Matthew McConaughey won an Oscar. And, boy, are Christians happy about it. I mean, Christians are jumping up and down for this Texas boy for his big win because he actually thanked God in his acceptance speech. He did, he gave God credit and he thanked his wife like he should and he gave a rambling speech that really made me wonder why they weren’t starting up the music to cut him off. They let Matthew talk for almost four minutes, and the clip of his speech is all over the internet.
Christians are so proud.
And, I can’t blame us. I mean, how often do we hear a major celebrity, an Oscar winner, no less, identifying with us? How often do we get that kind of star power in our corner? It almost makes us seem sort of cool and legitimate.
I liked his speech, although I thought it was a little heavy on the Matthew McConaughey. He’s chasing a hero, who is himself in ten years? Really? But, no matter. He mentioned God and that’s all that counts. It obviously shows that he loves the Lord and lives his life for Him and we will all be fans of his forever because of this speech.
But, there’s one tiny issue with setting Matthew McConaughey up as our next great Christian idol. And, the problem is the movie he won the Oscar for. And pretty much every other movie he’s ever made. (Anyone remember a little film called Magic Mike?) According to pluggedin.com, Dallas Buyer’s Club opens with McConaughey’s character having sex with two girls at the same time in a rodeo stall. That’s only the beginning of the explicit sexual content in the movie. In addition to the nudity, masturbation, and pornography, the film contains over 100 f-words and God’s name is used as a curse word over 20 times.
Matthew McConaughey made this movie, which he was rewarded by Hollywood for making, which goes out into our society and poisons the hearts and minds of our men, women, and young people. And then he gets up to accept his award for making filth that turns hearts away from God, and he thanks God for the opportunity, and Christians applaud him as if he has done something incredible.
We have got to get over our obsession with celebrity and start making connections between what people say and what they actually do. It is never going to be a good thing for Christianity for us to hold these celebrities up as examples of what a Christian should be. If we want to show the world examples of Christianity that should make us cheer, it’ll be our faithful pastors, our grandmothers who have lived quiet sacrificial lives, our friends who would lay down their lives for us, the teachers who go to school every day and live out the commands to love the unlovable and to value every life.
Not Matthew McConaughey. I’m sure he’s a fun guy to hang around with, and I bet he’s a great dad and probably a really good actor. But he is not the next great champion for Christianity.
And that’s probably why I’m not a member of the Academy. Thank you, and good night.
**Please check out the follow-up to this post here!
**Due to the fact that everything that can be said HAS been said–many, many times–comments are now disabled. Thanks for stopping by!
Linda
I wrote above…now I have something to add…
Wow… When watching the oscars…the power went out here East Texas before I had a chance to see Matthew win and give his speech. I am very proud of the speech he gave. He did not only mention God…he talked about him and how important God was to him. Bold…for an actor in Hollywood in these days and times when everyone else around the world is trying to shut God out. Now…I have to watch the movie and see exactly what it was all about. As adults, we have to realize that in order to portray a story, things have to be shown or suggested in order for one to understand the times and the situation the characters found themselves in. It is not always a pretty picture. The days and story they were portraying were supposedly based on a true story. Honestly I don’t know the story but I am going to watch it and find out for myself. Until I know for sure, I am going to believe that Matthew played a part that someone had to reveal the truth in that situation…even though shady and wicked and evil…people can be like that, can’t they? I hope the story had an uplifting ending…maybe not. But I still hate that people suffered with AIDS even if they put themselves into that situation. I hate to see anyone suffer. Even those who have abused or hurt me. Jesus was like that. We should be too. Until we learn to be like him, we will never understand the compassion and love it took to place himself upon a cross and give his all to us so that we might have life eternally with the Father God in heaven. Let’s all quit judging one another. Find the good in everything you can and pray for those who are in the midst of evil that they might find the Lord and light in their darkness. For the record, I have no argument against the original blog…we are all too quick to jump on the first word or thought…rather than to listen to the whole story… GOD BLESS.
If you disagree…it’s OK…
tarajanet
I agree with the above message. Real life is not like a Disney movie. Matthew was playing a part, maybe not the part of a great role model for children. But maybe you could look at it and think as a Christian I need to be in touch with ALL lost souls.
David
Maybe Matthew is talking the talk but not walking the walk. Kind of like if his wife was an actress how would he feel if she had sex on screen and won an award for her acting and gave God thanks that she had the opportunity to do that. Come on give me a break. Alright!
rebleewhit
Linda, I couldn’t agree with you more! It’s not our place to judge…
Kim
I wish that you had saw the film before writing your blog. You know, I am a member of the Academy. I’m SAG-AFTRA. I saw your point. However, what’s in the hearts of a person is what God will judge in the end. I saw the film, Dallas Buyer’s Club, as a crusade about HIV and AIDS. Role playing another life isn’t Matthew’s life. He’s playing a character that actually existed. I’ve seen terrible human beings that have “honorable” jobs. I won’t judge an actor for doing their job properly. That’s the job to play the role as it’s written. He was outstanding. (BTW, of course, I now want to see Magic Mike.) I’m careful about judging a person’s heart. However, it’s true that you are not a member of the Academy and may not understand or care. After the film is viewed, then whatever your thoughts on the story and/or portrayal, is your educated opinion.
Rmbj
Read up on deciples in the Bible. One was liar, one a thief, etc. no ones perfect. He is an actor who plays a role. Wonder how many Christians went and watched the movies you mentioned, knowing the subject matter and rating. At least he doesn’t get on stage on live TV and cuss, make obscene jestures, like humping a foam finger, and almost naked on prime time TV.
Andi
Apparently you fashion yourself as not only judge and jury, but a PERFECT Christian. Do I agree with Magic Mike, or Dallas Buyer’s Club . . . however, we are not perfect by any stretch of the imagination, and his relationship with God is HIS not ours. Just sayin!
Becky Harden
I agree with Andi I don’t know about all that but my BIBLE says Judge not least he be judged.
TacoDave
Your Bible *also* says that those of us in the church should judge our fellow Christians. We’re not supposed to judge non-Christians. Did you forget that part?
Linda
In Matthew 7:24, Jesus said, ‘Judge not according to the appearance, but JUDGE RIGHTEOUS JUDGMENT.’ (I capitalized.) There is a time that we “judge,” for we’re told there and in II Corinthians 6:14-15;17, “Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord,” If we’re going to “come out from among them,” we have to “judge,” figure out who they are, in order to know who to “come out from among.” This kind of judging doesn’t mean that we are condemning them, like Jesus who told the woman caught in the very act of adultery, “…And Jesus said unto her, Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more.” (John 8:11) He didn’t throw stones at her but he did acknowledge her sin by telling her not to “sin no more.” We need to stand up against sin, loving the sinner, but not agreeing with their sinful lifestyle. Peace…
Heather
My Bible says judge not lest ye be judged for by the same measure you judge so you too will be judged.
In other words, by the same measure you judge others so you will be judged. I do not fear judging others by the standard of God’s Word because His Word is perfect and it is the standard by which I will be judged. Will I fall short, yes. As will everyone. However, that does not change His perfect will for us. Life is not a Disney movie, but it does not have to be graphically represented rather than hinted at or insinuated.
Movie makers assume we are too stupid to figure out what happened unless they show it in full graphic detail. We are not.
Rex
Becky, read the whole text and also while you’re at it read the part where Jesus says “Go and sin no more”. Read Matthew 18 where judgment is definitely in play. For Christians to not make judgements on morality is to give up on changing the culture, which is something the church has done throughout its history.
Keith
Why do Christians always jump in with “do not judge” regarding any criticism? Clearly such individuals don’t understand the context of Matthew 7:1. Consider the following verses.
Corinthians 5:12-13 ”For what have I to do with judging outsiders? Do you not judge those who are within the church? But those who are outside, God judges. REMOVE THE WICKED MAN FROM AMONG YOURSELVES.”
In other words Paul is saying not to bother judging unsaved individuals since they are all in slavey to sin to begin with and can’t do anything other than practice according to that nature. However Paul instructed us to judge the actions and behavior of those who profess to be believers.
Hilary
Keith, THANK YOU!
Jenni
I agree, a little over the top and this is why Christians get a bad wrap,. God works in many ways. This article is such a disappointment and you are a bigger disappointment as a Christian to many! j.
Timothy
I find it so amusing to hear people say “you shouldn’t judge!”
Don’t they know that my judging that you are judging, they are therefore judging you?
If you say someone is judging, you are making a judgment, and therefore are committing the crime you accuse another of.
IF you took the whole Bible for your text instead of taking one portion of a verse (judge not) out of context, then you’d avoid this ridiculous paradox.
The Bible says not to judge by earthly judgment.
BUT the bible also says to judge RIGHTEOUSLY.
The person writing this blog is judging based upon BIBLICAL principles. Therefore his judgment is sound and biblical and perfectly acceptable.
So stop breaking your own rules by judging that he’s judging, and start reading the Bible as a whole for a change.
ashlee
Ha Marilyn Manson mentions God all the time big deal. I agree with the blogger. Yah thanks for acknowledging God and his power but to call MM a hero? I think not. What did the heros of the bible look like? Those are the ones we should be lifting up. No judgment but my opinion is that anyone can thank God flower or not. That is step ONE. Living in Christ likeness that is a TRUE accomplishment.
Jenni
He can be MY HERO if I want him to be!!
Liam
I’m sure you’re not the next great champion for Christianity either. Yeah, he sins, but at least he’s a Christian, and that’s pretty dang cool.
Linda
Hebrews 10:26-27, “For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins, But a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries.”
Keith
So everyone who acknowledges God is saved now? Genuine faith always results in obedience to the scriptures. Not that we are saved by our obedience but that our obedience is evidence of our genuine faith.
James 2:19 -20 “You believe that God is one. You do well; the demons also believe, and shudder. But are you willing to recognize, you foolish fellow, that faith without works is useless?”
Mat 7:21 ”Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father who is in heaven will enter.”
I’m not stating whether or not the individual is saved but showing how we need to be more attentive to the authority of the scriptures regarding all things.
TX Fire Chick
Keith – an individual’s salvation is between that person and God. Who in the world are you to judge where Matthew’s. heart is? You do not know him in person so you have no right to even wonder if he is saved or not. Wow – just wow!
Max
Please, please, please….when will people realize that God did not tell us to lose our common sense and let go of our powers of observation! It is not “judging” to look at someone’s horrible, sinful examples of sin plastered all over all the media and say to ourselves…, “If they have not had a life-changing, blood-washing, born-again experience with Jesus Christ since they did these things, they are not saved.” We need to acknowledge this folks because God told us to go out into the highways and byways and bring them in and if you’re so busy excusing sinful lifestyles by slapping everyone with your “do not judge” jargon, then you won’t have any idea of who to go out to or who to compel to come in.
rosehill
I believe there was only one person that ever walked this earth that was without sin and he died on the cross for all our sins. And whoever said that he didn’t have to die on the cross must not know much. Because he was sent to spread the word of God and die on the cross so we today might see heaven someday. And in Hollywood there is alot of people that never take the time to even realize that if wasn’t for the Lord they wouldn’t be where they are today doing what they are doing today. But it can also be taken away also just as fast and the Lord can have you on bended knees. If people thought the movie wasn’t a christian movie then they shouldn’t watch it but it doesn’t mean that a person in the movie can’t be a christian. Believing in God and fellow Texan.
bellaliberta
The key here is…Are we applauding someone’s act of faith or idolizing the person? The author noticed that many people are idolizing a person.
Genniebee
Thank you! That’s exactly what I was going to say. 🙂
John
I don’t believe anyone was setting him us at the next big Christian idol, he simply acknowledged God in a not so generalized way and no one cheered but when Woody Allen was mentioned and facing sexual misconduct with a minor for years allegedly, the crowd cheered! I never cheered for M M but I’ did cheer for who he spoke of even
If it was for a brief moment!
Annette
Who are we to judge?
Hilary
In order to eat good fruit, you have to go to the vine or the tree, assess it for worms, rot, decay, etc. If the fruit is good, you eat it. If it is bad, it is thrown out. You make that assessment every day. Why would you not do it on behalf of the hearts of men and the glory of God?
Linda
Jesus said, in Matthew 7:24, “…”judge righteous judgment.” .
Jenny Day Austin
i just think this blog is a bit naive….that movie in no way glorified sex….it showed the horrid consequences of it….much more so than any movie I have seen in a long time. High and mighty bloggers are a weird breed. They love to write about things they have no clue about. Very much the pharisees of the modern age.
Steph
well said
Rich
Yes, this. Well said indeed.
Grace
Agree
TX Fire Chick
Pretty much hit the nail on the head. Great comment.
T J Alsup
Unfortunately, there are oftentimes terrible consequences that result from our sinful actions. It is definitely not a bad thing to be reminded of this from time to time, but as Christians, we are to “abstain from every form of evil” I Thess. 5:22, and this includes “filthy language” Col. 3:8, and “fornication” Eph. 5:5, Heb 13:4 so I can’t in good conscience see this movie. If we fear God and have faith in Him, His instructions to keep us from these sins should be all we need. We shouldn’t need a Hollywood movie to teach us these lessons and it sure shouldn’t be our form of entertainment if we make the claim to be followers of Christ, if we are being truly honest with ourselves.
deboraha
DR. MYLES MUNROE – “Before you follow anyone, you must know what that person truly believes and on what path he is taking you. Do you want to go there?”
Tammy
I must say… I agree on this one! A hero he is NOT! I appreciate his speech and I believe it was heartfelt and sincere; however, we as Christians have to set an example for others in everything we do… not just a speech! Well said!
Kathy Phillips
I agree Tammy, we are to be an example, and what kind of a example are we setting for others. Doesn’t matter where you are from, how much money you have, or the job you have! I think Hollywood has gone too far and they have continually continued to put out movies that sell, no matter the consequences!
J
Wow. Really? How stereotypical. I’m a Christian (read: NOT perfect) and I hate how many times we fit the stereotype of not only commenting on something we know NOTHING about but we blow something little WAY out of proportion.
1. It’s obvious the writer did not see the movie. Maybe she should because MM’s character actually learns to accept and help people who live lives he doesn’t agree with. I found the movie spoke deeply to my Christian roots as MM’s character sits on a high horse thinking he is too good for AIDS. It was also based on an actual man’s life, he was true to his character.
2. I’m sorry, who labeled him “the next Christian champion”? That is so exaggerated. Are there t shirts and mugs for sale or something? Is he putting out a book? Over in my world most Christians have simply commented that they were glad God was given credit.
Grace
Agree! It is frightening how “unChrist like” the America Church can be. No he doesn’t belong to our little “Christian country clubs” but then again neither does our Lord. We need to “judge ourselves lest we shall be Judged”. Why don’t we pray for Matthew, his family, the aides suffered, hollywood and the Gay community that’s how real change and deliverance will come.
Alexandra Williams
I was going to comment but you’ve said exactly what I was going to say. People put labels on others and their actions to fit their argument. This is a perfect example of that.
MM was portraying a story as close to the truth as possible. Sometimes that truth can be gritty and hard to watch, and if you’re not even willing to watch the movie the article is based on, the the whole argument is invalid.
I also felt his performance lead to me delve deeper into my beliefs as a Christian. Living in the South, I am bombarded with people saying how wrong and unnatural being gay is. I am not gay, but I do have a love for the gay community, especially with the amount of suicides in recent years. I think everyone should watch this movie, just for the purpose of seeing his character’s development of tolerance that turns into love for the gay community.
That was a longer response than I intended, but i had to share my thoughts!
Hilary
Let’s look at the example of John the Baptist. He called the Pharisees and Saducees a brood of vipers. He told Herod it was not lawful for him to have his brother’s wife. Jesus commended him for calling things out the way they are. Nowhere did Jesus say, “Now, now, John. Be nice with your words. Don’t judge! Be a nice man!”
Linda
🙂
JimG
I did not hear MM call himself a hero, but he was chasing his hero, always 10 years always. Philippians 1:6 speaks of Christ continues to do a work in Christians daily after one becomes a Christian. I think this was MM’s meaning. Saying he is not where he should be but he is allowing God to continue to work with him, knowing he will never be perfect until the Lord comes and take him to Heaven.
Martin Luther Fan
Maybe Paul isn’t a Christian because he said the “sh” word. “She” and “It” really fast. https://bible.org/article/brief-word-study-skuvbalon
Martin Luther (in german) translated it ‘der Dreck’. Maybe Luther wasn’t a Christian because he translated the word to the german equivalent of the “sh” word.
Monica Knight
I am not a movie or celebrity person per say. But most of these films are made a couple of years in advanced. Maybe his heart has changed since Magic Mike was filmed. Or some of his other movies. I first thought the same as you but I am choosing not to pass judgement on him.
Dylan
Just because you thank God doesn’t make you a Christian. Great article.
Sharon
I am a Christian and I haven’t heard any Christians saying anything about him. Just because someone thanks Gods for something doesn’t really mean a lot. We are all thankful when things goes our way. I think they say that because it sounds good. You just can’t take some people literal at what they say.
Tonya Sides
Well said!!
Dot
I am not a proud ‘Christian’ for Matthew McConaughey comments. However at the end of the day his acceptance speech was inspiring. It is not my place to judge his comments or his lifestyle. I do not have to agree with them but I can NOT judge them. We has Christians have forgotten the most important part of being a Christian is that is LOVE. We use hateful words and comments and then wonder why the world despises us. We are so quick to condemn and wonder why the world turns from our God. I am grateful that I am not in a pit of stones because I am curious to see how many ‘Christians’ would actually pick one up and throw it at me. For I am far from perfect, and though I am grateful for God’s grace in my life it is not a free gift. I have to lay myself down daily and choose His way over mine and the worlds.
Hazilrane
THIS Is the kind of judgemental CRAP ppl SPEW that give Christians a horrible rap. If We want ppl to come to the kingdom of Heaven and know Jesus, We can’t sit on high horses and blog about a persons heart and cast a declaration or opinion(judgement) on where his heart is with Christ!!! When you, nor I, can possibly know! He could have gotten saved on the way to the oscars for all you know! or he could have been saved for 20 years and that’s not something he’s convicted about. (Being in “filthy movies). OR, he could be saved and sinning and STILL love and live for Jesus. The point is it’s not your business, and it’s not yours to call. Your not the ref, the judge, the jury or God. Keep your opinions to yourself if all you’re going to do is speculate, and make the rest of Christians look like prudes who cast judgement. Thank you!
Chuck
All you people that cry judging judging, i’m not sure you’re aware of this, but you are also guilty of judging if you take it on your own to call someone a Christian, as you know God will judge the just and the unjust, one unto heaven, and the other unto eternal damnation. It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of a living God (Hebrews 10:31)
Hilary
🙂
Adam J. Holland
To the author: Never mind that he acted in a sex scene or used profanity on screen … The legitimate problem with Christians considering Matthew as a “Christian idol” is the few dozen or so mentions in the Bible (old and new testaments) about idolatry and how it’s sort … a bad thing. Just sayin’..
Amy
Wow, that’s a lot of judging! I am a Christian and I screw up daily, but I take as many opportunities possible to tell someone about Jesus Christ being my savior. That is why people are applauding him, because what he did do was use a major platform to talk about his Lord & Savior. Kudos, Matt
Signed,
Another imperfect Christian
Johnny
Nobody I am listening to is making him the, “next great Christian champion”. It was just nice to see somebody thank God considering all the anti-God junk flowing out of Hollywood…this article was about as pointless as Matthew’s speech.
Karen
Wow! Comments are very telling as to what is happening to the Christians in today’s society. There is no truth. No way to say something is wrong or right. Jesus’ love is equal to his justice. He will come back and demand answers from us. His Holiness requires it. He is after all perfect in every one of His characteristics. He might have hung out with prostitutes and tax collectors and the sons of thunder but they all CHANGED. They left their place of work and lived according to the truth He spoke and lived. I don’t like the f word. It makes my skin crawl and my stomach turn. I don’t like taking Jesus’ name in vain. He’s my savior. I owe Him my love and adoration. So I really don’t care what story they were telling and how true it may have been, let another actor portray it. I will not take my Savior’s name in vain and commit perverse acts because I am an actor trying to tell a true story. I won’t see the movie. I don’t need to. I won’t swear allegiance to any other for any reason. I am sold out and passionate about Jesus. I witness on the streets to homeless, prostitutes, addicts, runaways. I give them food and shelter. I love them. I tell them of Jesus. Some accept Him and I watch them change before my very eyes. Some just want something for nothing. It’s all ok because love leads us to who we need to reach and Jesus does the rest.
Hilary
🙂
T J Alsup
Karen, you are correct in that most people, unfortunately even some of those who wear Jesus Christ’s name, will not acknowledge that there is absolute truth and it is not just our interpretation and version- it is THE LORD’S. Our society has become so inundated with political correctness, that we don’t even use the word sin and would hate to say something is right or wrong, even if the Bible plainly spells it out. We should always carry the truth with tact, but never be ashamed of what it says. Sin is sin and God does not associate with sin and if we abide in Him we shouldn’t sin (I John 3:5-7) . No Christian is perfect, but we are to ” die to sin and live for righteousness” (I Peter 2:24). I am proud of you for not being ashamed of the gospel and its power. We shouldn’t be ashamed to live a righteous life and want that for everybody because it is the best life to lead on this earth and will definitely be the best in eternity.
josey
Seriously, Christians judge other Christians more than they judge non – believers. Oh no, sex, masturbation, and cuss words! This is why non believers are afraid to be part of a church organization. Judgement is for one entity. Not for the masses.
Hilary
🙂
Hilary
So Josey, when the Bible strictly forbids sin, do we condone it for the sake of not wanting to offend people? That smacks of hypocrisy.
Dayton Thompson
Proof even Christians can be snobs. Way to go! People like you make religion suck.
Hilary
Your response is very loving in return, right?
Chris
Sad really. Sad that in an environment where his peers have a high DISREGARD for what he said and it rarely, if ever, is mentioned by any other actors. He played some racy roles, true, but is that him? Is anyone who played satin a devil or the actor who played Jesus in the recently released “Son of God” a saint? I think not, they are actors playing a part. He didn’t have to say “Thank God” and make a point to say it would not have been possible without him, did he? He also did not say he was a great Christian – he believes – apparently not good enough for the holier than thou.
You are not a good Christian if ________________ (fill in the blank). Really? Do you think he went out on a limb, at all? If you don’t think so, sit down with John Travolta or Tom Cruise or a plethora of other Hollywood inhabitants. He certainly did.
As to the “hero” stuff. Is he is own hero? He said (after 10 years when asked again) NO. This is unattainable (he said that as well) but he will keep “chasing himself” and will see in ten more years. What is wrong with that? who’s perfect? Perhaps within the realm of Christianity only one – but what is wrong in trying to be perfect (or a person you would consider a hero)? will he ever attain it – well, he said no (post interview) but you always strive to be better.
Sorry for this ladies, but what I am about to say is true and most of you will admit it – I liken this to a beautiful woman looking at another (beautiful) woman in a scornful way because she feels “one up’ed”. Why can’t a Christian be a Christian? are there degrees? Are you a better Christian? Are you in a better spiritual place than Matthew? (He doesn’t like Matt because – according to him – his mother once told him he was named after a book in the Bible, DO NOT answer to Matt). If your answer is YES then I believe one could argue that smells a lot like Judging (speaking of the Bible – we know what it says about THAT subject – right?).
Christians of any and every degree, in my humble opinion, should appreciate what he said and not question his sincerity and/or measure his amount of Christianity. Too many people steer way away from ever doing the same, especially in his industry.
I would like to hear from the “perfect” Christian albeit I believe (with the caveat that I AM being judgmental) there is no such human being.
Thank God he thanked God; embrace that Christians.
Ash
Really hate this attitude. First of all, did you watch Magic Mike? It actually has a really great message at the end of it- the lead leaves that life and acknowledges how much pain it’s caused him.
Secondly, there is more Christ-like love portrayed in Dallas Buyer’s Club that any “Christian” movie I’ve ever seen. I’ve never understood why Christians feel like any story with sex or cussing in it must be straight from the devil- the movies are about real life- not life as you theologically think it should be. Movies like this are able to reach real people in ways that Christian movies just can’t because they absolutely refuse to relate to anybody but Christians, which is find but that’s also the reason they are the only ones who ever watch them.
And last but not least what ever happened to the whole “Judge not lest ye be judged” thing? This post is nothing but negativity, which you are absolutely entitled too, but it’s also a pretty good snapshot of the reason I stopped going to church.
Tiribulus
http://tiribulus.net/judge.html
James H
Are you gonna post that stupid link in reply to every single comment on this post?
Hilary
That ‘stupid’ link accurately divides the Word. Have you even taken the time to read it?
Tiribulus
Well bless yer heart Hilary 🙂 Yes James, I’ll post it as many time as I see fit. As Hilary asked. Have you read it? It happens to be biblical and it destroys the wailing JUDGE NOT! banshees invading this site. This isn’t the first time I’ve been through this friend. That piece is a few years old now. Unless you have refutations for my points beyond calling it “stupid”? That can’t be true because there are none.
Hilary
Tiribulus, why thank you and bless yer heart too. Keep it up, Bro.
Cynthia
What a judgemental piece of junk you have written. No wonder people have no interest in being a Christian. No one can possibly live up to the standards of them. Let me add the standards of Christians, not God’s standard. I personally know a gentleman who is painting Matthew Mcs portrait (commissioned by him) and he said that Matthews Chirtsianity is a relatively new thing. So all of your comments about his past movies are typical of a judgemental better than thou acting
Christian. As a Christian who has made many mistakes I urge you
to be more careful of your finger pointing. If not for grace where
would any of us be?
mary Ann
This blog really bothers me. I am reading Anne Graham’s latest book right now. Wounded by God’s people. I recommend it if you haven’t read it. we have to be so careful not to be so hurtful and critical . Maybe he is a new Christian and just doesn’t know any better about choosing better quality of movies. I don’t know…But I know he got up there and Thanked God ~~ Our God. Somebody got up and Thanked God and I am not going to criticize them or look at them to see what is wrong with them. I am praying God will just pour out blessings on him and his family. Bring him closer and show him amazing things in His Word. And continue to give him boldness and wisdom.
M. Archer
Amen! Similar thoughts ran through my mind. The Bible says we will be known by our fruits. After reading about MM’s new movie, I have to say there is no fruit of the Spirit evident there. Not to judge, but to point out a fact. I believe that if His Spirit lives within us, the difference will be obvious. We as Christians cannot grow numb and spineless, but we must stand and boldly proclaim God’s Truth from the rooftops. I think many people have misconceptions of who God is. He is righteous, and because of His righteousness, He cannot, I repeat CANNOT, look upon or tolerate sin. We try to make Him into the God we want Him to be. He will not conform to us, but we are called to conform to Him. May God richly bless you and this ministry He’s called you to for your boldness in proclaiming His Truth.
Jeff
Please read another view: http://www.martyduren.com/2014/03/05/maybe-christians-should-cut-matthew-mcconaughey-some-slack/
electricmama7
Reblogged this on Read Up! There's Plenty More Where That Came From. and commented:
I’ll be posting my response to the comments on this blog post by my friend of almost 20 years and college classmate soon . I’m still quite new to blogging, and I doubt I’ll reach the breadth of audience she did, but I hope some of her detractors do take a look at my response to their treatment of her and perhaps be nicer going forward!
slapdashmom1
Annnnnnnd cue the judgmental christian to try and ruin a good thing!!
willrunforpizza
Honestly, I really don’t even know why Christians are all excited that he gave God credit…I’ve heard PLENTY of “famous people” give God credit when they are on stage. We don’t REALLY know these people, so I think ya kinda have to take it like a grain of salt. I mean come on, everyone and their mother claims to be “a Christian” anymore, but are they really?! We don’t know, because 1. we don’t TRULY know everyone and 2. if you do know them well enough, you can tell by their actions and 3. we really are all messed up sinners….I’m a Christian, and I’m no judge. I really don’t feel anything for him giving God credit because I really don’t know how he lives OFF screen…
TX Fire Chick
Wow…..how is the air up there on your high and mighty horse? I did not see the movie he won an Oscar for because of the sexual content rating. If I would have found myself in this movie by mistake or because I did not check the rating prior, I would have left after the opening scene of him having sex with two girls. Just saying. Nobody tied you down and made you watch it. I have been a Christian for many years and to this day, I have yet accomplished perfection. Just as Matthew M. stated, he is chasing himself as a hero 10 years ahead of him – is that so wrong? What this is telling me is that he continuously strives to be come a better version of himself. Will he fail at times? Sure, as we all do because as I recall, the Bible tells us that we are all sinners and fall short of the Glory of God, including you my dear. God uses us just the way we are without first having to become perfect. Jesus associated with tax collectors and prostitutes – he did not judge them but loved them because He knew that the “saved” people don’t need a savior but the lost ones do. At least Matthew M. stood up for his believe and gave the Glory to whom Glory was due. I completely respect that.
mary Ann
Amen Amen. Jesus is The friend of sinners.
Carla
Lip service is not a demonstration of faith, true followers of Christ will demonstrate their faith by lives that glorify God. That movie did not bring glory to God. To be discerning is not to judge — it is to recognize truth from deception and stand up for truth.
Melanie
Basically, I had a nice, eloquent response laid out for those disagreeing with this blog. But, as I was preparing to quote several Biblical verses, I ran across Matthew 7:6.
Seca
As I read through the comments I am alarmed and dismayed. People are quick quote Matthew 7:1( for you nominal Christians that is where “Judge not leat you be judge” is found) but are ignorant of the rest of the chapter. In Matthew 7:20, Jesus also says that His followers will be recognized by the fruit they bear. If your tree is bhoearihng bad fruit JESUS says it will be cut down! Movies like Magic Mike & Dallas Buyers Club not only produce bad fruit but glamorize and excuse anti-Christ lifestyles! So what, MM got up and thanked God! How about living a life in private and PUBLIC that is pleasing the Jesus. No, Christians are not perfect. Like the Apostle Paul says, “I die daily” to self, my own vain ambitions, and to the world and live in a state of constant renewal by the Holy Spirit.
Ryan
How can you write a blog post about a movie you haven’t seen? Also, pretty sure no one said he was their hero.
Jessica
Why does it matter who it came from? The point is, is that God was given the glory. Who cares what Matthew has done. We are presented here with a man giving thanks to God for his success and all we can do is point out everything that he’s done that doesn’t seem very Christian? We’re falling into the trap of focusing more him rather than the fact that God was given glory. Lighten up.
Amanda
It matters very much where it came from even if he is giving God the glory….ever heard of a liitle group called Westboro Baptist Church????
Seca
As I read through the comments I am alarmed and dismayed. People are quick quote Matthew 7:1( for you nominal Christians that is where “Judge not leat you be judge” is found) but are ignorant of the rest of the chapter. In Matthew 7:20, Jesus also says that we can judge and recognize His followers by the fruit they bear. If your tree is boearing bad fruit JESUS says it will be cut down! Movies like Magic Mike & Dallas Buyers Club not only produce bad fruit but glamorize and excuse anti-Christ lifestyles! So what, MM got up and thanked God! It wasn’t bold of MM, it was cliché and hypocritical. How about living a life in private and PUBLIC that is pleasing the Jesus. No, Christians are not perfect. Like the Apostle Paul says, “I die daily” to self, my own vain ambitions, and to the world and live in a state of constant renewal by the Holy Spirit. How about making Jesus the standard and testing everything by the Word of God and the Spirit of God.
Eric
It’s just funny to me how Christians use the Bible as a weapon to beat each other up with. I think we lose sight of the fact that we have all sinned and have fallen short of the glory of God. Perhaps some fall shorter than others, granted, but the reality is that falling short means falling short. I submit that the Gospel is a message of grace and hope and that we should encourage one another and lift one another up rather than throw proverbial stones. I don’t know, maybe I’m missing something. As for me, I will tend to the plank in my own eye before I venture an attempt to remove the speck in someone else’s.
Nduka
In regards to your condescending comment on Mr. McConaughey wanting to be his own hero, you must look deeper to understand what he means. He isn’t glorifying himself, he is simply saying that he will always try to be a better man. And since he knows himself, it’s safe for him to assume that this will always be his goal, ergo, he knows that he will be a better man in 10 years. He’s talking about chasing betterment and never being complacent. He even mentions that he will never attain this goal because he will always strive to be better.
Secondly, who are you to judge this man? You are the contradiction that Christians must defend along with their faith. You are only making it harder on yourself and your peers by being so judgmental. The man mentioned and gave glory to God in a room full of people who work in an industry where the devil dwells with his feet up. Movies are an art form that do their best to imitate life. Again, look below the surface before you decide that God is absent. None of us can say who is the champion for Christianity. We cannot make this judgment. That is not the purpose of our existence. We were created out of love, and therefore meant to love. Anything else contradicts God. So instead of taking time out of your day to cheapen this man’s achievements atop your high horse with nothing but a box in your living room to reference, just love him and let God deal with the rest.
mary Ann
Amen …Amen … Amen. !! I am so grieved by the tone of this blog. He Thanked God. and a pack of wolves have tried to attack him. For Thanking God. I don’t know the man. I haven’t seen a lot of movies. Many are to raunchy. However it is NOT my duty to judge a man’s heart who lives 2000 miles away and who I have never met and probable never will. What I know is He acknowledged God in the company of many who mock God. MM didn’t get a warm response from the audience and I hate to think Christians have been hateful to him,
Billy
As a person currently struggling with their faith, this blog and it’s supporters do nothing but turn me further from Christianity. On the other hand, Mr. McConaughey’s speech was truly inspiring to me personally and makes me want to be a better “Christian.” In my opinion, his idea of chasing someone he hopes to be seems to be the foundation of being a Christian. Simply chasing perfection.
I’m not going to quote a lot of scripture that some of the above supporters use to defend their opinion of Mr. McConaughey’s lack of “Christianity” because most of it can be flipped on the person quoting it. I will say that the Bible as I understand it says no one is perfect. That gives me hope. That no matter how hard I strive to be a better person, there will always be another step I can take and I should never be complacent with where I am. That is what Mr. McConaughey’s speech said to me. His 45 seconds spoke more to me about faith than any sermon I’ve ever listened to.
It seems to me after reading the blog and comments, this blogger and supporters feel they have reached perfection and they can tell others how to live their lives and what they are doing wrong. It is this kind of attitude and arrogance that turns me against Christianity and initially made me start to question my faith. If what you were trying to do was polarize the idea of Christianity and make people chose a side, congratulations. You have thoroughly convinced at least one soul that they do not need your ideas of “Chistianity.”
Hilary
If your faith is based on other people, it is not based on Christ and will always be shaken.
hqdavis
Billy, I think you should look to Hilary to save you. She is THE great arguer, with her all wisdom will die. She argues so forcefully that she is near to arguing many out of the Kingdom. Be careful though, lest you trust her too much and your faith be shaken because she actually says something gracious to those weak folks like us whom Jesus seemed to have a heart for.
Hilary
HQ, by encouraging someone to stand on the Rock that is Christ rather than the opinions of men, how is that a bad thing? People let us down. People are discouraging. We all are. God at one time took all my friends away to show me that He is enough. He has had to work on my heart over the years because my opinions of Him stemmed from my interactions with other people. He is enough for us. I would so appreciate it if you would not say unkind things like you just did. I was trying to share with this person that He is enough for any of us. But you twisted what I said and came back with such unkindness.
hqdavis
Billy, please read Luke 15, read Prodigal God, and look for Gospel-Centered Churches. I think you will find that Jesus actually shares your disgust of the Pharisees and their self-righteousness. That the Father actually hastens to the rescue of wayward sons…. That He actually throws party for those who venture in desperation to return to Him….He actually runs after them in love, clothes them in His best robe and the family ring, to pronounce them to belong to Him!
Hilary
hqdavis, snide and sarcastic much?
josey
Aren’t Christians supposed to let God judge them? I’m pretty sure this author is not god. What a bunch of hypocritical nonsense. Because he chooses to portray characters that are different and “non – Christian” that means he can’t thank God? Let’s chastise everyone who doesn’t fit the norm.
Maegan Lewis
Melissa,
Unlike many of the people who have commented before me and will comment after me, I understand what you’re saying. It’s not about judging Matthew McConaughey. It’s about Christians not setting someone up as an idol or role model that no where even comes close to being qualified as such.
mary Ann
Why would any Christian set up MM as a role model anyway?? How premature is that? The Christians that are applauding him are supporting a man who Thanked God. I haven’t heard any one say he is going to work for The Gideon’s . Is he coming to your church to lead a revival for the youth?? I doubt it. MM Thanked God in an acceptance speech !! That pretty much sums up what he did and I am sorely embarrassed at how his life has been dissected by oh such Holy Christians. So fearful that one might slip right thru the cracks and screw up our spotless wonderful perfect image we have going.