Book Recommendations on Media and Christian Living
- Amusing Ourselves to Death: Public Discourse in the Age of Show Business by Neil Postman
- Culture Making: Recovering Our Creative Calling by Andy Crouch
- Competing Spectacles: Treasuring Christ in the Media Age by Tony Reinke
- The Tech-Wise Family: Everyday Steps for Putting Technology in Its Proper Place by Andy Crouch
- Addicted to Mediocrity: 20th Century Christians and the Arts by Franky Schaeffer
Click the title to view the book on Amazon.
A Call to Discernment
In an age of unprecedented media access, Christians face unique challenges and opportunities. From movies and music to social media and streaming platforms, the content we consume shapes our thoughts, values, and behaviors.
This article explores the ethics of media consumption for Christians, offering principles for discernment, cultural engagement, and fostering a Christ-centered approach to media.
The Influence of Media on the Mind and Heart
Media Shapes Worldviews
Media is not neutral; it communicates ideas, values, and narratives that can align with or oppose a biblical worldview.
- Philippians 4:8: Calls believers to dwell on things that are true, noble, and pure.
- Subtle Messaging: Even seemingly innocuous content can promote secular philosophies or undermine biblical principles.
The Power of Habitual Consumption
Regular media habits influence how we think, feel, and act.
- Emotional Impact: Entertainment can evoke powerful emotions, shaping attitudes toward morality.
- Time Stewardship: Excessive media consumption can detract from spiritual growth, relationships, and productivity.
Biblical Principles for Media Ethics
Guarding the Heart
Scripture emphasizes the importance of guarding our hearts against influences that lead us away from God.
- Proverbs 4:23: “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.”
- Practical Application: Evaluate whether media choices foster spiritual growth or lead to compromise.
Testing All Things
Christians are called to discern what is good and reject what is harmful.
- 1 Thessalonians 5:21-22: “Test everything; hold fast to what is good. Abstain from every form of evil.”
- Critical Thinking: Engage media with a thoughtful, questioning approach, rather than passive acceptance.
Cultural Engagement vs. Isolation
The Dangers of Isolation
Avoiding all secular media may lead to cultural disconnection and limit opportunities for evangelism.
- Jesus’ Example: Christ engaged with sinners without compromising His holiness.
- Understanding Culture: Being aware of cultural narratives allows Christians to engage meaningfully with the world.
The Call to Be Salt and Light
Christians can consume and create media that points others to truth.
- Matthew 5:13-16: “You are the salt of the earth… You are the light of the world.”
- Redemptive Engagement: Seek out media that reflects truth, beauty, and goodness while challenging harmful narratives.
Practical Steps for Ethical Media Consumption
Set Clear Boundaries
- Content Filters: Use tools to block explicit or harmful content.
- Time Limits: Monitor and limit screen time to prioritize spiritual and relational commitments.
Cultivate Critical Thinking
- Ask Questions: What is this media promoting? Does it align with Scripture?
- Discuss Together: Share perspectives with family or friends to encourage accountability and deeper understanding.
Prioritize Wholesome Alternatives
- Christian Media: Support faith-based films, books, and music that align with biblical values.
- Artistic Excellence: Look for media that combines quality with moral integrity, even if not explicitly Christian.
The Role of Community and Accountability
Family Discussions
Families can set media standards together, fostering open dialogue and mutual accountability.
Church Guidance
Church leaders can equip members with tools for discernment, addressing media’s influence on spiritual life.
Consuming Media to the Glory of God
The ethics of media consumption for Christians is not about rigid rules but about intentional living. By applying biblical principles, engaging culture thoughtfully, and prioritizing what honors God, believers can navigate the media landscape with wisdom and integrity.
