“…that’s what she said.”
Everyone enjoys The Office. Is The Office hillarious? Yes. According to who? According to a misguided sexual culture.
The United States has the highest rates of STDs in the industrialized world. In the United States alone, about 19 million new STD infections are estimated to occur each year. And then there’s abortion - over a million preborn murders per year in America. Why are the consequences of sexual sin rampant in our country? For the same reason we choose to be entertained by “double on tondras”.
Attempting to summarize all of the sexual commotion happening in the Dunder Mifflin office is dismaying. Fiances, coworkers, ex-boyfriends/girlfriends all engaged in sex and sexual jesting…for your entertainment. Jim and Pam cohabit, Ryan and Kelly are together again, Michael and Holly are together (Michael used to be with Jan cohabiting). Dwight and Angela have an affair despite Angela’s being engaged to Andy. There - I summarized it. Have you ever noticed that there’s a lot of sex on television and not a lot of having babies? Convenient.
I realize there’s more to The Office than sex. Its not “Sex in the City”. I became acquanted with the The Office series during what I’d call a low point of my life, when I watched an entire season online in less than a few days…while at work. So, please don’t think that I’m judgmental towards you for viewing this show. You at least probably don’t watch it on company time.
I am aware that all of this licentiousness is not the real thing - its the pretense of the real thing, acted out for us to watch. When Dwight has an affair with Angela, Rainn Wilson didn’t really commit adultery with Angela Kinsey. Does that make it ok to watch? Contrary to Hollywood, the Bible says that if you know “…the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them” then you are guilty of the same sin. Its like sinning through vicariousness. King David said “I will put no wicked thing before my eyes”.
Some would argue, “the Bible contains plenty of raunchiness”. Soloman had hundreds of concubines and David slept with a woman after tom-peeping her bathing and then murdered her husband - I mean soap oparahs eat your heart out - the Bible is tops in disfunctionality. True, but is there a single occurance of sin in the Bible meant for your laughter? Did David retort Nathan with a “that’s what she said”? No.
I’d say the ugliest result of our misguided sexual culture (other than eternal damnation) is abortion. By choice, the church has little legislative effect on abortion. The church has opted to be impotent in the political arena (I’ll write more about this later). Rather, its “cultural transformation” that the church apparently is pursuing to stop the atrocity of abortion. I agree that we are a culture in need of transformation. And, I agree that the body of Christ must accomplish the transforming. But, I see a challenge facing the church. If we continue to be entertained by The Office and promote Pam, Jim and Dwight on our Facebooks then we’ve bought into the wrong system and are not transforming anything but contrary are being conformed to the culture around us. If we expect young adults to stop having irresponsible sex and not opt to murder their offspring then we need to live up to those same standards. Someone once said “be the change you want to see in the world”.
Be the change you want to see. I am steering clear of all the ABCs and NBCs online. And, not owning television in my home helps to not fall back into the entertainment of the idiot box.
I haven’t written this to bum you out on your favorite TV show or to say “be as sanctified as I am”. I’ve identified what I believe to be the greatest evil amongst us - abortion. I’ve heard the church say “we need to transform our culture” and I see an obstacle in the road that I want to point it out.
April 1st, 2009 at 8:22 pm
thats what she said
April 1st, 2009 at 8:34 pm
Thanks Dan! This really convicted my heart, and not to mention a ton of other shows. Thanks for laying it out on the table and opening my eyes to the filthiness on today popular TV shows.
April 1st, 2009 at 9:15 pm
“be the change you want to see in the world” Great Ghandi quote, I applaud the diversity!
April 1st, 2009 at 9:47 pm
Can you think of a single example where the Office has even insinuated that any kind of sexual immorality is okay?
The Office is one of the few shows on TV with any sort of realness to it, and I think if you look carefully, you will find wisdom in it.
“Contrary to Hollywood, the Bible says that if you know “…the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them” then you are guilty of the same sin.”
If you’re not taking pleasure in the sexual immorality portrayed in the show, I don’t see the problem. Just because you enjoy the show and think it’s funny doesn’t mean you take pleasure in everything that happens in the show.
April 1st, 2009 at 10:20 pm
Thank you, Dan. I’ve had concern for quite awhile over this kind of programming, with so many Christians “lovin’ it.” Keep on speaking out for righteousness!
April 1st, 2009 at 11:08 pm
To be a Christian is not to seek out what is wrong with anything enjoyable in the world. To be a Christian is to live the love of Christ, and wasting your time prooftexting in order to convince people that some television show is ‘impure’ accomplishes absolutely nothing in the scale of eternity. Loving someone selflessly, however, does. Giving a poor man the clothes off your back does. I really wish thinking Christians like yourself would stop seeking out the dirt in the world and spend their energies on bringing about positive change in the world. The Epic Hope of Christianity is not that one day all ‘dirtiness’ like The Office will be removed from the world. That hope is that one day love will reign fully, that this broken world will be healed, and I will not apologize for believing that humor, even sexual humor, will be a part of that healed world.
And if you have a problem with abortion, live your solution. This whole cultural revolution phenomenon within the church is just not working. Luring people to your message by disguising it with some cultural icon is not what this generation needs. Don’t lie to me and tell me you are writing about The Office when all you really want to do is change people’s minds about abortion. We need to drop the mindset that Christianity is something that can be sold to Americans. It cannot be sold, so stop selling it. Live it.
April 2nd, 2009 at 8:11 am
Paul the Apostle sought the dirt in the churches in his time, majority of his books are reproofing, rebuking, correction of the worldly sin that crept in like idols, prostitution, affairs etc… I think we are called to stand up against unrighteousness and be separate, like Dan quoted from King David, “I will put no wicked thing before my eyes”. Sure you can justify watching shows like that, but when you look at from the Bible’s view there is no denying that what The Office and other TV shows are showing is utterly sinful.
Shows like The Office are dumbing down Christians and there views on sin, its blurring out what absolute truth looks like. I challenge anyone to prove to me that The Office is gonna help me in my Christian walk and that it’s gonna be edifying for me. Ryan - I totally agree with you on Loving selflessly and bringing hope to the lost. That’s why we should stand up and live righteously and show the lost that this world is a sinful world and that they need Jesus. If Christians are condoning shows like The Office, how are they going to know what sin is? I would encourage anyone to step away from those shows for awhile and seek the Lord about this. Let his Word reveal the absolute truth and he will be faithful to fulfill your life’s calling in serving Him.
April 2nd, 2009 at 9:57 am
I like the office…it’s funny…
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:09 am
I think entertainment can be uplifting even in the secular sense. This will soundreally new-agey and weird, but it was a spiritual awakening for me, so I don’t really care. When I was in highschool I was listening to the musician “ENYA” and I had a great encouragement to become a more kind and loving person…sounds cheesy I know, but that was an experience that I had.
On the same side of the fence I think that getting a dose of what is reality in the workplace of 90% of most Americans go thru isn’t bad. I think you can gain an understanding from the experiences that the characters go thru of what peoples lives can be like (albeit a bit exagerated at times).
As far as the lots of sexual content and no babies, I think it is pretty reasonable to not see babies on the show, as most secular single adults that are sexually active use some type of birth control.
And a little bit of laughter at Michaels rediculous antics isn’t a bat thing.
I think that everyday that we leave our houses we put wickedness before our eyes. Watching the news does that, interacting with believers or non-believers does that too.
Could we use our time better….probably
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:27 am
A variation of this argument has been thrown around, well, ever since art has existed. So, forever. Conveniently, it’s never backed by any real logic or proof. Show me some statistics that viewers of The Office are more likely to have sex on their kitchen tables right after they watch the show or whatever your point is and maybe I’ll consider it. Otherwise, I don’t really make it a point to pass judgement on the characters of a half hour television comedy, or anyone at all for that matter. Maybe entertainment isn’t for you.
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:04 am
To some extent Brian I agree with you…my opinion gets a little bit more loose when I get to more violent, and sexually explicit material. I think that Human beings are easily swayed by their influences. I know when I was a teenager I watched “The Real World” on MTV and it influenced me to some extent. I think those are very influential times in your life and when you get older I think you most likely are less influencable. I would say that it takes a certain amount of wisedom to figure what is too much for you personally, but if you are a Christian that is constantly seeking what Jesus wants for you I genuinely believe that you will know what is right for. I do think it gets a bit dicey when you start telling others what they should feel convicted of.
I do think that Daniel has made it clear that this was a stumbling block for him…and he thinks it may be for other people as well…I don’t think he is saying that it is a stumbling block for everyone.
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:26 am
Really? REALLY? Maybe you should focus your attention of something important, like poverty or something. Come on man, this is ridiculous.
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:06 pm
Reading the Bible will make it abundantly clear what we are to hold in our minds: “whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if [there be] any virtue, and if [there be] any praise, think on these things (Phil 4:8); If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above….Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth (Col 3:1-2); But fornication and all uncleanness or covetousness, let it not even be named among you, as is fitting for saints; neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor coarse jesting, which are not fitting….For this you know, that no fornicator, unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God. Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. Therefore do not be partakers with them….And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose [them]. For it is shameful even to speak of those things which are done by them in secret. (Eph 5:3-12), which then continues: “See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil.”
It’s kind of hard to see how putting that type of TV program into a Christian’s mind in any way fits with what those verses say. Daniel is addressing believers–not the world. Of course we can’t expect unbelievers to understand. But we should certainly hold Christians to a higher standard. This has nothing to do with feeding the poor,etc., and it has everything to do with living the crucified life that Christ desires from us–indeed that we might share in His sufferings and also in His glory.
If you want to live as though you ARE of the world (and not just IN it), then do that. But don’t try to stand in the way of those who truly love the Lord and are trying to encourage believers to walk in the path that God has laid out for them.
April 2nd, 2009 at 3:08 pm
Thanks for the verses! Agreed with what you said.
April 2nd, 2009 at 3:38 pm
Barbara: I understand what you are saying and absolutly and utterly respect your decision to not entertain yourself with the TV show the office, or any show demonstrates anything that is not condoned in the scriptures, but this walks a fine line. Shows like Americas Funniest Home videos demonstrates violence, dishonesty, and unsesitivity. The news gives demonstrations of everyform of evil possible. Sesame street promotes conserving of resources to stop global warming (which many on this site have proclaimed is a complete lie) thus inspiring your children to participate in a dishonest theory. Animal planet takes every chance it gets to concrete the theory of evolution. Every show on television represents something evil, so yes you have the choice to turn the television off and that would solve that problem.
Maybe your argument is that the Bible clearly states to not glory in filth. I think it is entirely possible to watch the office and to not “glory, or take entertainment” with the filth. The same is true with real life. Jesus spoke with the sinners, he surrounded himself with prostitutes, pharasees, and the like. Of course you know that He did not glory in their filth, but he difinitely saw what they were doing.
I believe the Holy spirit is here to give direction to our conscious and maybe the edification here should be for Christians to pray that the Holy spirit is directing their conscious. My opinion is, to say that no Christian should watch The Office is to discredit the amazing gift that God have given us in the form of the Holy Spirits guiding thru our conscious.
April 2nd, 2009 at 4:09 pm
Dear you me and bennett, You’re trying to compare Christians indulging in a show that constantly portrays things that grieve the Lord with Jesus himself walking with sinners. Why did He walk with them? To laugh at their immorality? Or to show them a better way—the truth. I guess if you could honestly say that your purpose in watching a show that degrades what God has meant to be a gift (human sexuality) is to witness to those who are in it or who are watching it with you, then you might have a point. If you watch the show, however, to get a laugh over things that the Lord doesn’t want us to think on, then your comparison fails completely.
Part of being in the world and not of it is to understand how to live among sinners, love them, be a good example to them that sin doesn’t have to control us, and to make the best use of our time. I really can’t find any value in putting stuff into my mind that does stay there and does affect us. This is not using my time well.
The Holy Spirit does give us discernment, as you’ve indicated. I’m having sort of a hard time thinking that He is not speaking to you about what you watch and listen to, when it grieves Him.
Is it possible to stumble across sinfulness in our daily lives in things we see and hear and are made aware of? Of course! It happens every day. God does allow this to help us to develop a sense of right and wrong. But to intentionally choose to engage in these kinds of activities will put you in danger of having your tender conscience “seared.”
Please don’t think this is said in judgment. Christians so often seem to take very lightly what the Scriptures say, and choose instead to think that they can decide for themselves what is good and what is not. I’m human. I live in this world. It’s a struggle. We have to make choices every day. Joshua said, “Choose ye this day whom ye shall serve…but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”
Serving the Lord takes effort. It takes diligence and it takes loving Him more than anything else. He gave everything for us. He just wants our lives in return–and we give Him whatever little bit is left after we’ve rolled in the mud of the world all week and expect Him to be thankful!
Sorry to go on so long. Believe it or not, I love to laugh. There is so much that is truly enjoyable and fun and funny in this world. And it doesn’t center on the basest things in life. God gave us joy because He loves us. But I know it doesn’t please Him when we laugh at things that really only take people further away from Him and who could end up like that forever.
April 2nd, 2009 at 7:56 pm
Again I hear your point and respect that it convicts you. I am not insinuating that you should watch this, it sounds like you are convicted about watching this show and I would by no means want you to go against what you believe to be wrong for yourself. However, what I don’t think that you gathered from my post is that you can watch something and determine what is vial with it and take no pleasure in it, and you can determine what is non-vial and take enjoyment in that part. The office is a multi-faceted show. There is sexual humor, there is physical humor, there is cultural humor, and so on. Just like in life there are things that are vial in public that we must not revel in. This world is a messy place and as you have said there is no way to avert our attention from all of the mess, but our hope is in Jesus who gives us the strength to love and discern.
My purpose for watching the show is purely entertainment. I do not think that I will convert anyone to Jesus by watching The Office, just like I will not convert anyone by eating, or by listening to music, or by riding my bike.
The debate might be, is entertainment justifiable at all…? We could all do better things with our time than entertain ourselves. We could all probably find something better to do then write on this blog.
The Office is about life, albeit secular life, but it is life…and I think that it is not a bad thing to see. We as Christians can use our God given judgement to determine what is funny and what is not. Truth is, some of the show is funny to me and some of it isn’t. The Bible has an influence on that and so does my conscious, and I think that is sufficient for my arguement as to why it is OK for me to watch the office.
April 2nd, 2009 at 8:14 pm
I know you are sincere, and I appreciate that you are trying to sort this through. Very gently, I want to remind you that God tells us we are to have no fellowship with darkness; (For what fellowship has righteousness with lawlessness? And what communion has light with darkness? 2 Cor 6:14). So to sift through the trash pile, trying to find the treasure in it, sometimes isn’t worth it. And is the treasure really treasure after all?
I am not telling you what you should or shouldn’t do. You have to answer before the Lord, as do I. I know that when I watch something that I know is not “pure” before God that He is watching it with me and through me, and I know that He is offended and sad. “Grieved,” the Bible says. Personally, I don’t want to hurt Him. We have to give an account of our time to God. He bought us. He cares for every moment.
The point that Daniel was making is that we have become so calloused to sin and wrong-doing that even abortion doesn’t seem like such a big deal. What makes a big sin, after all? Laughing at sexual jokes seems pretty small compared to real adultery.But what did Jesus say about it? “If you look at women to lust after her, you’ve committed adultery. If you’re angry with your brother, it’s the same as murder.” I appreciate that Daniel brought up the subject to make us think. Anything that even slightly takes us out of God’s being pleased with us isn’t worth doing. Can you justify what you do to His face? I guess that’s where I’m coming from.
God bless you, and thanks for your time with this.
April 2nd, 2009 at 9:21 pm
I can and thank you for your concern.
April 3rd, 2009 at 8:52 am
Good points. Dude, just say what you mean and stick to it. Why the apologies and backing away? “‘I haven’t written this to bum you out on your favorite TV show or to say ‘be as sanctified as I am’”. Of course you have. That’s the point of the article. And God calls us to be sanctified, so don’t apologize for that. I am no saint, however. And by the way, I enjoy The Office. It’s a caricature. Office idiocy taken to a conclusion.
April 3rd, 2009 at 3:08 pm
I appreciate what you’re saying, but I will say in response (and please no “what does it matter to you” rebuttals):
I personally don’t consider myself to be a “christian;” but I am a firm believer in God and the concepts of sin and moral living. Personally I can see why you would consider shows like “The Office” a bit sinful, but I don’t believe that God is so petty as to get angry at us for watching these types of programs! Don’t you think he is much more concerned with how well you have lived. Do right by others, yourself, and be a decent person; I very much doubt God will look down on you for laughing at some lewd behavior. He created us in his image; he probably loves “The Office” just as much as we do! He’s laughing with us, not judging us on something as petty as a TV show!
April 3rd, 2009 at 4:59 pm
This is pathetic. go warship something
April 3rd, 2009 at 7:06 pm
This is kinda ridiculous. Instead of worrying about other peoples’ personal issues and decisions, you should try to put your mind to actual use. Abortion isn’t evil, a fetus isn’t a human, it’s cells. Premarital sex isn’t morally wrong, it’s part of life. I understand that your religion has many different laws and obligations to it, but the fact is your religion doesn’t govern my life or anyone else’s. It’s a personal choice, much like abortion and premarital sex. Stop shoving religion in everyone’s face. There’s always the option of moving to a religious state (not the US)– you could convert to Islam and move to Iran! Besides, it’s not like any religion is different from the next– belief in god, that’s it.
April 4th, 2009 at 10:56 am
This is something we all need to keep in mind, with TV, movies, music and sites we check out on the Internets.
What really disturbs me is what passes for children’s programming nowadays. Some parents think networks like Disney are “safe” for their kids so they don’t even monitor what kind of junk they’re watching. Same for the Cartoon Network, although I pray most parents have caught on by now.
There’s enough sexual innuendo and violence on both of these networks to make any one’s stomach turn…
But it’s Disney. It’s harmless…. right.
April 4th, 2009 at 5:20 pm
Um, this is freakin retarted.
You’re being such a mary.
I’m a pastors son and I watched the Office since the first season.
It’s funny and is not affecting my beliefs or morals at all.
Have a little fun, geez. What kind of church is this?
April 4th, 2009 at 8:05 pm
u christians gotta be jerks about every little thing, calm down, its a tv show
April 5th, 2009 at 3:04 am
“From his native land of Darkness
To the country of the free
In the interest of science
And of broad humanity”
this is a poem published in the New York Times around 1906. It is in reference to “… Ota Benga, a Pygmy from the Congo, who was displayed in the monkey house of New York’s Bronx Zoo in September 1906.”
– Quoted from pg. 176 of the book King Leopold’s Ghost, by Adam Hochschild
note the bravado and irony printed in the New York Times at the turn of the century. such a wonderment this example of humanity, to be displayed for our attentions among monkeys and orangutans. the science of it all. shall we do as such with our children or our elderly. shall i do as such with you, gentle reader. the audacity to coax such a sentiment of the “land of the free” when regarding a man bound by iron bars, and heartless stares.
It was common in that age to refer to those with black skin as animals. One British adventurer actually severed the head of an African he had shot, packed it in salt, and shipped it to his taxidermist in London to be mounted and hung on his wall among his other trophies. Such men would write in their diaries, and in major newspapers of their exploits with pride, or simply matter of factly. Such things were commonly accepted in that day and age. Those who cried out against it were scoffed upon.
i would argue that the common culture of a people does not justify itself. i would argue that the common culture of america is self righteous at times.
i would argue that we all fail in life, and that some aspire for greater things.
i hope that we can forgive each other, love each other, and pursue that higher call
“…a fetus isn’t a human, it’s cells…”
— quoting Harmony from an abover comment
what does it mean to be human? aren’t we all made of cells? what do ethics and morality have to do with anything if all we are is cells? i would say there is more to the human experience than matter, and if so, than a fetus being comprised of cells does not dismiss its spark of life within, nor the potential of its growth and development.
just as we protect and honor the budding life of a 1 year old child, so should we protect and honor the budding life of a fetus. In so doing we should reckognize the potential of sexual intercourse, and in due process, understand the ramifications and responsibility of said intercourse. these are the morals and ethics behind abstinence, and to further travel this line of logic, are evidence that God’s teachings are based in Truth.
this is not a war between stereotypes, but a search to know and act on Truth. i will close by logging another excerpt from ‘King Leopolds Ghost’ in reference to Ota Benga.
“The promoter who staged this exhibit was a former Presbyterian missionary who abandoned his preaching for several business ventures. A delegation of black ministers finally rescued Ota Benga from the zoo. He remained in the United States and committed suicide ten years later.”
– Quoted from pg. 176 of the book King Leopold’s Ghost, by Adam Hochschild
April 5th, 2009 at 8:59 am
Wow, Christians are pathetic.
April 5th, 2009 at 8:49 pm
Pathetic. Purity comes from what you do, not what you watch. You imbecile christian..
April 6th, 2009 at 12:54 am
I’m not gonna say I approve of abortion, but doesn’t God take those that aren’t ready to make the decision to follow him into his arms and into heaven?
So each and every one of those unborn babies is incredibly happy right now, in heaven?
Sooo that makes all of it a moot point, right? Those babies don’t have to deal with the scum of the earth and be led astray by horrible shows such as The Office. All you’re doing is condemning those that had the abortion in the first place, making life easier for them and AMAZING for their babies.
Honestly I’ve never really known what the big deal is, other than a huge condemn-fest. Then again, that seems to be what Christianity is all about these days…judging and condemning others. That’s why nobody listens anymore.
April 6th, 2009 at 11:25 am
Hey Josh, i agree that aborted babies go to heaven. but more than just the babies are involved in this process. you’ve got the mother, the father, the doctor, the nurses, the voters who made it legal, lots of people who are involved in what i believe is murder.
Here’s what Christianity is about, it’s about giving people the truth about the love of Jesus and being a light in this dark world.
April 6th, 2009 at 11:43 am
there is great irony in that the comdemnation i read on this page comes not from daniel who wrote the article, but from people writing comments… daniel is simply sharing his observations. i would encourage anyone writing such comments to re-read the article. daniel is in fact taking the blame onto himself to some extant.
Josh, i agree and disagree with you. I agree with your idea that those children are in heaven, and have been spared a potentially hard life. i wonder though if abortion honors God. as an american i wonder if abortion honors our constitution.
i feel however that you are mistaken with history. There has never been a greater time of communication, of listening, than the present. to say that Christianity is all about judging and comdemning these days, tells me you have not observed what is actually going on in the younger generations of the Church. It tells me that you are unaware of human history and the history of the Church.
i would suggest you check out projects such as Blood:Water Mission. I would suggest you listen to musicians such as John Foreman. I would suggest you watch movies like Amazing Grace. “listen” to these voices of the modern church and let me know what you think.
There is a culture that is caught up in being against Christ without knowing what Christ was all about. The fact is that people fail. Christ followers are prone to screwing up just as non-Christ followers are. and there are a lot of people who actually feed off the “Christian Church” who don’t seem to truly serve Christ. such people shouldn’t represent the faith but they do, and all to often they are the loud ones who attract the most attention.
i believe daniel has good points here. i appreciate the office and its comedy. i think what daniel is doing is trying to be “real” about the office. so often we get caught up in the illusion of television. honestly, how would we view the office should one of the characters be caught up in a two episode situation of getting an abortion. would we laugh?
April 6th, 2009 at 1:40 pm
When I think of “The Office”, the first thought that comes to me doesn’t even come close to being anything sexual. If all you think of is sex and abortion while watching The Office, then please, please, please let me know what you think of when you see something as tame as The Girls Next Door…[EDITED]
April 6th, 2009 at 3:50 pm
if you think the Office is that bad (sexually)…then you haven’t seen Gossip Girl….lol
April 6th, 2009 at 6:37 pm
You misspelled “double entendre”
good job you uneducated mislead bible-thumping…[EDITED]
April 7th, 2009 at 2:17 am
Al. um, you misspelled “misled”… giggle :o)
April 7th, 2009 at 7:59 am
This article is dumb as hell. You could have written the same piece about Hamlet or any other classical play, but you didn’t because you have a double standard.
April 7th, 2009 at 10:52 am
Really? Of all the channels and shows on TV today, you picked THE OFFICE to pin sins and abortion on? If you were going to rant about the abundance of sex and immorality, why not pick something like Flavor of Love or Gossip Girl, or the hundreds of other reality and scripted shows in which these things are the ONLY plot? The Office seems to come way out of left field.
Also, do you really have a problem with consenting adults being responsible with their birth control? There is no hint in any episode of The Office that any of the women has an abortion. Why did you assume the worst instead of assuming that they using birth control and condoms? To me, “rampant sexual sin” (as you call it) plus a lack of offspring does NOT automatically equal abortions out the wazoo.
April 7th, 2009 at 2:35 pm
Emily, He was just referencing a show that he used to watch. There are ton of other shows like you stated too.
April 8th, 2009 at 11:12 am
I’m a strong Christian and watch The Office. Sexual references or jokes should not be taken so seriously, they are intended for humor. You really should not make a big deal over this.
April 8th, 2009 at 11:15 am
I’m Christian as well and watch shows like Gossip Girl and 90210, that doesn’t mean that I am going to do any of the things that I see on the television. Why are you making such a big fuss about it?
April 8th, 2009 at 5:05 pm
dude u stole company time, and it’s a sin to steal…
look i could go on all day listing the sins in this paper u wrote instead ill go on and be a good christian thanking GOD for everything, not point out every little flaw in ur piece.
so sit down…[EDIT]
April 8th, 2009 at 8:47 pm
HAHAHAAHAHAHHAHAHAHA….[EDIT]
April 10th, 2009 at 12:46 pm
Hey~ I just read that same scripture that you are talking about its, Romans 1:18-32. So unfortunately what your saying here is true! It’s not fun to hear, but it is true! God knew everything before it was formed. He knew that there would be TV. He created the man that invented TV. The WORD of GOD doesn’t change neither….. does God! Also from Romans.
So your convictons are right. I too have had a transformation in my life. But, continue to settle for throwing my pearls back amoung the swine, while my mind sits in neutral. It’s so much easier. Let’s face it….. SIN is FUN! But, only for awhile. What better way for the “evil one” to get into our minds and influence our thinking! It’s soooo easy! I used to not watch any tv except for christian tv, which can be boring and repetitive and really corny at times! But, why do I think that? Because of the mastery of the NBC,CBS,ABC, Cable TV channels. They know the science, simple biology. They put the frog (Me in neutral) in the slow boiling water (the tv shows and the situations surrounding them ) and v’iola! I’m hooked, or dead. at least spiritually. Let’s challenge eachother to do something different with our time, rather than making these networks richer. On a spiritual level, what if Christ comes and you are before him and he says, DEPART FROM ME…..I NEVER KNEW YOU! All because I had to watch the office~ He gave us the warning in Romans 1:18-32. what else do we need?
April 11th, 2009 at 5:34 pm
You watched a television show while you were at work!? You are most definitely going to hell!
I don’t think your employer is paying you to spend precious time on the clock watching The Office!
April 11th, 2009 at 6:11 pm
This is out of hand. This is in the vain of FOX News… you comment on something such as the ’sexual misconduct’ displayed in The Office and then you throw in an off-topic sucker-punch with abortion. If you are going to comment about abortion, you could at least make it relevant to what you are discussing. You are taking away from your initial argument and essentially making your previous statements worthless.
April 12th, 2009 at 6:34 am
Everyone from the Greek playwrights to Shakespeare used sex for humor. Sex is one of those akward topics that humans find funny. Just because some one sees something on a comical tv show it doesn’t mean they will follow suit. We must learn to accept certain things in our society as part of the great freedoms we have in Americca. Learn to choose your battles!!!I’m a Christian conservative that thnks sex, porn, cursing, drugs etc. should be allowed on tv but also believe abortion is murder. It’s articles like these that give Christian conservatives a bad rap.:(
April 12th, 2009 at 7:15 am
Abortion isn’t a big deal. It’s not the best thing, but the baby doesn’t feel extreme pain when they are preborn. In fact, do you know what preborn means? Before birth. Could you remember feeling anything in the womb? No. So why is it such a big deal? Anyways, it’s a TV show, I hate them all. Too many people are complaining about TV and not doing anything about it. Disney and Nickelodeon have gone to hell, with hardly any shows left that can entertain and educate the children. One TV show made for adults whom should know better won’t hurt any more than TV already has. Religious types always find a way to be wrong…
April 12th, 2009 at 7:21 pm
What on earth does the Office have to do with abortion? If you’re going to make an argument, at least connect your main elements please.
April 13th, 2009 at 5:38 am
nobody cares.. its a sitcom
April 13th, 2009 at 11:16 am
[EDIT]…find something better to fill your time with rather than comment about how distasteful you find tv…or better yet, dont watch it, then you wont have anything to complain about…[EDIT]
April 13th, 2009 at 12:20 pm
Please stop blogging…[EDIT]
April 13th, 2009 at 3:04 pm
Way to be legalistic. first of all…abortion and the office have nothing to do with each other. It’s also spelled double entendre. The Office is really just a harmless funny show. There are some sexual themes, but nothing explicit. In real life, there are non-Christians who have much worse conversations. This show is geared toward the general public. I am a Christian and I love this show. This does not hinder my walk with Christ in the slightest because I know this is just a TV show meant for entertainment. If you need to have an issue, pick some sexually explicit or violent movie or cable television show. This show is not a good example - sorry.
April 13th, 2009 at 3:08 pm
if it’s not for you then don’t watch it… theres more crap out there that kids and teens watch… instead of worring about this show worry how your going to reach that kid that is getting molested, that girl who got raped, the mother been abused, that junkie on the corner, these are things that you need to blog on, not on a show. thats silly. what may convict you may not really convict me or someone else, some may be a tad more liberal then the most, at least i am… but i dont worry about the office, my worries are for those who hurt and need GOD. Anyways… to each his own!
April 13th, 2009 at 3:28 pm
Seriously… How can you write like this. Watching a show doesn’t make you less of a Christian. Just about every show will have some mention of sex, Even kids shows (sadly). Is this what you do with your time? Complain about one of the best T.V. shows around. Maybe more people should write about how most religious officials are racist and bigots. Before you attack pop-culture take a deep breath and remember that you are trying to protect a religion. It is much similar to defending that Santa and The Easter Bunny come to your house every year.
April 13th, 2009 at 4:31 pm
hahaha… nerd. you give christians a bad name
April 13th, 2009 at 4:42 pm
A sexual culture started in the 1960s, which I’m assuming was around your childhood, if not before. Don’t knock what you went through just because it’s “getting worse” in the eyes of a certain religion.
Does the Office promote the transmissions of STDs ANYWHERE in the show? I don’t quite understand what the point of this fact was, other than to show you know how to use Google. Comparing murder to watching a “comedy”, keep in mind, television show displays your flawed logic even further.
TV =/= real life, lets just leave it at that. I will also refer back to the comedy genre of this TELEVISION show.
But you asked for forgiveness for such a horrid sin. But because sex is such a grotesque and utterly inhumane thing to display or even talk about on TV, especially for the unwed! That’s just horrible.
—- Contrary to Hollywood, the Bible says that if you know “…the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them” —-
All sins are equal in God’s eyes, so every sin is worthy of death, not just limited to this act of “adultery” you say they display in the show.
Sexuality is not a sin in the eyes of God.
Why did you even bring abortion into this article? It isn’t displayed on the series. And you can’t sin to break another sin, directed towards the Church’s attempts to stop abortion.
You’re blog doesn’t make sense. I just don’t see how you incorporated abortion into this series. It doesn’t make sense.
I was dissecting most of your paragraphs. Follow along, big guy.
April 13th, 2009 at 5:02 pm
Relax. Christianity is not about being perfect. Jesus died to save us so we didn’t have to worry about what shows we watch.
April 13th, 2009 at 8:42 pm
you’re retarded
April 13th, 2009 at 11:16 pm
How can we take you seriously when you can’t spell entendre or opera? Perhaps you have bigger things to worry about: education, spelling, poverty, rape, murder…real issues.
April 14th, 2009 at 7:30 am
At first I thought this article was a joke. I realize that you are trying to seperate yourself from the bad in this world and in a way provide a bubble for you to live in, this is no way to live as a Christian, and you might as well just lock you and your family up in the house. You can take legalism way too far these days. Why go to a restaurant when some of the proceeds support buying booze for others to drink? Why go to the movies when you might be watching any movie? Why even drink out of an IBC rootbeer bottle when it looks like a beer? The office is one of the greatest shows ever created, it is not meant to be viewed as real life or anything remotely like that, it is humor, and amazing humor at that. Remember when Angela was found out? Everyone knew it was wrong. But let’s look at something else, are these characters Christians? No, they are not, so why should they feel bad about commiting adultory? Sure everyone has morals, but this is a TV show and not on the 700 club. It doesn’t help to shelter yourself from the world and only watch “Fireproof, end of the spear, and left behind” I realize you probably shouldn’t watch the news either considering it shows true events that actually happen. All I can say is that everyone should always be careful considering everyone has different convictions than other people, not everything is black and white. Maybe all of the fundamental independant baptist church goers can create their own city and ban everything from it like Cable Tv, Bars, Gas Stations that sell condoms, and ET.
Now I have to admit that I am embarrassed to have wasted my time on such a silly article such as this one. But let me ask the real question should we really let ourselves watch PG-13 movies if 12 year olds need parents present? What would God think?
April 14th, 2009 at 11:35 am
There is no God. Religion is psychological. Christianity is a cult. Get over it. Leave everyone alone.
April 14th, 2009 at 1:03 pm
It’s “double entendre.” I stopped reading after you screwed up a basic figure of speech most kids learn in grade school.
April 14th, 2009 at 3:04 pm
Just because someone misspells a word or mispronounces a phrase is not a legitimate reason to throw out an entire argument.
April 14th, 2009 at 3:57 pm
Hey Dan,
It’s people like you who make other countries label American Christians as bigoted, close-minded, fundamentalist morons. I grew up in Europe and they largely think we’re a joke - even the religious groups - and, you know, sometimes they’re not far off…
If you don’t like the show, if you feel “conflicted” about your religious standards, then here’s a simple solution: don’t watch it.
April 14th, 2009 at 4:36 pm
Yes they should…i am currently a Christan and am on my way to becoming a youth pastor at a Christan University…..when people make stupid points of saying they “good” people should not watch “The Office” they are unraveling the very threads Christianity is built upon….there is nothing bad or morally wrong about the office…..In making an argument otherwise you are turning people away from god by trying to assert yourself as “better” than the rest….which is turning people away from God and making Christians seem like self righteous snots…….please every one not all Christians are like this…only the starving for attentions and self loathing one’s are…..there is nothing wrong with The Office i assure you
April 14th, 2009 at 4:56 pm
I have a few problems with your article. Firstly it seems like the main point of the article is about The Office and the issue of Abortion. Just because no one in The Office has babies it does not mean everyone is having an abortion. People go many years having sex and never get pregnant so that point just just doesn’t seem valid. Secondly, sex is a topic on The Office that is rarely brought up. It is really barely mentioned at all. Thirdly, I am a Media Communications Major so calling television the “idiot box” is just plain, well, idiotic. Fourthly, only using The Office as your sole example is such a small control that it hardly proves anything. So, all-in-all this article has no well formed correlation between The Office and Abortion which I think was your main goal.
April 15th, 2009 at 9:44 am
Dude… you all need hugs… you should bash this guy because of his opinion… you guys say your christians and some on the way to becoming youth pastors at university’s (yay) but really, A lot of what people do is because of what they have in their heart… if you’re a Christian and read the bible then you would know that your world is framed by what you see, hear, and speak. So to say nothing is wrong with the office is just wrong… especially if your going to be a youth pastor or have any office in the ministry… its crazy that you would tell your future youth group that its ok to watch the office… and to top it off, your going to insult this guy who you know nothing of, because of his opinion is even crazier, you should reconsider another position in the church like a greeter, deacon, something that has nothing to do with teaching, as a man of GOD and future minister you should be against anything that may or will hinder other peoples walk with GOD… I the blogger was trying to say correct me if I’m wrong dude, that today many people are influenced by what they see, hear, I found myself saying “that’s what she said” many times… but then again I’m just in the crowd. The bible says it. Why allow your children or teens to be or have some type of influence like in there lives. There are certain things I watch that I wouldn’t let my children watch… I don’t even have kids, but when I do I would hold back from doing things that would come close to hindering their walk… and as Christians we should want the same for everyone else.
April 15th, 2009 at 10:54 am
I am reposting this because this is where the discussion seems to be
so question for you… was it a sin for Paul to quote philosophers of his day when he was preaching? These philosophers were promoting things that were in direct contradiction to everything of God and Holy. So should Paul have avoided listening to them?
I do agree that we need to guard our hearts and be careful of what we find humorous and why. But to say “Stop watching the office because it promotes sin” is to say “Let us not be of the world… and let us not be in the world either.” It is a separatist mindset and is not beneficial if you are actually seeking to be an influence on the culture or more importantly on the individuals within that culture.
April 15th, 2009 at 11:57 am
Hey guess what
I’m pro choice!
Haha
You’re a silly head
You should spell stuff correctly more
It would help your writing
A lot
Just a suggestion
April 15th, 2009 at 12:41 pm
I am reposting this because this is where the discussion seems to be
so question for you… was it a sin for Paul to quote philosophers of his day when he was preaching? These philosophers were promoting things that were in direct contradiction to everything of God and Holy. So should Paul have avoided listening to them?
I do agree that we need to guard our hearts and be careful of what we find humorous and why. But to say “Stop watching the office because it promotes sin” is to say “Let us not be of the world… and let us not be in the world either.” It is a separatist mindset and is not beneficial if you are actually seeking to be an influence on the culture or more importantly on the individuals within that culture.
April 15th, 2009 at 12:56 pm
hahaha!!!!!!!
April 15th, 2009 at 1:00 pm
you think… does it take away anything from what the writer is saying…. idiot!! hahaha
April 15th, 2009 at 6:56 pm
Chad, are you kidding me? Would you watch an episode of The Office in a Church service? There is no way a Bible believing church would show or condone that show or any other show of that nature. Christians who are watching The Office are really compromising their integrity and the absolute authority of the Bible. Christians say they have the freedom to watch and do what every they want. The Bible teaches this:
Galatians 5:13 - For you, brethren, have been called to liberty; only do not use liberty as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.
I would emphasize the second half of that verse. Our freedom to watch stuff and humor ourselves is not what our freedom should be used for. You are using the freedom of your flesh to watch these shows or other shows. We can’t serve Christ and the World. By watching The Office we as Christians cannot server one another in Love (Christ’s Love).
Are you going to share the gospel after every episode and tell the believer or non-believer that the actions they did on the show are sinful. Sure It maybe a conviction for Dan or for me, but it should be a conviction for all Bible believing Christians. The Bible teaches truth and that Jesus (who is perfect) is the only way. The Office mocks God and shows us that it’s OK to sleep with someone out of wedlock or have an affair. I challenge you guys to THINK about what your doing and watching, see what the bible says.
I will leave you with this: 2 Peter 1:3, “According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue:”
God has given us all we need for life, we don’t need to seek the world to fulfill our desires. If we are seeking God, he will fulfill our lives above and beyond what a TV show can.
April 15th, 2009 at 7:28 pm
first of all…learn to spell…it’s definitely not “double on tondras”. what exactly is a “tondra”?? i think we all were wondering that.
second of all…
the reason we have so many problems related with sex in our country is because people with your viewpoint have made it so that we can’t even discuss sex in the first place. if we were able to do so, maybe we could finally break down barriers and educate people about sex before they make mistakes. and a large part of why people get abortions in the first place is because people are put to shame for becoming pregnant. we need to stop making sex into such a taboo topic in our society and start being open to dialogue and discussion.
third of all…
if you are really that emotionally fragile that watching a simple television show is going to affect the way you handle your sex life, that’s probably not going to make a difference anyway. there would inevitably be someone or something to come along that would influence you otherwise. unless you’re a child, a television show will not make a huge difference in how you live your life.
fourth of all…
if your argument is that watching this show will somehow cause you to stumble or influence you in some way, then yes, the Bible would have the same affect because that, too, contains countless episodes of sexual immorality. the problem is not with the exposure to sex, it is the person’s attitude about it in the first place. so, like i said before, if we would quit looking down our noses at everyone, and start doing a little discussing, most of the problems would go away.
April 15th, 2009 at 7:31 pm
well after readin that here is my opinion on the article: Yes there is insinuated and direct sexual actions in the office and every show for that matter. Perhaps more then what would normally be occurring at a paper distributor. However, T.V. is a fantasy which appeals to all of our low order senses of humor and our high order senses of humor (sarcasm, wit), many times the two types are combined as in the office. if your are too stupid to appreciate the high order humor then you simply receive the low order and deserve to get an std by trying to emulate something you saw on t.v. in real life. if you recognize the high order sense of humor your probably smart enough to not try and emulate a television show in real life. Finally, it is absolutely retarded to try and make a such a broad connection between the office and abortion, You could do that with anything if you followed his method.
April 15th, 2009 at 7:46 pm
Quick question Mike. Do you think that we should expect non-believers to act like Christians? When you engage in any outside activity, do you try to shield your eyes from anything “ungodly”? It is inevitable to encounter ungodliness in everything. Is it wrong to relish in it, or to lust after it?…probably. Is it part of life?…yes.
April 15th, 2009 at 7:53 pm
Mike,
In the show, those behaviors aren’t being glorified. They are being ridiculed. the show makes those who have those behaviors look foolish. Even the Bible talks of incest and prostitution. but we base our faith off of the Bible. Just because something has a certain kind of content does NOT mean that the content is being glorified.
The real issue is whether or not the show is leading anyone astray? I would personally say “no.” If you ask someone who watches the show if they want to be like meredith or creed, they would tell you they would not. and by pointing out these flaws in our society, people are repulsed by the idea of becoming like these people that are seen on the show as disgusting.
April 16th, 2009 at 8:22 am
Crazy…. You guys are bashing on mike like if he is wrong. In no way is Mike wrong in his argument. He is absolutely correct in what he says. Yes the Bible does talk about immorality, betrayed, homosexuality, and rape etc…. blah blah blah. But what you fail to realize is that it doesn’t glorify it, but its there to show us that it is sin and the repercussion of it… there are scriptures that speak about letting things into your heart. In reality most of you claim to be Christians yet you guys get pissed when someone tries to correct you, I don’t see anyone of you using scripture to help your argument… yet mike does, so that tells me a few things
1. that you need to pick up your bible, wipe the dust off of it and read it
2. You really have not desire to restrain from things that may hinder you.
And I know that you guys are so high & mighty and spiritual and are to intellectual to allow such things to influence you, but not everyone is like you all… some people are influenced,
3. get involved in your church more…
hahaha!! Just kidding you guys, but I do make a point, remember before every action you make it had to begin with a thought, and as Christians if we are adamant about been like Christ like then we should try to restrain from such things, I’m talking about all things… that have some type of influence,
and if your church is not a church that talks about real issues, and is very passive then you may want to reconsider that church…
do what you guys want, if it doesn’t convict you to watch then watch it, and if does then don’t. and for your English majors, who love to correct peoples spelling… stupid’s the misspelling of words does not take away the substance from ones argument so quit trying to make people look stupid… because you sound stupid by using that as your first point of argument… I’m out have a very wonderful day.
April 17th, 2009 at 1:26 am
Daniel,
I can’t say that your article convicted me. I will continue to watch The Office, guarding my heart agaist any and all ways the world tries to lessen the impact of good vs evil (and those lines are clearly blurred during almost any day/night time television programming these days). I will admit to being slightly ashamed the first time my Mom walked by and caught a few of the ill-humored jokes (without context). To those of you who think you are not your own person if you allow a higher moral priority to govern your choices, even everyday choices, that is precisely opposite the truth. Instead of going with the flow, it takes guts and integrity to stand up (and stand out) in a crowd. I applaud you for standing up for what you feel. I didn’t feel your words were meant to judge or hurt others and I am quite surprised by the intense reactions some people had. Honestly, I would worry more about having such a dramatic response to such a pure and simple statement. I do not see the direct correlation between The Office and Abortion though I agree abortion is one of our country’s most sad and horrific crimes against life and Christian values. Basically, good for you. If you feel that way, you shouldn’t watch it and in those grey areas, I truly believe God holds “each to his own convictions.” Once you have been convicted, you should live by that conviction! As for me, I have not been convicted about watching The Office. I feel completely able to watch it, take away the humor, and leave the rest behind. This country was founded on diversity… whether I believe it or not, agree with it or not, you have a right to feel that way and Daniel was causing NO harm to even the most die-hard Office fans by sharing his views… I do love the show. I love my God more.
April 17th, 2009 at 4:23 am
Okay, so I agree that certain things in life can cause a person to stumble. Situations where sex and other sins are not portrayed as a serious issue can give people in society the notion that it’s okay to commit those sins themselves and not feel as much condemnation for it because someone else is doing it. But The Office? I would like to think that people watching the program can take it for what it is…a comedy. I don’t believe it’s ever crossed the line and it’s all in good fun. Yes, it’s all an opinion and up to a viewer’s discretion; in my opinion there are just bigger fish to fry. I believe that there are certain shows and movies that just aren’t good to fill your head with…but this is a comedy. I would hope most people who are on this board would have a strong enough relationship with God to differentiate and not take it so seriously. People are confronted with bigger issues and more controversy in their every day lives, I would hope this would be at the bottom of their priority list. You can’t hide out in a cave from the world. At the same time, I’m not trying to say you should subject yourself to things that could cause you to stumble. With all respect, I just don’t feel like watching The Office relays the message you feel it does to people, especially Christians, when it is taken for what it is and nothing more or less.
April 17th, 2009 at 9:00 pm
Turtle,
There are reasons why some people don’t use Bible verses to defend everything they say. But for those who insist, here’s one of my favorites:
“knowing this first, that no prophecy of Scripture is of any private interpretation”
2 Peter 1:20
April 17th, 2009 at 9:17 pm
how does pointing out someone’s lack of good basic grammar make ME look stupid? i am a firm believer in saying what you think, but if you’re going to post an article online that is available to everyone in the world, maybe you should learn to use spell check. it just removes some of your credibility when you spell well-known phrases like that incorrectly. and i’m not an English major, by the way, I am a social work major : )
1. my father used to be a pastor and is now a professor of philosophy, theology, and ethics at a Christian university. i take classes on scripture at the university as well, so I have probably read the Bible a few more times than you have, Turtle.
2. it is quite arrogant to claim that first, i have no desire to restrain myself and second, that these things actually hinder me. yes, i do consider myself to be an intellectual, but not superior. watching “the Office” or other shows of its kind does not hinder me in my spiritual walk because i consider myself spiritually mature enough to watch it and not be hindered. if your faith IS that fragile, however, then maybe you shouldn’t watch it, so on that point, i do agree.
3. i lead the youth group at my church on wednesday evenings, sing in the praise team, and play the piano for congregational singing occasionally, among many other activities that i do at church. so i think most people would agree that i’m pretty involved : )
April 20th, 2009 at 1:46 pm
To be honest with you, (Becca) I your father being a teacher, ex-pastor, reverend, deacon, slave, whatever doesn’t matter… so teaches philosophy and… why are you giving me a resume, can I get your family tree with that as well? And throw in a couple of birth certificates… haha listen a degree doesn’t mean anything… So what are you arguing with me about? The show or how intellectual your family is? Listen here Becca the point im trying to make is that, the office does have a few crude jokes, the point I was trying to make that most people didn’t get is that when you allow small things like that and continue to feed yourself with small things like that it eventually will or have some influence on the person… if you must know Im working on my PhD in theology with a minor in psychology, and I’ve done research on this and for those who think otherwise you are fools, every action you make is first conceived by a thought, and thoughts come from what we see, hear. This is silly….everyone here obviously thinks different some take there walk more serious then other and vise versa. Some choose to watch things that have nudity and some don’t, some want to refrain from things that others may not… anyways this is really stupid…if its not for you don’t watch it, and if it is then do it. The reason why I was saying that to you was because in no way does it take away from the point he was trying to make, so it was a stupid way to start your argument and you being intellectual as you put it, should know that, I assume you have some type of schooling since your father is a professer of philosophy at some college. It takes away no credibility from anyone… it’s a an opinion…like mine, yours, and everyone else’s, miss speln of wrd dos nt tke awy frm anythng…yu stil get the point ….right?
April 20th, 2009 at 3:05 pm
i am not “boosting my credentials”, i was simply explaining to you that i do not fit the stereotype that you outlined in one of your previous arguments. it seemed as though you assumed that everyone that comments contrary to the article has no sense of conviction or doesn’t read the Bible, whether you meant that or not. as i recall, you stated that i should go read the Bible and go to church, both of which i do quite frequently. if that was not your intention or if i perceived it incorrectly, i apologize.
i do understand your argument that what we watch/observe can affect us. there are studies that prove this. i, however, have different thoughts on HOW our perceptions necessarily affect us. i think it depends on the way the viewer processes the information. i think it’s possible that many people are intelligent/advanced/etc. enough to watch certain things, such as the office, and not be negatively affected by its connotations because they are capable of perceiving the ill-affects of such things. they can use their cognitive understanding to sort out all the negative actions and prevent themselves from being influenced. i understand that it is very difficult to know if you are one of these people until you are actually in the situation. i just know for me, personally, the show does not affect my spiritual walk. i take it for humor and leave it at that.
congratulations on your pursuit of your PhD, by the way. that is quite an accomplishment.
June 8th, 2009 at 4:06 pm
The Office is not evil. Christians who find themselves swayed and pushed from one morality to another because of this show must not be firm in their beliefs in the first place. I know who I am in Christ, and no amount of prime time television will change that. I grew up a Christian, and my father is a pastor - He watches The Office too.
That doesn’t mean that he’s a wolf in sheep’s clothing, it just means that he’s a different person. No one is forcing you to watch the show, and no one is asking for your comments about it.
However, I find it COMPLETELY ABSURD that you threw abortion into this mix. I absolutely think that a life starts at conception, and abortion is a heartbreaking tragedy that occurs immorally on a daily basis - but never, not once, has The Office, in any of the episodes that I’ve watched (I own all 4 available seasons and am awaiting the 5th one), promoted abortion or anything close to it.
You are making points that aren’t there, and it makes the entire article a little bit shady. Christians who read this may or may not feel condemnation about watching The Office, according to where they are in their walk with God, but what in the world do you think nonchristians are going to think of this? Do you think that this article will draw men to God, or push them away from a seemingly stuck up and close–minded society that no one will ever be good enough for?
Laughing at a joke won’t send us to hell.
God isn’t a surprise-God. He’s not going to let us go through our entire lives thinking that we’re good Christians, and then let us get up to the pearly gates and say “Oh, nope. You can’t come in. Remember your favorite TV show? Yeah - that’s NOT what she said. You’re going to have to head downstairs…”
I don’t see it happening that way.
I feel safe with God and my growing relationship with Him, and I don’t feel any less safe having read your rant on how we can’t be Christians if we find humor in every day situations.
September 9th, 2009 at 8:26 am
You’re a whiny bitch and I hope you die.
September 17th, 2009 at 9:12 am
You posted this article on a Facebook fan page for The Office. If that doesn’t prove that you’re trying to shove your beliefs down other peoples throats than I don’t know what does. Keep the article within the confines of this website and keep the discussions to the Christians.
September 19th, 2009 at 2:42 pm
I believe the variety of negative comments you have received proves your original and most important point.(more important than ‘The Office’ is a bad show? We *are* in desperate need of a cultural transformation that can only begin with me.
September 19th, 2009 at 2:43 pm
I believe the variety of negative comments you have received proves your original and most important point.(more important than ‘The Office’ is a bad show) We *are* in desperate need of a cultural transformation that can only begin with me.
October 14th, 2009 at 8:29 pm
With all the graphic suggestions and double entendre, would “The Office” have been allowed to be broadcast 20 years ago?
Would we today broadcast an episode of “The Office” at a Sunday Morning Church service or even at a youth group?
October 14th, 2009 at 8:41 pm
Yes, please, it makes much more sense for us to stab our own army than to use our knowledge to help others. So it makes perfect sense to ridicule and condemn shows like The Office instead of getting up from our computer screens and DOING something about this world. Hopefully, you’re able to sense the biting sarcasm.
The Office isn’t sending people to hell.
People are sending people to hell, and last I checked: We didn’t have that authority.
Maybe you could stop throwing stones and micromanaging people who are on the same team as you and start focusing on your own lives, and what you could do to solve the problems on your own home front.
October 15th, 2009 at 2:21 am
Pauline, you didn’t answer my questions. Are we not called Blessed, as Christians, to pull our brethren aside from sin? are we not called to sharpen one another as iron sharpens iron?
“Jesus said to his disciples: ‘Things that cause people to sin are bound to come, but woe to that person through whom they come. It would be better for him to be thrown into the sea with a millstone tied around his neck than for him to cause one of these little ones to sin. So watch yourselves. If your brother sins, rebuke him, and if he repents, forgive him. If he sins against you seven times in a day, and seven times comes back to you and says, ‘I repent,’ forgive him.” - Luke 17:1-4
You use the analogy of stabbing one’s own army… have you ever trained for battle? Have you ever watched football practice? What we are doing is training and practicing, and in the process pointing out one another’s weaknesses, not that we could tear one another down, but that we could encourage one another to the greatness that lay in a Christ centered life.
We do all this, holding ourselves accountable to the Truth as revealed in the scriptures which encourages also…
“Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” - Romans 12:2 (NIV)
thank you very much for being a part of this conversation. please continue to take part
October 15th, 2009 at 6:27 am
But we’re already in the battle. And it’s not practicing if you’re using a loaded gun. People are not going to sin because of The Office. And if that’s the scapegoat they choose to utilize… then the sin was already in their hearts in the first place, and if people want to sin, they’re going to. I love The Office. Like it or not, it’s one of the cleaner shows on television. Why do people sit here condemning this show, full of actors with few scandals in their lives who are all family people for the most part, when shows like “The L Word” or “Jackass” or “Nip/tuck” are out there. This entire forum seems pointlessly ridiculous, and I can’t seem to wrap my mind around the fact that someone chose to write an entire passage about the show and somehow tie in abortion with it. The Office has *nothing* at all to do with abortion. That’s misleading people into getting upset about something irrelevant with the show, and to be honest it’s a little upsetting to see so many people buying into this. If you don’t like shows like The Office, get rid of your television because you’re not going to find much better.
October 15th, 2009 at 9:49 am
ok. so we agree that there is a battle, and you say we are in it at this moment. Where then should we aim our weapons? what would you say are the battle lines of abolishing abortion in this nation and across the world?
October 15th, 2009 at 10:48 am
Your response doesn’t make any sense. OF COURSE abortion is a huge and important issue. I’m simply stating that it, in no way, has anything to do with the NBC series The Office. I personally have seen every single episode, all the extras, commentaries, and blooper reels. Nowhere in any of the things even said when actors/actresses/directors/editors/producers/writers didn’t know they were being filmed did anyone ever say anything remotely pro-choice.
The issue here isn’t abortion. It’s The Office. One has nothing to do with the other, and that is the only point I’m making when I say that. It’s repulsive that this author tried to connect the two when there’s clearly nothing to connect.
October 15th, 2009 at 11:08 am
you are not answering any of my questions pauline? i thought you were in the battle… i am very sincerely asking you where to shift our very capable weapons, and perhaps we could write articles on this.
please tell us, otherwise you provide no alternative, and your comments have no real value… fight this battle you see, please
October 15th, 2009 at 11:13 am
if you dont like it dont watch, everyone is entitled to their own opinion. the wrtier decided to jott down his own on the internet. and everyone went crazy. at the end of the day, when it comes down to sinning, the devil doesnt make you sin, you make you sin. Its free will, if i want to go and sleep with every girl, thats on me not the devil, if you think The Office is something that will lead you to sin then dont watch it, for every one else who feels the exact opposite, then continue watching it. as for me and my house hold we will continue to watch The Office. Its hilarious.
October 15th, 2009 at 8:45 pm
Shane, I’m not answering your question because it doesn’t make sense. Fighting a battle that we’re creating doesn’t make sense either. If you ask a legitimate, clear question, I’d be happy to answer it. But you’re not asking questions. You’re piecing together gibberish and pretending that it’s filled with sincerity and righteousness.
October 15th, 2009 at 11:09 pm
Pauline,
what are your personal thoughts on abortion?
what kinds of things help people feel ok about abortion?
are there any things we can do to help stop abortions?
in regards to culture in general–
do music or movies influence how people act?
are people are attracted to a style of music or movies that fit their lifestyle?
October 16th, 2009 at 12:58 am
1.) My personal thoughts on abortion are that it’s completely unacceptable, and the most gruesome form of murder people have come up with so far.
2.) I don’t know what helps people feel ok about it. Maybe they have friends and familial support that convince them it’s “responsible.” but abortion is not birth control. It’s a heartless act of irresponsibility and selfishness.
3.) There are only so many things we can do to stop abortions. We have to face the fact that people are having sex. Girls are shunned and humiliated if they’re pregnant in the Christian community, and the same thing happens if they have an abortion. Leaving behind some of our judgment and helping when it really counts, showing true love to absolute strangers as well as close friends - something all Christians should inherently do - is a good start.
4.) Music and movies do influence some people’s actions - but only because those people leave themselves susceptible to that sort of thing. There’s a huge number of people out there who don’t let it have the slightest effect on them. Music is, to me, something passionate. It’s a healthy outlet of emotions we all go through. I could see where someone would view movies as the same. But if I hear a sad song, I may be able to relate and empathize with the singer/songwriter, but I won’t go home and kill myself. Those who would … they’re already troubled to begin with, and if they didn’t find one thing, they’d find another. If people have it in their hearts to sin, they will. End of story.
5.) Of course people are attracted to a style of music/movies that fit their lifestyles. Everyone in this world was built to rely on someone else. Granted, the majority of those people don’t know that they’re looking for God, but people thrive on being related to. God didn’t create us to be alone.
October 19th, 2009 at 10:48 am
pauline,
i would say that peoples actions have an impact on those around them, and children are sponges of information. so many children have not been taught how to process information in a healthy way. so many children have not been taught ethical or moral values.
for many children, their #1 mentor much of the time is the radio and the television and now the internet…
sexual activity, i would say, is relative to the acceptance of sexual activity in a given social group. sure we all have the urges and desire, but we all have the ability for self control…
should we not encourage self control?
should we encourage a lack a of self control?
the culture in this nation has drastically changed… the things that are said on the radio and the television has drastically changed… is it possible that the culture of our children is changing as well? i would say yes
in this nation, 15 year old girls are getting abortions without their parent’s knowledge. check out this discussion link…
http://www.steadyhealth.com/Can_i_get_an_abortion_without_parental_consent__t75508.html
Is this ok? or do we still want parents to have rights to their children? if not parents, then who would instill values in the children? public education, the media, friends…
i would say that our media is failing miserably at instilling solid values in our youth…