Biblical Inaccuracies
Psychological problems are not the only potential danger in devil films. At the same time as interest in the "pop religions" of mysticism and occultism is on the rise, large segments of society remain biblically illiterate. For all they know, the pseudo-biblical pretentions of some of these films are pure biblical truth, when in fact they are riddled with biblical inaccuracies, twistings and perversions.
The Omen is a case in point. The film, which deals with the birth and early childhood of the so-called "Antichrist," pictures him as the offspring of the bizarre mating of Satan and a female jackal. The boy's birth occurs on June 6 at 6:00 p.m. — an apparent, but inaccurate reference to Revelation 13:18 — heralded by a comet in the heavens. None of this has any biblical basis.
Even the use of the term "Antichrist" is technically in error. It is mistakenly used as another name for the prophesied "Beast" or great military dictator of the book of Revelation. Actually, the term refers not solely to a specific individual but to an anti-Christian spirit or attitude which has been prevalent in the world for nearly two millennia! The apostle John, writing about A.D. 90, said: ". . . Even now already it is in the world" (I John 4:3). John also shows that many deceivers or antichrists — false ministers perverting the doctrines of Christ — were already at work during his lifetime (II John 7; I John 2:18).
The Omen's three planned sequels will follow the "Antichrist's" growth into manhood and will culminate in a depictment of the prophesied end-time "Battle of Armageddon." Feeling no compunction to be biblically accurate, Hollywood will certainly continue to dish out some bizarre interpretations of prophecy.
Some theologians, consequently, have accused the writers and producers of these and similar films of unwittingly playing into the hands of the very devil whose existence they in most cases deny. By perverting and fictionalizing the Bible — popularizing a false picture of Satan and his future intentions — Hollywood, these critics charge, may be rendering the real "Antichrist" (or Beast) virtually unrecognizable. What more could Satan want than a distorted popular image of his future plans?
These charges may indeed be valid, though many theologians themselves are confused on the subject of prophecy.
Demonic Influence
There are much more immediate personal dangers in the devil-movie surge, however, than mere scriptural inaccuracies. Despite the unfounded assertions of "enlightened" modern-day psychologists and philosophers, there is a spirit world. There are such things as demons. There is a devil.
The Bible reveals that Satan the devil was originally named Lucifer ("Light Bringer"), a super-archangel of great power and beauty created by God even before the earth was made (Ezek. 28:12-15; Job 38:4, 7). Lucifer became exalted in his own estimation, and led one-third of the angels in a rebellion to unseat God from His throne (Isa. 14:12-14; Rev. 12:4, 7-10). Unsuccessful, they were cast down to earth where Lucifer, now called Satan ("The Adversary"), and the rebellious angels (demons) have been influencing mankind ever since the days of Adam and Eve. (Write for our free booklet Did God Create a Devil? for the full story)
Satan is called "the god of this world [or age]" (II Cor. 4:4) and "the prince of devils [demons]" (Mark 3:22), who has "deceived the whole world" (Rev. 12:9). He is pictured as "a roaring lion, walking about, seeking whom he may devour" (I Peter 5:8).
Satan's power, however, is limited. He can do only what God allows him to do, as is clearly seen in the book of Job. Hollywood's portrayal of a great conflict between God and Satan — which God, on occasion, loses — is clearly unbiblical.
Numerous cases of demonic possession are found in the Scriptures, as well as cases of "exorcisms" — casting out of demons by the servants of God. In nearly all cases, God's servants (such as Paul in Acts 16) simply rebuked the evil spirit in the name of Jesus Christ, "and he came out in the same hour." The elaborate Latin incantations and arduous "rites of exorcism" depicted in some of the recent films are not based on Scripture.
Demonic influence and, in some cases, actual possession still occur — yes, even in our modern, sophisticated world of the twentieth century. Opening one's mind to demonic influence through a preoccupation with occultism and interest in the supernatural is therefore fraught with potential dangers.
Nearly 2000 years ago, the apostle Paul admonished: "Have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness . . ." (Eph. 5:11). The apostle James warned: "Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you" (James 4:7).
Yet there is precious little resisting in evidence in the world today. People are not guarding the doors to their minds!
Our free booklet The Occult Explosion is a must for a complete understanding of this important subject. Find out what really lies behind today's surge in occult interest.