What does the bible say about watching bad things?
Introduction
In today’s digital age, we have access to an overwhelming amount of content, including movies, television shows, and online videos. With such a wide range of options. It’s no surprise that some of them may contain objectionable or morally troubling elements. As followers of the Christian faith, it’s important to understand. What the bible says about watching bad things and how it can impact our lives. In this article, we will explore the biblical perspective on watching bad things. While also considering the experiences of a friend who grappled with this issue.
Scriptures about Pornography in the Bible
My friend Sarah’s story echoes a common struggle. While Scripture doesn’t explicitly mention “pornography,” principles like guarding your heart (Proverbs 4:23) and fleeing immorality (1 Corinthians 6:18) guide us. Like Sarah, we can justify harmful content initially. But its influence creeps in, shaping us in ways that contradict our values. Choosing media that uplifts and aligns with our faith, as Sarah did. Empowers us to live authentically and grow closer to God. Remember, what we consume shapes who we become. Choose wisely.
1. Guarding Our Hearts
“Proverbs 4:23 states, ‘Guard your heart with all diligence, for everything you do flows from it.’ Therefore, it’s crucial to recognize how vulnerable our hearts are. What we allow in shapes our thoughts, choices, and actions. For instance, surrounding ourselves with negativity can breed pessimism. While positive influences foster hope and inspiration.” Therefore, it is crucial to be mindful of the content we consume and its potential impact on our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
2. Philippians 4:8 – The Standard of Focus
The apostle Paul, in his letter to the Philippians. Guides what we should focus our minds on. He instructs believers to dwell on things that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, and praiseworthy. This verse encourages us to prioritize content that aligns with these virtues, rather than indulging in that which contradicts them.
3. The Power of Influence
1 Corinthians 15:33 reminds us that bad company corrupts good character. While this verse primarily refers to the company we keep. It can also be applied to the media we consume. The things we watch can subtly shape our worldview, attitudes, and values. Consequently, exposing ourselves to negative or morally questionable content can gradually erode. Our moral compass and compromise our Christian walk.
4. Temptation and Stumbling Blocks
Matthew 5:29 cautions us about the dangers of allowing our eyes to become stumbling blocks. The verse speaks specifically about lustful desires. But the principle can be extended to other areas as well. Watching content that promotes sinful behaviors or attitudes can tempt us to indulge in those very behaviors or adopt similar attitudes. Leading us away from God’s will for our lives.
5. Matthew 5:28
But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful. Intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart.
6. Corinthians 6:18-20
Flee from sexual immorality. Every other sin a person commits is outside the body. But the sexually immoral person sins against his own body. Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit? Within you, whom you have from God. You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.
7. Corinthians 10:13
No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability. But with the temptation, he will also provide a way of escape, so that you may be able to endure it.
8. Psalm 119:37
Turn my eyes from looking at worthless things; and give me life in your ways.
9. Hebrews 13:4
Let marriage be held in honor among all. And let the marriage bed be undefiled, for God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterous.
10. Romans 13:13
Let us walk properly as in the daytime, not in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and sensuality, not in quarreling and jealousy.
11. Mark 7:20-23
And he said, “What comes out of a person is what defiles him. For from within, out of the heart of man. Come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, coveting, wickedness, deceit, sensuality, envy, slander, pride, foolishness. Even the most seemingly harmless thoughts can harbor the potential for harm. For instance, a fleeting moment of envy can blossom into resentment and cruelty. Therefore, it is crucial to be mindful of our internal landscape.
12. James 5:4
Behold, the wages of the laborers who mowed your fields. Which you kept back by fraud, are crying out against you. And the cries of the harvesters have reached the ears of the Lord of hosts.
13. Romans 13:14
But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires.
14. Peter 5:5
Likewise, you who are younger, be subject to the elders. Clothe yourselves, all of you. With humility toward one another, for “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.”
15. Romans 5:8
But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
16. Psalm 1:1
Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers;
17. Revelation 2:20
But I have this against you. That you tolerate that woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophetess and is teaching. And seducing my servants to practice sexual immorality and to eat food sacrificed to idols.
18. Ephesians 5:11
“Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them.”
This verse admonishes believers to distance themselves from activities or content that promote darkness or immorality. Instead, they are encouraged to expose such things and uphold righteousness.
19. Psalm 101:3
“I will not set before my eyes anything that is worthless. I hate the work of those who fall away; it shall not cling to me.”
20. Exodus 20:14
“You shall not commit adultery”.
21. Galatians 5:19
The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity, and debauchery.
22. Hebrews 13:4
Everyone should respect marriage and keep the marriage bed pure because God will judge those who commit adultery and other sexual immoralities.
23. Job 31:1
I promised with my eyes not to give a young woman a lustful look.
24. Philippians 4:8
Last but not least, brothers and sisters, consider the following: if there is anything good or commendable, consider what is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and admirable.
How to Choose What to Watch Wisely
What then does the Bible say about making intelligent media choices?
We are told to “do whatever [we] do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus” (Colossians 3:17 NIV).
This verse calls on us to look at and consume everything with attention and mindfulness, especially media.
Even what we watch should be guided by our relationship with God. For instance, by choosing content that aligns with biblical principles. Therefore, let us make an effort to obey God’s word. And keep our thoughts on things that please Him. In addition to being mindful of what we watch. We can also strive to reflect His teachings in our actions and daily lives. Similarly, cultivating gratitude and compassion can further strengthen our connection with Him. After that, we can share our experiences and encourage others to join us. in seeking a life guided by faith.
However, what about the idea that seeing offensive content might help share? The good news or provide context for knowing the world? We are not called to participate in the world’s wicked practices. Even though we are called to exist in it (John 17:15-16). Instead of following the ways of this world, we are to be holy and set aside (Romans 12:2).
What Does the Bible Say About Watching the News
Since the Bible was written in a historical and cultural setting. That comes before the creation of present-day journalism. It does not specifically address the practice of viewing the news. That being said, as Christians, how we interact with information. And media should be guided by biblical principles.
We should all be aware of the potential negative effects that reading the news. Might have on one’s mental and emotional health. Anxiety or worry may arise from overexposure to sensationalized or unfavorable news.
It’s a good idea to balance your news intake with inspiring and upbeat material.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Bible offers clear guidance on the importance of guarding. Our hearts and minds are against the influence of “bad” things, including harmful media content. As demonstrated through Sarah’s experience. Our choices regarding what we watch or engage with can significantly impact us. Our spiritual and emotional well-being. By aligning our entertainment choices with biblical principles. We can cultivate a healthier and more fulfilling life centered on truth, goodness, and righteousness.
FAQ’s
1. Is it a sin to watch bad things according to the Bible?
The Bible does not explicitly mention watching bad things. But it advises us to guard our hearts and focus on things that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, and praiseworthy (Philippians 4:8). It also warns against the influence of negative company and stumbling blocks (1 Corinthians 15:33, Matthew 5:29).
2. How can watching bad things affect our spiritual life?
Watching bad things can gradually desensitize us to immoral behavior, erode our moral compass, and compromise our Christian walk. It can shape our thoughts, emotions, and actions in ways that contradict our Christian values, leading us away from God’s will.
3. Can watching bad things tempt us to sin?
Yes, watching content that promotes sinful behaviors or attitudes can tempt us to indulge in those very behaviors or adopt similar attitudes. It can weaken our resistance to temptation and hinder our spiritual growth.
4. Can watching bad things have an impact on our relationships with others?
Even when we don’t intend it, consuming content with negative or moral. Troubling elements can influence our attitudes, even our values, and behaviors. Therefore, our relationships with others can be impacted. For instance, repeated exposure to violence or negativity. This may lead to a gradual erosion of empathy, compassion, and kindness. In addition, we might start justifying the questionable behavior. We see this after consuming such content. Similarly, engaging with online harassment or bullying can make us desensitized to its harmful effects. However, it’s important to remember that we have the power. To choose what we consume and actively seek out content that promotes positive values.
5. How can we make better choices about the content we consume?
It’s important to be intentional in selecting content that aligns with biblical principles and supports our spiritual growth. Prioritize content that is uplifting, inspiring, and edifying, and avoid that which contradicts your Christian values. Regularly seek God’s guidance and wisdom in making these choices.