judy@ut-ngp.UUCP (04/12/84)
I just saw a really good movie which is relevant to the issue of some Christians considering dancing a sin. Without giving the plot away, let me just say that the people of the town had outlawed dancing on the basis of it being "sinful". However, at one point in the story, a teenager who wants to have a senior dance quotes FROM THE BIBLE how dance is a GOOD thing NOT evil. Now, again I say that I am not a believer because I have not the conviction of God's existence. But I feel that it is EXTREMELY important to know what is in the bible in order to understand and interact with people who DO believe. I feel that this movie illustrates my point - which is that if you really do want to be able to tell the Christians that are true to Christ in practice from the Christians-for-other-purposes then try reading at LEAST one of the gospels. Some of the letters to the churches written by Paul are very enlightening also, but keep in mind that some of what he says (like about women) may only be relevant to the time frame in which he speaks. In other words, some of what he says is his own opinion and he does not always make this clear. One of my favorites is :(paraphrased) Nothing is evil of itself. However, if you believe that eating meat is evil - DON'T DO IT. I don't have a bible with me, but I believe that was the essence of what he said. Love your neighbor as yourself. And make sure you can love yourself. Judy