TV, Movies, Music, Internet, and Video Games in a Christian's Life

Television, Movies, Music, Internet, and Video Games in a Christian's Life

First of all, Jesus didn’t come to save us from the things of this world but to save us from the wages our own sin--death (Romans 6:23). Secondly, each person is equipped by God with a conscience that instinctively knows right and wrong.

Also James 1:14-15 says “But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed. Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, brings forth death.” Therefore those things that drag us away from God and toward sin are not outside of us but inside of us.

And 1 Corinthians 6:12 says “All things are lawful for me, but all things are not helpful. All things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any.” So as you go through life remember to listen to your God given conscience and let the Bible be your authority. (If you don’t know God, please repent and place your trust in Jesus Christ today)

Question: "Should a Christian watch television (TV)?"

Answer: Many Christians struggle with the issue of whether or not to watch TV and, if we do watch, how much TV should we watch? Television, like many other diversions we have in today's society, has the ability to do both great good and great harm.  However, many people have become mindlessly addicted to whatever show may be on, taking them away from family, friends and time with God. The impact of television in our lives comes in what we do with it. We can let it control us, or we can use it as the tool it was meant to be. (Got Questions Ministries - http://www.gotquestions.org/Christian-TV-television.html)

Question: "Should a Christian go to movies?

Answer: The danger lies in (1) how what we are watching affects our heart and (2) how it affects others. As members of the body of Christ, we are to be a light to the world (Matthew 5:14) and a holy example of what God has done in our lives (1 Peter 2:11-12). If we are seen by others going into an “R”-rated movie, it could send the wrong message to them—that we enjoy and/or condone illicit sex and violence. That is not conducive to being a light in a dark world. So, how do we know for sure whether what we are watching is beneficial? When we become followers of Christ, we are given His Holy Spirit to live in us (Acts 2:38; 2 Timothy 1:14). Jesus tells us that this Spirit will guide us in all truth (John 16:13). One way God's Spirit guides us is by our conscience (Romans 1:12; 9:1). If your conscience is telling you that what you are watching is wrong, it probably is. (Got Questions Ministries - http://www.gotquestions.org/sin-movies.html)

Question: "Should a Christian listen to secular music?"

Answer: Many Christians struggle with this question. Many secular musicians are immensely talented. Secular music can be very entertaining. There are many secular songs that have catchy melodies, thoughtful insights, and positive messages. The content of the lyrics must be considered. While not specifically speaking of music, Philippians 4:8 is an excellent guide for musical lyrics: “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” Obviously, the best kind of music is that which praises and glorifies God. It is the lyrics that determine whether a song is “acceptable” for a Christian to listen to. If anything leads you to think about or get involved in something that does not glorify God, it should be avoided. (Got Questions Ministries - http://www.gotquestions.org/secular-music.html)

Question: "Should a Christian use social networking tools (Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, blogs, etc.)?"

Answer: The answer to these questions should be determined by whether we can honestly ask God to bless and use our actions for His own good purposes. “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31). Christians who choose to participate in social networking should be aware of the negative aspects of social networking. When we rely on social media sites primarily to promote ourselves or draw attention to ourselves, it is time to take a step back. It’s wise to utilize accountability, family members, and Christian brothers and sisters to view our social networking activity and hold us accountable. (Got Questions Ministries - http://www.gotquestions.org/social-networking.html)

Question: "Should a Christian play video games?"

Answer: When God shows us that a specific activity is controlling our lives, we should break away from it for a time. This “fast” could be from food, movies, TV, music, video games, anything that distracts our attention from knowing and loving God and serving His people. While some of these things may not be bad in and of themselves, they become idols if they distract us from our first love (Colossians 3:5; Revelation 2:4). We are to pursue praiseworthy activities, not simply permissible ones. He leads us to passionately follow Him above all else. Prepare for eternity. Every sacrifice will seem insignificant when we meet Jesus. (Got Questions Ministries - http://www.gotquestions.org/Christian-video-games.html)

(Where Scripture References are given you are encouraged to also meditate on them)

2Believe Ministries - 2Believe.net