate the real christian from the fake?? There is definitely room for both the ‘christian’ and the ‘christ follower’ in our lives. My real concern is this attempt to say what is real and what is not, that is what gets you wrapped up in legalism, allow your brothers and sisters to be free to be christians how they want to be. Sometimes that may be worrying about getting everything right and reading all the books and listening to the music. And sometimes that may be a laissez faire attitude much more chilled and loose. There is room for all of us. And on that note i think before we go adding another piece of jargon to our language maybe we should stop retreating with our words and start reclaiming them. I am religious and i am a christian, we should say these things and be proud and have the church as the normative for what both these things mean.
Additionally I especially do not like the bit about not getting dressed up in your sunday best. I dont always but i think it is nice from time to time to do so because it is a reminder that hey sunday is special and being in church and worshipping with others is special. The external counts, if you cant be bothered to make an effort because you are focused on higher things then great, but surely there is a place for worshipping God with what we look like. If you go looking like you dont care what are others to make of that?? I am not saying suits is the way to go, or enforcing a dress code, i’m just saying think about it.
As for the christian music dig, loved that.
December 7, 2006 at 13:53
I think these videos are great and am enjoying reading the responses. Some of you are missing the point. It isn’t about suits or reading, it’s simply about living by example vs. being distracted by the image of being a Christian.
If all Christians spent their time tending their own gardens and quietly making the world a better place by the example they set…the world would be an amazing place.
December 7, 2006 at 13:53
Keep it at 30 seconds. It’s way way way to long.
December 7, 2006 at 14:05
Neat little commercials…which ended up spawning a theological argument.
And you wonder why I’m an athiest…
December 7, 2006 at 14:06
Instead of bantering back and forth why can’t we try to nail down a definition for Christian and Christ-follower? Can the two words be used interchangeably? I think there is a difference between calling Jesus Christ “saviour” and a “sovereign Lord that we submit to completely”.
I’ll take a crack at it…
Christ-follower: A whole-hearted commitment to following him, which simply means to do whatever he would want us to do. Of course, if we’re going to learn about what his will is for our lives, this will mean that we become students of the Bible and study it for ourselves as well as learn what we can at church (relational not structural).
Christian: “A relationship with Jesus Christ. This relationship is begun by coming to him and acknowledging our failure and asking for his forgiveness.”
Whats important is our relationship with him displayed in obedience to his teachings that make the difference. The word the bible uses for this its FAITH, an active trust in God, believing in something or someone enough to act upon that belief.
Is the Christian ‘guy’ (or PC) doing it religiously? or did Jesus call us to be faithful?
John 10:10
December 7, 2006 at 14:14
I don’t wonder, Jason…
December 7, 2006 at 14:56
Well, who would you rather have to spend eternity with? A Christian or a Christ-follower?
That’s always been my biggest problem with eternal life in Heaven, I really didn’t want to spend that much time with Christians…
December 7, 2006 at 15:14
This is insane. I can’t believe anyone even made these videos this way. There is absolutely nothing wrong with what the “Christian” is doing. The only issue would be if his spirituality was wrapped up in all his spiritual/ christian pursuits. Paul commended the Bereans for their study of the word. (Acts 17:10-12). The Christian who wants to know the word and uses other commentaries should never be put down at all and should certainly not be seen in any less favorable light than a “Jesus Follower” who just tries to live like Jesus. How is that “Jesus follower” going to know what Jesus lived like without the Word. The bumper sticker thing is just silly. People put all kinds of bumper stickers on their cars that say all kinds of things. Why, then, would there be any issues w/ a christian putting bumper stickers on their cars?
I could comment all all three clips, but, I don’t have the time. It just seemed that the ‘Christian’ was actually more sincere and dedicated in his wanting to be like Christ than the ‘Christ follower’ (except for the WWJD and the bumper stickers, they were just annoying.
The terms Christian and Christ follower are actually very similar in meaning except that the word Christian actually describes a person who wants to be like Jesus Christ in every area of his life; to actually be as close in likeness, personality and demeanor as possible to Jesus, to be able to be truly mistaken for Christ. Except for a couple of little things, the Christian in these clips comes much closer to Christ than the Christ follower in my estimation.
December 7, 2006 at 15:31
Very good Videos!
December 7, 2006 at 15:32
First of all, this is a parody based on the commercial. The smugness of the Mac guy is being mirrored by the smugness of the Christ-Follower guy. Without that, it would not be a good parody. Am I right? Let’s not get down on the Christ-Follower guy for being smug when he’s just acting out a parody!
As for the Christian in this context. I think the Christian is less to blame than the Christian teachers who continue to propigate this Christian Pop Culture scene. How much money is there in marketing salvation I wonder?
Following Jesus is not about a new culture. It is not about marketing campaigns and quotas. It is about improving the world through our participation IN it AS a representative of God rather than a membership to an elitist club with KJV only bibles doing things only to be SEEN doing them. Christianity is NOT a competition! You can’t merge NFL and NASCAR mentality with God’s love, they aren’t compatible.
Let this parody be a wake up call to all Christians and Christ-Followers alike. It is time for an AUTHENTIC representation of the church. It’s time for authentically living as Jesus did. I think Mike the atheist summed up what that was supposed to look like best.
December 7, 2006 at 15:47
I’m… really confused. Are you saying we shouldn’t just be casual Christians and should be more like “PC” there, or are you telling us its perfectly acceptable to relax about your faith and listen to whatever music takes your fancy?
I am seriously confused by the message you’re trying to give out here. I’m much more like the Mac, I don’t make a big deal out of my faith or go around showing it and demonstrating it to everyone. If you’re suggesting we are supposed to do that, I have to disagree. That is what gives Christians a bad name… but, perhaps I’m wrong. I’m young and foolish.
Round where I live, nearly everyone is Athiest. When one of my Athiest friends realised I was a Christian, his response was “But, you’re normal!” I hate to think that people are under the impression that Christians are not ordinary people, being like PC there is kind of pretty un-normal. So we should be like Mac?
Someone please point me in the right direction
December 7, 2006 at 15:56
I think these parodies are great. I despise the Christians who use Christianity to support their morals/opinions without valid reference to scripture (music, style, etc.).
Remember, morals are nothing more than what the majority of a population deems proper at any given time and this always fluctuates as time progresses.
December 7, 2006 at 16:07
While I find myself more similar to the guy on the left, I think the whole “Christian versus Christ-follower” thing is stupid. Anybody who follows Christ is a Christian, no? Why would we want to look down on people who decide to live their lives in a different fashion? Both characters are unlikable, and this is hardly a contest of “who’s the better worshiper” or “I’m leading a better life than you are because _____.”
Way to go and cause more division than what’s needed.
December 7, 2006 at 16:35
It’s interesting that what doesn’t quite work with these is actually what doesn’t quite work with the Apple ads too.
Yes, it’s cute, and nicely timed, and funny. But the truth is that there’s a slight undercurrent of smugness that pushes you to side with the geek. It’s true of John Hodgman’s PC in the mac ads, and it’s true here. We side with the underdog.
Maybe that’s a Brit thing, though, but fun stuff nonetheless…
December 7, 2006 at 16:57
You’re treading on dangerous waters. (hah, on water). — Challenging how Christians live their lives is fine, but the slogan ”’Christian’ no more” seems to imply an anti-Christian sentimentality instead of what you are actually trying to do.
Also, the Church is already split enough with the numerous Catholic and Protestant denominations, I see this as trying to push the segregation even further, pitting members of the same community against one another regarding whose way of following Christ is the most appropriate for the modern day.
Formatting these as a Catholic vs. Protestant comparison would have been more clever, as the differences are more profound and very similar to what you show in these videos.
December 7, 2006 at 17:01
My goodness, I had to stop reading the comments because the first set of them seemed to come from the very type of person this video is trying to poke fun at. Seriously people, if Jesus Christ was actually on earth today as a human bean (again) do you really think he would care what you listen too? Or what you dress like at church? Would he even go to church? probably not, he would likely be spending his time with the homeless and drug addicts of today just as he did the last time he was here. If you think you already have/know God then he wouldn’t waste his time with you just as he didn’t with those of like mind in his day. Get over yourselves… you’d have people think God doesn’t have a sense of humor when he clearly does, just look at the people around you, if that isn’t funny then I don’t know what is.
December 7, 2006 at 17:05
Honestly, I love the videos. Keep it up.
The thing I find ironic about all this, is the comments below the videos portray more of what most of you are opposed to in the videos.
So, congratulations!
Kick back.
Take a read at some of these comments and see how happy you are to claim the call of Christ with this family of believers.
December 7, 2006 at 17:12
Neither figure should be any kind of role model, even though the man on the right is supposed to be some sort of paragon. Why don’t we see the “Christ follower” (who’s apparently too cool for the Bible or morality) when his faith is challenged and he discovers that he has no idea about sound doctrine? He’ll probably do what many feel-good Christians do: compromise on politicaly correct issues like homosexuality and evolution.
December 7, 2006 at 17:13
I read it as “Christian No More (or Less)”
December 7, 2006 at 17:22
Clever idea, I just wish the ‘Christ-follower’ was a little more emphatic/excited about his faith. Also, each clip should be about half as long for maximum ‘TV commercial’-style impact.(like the original Mac vs. PC ads)
December 7, 2006 at 17:58
I’m actually atheist, but I like the message in these commercials. You don’t have to brag about your religion or beliefs and you don’t have to press them on other people. All you have to do is what you think is right.
December 7, 2006 at 18:05
In reply to some of the earlier posts who thought that the christ-follower was arrogant, maybe you should watch them again, the christian was the one wearing bumper stickers for christ and scolding the other guy for not dressing up. The christ-follower was just doing his thing, not trying to cause any problem. Your beliefs are your own, you shouldn’t try to force them on others like that.
December 7, 2006 at 18:22
These videos are great. Christian culture today all too often emphasizes our outward appearance, when Christ’s teachings would have us focus on others’ true character. A true believer in Christ does as he did by treating others only with love and understanding, and by setting a good example. Not by bumper stickers or displaying a crucifix.
“Walk the walk, and talk the talk.”
Oh, and U2 is the greatest band ever… Rocknroll is not always evil. 8^)
December 7, 2006 at 18:44
Die hard Mac fan, so I loved the attempt. But you missed the bullseye of your goal, IMO…
Christian means ‘Christ-like.’ A laudable goal. If it had been “I’m Christian” vs. “I’m religious” or “I’m a Christ-follower” vs. “I’m religious” they’d have been more accurate.
It’s religiousity you’re poking fun at, which I like to do all the time. Unfortunately as-is the videos risk tainting the one thing they’re trying to help.
That said, we’re even exhorted (James, et al), to be religious…it’s just that that word, too, has grown negative. Look up the Greek, though, and it means, roughly, ‘ceremoniousness.’
Jesus said ‘if you’re my follower, you’ll do as I do. Act like me.’
As a Christ-follower what behavior is Christ-like, even (gulp), religious?
Taking care of widows and orphans. Not wearing WWJD undies.
Peace.
December 7, 2006 at 18:56
Nothing like pitting one type of ‘typical’ evangelical aginst another to advertise what ‘true’ Christianity is. What – no one thought to put a rosary in the hand of one of these two caricatures? And, oh, the creativity of it all. Staggers the imagination really. Think of it: Christians copying the world in an effort to call the world to Christ and away from worldliness. Oh what was i thinking? We’ve been doing that for years now.
This is wrong at so many levels one scarcely knows where to begin.
December 7, 2006 at 19:30
As a Jew raised in central Texas (where I was often made to feel uncomfortable about my religion), it’s refreshing to see a perspective like this. It’s unfortunate that the caricature on the left is my conception of many Christians with whom I grew up. So, although some here might believe that the wrong image of Christianity is being presented, for me it has the opposite effect: it’s very humanizing, and much appreciated.
December 7, 2006 at 19:37
I think one of the vids were offensive to me as a christain, they show the “christain” mocking the follower, and went overboard showing the man with books and bumper stickers, looks more like a worldy image of what a christain is, then a real christain.
December 7, 2006 at 20:29
I prefer “Christian” to “Christ follower” as the latter seems to imply a required belief in what seems to me to be fairy tales – paranormal things like God. Christianity, on the other hand, can accommodate atheism very nicely, and is therefore sustainable, like literature or art.
December 7, 2006 at 20:31
Reminds me of another video I saw a few days ago: link
December 7, 2006 at 20:37
Nice! Gottta Muslim version?
December 7, 2006 at 21:41
These are truly thought-provoking videos, as evidenced by the discussion. Will I be using them in the worship services I lead? No. A blanket condemnation of “Christians” by implying they are not “Christ-followers” is the message the seems to come through loud and clear. True—there is more to following Christ than study, appearance, or habits. But there is more to being a Christ-follower than dressing like a slob and being self-righteous and judmental of those who choose to live out thier faith in a different way than we do. I hope these were not intended as invitational videos—I know they would keep me away from a congregation that would promote such judgmental attitudes. Let’s turn off the terminology and the judgment, and help each other walk with Christ—however we dress, wherever we worship. May others always see Christ in us.
December 7, 2006 at 21:57
Life long Christian here to say:
#1) GOD HAS A SENSE OF HUMOR! LIGHTEN UP! God created us in his image, Satan can create nothing only destroy, so because we have a sense of humor God does to…and that goes for Jesus. If your critiqueing these videos seriously, you missed the point…...
#3) This is a classic “Religious Jesus” vs. “Hippie Jesus” problem. He said some very “Religious things” i.e. he expected certain actions from his followers. But he also hung out with prostitutes, tax collecters, went to parties etc….which are not things the average Christian does. Christians tend to be “hip” and go the lax way (christ follwer)...or be legalistic bible nazis (christian). THERE’S TRUTH TO THE MIDDLE!
December 7, 2006 at 22:27
Lol, those are pretty damn awesome. =P I’m an atheist and I got a good laugh out of them.
Thank God (pun not intended?) people are finally trying to break the stereotype.
December 7, 2006 at 22:57
I cannot believe it. You people who don’t get this are EXACTLY the people being mocked. The sad part is that those of us looking in at American Christianity see the “put on” that you are. Just like the guy on the left. If only you would actually follow Christ – this world, this country would be a better place. Read the gospels! You are exactly like the pharisees and nothing like Christ.
My pardons to those of you who do follow Christ. And my thanks. Try to get it to rub off on the rest of the “christians” if you can.
December 7, 2006 at 22:58
Oh yeah, by the way, I thought the videos were very well done and very cute.
December 7, 2006 at 22:59
Another: http://www.608worship.org/
December 7, 2006 at 22:59
Wow. Never thought I could see such a great marketing tool used so… poorly. The videos are about 4x too long, and just beat the point into the ground with a sledgehammer. The point of the original commercials were to make people think… for themselves. They were supposed to see, and not necessarily hear, the differences. I thought that’s what you would try and do here seeing that the main difference is one group trying to be a Christian, and one actually doing it.
December 7, 2006 at 23:04
I’m an atheist and a Mac fan. I found your ads from a link on a tech blog. I found them really confusing.
As an atheist, I can wear whatever I want and listen to whatever music I want just like the “cooler” guy in your ad.
Plus, I get to believe in science and vote for the democrats
December 7, 2006 at 23:47
Thanks for showing these videos – witty and clever! And a fun way to get a good point across!
December 7, 2006 at 23:50
As a Christian, I am really depressed by some of the comments here.
Guys. The video is not saying it’s a bad thing to read the Bible. The video is saying that it’s a bad thing to carry around your Bible all the time just to make sure everyone knows you’re reading it and you’re better than them.
Jesus did not say to advertise your religiosity all the time. Far from it. Jesus said when you pray, go in your room and shut the door. Those who pray on the streetcorner have had their reward.
Furthermore: on what basis is anyone assuming that the Christ-follower doesn’t read the Bible? Since he’s committed to following Christ, I’m sure he does. But he doesn’t wave it in people’s faces, because that’s not what Christ called him to do. Perhaps if the other man hadn’t already been a Christian, he would’ve begun sharing the good news.
December 7, 2006 at 23:53
Fun, catchy and outside the mold.
but I get the impression that your church is a church of “cool people”, and if you are not, you are not welcome. That isn’t the message of Christ, now, is it? I certainly hope not.
December 8, 2006 at 00:35
Much of theme seems to be lost on some of the commentors – the arguement here that the left user uses religion as a label and extreme, in contrast it the right user who lives a life of simplicity and acceptance, or am I wrong on this? I didn’t see the right user as ‘too cool’ for christianity, just someone who seems to choose a life without those mortal barriers.
Nevertheless, I’m not a christian, I’ve always felt the user on the left pushed me away… but I’d sit down with the person on the right and learn from them. I don’t think they’d force me to mirror their life; that’s just an onlookers opinion. Maybe some of the commentors are afraid of seeing change or old methods fade? Religion is like much in this regard.
December 8, 2006 at 01:16