Discernment for Christians on Harmful TV Shows and Media

Understanding Which Shows May Be Harmful

As Christians, we are called to fill our minds with things that are noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, and praiseworthy (Philippians 4:8). The shows we watch on TV have a powerful influence on our thoughts, attitudes and behaviors. While entertainment can be enjoyable and relaxing, we must be discerning about the content and themes presented.

Certain shows depict immorality, violence, profanity and other concerning content in a way that desensitizes viewers. Some promote worldviews that contradict biblical principles. As followers of Christ, we need to carefully consider which shows align with our values or may be harmful to our spiritual growth.

Sexual Immorality and Impurity

Many popular shows include storylines involving sexual relationships outside of marriage, nudity and other adult content. Some portray sexual immorality and impurity as normal and attractive. Not only can this shape our perception of purity, it can become spiritually dangerous and addictive over time.

As Christians, we are instructed to avoid sexual immorality and anything that produces impure desires (1 Thessalonians 4:3-5). Watching shows with sexually explicit content goes directly against this standard. It is best for us to avoid such entertainment, no matter how compelling the plot or characters may seem.

Glorification of Sinful Behavior

Some shows depict lying, violence, greed, substance abuse and other sinful behaviors in an appealing way. Characters face little consequences, while their lifestyle appears glamorous or funny. Not only can this numb our sensitivity to sin, it implies that immoral choices are justified if the end result seems positive.

As followers of Jesus, we know that sin separates people from God no matter how it’s portrayed. Entertainment that glosses over the real effects of sin can program our minds to justify or overlook our own compromising choices. It is best to avoid shows that normalize destructive patterns of behavior.

The Occult, Witchcraft and Spiritism

With the mainstream success of some fantasy and supernatural films and shows, entertainment depicting magical powers, witchcraft, spiritism and occult themes has become more prevalent. While creative, much of the portrayal supports the ability to harness evil sources of power for a “greater good” cause. Some is shown as morally neutral.

As Christians there is clear scriptural warning against any involvement in these practices (Deuteronomy 18:10-12). Even fiction supporting ideas that dark power can be controlled has potential to dull awareness about the real dangers and evils in this realm.

Developing Discernment Through Prayer and Biblical Wisdom

Rather than legalism, setting entertainment standards is about spiritual protection and pursuing all that is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and admirable according to Philippians 4:8. But how can we develop better discernment?

Prayer for Godly Wisdom

James 1:5 tells us that if we lack wisdom to discern truth, we can pray and ask God who gives generously. Asking God sincerely for wisdom and discernment about entertainment choices invites His lordship over all areas of life. As we seek God’s mind and heart on this issue, He promises to reveal where more sensitivity is needed.

Understanding Biblical Principles

God’s word is filled with guidance for moral living and spiritual purity. As we read and understand His standards for holiness more fully, we become better equipped to identify entertainment that contradicts or dulls biblical truth in our hearts. Hiding scripture in our hearts builds awareness and discernment (Psalm 119:11).

Accountable Christian Community

Getting input from other spiritually mature Christians can help reveal “blind spots” where we may be justifying shows the Holy Spirit is prompting us to avoid. Their godly counsel is valuable. This also creates openness and humility, allowing for course correction when needed rather than stubbornly defending entertainment that may be subtly compromising.

Key Questions to Discern Harmful Content

Asking key diagnostic questions can help determine if certain shows are beneficial or potentially dangerous for us to engage in. Consider the following:

Does it Depict Immorality as Positive?

Think through not just behaviors shown, but whether they are condemned or upheld. Does it imply immorality is justified if done for the “right reasons” or by sympathetic characters?

Does it Produce Impure Thoughts or Desires?

Monitor internal reactions while watching. Does it promote lustful thoughts or temptations towards sexual impurity? We are instructed to avoid this at all costs (Matthew 5:28-29).

Does it Promote Unbiblical Worldviews?

Do characters promote atheist, occult or other worldviews explicitly or implicitly opposed to Christian truth? Does it introduce spiritually dangerous ideas as harmless or respectable?

Does it Desensitize Me to Sin or Evil?

Do frequent depictions of immorality, violence or the occult make them seem commonplace vs. exceptional occurrences that violate moral standards?

Asking these questions can reveal compromising themes we have become dulled to through cultural conditioning or entertainment habits. It also empowers us to make choices promoting purity and spiritual protection.

Guarding Our Hearts Through Entertaining Alternatives

When making discerning entertainment choices, its important not to become overly legalistic by creating lists of condemned movies or shows. Different followers of Christ can arrive at various standards personally through prayer and seeking God’s wisdom.

The key is not a pharisaical approach focused on prohibition, but developing greater spiritual sensitivity to influences that compete with God’s lordship in our hearts. Thankfully there are many excellent entertainment alternatives that inspire, bring joy and relaxation without dulling spiritual discernment.

Seeking out these uplifting substitutes guards our minds while still enjoying entertainment for rest and connection. As in all areas, pursuing excellence according to Philippians 4:8 in the shows we watch brings blessing rather than restriction. God’s ways bring true freedom through alignment with His heart and will.

FAQs

Why should Christians be concerned about the shows they watch?

Christians should be concerned because the shows we watch have a powerful influence on our thoughts, attitudes and behaviors. Shows that depict immorality and other concerning content can desensitize us spiritually and promote compromised worldviews that contradict biblical principles.

What kinds of shows are most harmful for Christians to watch?

Shows with explicit sexual content, glorification of sin, normalization of destructive behaviors, and positive depictions of the occult, witchcraft and spiritism can be most harmful. These shows contradict God's standards for purity, righteousness and spiritual protection.

How can Christians develop better discernment about media choices?

Christians can develop discernment through prayerfully seeking God's wisdom, understanding biblical principles more fully, and being accountable to other mature believers for input about potential media "blind spots." Asking diagnostic questions about show content also builds spiritual sensitivity.

What is a balanced approach to entertainment as a Christian?

The key is to avoid legalism while still pursuing noble, praiseworthy entertainment that aligns with Philippians 4:8. This comes down to guarding our hearts rather than creating condemnation lists. Thankfully many uplifting media alternatives exist that inspire and bring joy while supporting spiritual growth.