The question of whether or not a Christian should go to movies is one that elicits a variety of responses within the Christian community. There are reasonable arguments on both sides of this issue. Ultimately, the Bible does not explicitly prohibit or condone going to the movies. As with many issues Christians face today, wisdom and discernment are needed to make decisions that honor God and align with biblical values.
Those who argue against Christians going to movies often point to a number of concerns. First, there is the content of many Hollywood films which frequently includes levels of sexuality, violence, coarse language and ungodly themes that do not edify believers. Christians are called to purity and to dwell on that which is noble, right, pure, lovely and admirable (Philippians 4:8). Filling one’s mind with immorality and sinful thoughts via film is seen by some as an unwise choice.
Additionally, some make the case that by purchasing tickets, Christians are supporting and endorsing the creators and actors involved in making these movies. If the lifestyles and values of those producing films run counter to biblical principles, going to such movies could be seen as condoning their behavior in some sense.
Moreover, some believe going to films feeds a culture of entertainment and consumerism versus a focus on eternal things. Even many well-made films with positive elements can still divert time, attention and resources away from the work of God’s kingdom. Spending hours consuming entertainment is seen by some as at odds with Jesus’ call to take up our crosses, follow Him and make disciples (Mark 8:34, Matthew 28:19-20).
On the other side, those who see no problem with Christians going to most movies make several points. First, they argue that mature believers can exercise discernment. One can enjoy and appreciate the positive elements of a film without endorsing any immoral components. As long as one’s conscience is not violated and purity maintained, many mainstream movies have much good content that can be appreciated.
Likewise, completely avoiding all movies with some offensive content would mean missing many quality films with inspiring stories and meaningful messages. A discerning Christian can gain insight into the human condition and be moved emotionally by powerful films while rejecting sinful aspects.
Additionally, Christian liberty gives believers freedom in cultural matters like entertainment. Nowhere does the Bible forbid going to the movies. As long as one’s devotion to Christ remains supreme and their integrity is not compromised, Christians have freedom to go to most films in good conscience. Legalism should be avoided.
Those holding this position also point out that many movies are created by talented industry professionals, not necessarily anti-God people hoping to spread immorality. Boycotting all films fails to recognize the many gifted writers, directors, actors and crew members working to create meaningful stories through film.
Moreover, film has become a primary vehicle for cultural narratives and the arts. By engaging thoughtfully with movies, Christians stay culturally engaged. They can critique worldviews portrayed and speak knowledgably to issues raised in modern cinema. Complete disengagement from film arts could be seen as reactionary.
In navigating this issue, Christians would do well to apply wisdom, discernment and a fully formed conscience. Consider the following principles when deciding if going to a particular movie is advisable:
- Will this movie fill my mind with things that are true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable, and praiseworthy? (Philippians 4:8)
- Does the content stir up “passions and desires for evil things” (Colossians 3:5)?
- Will watching this film in any way dull my passion for Jesus or appetite for God’s Word?
- Are there better ways I could spend my time and resources to glorify God?
- Will watching this movie violate my conscience in any way?
- Could seeing this film cause a weaker brother or sister to stumble?
- Does the lifestyle/values of the maker of this movie completely undermine biblical principles?
Wrestling through these questions can help one develop personal guidelines for what types of movies to avoid. For most believers, films with gratuitous sexuality, excessive foul language, crass humor, graphic immorality or occultic elements would automatically fall into the “do not watch” category based on clear biblical teaching.
But outside those obvious concerns, personal standards can vary. Biblical wisdom and mature counsel should inform one’s conclusions. Legalistic, rigid rules are unhelpful for issues the Bible does not directly address. And for younger or new believers, tighter standards may be appropriate till they mature in their faith.
In all cultural matters like this, Christ-like love and humility are essential. Christians should avoid judgmental attitudes towards those with different views on appropriate film standards for believers. Matters of conscience should be handled with grace, understanding how believers with various backgrounds will apply biblical principles differently here.
As in all aspects of the Christian walk, the Holy Spirit, prayer, biblical wisdom and accountable community provide helpful guidance in deciding if going to a particular movie aligns with living a God-glorifying life. The vital priorities are not becoming conformed to the pattern of this world (Romans 12:2) and keeping oneself from being polluted by the world (James 1:27).
If one can attend movies occasionally for entertainment without compromising righteous standards or dampening zeal for God’s Kingdom, they have freedom to go to films in good conscience. But if at any point movies begin hindering one’s spiritual growth, it would be wise to abstain from them for a season or limit film intake to only the occasional redemptive, uplifting story.
As with all matters touching Christian freedom, those who choose greater abstinence should not judge those with broader views of appropriate films. And those with liberties to see more movies must be careful not to flaunt that freedom or pressure others to go against their conscience by attending films they find objectionable (Romans 14, 1 Corinthians 8:9-13).
Philippians 1:9-11 provides helpful guidance: “And it is my prayer that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment, so that you may approve what is excellent, and so be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.” Seeking to apply Scripture and walk in wisdom regarding movies can help achieve that aim.
In conclusion, whether or not a Christian should go to the movies depends on their spiritual maturity, conscience considerations, personal temperament and life calling. With prudent application of biblical principles, prayerful wisdom and accountability, most believers can develop standards that allow appropriate engagement with film arts while maintaining devotion to Jesus Christ and the eternal Kingdom as their first priority.