The Harry Potter book and movie series has sparked much controversy among Christians. As followers of Jesus Christ, how should we view these magical stories? Here is a 9000 word exploration of the Christian perspective on Harry Potter.
The Magic and Witchcraft in Harry Potter
A primary concern many Christians have with Harry Potter is the use of magic and witchcraft throughout the books and movies. The heroes of the story, including Harry, Ron, and Hermione, are students at the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry who are learning spells, potions, and magical practices. This seems problematic from a biblical point of view.
The Bible expressly forbids witchcraft and divination. Passages like Deuteronomy 18:10-12, “Let no one be found among you who sacrifices their son or daughter in the fire, who practices divination or sorcery, interprets omens, engages in witchcraft, or casts spells, or who is a medium or spiritist or who consults the dead. Anyone who does these things is detestable to the Lord.” make it clear that magic and sorcery are sinful practices according to God.
Other scriptures such as Galatians 5:19-21 and Acts 19:19 also warn against witchcraft and sorcery. So at first glance, it would seem that anything promoting the use of magic would go against Christian values. Does this mean that Bible-believing Christians should avoid the Harry Potter series altogether?
Some would argue yes, Christians should not read books or watch movies like Harry Potter, since they normalize and present magic as something fun or desirable, rather than sinful and dangerous. Philippians 4:8 advises us to think about things that are noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent or praiseworthy. And sorcery, witchcraft and wizardry could be considered the opposite of these virtues.
However, others would contend that boycotting Harry Potter takes things too far. While Christians should absolutely avoid practicing real-world witchcraft and the occult, Harry Potter is clearly a fictional fantasy world. The kids at Hogwarts are not conjuring up spirits or casting wicked spells. Rather, they are waving whimsical wands while saying silly pseudo-Latin phrases. The magic in Harry Potter is more akin to fairy tale or superhero fiction than to genuine sorcery.
Parents may have concerns about their young children having nightmares from magical images in Harry Potter. But for older kids and teens able to distinguish fact from fiction, the witchcraft element should not be a big issue. Just like watching shows about superheroes or reading books about talking animals, enjoying fun fictional stories about wizards does not mean one condones magic and sorcery in real life.
Further, the Harry Potter stories are not just about witchcraft. There are many other meaningful themes like friendship, courage, sacrifice and standing up to evil. One could argue the series has many positive messages consistent with Christian values.
So whether or not the magic elements in Harry Potter are appropriate for Christian readers is something each person and family must decide. There are good arguments on both sides of the issue. The main point is to recognize the difference between fantasy and reality.
Allegations of Promoting Non-Christian Spirituality
Beyond just magic and witchcraft, some critics accuse the Harry Potter series of promoting non-Christian spiritual ideas. They point to elements like speaking with the dead, crystal balls for fortune telling, astrology, reincarnation, and spells using pagan gods. All of these seem inconsistent with Biblical Christianity.
It’s certainly true that J.K. Rowling incorporated a hodgepodge of spiritual and mythological ideas into her stories. The centaurs in the Forbidden Forest practice astrology. Professor Trelawney gives prophecies and reads tea leaves. Spells mention ancient Roman and Greek gods and goddesses. Harry even uses a magic stone to briefly speak to the spirits of his deceased parents.
So Harry Potter does normalize and give a fanciful glow to practices that the Bible would consider occultic. This mixing of whimsical magic and real-world occult practices is concerning for some Christians. They feel it could open the door for kids to become curious about exploring the occult, Ouija boards, séances and other potentially dangerous mystical activities.
On the other hand, others think the spiritual themes in Harry Potter are not a big concern. They argue that Harry Potter should not be singled out, since many children’s fantasy stories incorporate magic and mythology from various spiritual traditions. The Chronicles of Narnia series by C.S. Lewis includes creatures and legends from Greek, Roman, Celtic, Germanic and medieval lore. Should Christians also ban these classic Christian allegories?
Again, the distinction between fantasy and reality is important. Parents can explain to their kids that practices like crystal ball gazing and communicating with spirits are harmful in real life. But in the context of Hogwarts adventures, these elements are just part of creating an exciting mystical story. As kids get older, they are able to make that separation between imaginary tales and genuine spirituality.
So again Christians have to individually weigh if they feel the books blur the line too much between fiction and real-world occult practices. Parents who are uncomfortable with the spiritual undertones can seek out alternative fantasy stories. But judging and attacking those who allow Harry Potter may be legalism, not Christian grace.
Allegations of Immoral Content
Aside from the objections about magic and spiritual themes, some Christians express concern about immoral content and values they see in the Harry Potter series.
For example, some of the adult characters exhibit significant flaws. Teachers like Snape bully students, Hagrid has issues with drinking too much, and some members of the Ministry of Magic seem corrupt. The heroes themselves sometimes break rules and tell lies if they feel it serves a greater good.
Additionally, there are some scenes of scary threats or violence. Voldemort and his followers inflict torture and even kill characters throughout the story. And some of the supernatural creatures and events, like giant spiders and Dementors who make people relive their worst memories, may disturb more sensitive young readers.
So do these issues of negative role models and frightening images make the Harry Potter books inappropriate for Christians? Some would argue the books promote moral relativism and could desensitize kids to unhealthy attitudes and behaviors.
But others feel these critiques miss the overall positive nature of the stories. While some characters have flaws, the lead heroes show courage, loyalty and willingness to sacrifice themselves for others. And the main theme of fighting the evil wizard Voldemort teaches that standing up against oppression and cruelty is important.
The frightening parts of the story are quite tame compared to many other children’s fantasy series and fairy tales. For example, Grimm’s fairy tales are filled with gruesome violence but are still considered classics for children. Parents know best if their child is mature enough to handle scary images in moderation.
Ultimately the moral critiques of Harry Potter seem weaker than the objections about magic and spirituality when examined closely. But again Christians have freedom to personally decide if anything in the stories goes against their values. Parents should use discernment about what media they expose their kids to, considering each child’s maturity and sensitivity.
Opportunities for Teaching Biblical Perspectives
Rather than banning books like Harry Potter, some Christians see them as opportunities to teach their kids to analyze stories through a biblical lens. Parent and child can have meaningful discussions contrasting Harry Potter’s magical world with what the Bible says about spiritual power and moral choices.
For example, a parent may explain that while Harry Potter makes witchcraft seem exciting, real witchcraft is condemned in the Bible because it involves trying to access supernatural power in ways God forbids. The fictional spells in Harry Potter are not real, but God does give Christians spiritual power through His Holy Spirit within the boundaries He sets for using that power righteously.
Or they could talk about how solving problems through telling lies or breaking rules is portrayed as necessary in Harry Potter at times. But then share what the Bible teaches about honesty, obedience to authority, and trusting God even when circumstances seem impossible.
Rather than totally banning literature with non-Christian themes, parents can use it to equip their children to be discerning. Kids with a solid Biblical foundation are not going to stray from their faith just because they read fantasy stories with magic. Instead they will learn to analyze stories and entertainment through a gospel lens, separating truth from fiction.
Caution About Legalism and Disunity
As Christians seek to discern what attitude to take towards Harry Potter, it’s important we avoid legalism. Romans 14:1-4 warns believers not to pass judgement on personal decisions other Christians feel freedom in. Matters like reading certain books or watching certain movies are secondary issues, not central doctrines of the faith.
One family may decide they do not want their impressionable young children consuming stories involving witchcraft at this stage. That should be respected. But pressuring the rest of the church to follow suit can verge into legalism. Other families may feel they can allow older children to enjoy Harry Potter for entertainment without endorsing real-world witchcraft.
Philippians 2:2-4 encourages Christians to be united, considering others as more important than themselves. So it’s wise for those who abstain from Harry Potter to not condemn or argue with those who feel complete freedom about it. And those who enjoy Harry Potter should be respectful, not flaunting it around those bothered by witches and wizards.
Maintaining unity despite secondary differences demonstrates the love and grace of Christ to the watching world. So we must be quick to listen and slow to judge on matters like Harry Potter that Scripture does not give direct command about. Focus on the truth of the gospel message, not arguing opinions.
Guiding Children’s Discernment About Entertainment
How then should Christian parents approach teaching children to have godly discernment about books, movies and entertainment like Harry Potter? Here are some biblical tips:
Lay a Foundation of God’s Truth – Start by instilling a solid knowledge of the Bible and relationship with Jesus from early childhood onward. Knowing biblical truth will equip them to discern fiction. (Proverbs 22:6, Deuteronomy 6:6-7)
Pray for Wisdom – Ask God for discernment about what entertainment is beneficial or harmful for each child. Our culture is filled with influences contrary to the gospel, so seek the Holy Spirit’s guidance rather than blindly accepting all media. (James 1:5)
Exercise Freedom Responsibly – God allows personal freedom on issues He doesn’t directly address in scripture, but we must be careful to use this freedom prudently, not flaunting it in front of weaker believers. (1 Corinthians 8:9-13)
Consider Your Child’s Maturity – A book with mature themes may be acceptable for an older teen but too heavy for a 5-year-old. Know what your child can handle and don’t overwhelm them. (Philippians 1:9-10)
Look at Overall Content, not Just Individual Elements – A story may have some objectionable parts, but the primary messages and values may still be positive, uplifting ones. Examine the full context. (Philippians 4:8)
Use Stories as Teaching Opportunities – Engage kids by asking their thoughts about characters’ choices. Contrast fictional tales with God’s truth found in the Bible. (Deuteronomy 6:6-7)
The most important thing is laying a solid spiritual foundation for our kids. Then we can guide them in exercising freedom responsibly and thinking critically about influences they encounter. Stay focused on the gospel, not legalistic rules. Approach controversial books like Harry Potter with grace-filled discernment.
Conclusions About Harry Potter
The Harry Potter books and movies have stirred much debate among Christians about magic, spiritual themes and moral content. There are reasonable concerns about exposing impressionable children to sorcery and occultism. But for more mature readers, the series can likely be enjoyed the same as any fantasy fiction, realizing it’s an imaginary world not promoting real-life witchcraft.
Rather than forbidding Harry Potter legalistically, parents should focus on teaching solid Biblical foundations and critical thinking skills. Kids and teens who know God’s Word can learn to separate fact from fantasy. Instead of banning certain books, use their themes as teaching opportunities contrasting truth versus fiction. The Bible equips Christians with wisdom and discernment to apply its values in every area of life, including entertainment choices.