Uncle Iroh and the Prodigal Son || A Christian Perspective of the Relationship between Zuko and Iroh

[@Astro.slugs1]

As a person who likes your content, but is very non-christian, I really appreciate how you start off these videos reminding us that you aren't on some sort of agenda to convert and shove opinions down people throat. You talk the things you're passionate about, and do it honestly and not aggressively. Thanks always for the content, Holds!

[@mitchellboswell7718]

What does “very non-Christian” mean versus just a non-Christian?

[@MrInfinity418]

@@mitchellboswell7718probably atheist and not just a different religion or someone who isn’t simply a non believer but also is actively against it.

[@gregdennison5753]

I second this motion! I am "technically" Catholic, but that's only because it happened before I was old enough to understand what I was "confirming". I don't subscribe to the belief of any higher power as religions teach, however I do subscribe to many of the values that religions preach to us. Despite being a non-believer myself, I do love hearing the points of views put forward by those that are believers. It restores my faith, not in god, but in people. It's nice to know that there are genuinely good people in the world regardless of what their beliefs are. You also have my thanks Holden. Keep doing what you do!

[@MrInfinity418]

@anonymouslyblessed I live in the south. Mormons and cults are not the only ones.

[@chriscarpenter1920]

I'd probably say something along the lines of "if you don't like hearing about Christianity then feel free to stop watching".

[@SweetJimmee]

Zuko's and Iroh's relationship is the most well-written character arc I have ever seen in any media ever

[@samcarbone4139]

okay.... relax

[@SweetJimmee]

@@samcarbone4139 I refuse

[@Joseangelef]

Fair

[@OfCourse-gj1iv]

It's an stier character arc@@SweetJimmee

[@PaddleboardingFL]

It’s honestly so refreshing to see someone who’s faith isn’t based in hatred & oppression, but purely in your believe & appreciation for god / Jesus. I’m not religious, but I have always appreciated people who move through life seeing god as a compassionate being leading you through life with love, rather than through fear, and it’s very cool to see your perspective on iroh and all he represents

[@RedCaio]

We were rewatching Avatar while expecting our son and ended up naming him Zuko. I hope he remembers that God's love is always there for him, even and especially when he makes mistakes. God bless you and yours my friend.

[@ohchristusername]

I'm not a believer myself, but I'm happy that you're putting this video and your thoughts out there, the concepts and takeaways are relevant regardless of ones type of faith or lack thereof. In some ways I'm envious of faith, as something to mentally fall back on in times of hardship instead of questioning the purpose of existence, as a mental framework to work within when you need the support. I understand that being openly religious on the internet if you're outside of a bubble can be a harsh place, kudos for still pushing through and talking about it, keep being you!

[@Saiputera]

Dude a atheist

[@NeptuneOrJosh]

Hey as another Christian who see the world like Holden I really appreciate a comment like this one. It sounds like you might have some curiosity’s with religion so I’d ask you if that’s something you want to do to study religion not just Christianity (although that’s the one I choose 😁) but to look through religions and see what works for you and if it’s something you would want in your life. Hope all is well with you stranger!

[@ohchristusername]

@@NeptuneOrJosh I find that it's healthy to think about things, and always fruitful to see things from a new perspective. That said, so far I have not resonated fully with any beliefs that I have explored, and our time in this world is limited, so generally I've allocated it to exploring other things. Who knows though, ones priorities can change many times in a lifetime, only time will tell :) I wish you the best in life stranger!

[@BillyMays731]

I love that you make these videos. As a Christian whose views don’t align with most other Christians, I often get told I’m “not a true Christian” or other bad things. Especially when it comes to certain parts I interpret differently or when I don’t get offended at a joke about my own religion. Some of them are even funny enough that I can’t help but laugh. So thank you for making these. It allows me to listen to a Christian breakdown that just finds parallels and talks some of that cool Jesus stuff to me. Love your videos man, keep up the good work. ❤️

[@HoldenHardman]

If I had a nickle for every "not a true Christian" comment I've received, I'd be able to singlehandedly feed the world's poor.

[@unifiedgaming4526]

As long as you believe that Jesus came down from heaven to earth to die for all our sins and accept him as your lord and savior and that everything in the bible is true your definitely a Christian. Even still, the bible leaves a lot of stuff up for interpretation too. I remember in a Bible study I went too there was something that my leader put into 3 tiers. There was stuff that didn't really matter what christians believed, stuff that was a little more serious but there is still room for disagreement among Christians, and then the core beliefs on what make a Christian a Christian which is what I mentioned up above.

[@Saiputera]

Because u are atheist

[@DLites151]

@@HoldenHardman LIES! Unless you PETA all the poor. You know what that mean.

[@Brandon.S.Brooker]

​@@HoldenHardman Judge not, that you be not judged. For with the judgment you pronounce you will be judged, and with the measure you use it will be measured to you.

[@hannahschmitt8442]

Thank you Holden for your perspective! Avatar has been my favorite show forever and as a Christian, Zuko’s story resonated with me as well. Love to see my thoughts reflected back at me, composed in a solidly made video. It’s uplifting, encouraging, and I appreciate you making a video like this so so much. I’ll finish this comment by saying this. Adding to what you said about Iroh shedding a tear over Zuko‘s ridicule while he’s in prison, I believe he’s not only mourning the path that Zuko is choosing, but also his heart hurts because of the confusion and the pain that Zuko is expressing to him and has to experience. Because there’s nothing Iroh can do to help him anymore. Because ultimately it’s his choice, Zuko needs to choose good of his own volition. Very similar to the same crossroads Christians must make time and time again.

[@ZavieM]

As a fellow Jesus fan, I really dug the video. This was a wonderful breakdown. And I must say, The Gospel According to Holden is something I’d love to hear more of 😄.

[@kidcitrus1231]

When you started quoting “Through Heavens Eyes” from The Prince of Egypt, I was like this guy gets it. Such a phenomenal song, and something to really think about. Those lyrics, sheesh. Great video as always.

[@darllington8995]

I watch your whole reaction of ATLA and didn’t subscribe, but after this video you got me, you not only comprehended the show and the characters, but you got an awesome take on it that I never even thought about. Great job

[@HoldenHardman]

*Hits alarm* We got one!

[@DLites151]

@@HoldenHardman As long as we know that ATLA is a real show, with a smart fan base, as opposed to the rabid low IQ hive mind that is Star Wars.

[@melanie62954]

Same here, I've been watching for a while, but just now subscribed!

[@manbunben7285]

I personally am an atheist but I really do appreciate these types of videos because I always love seeing things from different perspectives. Keep up the good content Holden. Also, side note, I love the quote often times people who need love the most deserve it the least. Such a good quote

[@healthtrooper]

As a fellow Christian from Europe I have to say, you did my image of American Christians a solid, solely with your intro but also with the whole video. You get it!

[@michaelgreenwood3413]

Well, part of the thing that messed with your view in the first place is a lot of American "Christians" of late are just fundie assholes using religion as an excuse to be shitbags to people. Holden here is an actual Christian, how they're supposed to be.

[@jet9066]

I do not consider myself Christian. I had never considered this viewpoint of the relationship between Iroh and Zuko before, but your words resonated so deeply with me and what’s going on. In my own life. Thank you for making this video.

[@DragoonxVII]

I'm a non-believer, but my brother and his family have a very strong relationship with God and their lives revolve around that. However, they love me unconditionally and don't guilt me for my lifestyle while not shying away from their faith. I really appreciate them and you guys for being so authentic and following the model Jesus taught. Wish there was more people like you in the world! Thanks for your content.

[@Mr.YasQueen]

So does your brother and family think you're going to end up in hell?

[@AtomSkeptic]

Even as an atheist I saw a parallel between Zuko and the prodigal son. It was interesting hearing your take on his development through that lens. I think I may have said this before but it is nice to see a more moderate christian. Seems kinda rare to see someone like you nowadays. I'm always getting the threat of fire and brimstone and all that. Anyway congratulations on the new addition to your family. Stay safe and try to not get stabbed with anymore pens.

[@PsalmistScribe]

Appreciate your perspective, your reaction to that scene was what I was waiting for the most. It's that aggressive pull into a hug that still gets me emotional.

[@jarredmcmeekin9936]

I’m no Christian but I love these discussions. I love the way you talk about them and the way you provide information and derive comparisons. I think what I love most is that you’re not trying to convert the audience but share your beliefs on the subject. It helps broaden my perspective and allows me to learn more about the world by learning about others

[@dameionleeyoung9083]

As someone who Christian and struggles with a lot of Christian world views watching your video really helps thank you

[@CatJohnson00]

Hey Holden! I thought this video was great and your intro was something I needed to hear right now. You really hit the nail on the head about Zuko and his relationship to Iroh vs his relationship to his father. The comparison of the two different types of love, the unconditional and conditional love was a cool example of Christ's love. I appreciate the take you have on hypocritical Christians, and that you make an effort to not be one of them. Don't let anyone stop you from making these videos. Sincerely, another follower of the Sky Daddy 😁

[@SavageJoe1775]

This video was a wonderful one. It was hilarious, well informed, and beautiful. Great Sunday morning message honestly lol...this video gave me all the feels. As a believer, I share much of your thoughts, and so thank you for eloquently vocalizing these thoughts and views.

[@madisonwhovian943]

What a what wonderful video! Great job, Holden! Your Christian videos are always a treat. I wish more KZbinrs made videos like this. You said it best, life is better with Jesus than without. 😁

[@joshuatijerina4498]

I love seeing people recognize avatar as not just a cartoon but a piece of art. The characters are so thought out beautifully and Zuko is the most interesting character I’ve ever seen in any show or film.

[@Xain0209]

I may not be a Christian but I really appreciate your analyses and takes in these videos. You have well reasoned and well thought out positions and a lot of the moral/ethical points are valid regardless of whether a person is religious or not.

[@skyhime]

Im a christian. I love hearing diffrent ppl voice their beliefs & thoughts on various medias. Pls drop them more often!

[@Michael-wk2gn]

Great video Holden as a believer it's a message that many people need to hear in these times and I encourage you to do more. You did a terrific job illustrating the similarities of the prodigal son and Zuko and Irohs relationship. I see Iroh being such a fan favorite because he embodies many God like aspects in his character. (Also loved how you pointed out your life is infinitely better having Jesus in it than the times when you were living well off but without Jesus there). You and Jen take care and God bless your family!

[@JAcevedo2580]

I consider myself agnostic, and still thoroughly enjoyed this video. Honestly... one of the best Avatar analysis videos I've watched.

[@ArmoredMexican]

I absolutely loved this video Holden! I’m glad someone else was able to draw some Christian parallels from ATLA because it’s so full of themes that we try to embody or themes we struggle against : love, forgiveness, redemption, self sacrifice, selflessness, selfishness, jealousy, gluttony, wrath, pride, shame, among others. A line Iroh said that has Always stuck with me is “pride is not the opposite of shame, but its source”. There could be a whole sermon series using this show imo lol God bless you bro!

[@JamesReborn2023]

I truly enjoyed this. Never stop being you, Holden. 🙏 God Bless!

[@KeoTower]

This may be the best video I've ever seen you make. I absolutely love your message. Believe or not it's actually helps me already with something I've been struggling with. Thank you Holden.

[@icarusgaming6269]

KZbin's targeted ads are having a real hard time figuring out what this video is about

[@skylercutsforth8595]

I was begging for someone to make this video in my heart, that one final return scene is so powerful and impactful BECAUSE it is God's heart toward each of his children. God is UNBELIEVABLY faithful and patient and loving to us.

[@marcusdonders]

THIS. All I can say is thank you! 😊 Also my guy your retelling of the prodigal son deserves a whole series where you tell Bible stories. 🤣

[@Sparlock_Official]

not a Christian anymore but, respect the world view of sacrificial love and forgiveness of self and other. I think this was a nice summary of not only the Christian wisdom but that of Iroh's. good vid 10/10 would watch again.

[@kizi180]

I'm a Christian and I appreciate this. Many others hide their religion (Christians or not) for fear and money is refreshing seeing someone saying, "hey, I love Jesus". ❤

[@diogoguerner3454]

The Legend of Korra next!!

[@Keep2Yourself]

Really needed this one right now. Thank you.

[@Saimeren]

I like that Holden doesn't berate or look down on people that don't share his faith. I remember one time I was with a Christian who knew that I wasn't a Christian, and they sneezed. I said "Bless you." And they turned and looked at my completely shocked and said "I thought Athiests didn't do that?" I just looked at them and said "We can be polite." And the look on their face was like "huh. Interesting." It's just funny.

[@springy77]

This man never fails to impress me

[@calebstough2266]

A very well stated premise and beautiful message! I believe that this will reach out to more people than you imagine, and sincerely hope it does. God bless you all!

[@cheddarbrat]

I'm not religious whatsoever but I always enjoy these videos.

[@Mizhaps]

Hilarious retelling of the Prodigal Son story man, not a very spiritual person but still appreciate when you do these videos especially of a show I've already seen. Been watching your channel since 2019 Love seeing your perspective and cant wait for the videos you do next.

[@darthrange1]

I'll be honest I normally avoid video's like this. But for some reason I clicked it, started watching, and before I knew it the video was over. Holden, you have a gift of talking to people and getting them engaged. I've always wanted to be a father, I still plan to be one, but my biggest fear is that I will fail to give my kids the foundation they need for life. Keep up the great work, and congratz on the kiddo. I have no doubt you will be a great dad.

[@xXyukinashiroganeXx]

if i could only like this video a thousand times, i would. i’ve read the comments too and i resonated with so much of it. thank you

[@bigtexas517]

I am a Christian also and I have huge respect for you making a video like this, I’m relatively new to the channel so I have never seen any of your other videos like these

[@JM-pm1yb]

I would be fascinated if you did a discussion video like this for Trigun. The Vash and Knives parallels, and the characters of Nicholas D. Wolfwood would be fantastic.

[@danielrevoredo8546]

Im not a very religious person myself, my parents are and I know they thought me well, but I just don't feel I have the need to believe in a greater power "up there". I try to be as good as possible and to share love and peace everytime I can. But fuck, what a great video this was.

[@HoldenHardman]

It's less about a "need to believe" in order to be "moral" or have "hope" or whatever and more about the reality of God's existence. Is there actually a God or not? Our culture is very "whatever works for you" and that's great to some extent, but I'm more interested in truth. If there is NO God, what are the implications? If there IS a God, what are the implications and what does that mean for me?

[@lukesardinia9449]

Holden, thank you for these types of videos. Even though I don't believe in the same way you do, I respect your view of the Christian faith. Every time I watch one of these videos I gain a new piece of wisdom that I use in my own beliefs. Thank you for sharing your perspective, and being one of the few that do it in the most respectful and respectable ways possible. Keep being you.

[@Leekle2ManE]

I started to lose my faith in God and Christ, but then I realized They weren't my issue. My real problem was with organized Christianity and hypo-Christians that tend to see Jesus's sacrifice as a Get-Out-of-Hell-Free card. I tend to bump into so many people who claim to be Christian but more or less completely ignore the teachings of Christ because they're "saved". I came to terms that the best I can do is try to apply the lessons from Christ to my own life, more or less ignore what mainstream "Christians" say and treat everyone with compassion and tolerance, even if they don't share my views. At least, I try to do that. Sometimes I falter.

[@HoldenHardman]

I'm in a similar boat. I view organized or Fundamentalist American Christianity like a Fandom. For instance, I'm a big fan of Star Wars. Even the stuff most people don't like, I still really enjoy. Other things maybe not so much, but overall, I really love it. But the fans can be some of the most vitriolic, opinionated, gatekeepers out there, even acting against the very lessons that Star Wars tries to teach. I mean some of them downright take all the fun out of it. So I can get rid of all my Star Wars stuff, not watch any more, and just forget about it, OR I can acknowledge that the loud and annoying Fandom doesn't represent Star Wars itself and continue to enjoy it, even if I don't agree with the loud "fans." Same way with God. I love God, but his fan base can be pretty awful. Either way, don't let the fans rob you of the value that's there.

[@AmoreMiu]

Oh my gosh! Thank you!! I’m a believer and was super excited when I saw you uploaded this video! ❤

[@oscar_n_t]

I am an atheist who used to be really millitant about being against religion, but now as an adult i feel awful about behaving that way towards religious people because i know that most are like holden. They have their own fair reasons for their belief and a rational interpretation of what the purpose their religion serves in a modern day context. I now understand how helpful it can be to some people and i thought this interpretation of zuko's struggle with faith and iroh's strength in his belief was really interesting. Personally, i always saw it as zuko struggling with his faith in himself because he knows, as a human being with emotions and morals, what the right path is for the world. And iroh has such a strong belief in zuko's capacity to be good, even at his lowest moments when he's seriously on the wrong path, because he knows him and loves him and refuses to give up hope on him ever. I think a lot of parents could learn from that. Having faith and unwavering belief that your child knows the right thing to do, you just need to guide them. Anyway yeah great video, really nice analysis of the story, and that scene where zuko is asking iroh for forgiveness gives me goosebumps just thinking about it every time too. Also i would personally just asterisk the point about a son needing a "father" and change it to "father figure", since iroh wasnt zukos biological father i think people just need someone in their life who fullfills that role.

[@axiosspark9183]

Iroh has always been the most vivid and accurate display of Father God I've seen in film/media. WELL MADE VIDEO as always brother.

[@Saimeren]

I like watching these videos as a non-Christian. I enjoy hearing other people's perspectives on things, and I really like that Holden isn't preachy about it.

[@ImTajj]

love this video brotha love all ur vids

[@greibach_vt]

Great video Holden. I've commented before that I'm not religious but I really appreciate your polite and earnest views. I don't know if any one religion is "right" or "true", but if everyone operated with the level of respect and goodness that you display the world would be better for it regardless of the particulars of their views on a higher power. Your TLDR on several of those parables was hilarious, and as a weeb that line cut me to the bone but was funny as heck. Regardless, I think it is very valuable to be able to look at people who do not share your religion and still recognize that they live a life very similar to or exemplifying your ideals.

[@davidbeer5015]

Excellent video. I loved listening to how you connected the story and the characters to Biblical ideas. Convicting reminder about the father being a kid’s first example, and I ponder how I’ve done as a father so far. Probably my only add would be that extra little detail in the prodigal son where..essentially asking for the inheritance l could be read as basically telling the father “You’re as good as dead to me.” (Totally not tearing up just at the clip of Iroh grabbing Zuko mid apology and hugging him) But man, this whole thing gives me vibes of my time at college, where there was a class in which we talk about the “common grace,” that grace given to all that keeps us from being as bad as we could be, and the values inherent in all of us. And how we can look for those values and truths within non Christian media. If I knew any of the professors teaching that course now, I’d send this to them as an example to present. Well done and fabulously presented, sir.

[@HoldenHardman]

Thank you! And honestly, your reflection of how you're doing as a father is an indicator that you're likely a good father.

[@davidbeer5015]

@Holden Hardman I appreciate that. I can still improve, but reassurance does help. Also, congrats on the upcoming little one :) that’s an exciting time and hope and pray it goes well and smoothly for you both

[@tylercaldwell4761]

Holden, thanks for making these videos man! Movies/TV have such a unique ability to give us these incredibly powerful examples without being overbearing about it, and it's always great to hear your take. Well done and keep it up!

[@AndrewsiPhoneable]

What a great video for Sunday! I also loved the way Iroh was portrayed in the series. This is such good segue into The Chosen. You guys should react to The Chosen. It’s the story of Christ but it’s done in such a well written way. You actually feel as if the characters had similar struggles, and not just cliff notes of themselves. They take some liberties but in my opinion it has all been done well within the spirit of the message. It is honestly so well-written as a show, even non-Christians will like it

[@melanie62954]

I'm generally skeptical about faith-based productions and depictions of scripture, but I agree The Chosen is so much higher quality than just about everything else out there. I'm really enjoying the fictional but possible depictions of what Jesus's followers' lives were like, and the sociocultural contexts for each miracle. Not sure it would make for good reaction content though, especially for a channel that doesn't cater to a Christian audience.

[@NecroWolfExPaladin]

I am not a Christian. I was once a Catholic which, despite some people's arguments, is a branch of Christianity. I used to follow and believe with all my heart in everything I had learned from Catholicism. Due to things I will not get into, I have left Christianity. That said, I have learned most of my core values from my time as a Catholic. My love for people, my desire to see others happy before myself, my honesty, my humility, nearly all that I am, I owe to those teachings. I do feel that despite what popular opinion says, there is great strength in patience and humility. I strive every day to take hurtful events, and see not the what of the pain I have received, but to look beyond to the why. I do not believe that most people are evil to their core. Most bad people are living the best way they know how. It's a tragedy that life raised them to act this way, to believe that this is the only way they can act without risking something so important that the very idea of changing is more fearsome to them than death itself. I'm not entirely sure why I'm typing all of this. I just think that you being open and honest about your beliefs and the perspective those beliefs bring to something I treasure is a very great thing to have done and brave considering how many people treat such discourse. I have personally felt that the truest wisdom comes not from knowing something and having unshaking conviction that it is true, but from hearing out arguments and opinions of all people with an open mind and open heart, and finding bits that others have, that feel more true that what you already have. If there is a great ultimate truth out there, then no 1 person can possibly have the whole of it. But if people are living life just fine, then everyone must have a piece of it. This is more or less how I see the world and wisdom. Much like you, not saying my way is the 1 right way that people must follow. Nor that such a thing assuredly exists. Just stating openly and honestly how I feel, and letting anyone who likes it to read and appreciate it. Thank you again for opening up and sharing. I sincerely hope that both of the paths we walk, lead to a good life, and should one exist, a good afterlife as well.

[@BalikTrollbane]

What an incredible video. I think the type of content you create really helps people. People really appreciate the "redemption arc" and then the question is why do they appreciate it? I think it's because the Holy Bible is the cornerstone of all culture and story...and the fundamental beginning of truth. I can definitely see Jesus working through you sir...and through this show. God bless you and your family.

[@dylanrcoh]

Not a Christian and I never will be, but Jesus is one of my role models anyway. I'm bipolar and I've been to the psych ward multiple times, and your analysis was that of a true Christian, empathy and love above all else, not preaching even a little bit. You've earned a subscriber.

[@taylorroellig5581]

As a person who has struggled with faith my whole life, and currently consider myself agnostic at best, I just wanted to say that I love your Christian view videos. They are pure, knowledgable, honest, open, and free of judgement. You make the topic feel safe to explore, and I love how you apply it to pop culture. Love your channel, congrats on the new baby and keep up the great content ❤

[@sandwichman6765]

This was eye opening as a person whos a non practicing christian

[@Kryptarch]

Great video as always, Holden! Never apologize for sharing your personal perspective, it’s your right. What’s important and should be appreciated is you’re respectful and don’t shove your views down the viewers’ throats like other channels. Keep being awesome, man 🤘🏻

[@thorkagemob1297]

This might seem out of left field but i would love to see your reaction with your perspective to Vinland Saga. Its an anime about Vikings but it deals heavily with religion and i would be super interested to see your thoughts on the messages of it. Norse religion and Christianity are the two they explore. It would make a fantastic reaction imo and Jen would probably enjoy it too but even if you didnt commit to that, its something i recommend you check out sometime in your freetime. I really dont want to say much more cause i dont want to spoil anything but I believe its right up your alley. Thanks for all the great content man and congratulations on the baby!

[@user-jt1js5mr3f]

Such a good show

[@peters4115]

Agreed!

[@baraneo8195]

I enjoyed this, very well structured. God loves us and God Bless!

[@traviswolcott]

I love Avatar The last Air Bender, and Korra. Looking forward to the new Avatar show they are working on. I think Zuko is my favorite character because of his growth. I see Iroh as more of a Buddhist who is really close to achieving enlightenment. He was really a good person. Later in Korra it seems like Zuko has found that peace as well. Either way your take on it is solid.

[@davidfar92]

I'm becoming a big fan of this kind of content, Holden. It helps me see another point of view: mankind can fail you, but God never will. It would be great if you can make a video like this sharing your thoughts on the way Star Wars describes the line between good and evil.

[@pee-buddy]

There would be so many on your comments angry that you bring religion into your commentary on ATLA. But little do they know that almost all the deep lessons of the show are from various religions from the east. 10/10 for this video and your description of the parable of the prodigal son, which I have personally come to understand as the parable of the loving father. 👌🏼

[@skits_3d824]

Amen brother. The idea that we christians are door mats are completely wrong but we shouldn't and will not force others to Christ. That's up to the person in particular to choose or ask about christ. In our belifs God gave us the freedom of choice and choice can build you up or tear you down like what happens with Zuko. It's a mental state in the end and that's why people like Iroh are always there with love, understanding, and reason. Me being an Adventist doesn't mean I stop caring or disagreeing with other beliefs either as it teaches me to be patient or at the very least tolerable to other people's feelings. That's how I relate to Aang. A wise kid that did his best to stay close to his teachings as a monk even to the point of sparing Ozai

[@grounded279]

These are my favorite videos you put out, Holden. Hope that you’re encouraged to keep making them because they sure encourage me. I can’t speak for everyone, but I’d venture to say I’m not the only one.

[@angelosusa4258]

I like this comparison of Zuko and iroh are the prodigal son. Amen preach it brother!🙏God bless you! Families are to raise saints, and strive for holiness. Love how some shows really have a Christian perspective

[@theawesomeman9821]

Funny story, when this show came out years ago, my mom initially forbade me from watching ATLA because she thought any anime was naturally un-Christian. Eventually, she say a few episodes with Iroh then changed her mind about the show and became a fan of the show.

[@jesperholst9318]

That's the awesome part of the show. The older you get and the more you grow mentally you start to pick up more and more wisdom from it. Its great that a show grows with you and one of the few shows that actually doesn't belittle kids.

[@wallyfarflinger]

As a short term (hopefully soon long term) missionary in Asia, I really loved the simplicity of your message and how you used the culture of your audience (a tv show) to be able to share the love, joy, and healing that is found in Christ without coming across as trying to "force" your beliefs onto people. Coming to people and speaking their language, both in a literal and cultural sense, is imperative to be able to reach them effectively. I'm currently helping at an orphanage in Thailand, and it's been amazing to be get to come alongside these kids to show them unconditional love. Thailand is a primarily Buddhist country so there is a big culture of doing good deeds to others, but it's all about accruing good Karma to balance out the bad. The idea that the price for all your wrongdoings has already been paid in full, and that you are fully forgiven and received with open arms, is a revolutionary concept here, and it absolutely changes lives and frees people from bondage to a system that keeps them working and giving in hopes that they may eventually be able to have a better life once they reincarnate. Thank you for this amazing video that shines a light on one of the most important messages of Christianity that so often goes unseen because of how unloving a lot of people who profess being Christian can be. We as Christians always need to be striving to show Christ's unconditional love to others, even when we don't agree with the decisions they are making. As 1 John 4:19 says, "we love because he first loved us." God loves all people, and it is our job to make sure we share that with others through our actions and our words.

[@stephenwright5939]

I’m the scenes where Iroh is in prison notice how Zuko is closer to the bars while Iroh is closers to the window

[@debe9114]

Thank you so much for making this video!

[@humanoid251]

While I myself am Catholic, I do enjoy videos like these. They give new and differing perspectives on things and we get to see something familiar through someone else’s eyes. Not once did I ever consider that a show deeply rooted in Asian culture and religion would have such close parallels to Western religion “Jesus was getting beaten…nailed to some wood…and you can’t handle an atheist calling God sky daddy” ironic how the people who claim the left are a bunch of fragile snowflakes are the most easily offended. It might just be me but I feel like you should be able to make jokes about your religion. Jokes and references show that you have a deeper understanding of the scripture and I feel like it makes it easier for people to engage in discussions with you like that. I just wanna take a moment to appreciate Holden’s cool youth pastor vibes during the Prodigal Son cliffnotes retelling 🤣

[@tbarnes10]

As a former Catholic, I gotta say I left when my religious teacher told me my grandma and grandpa were going to hell because they weren’t catholic (on a side note I loved them more than anything)

[@HoldenHardman]

Jesus reserved His most scathing remarks for the religious leaders of His day. Don't let your religious teacher get between you and Christ.

[@tbarnes10]

@@HoldenHardman I know my mother was furious after that and she changed my classes. I did mission trips in Montana and Oklahoma and they where fun but I’m done with religion. They don’t accept me, so I’m done dealing with them

[@michaelgreenwood3413]

@@HoldenHardman Damn straight. People tend to forget Jesus's primary antagonists were always the Pharisees. They're even the ones who persuaded the Romans to kill Jesus. Pilate wanted to let him go because he felt he'd done nothing wrong. The Romans were never the bad guys in Jesus's story. Apart from Herod, anyways.

[@jacobhfc]

Loving these perspectives which I wouldn't see as a non-Christian. Keep up the good work, your view on the world is fantastic

[@Brandon.S.Brooker]

Thanks for still making these kinds of videos.

[@anthonyzamarripa9929]

After watching this video I watched both videos of the boys discussion and I'm grateful for all of them. I'm a Christian who never wanted to walk away but I also did not want to rely on blind faith either. I had so many questions but didn't know how to answer them. watching your videos had helped me reinforce my faith. I hope to see more videos like these I really enjoy your views on God and spirituality, it helps give me more insight of things that I had already thought about.

[@reach3549]

I really enjoyed this video, it’s great seeing things in this kind of way and I really enjoy the things you’ve said about the Iroh/Zuko relationship, and how you brought it to the Bible and the prodigal son story. I need to see more of your Christian content lol. You’d make an amazing preacher if you aren’t one already

[@HoldenHardman]

I have a channel specifically for these kinds of videos if you're interested: www.youtube.com/@thepopculturechristian

[@reach3549]

@@HoldenHardman thank you my friend

[@WhyitJellyDonut]

Awesome video sir, God bless!

[@thechad4485]

Also, I appreciate your quoting of Jethro’s song from Prince of Egypt. It’s so good.

[@snowfox4277]

As a fellow Jesus fan I subbed to balance out your predicted loss of subs lol. Great video man

[@leojamesiii7938]

HOLDEN- Great introspection. I've been a subscriber for awhile but I must say, Hella' RESPECT for your favorable words and putting it in a way that SEEDS the truth of our souls path through and towards COMPASSION & Love. Thank You, Bro. Peace, Love, & Understanding be with you and yours.

[@petesbricks]

Bug fan of these videos Holden. Keep it up!

[@watts1012]

I’ve no issues with Christianity, as provided by Jesus’ teachings in the New Testament. In fact, there are a number of great concepts in those verses. Unfortunately, there are a number of very vocal and visible churches, organizations and “followers” that claim to be Christian, but fail at the most fundamental teachings in the New Testament. It is those that I take issue with. It always helps to see people that actually strive to follow the actual teachings. Thank you for the reminder 😀

[@NinjaMonkey774]

Preach brother! So happy to find a fellow brother on here who seems to get it. Loved this video! Also the Prince of Egypt quote had me singing along lol great film!

[@storba3860]

Growing up my pastors, teachers, and a lot of family members told me over and over again "If you were really sorry then you wouldn't keep doing it" so God forgiving me regardless is a difficult concept for me to process. I developed a lot of vices because of my poor upbringing and I'm trying to get them under control but I believe there must be a God otherwise I would have given up on life a long time ago.

[@ThatSalmonGuy]

As an Agnostic person, please make more videos like this.

[@tmac731]

Congrats to you and Jen on your new baby

[@Bigg98]

This was such an enlightening analysis to watch. Being a Christian myself and an avid fan of Avatar that has a lot of East Asian spiritual undertones in the show, it was really cool to see these parallels with the Prodigal Son. Thank you

[@drewhessler4698]

I knew you'd make this connection. Loved this video.

[@anthonylemonnier1025]

Love this! Great content man. God Bless

[@spacepotato5524]

Jesus, Friend of Sinners by Casting Crowns is a song that reminds me of your opening message. I’ve always felt true Christianity was being like Christ and leading with love.

[@tannerjoye9848]

12:25 “im just joking baptists I need y’all to get a sense of humor” got me 😂😂😂😂 man I’m a baptist in SC and I couldn’t agree more. My church seems to be one of few baptist churches that don’t flip out every time someone makes a joke. Great video, man. Really loved what you’re saying here

[@Brianpcomstock]

This was great. I’m 28 and a caretaker for my dad, this video might be the first healthy video we can watch together in years 😂

[@Yamigata]

Bravo good sir, great video

[@JadaEbong]

This was so well written Holden! Please do more:) a great way to start a sunday as a viewer tbh

[@robbysteinerman7904]

I'm Jewish but I'm always happy to listen to a respectful ideological discussion. And definitely when it has to do with obe of my favorite shows of all time. Keep up the good work and congratulations on everything.