What Does The Bible Say About Watching Bad Things? A Soul-Searching Exploration

Martina Sipes 22 May 2025

Have you ever wondered if it's okay to watch movies, shows, or content that might not align with biblical principles? The question of what the Bible says about watching bad things is one that many Christians grapple with daily. It’s not just about entertainment; it’s about staying true to your faith while living in a world full of distractions. This article dives deep into scripture, expert opinions, and practical advice to help you make informed decisions.

We live in an era where streaming platforms bombard us with content—some good, some questionable, and some outright troubling. As believers, we're called to be in the world but not of it. But what does that mean when it comes to the media we consume? Is it possible to enjoy modern entertainment without compromising our spiritual walk?

Today, we’ll explore biblical teachings on this topic, unpack key verses, and provide practical guidance. Whether you’re a devout Christian or simply curious about how faith intersects with media consumption, this article has something for you. Let’s get started!

Introduction
The Biblical Perspective on Watching Bad Things
Key Verses to Consider
Understanding the Spiritual Impact of Media
Creating Healthy Media Guidelines
Long-Term Effects on Faith and Character
Practical Tips for Filtering Content
Encouraging Community Discussion
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion

The Biblical Perspective on Watching Bad Things

Let’s talk about why this matters so much. The Bible doesn’t explicitly say, “Don’t watch horror movies” or “Avoid violent TV shows,” but it does offer principles that guide our choices. In Philippians 4:8, Paul writes, “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” This verse sets the tone for evaluating the media we consume.

Think about it—when we watch bad things, we’re inviting those ideas into our minds. And as Colossians 3:2 reminds us, “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” That doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy entertainment, but it does challenge us to be discerning about what we let influence us.

Why Discernment Matters

Discernment isn’t about being legalistic; it’s about protecting our hearts and minds. Ephesians 5:10 encourages us to “try to discern what is pleasing to the Lord.” When we’re intentional about the content we watch, we align ourselves with God’s will for our lives. It’s about balance—enjoying the world’s offerings without letting them overshadow our relationship with Christ.

Key Verses to Consider

Scripture provides a wealth of wisdom on how we should approach media consumption. Here are a few key verses to keep in mind:

1 John 2:15-17: “Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world.”
Proverbs 4:23: “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.”
James 1:27: “Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.”

These verses remind us that our choices have consequences. Watching bad things might seem harmless at first, but over time, they can shape our thoughts, attitudes, and even actions.

What Counts as "Bad"?

This is where things get tricky. What one person considers bad, another might see as harmless fun. Generally speaking, content that promotes violence, immorality, greed, or anything contrary to biblical values could fall into this category. But remember, context matters. A movie exploring difficult themes like redemption or forgiveness might challenge us in positive ways, even if it includes tough scenes.

Understanding the Spiritual Impact of Media

Media isn’t neutral—it shapes how we think, feel, and act. Studies show that repeated exposure to negative content can lead to desensitization, anxiety, and even spiritual disconnection. For example, a study published in the Journal of Media Psychology found that people who frequently watched violent media were more likely to view aggression as acceptable behavior.

As Christians, we believe that our minds are temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19). So, it makes sense to prioritize content that uplifts, inspires, and strengthens our faith. That doesn’t mean avoiding all challenging or thought-provoking material, but it does mean being intentional about what we allow into our lives.

The Power of Positive Content

On the flip side, consuming positive, uplifting media can have a profound impact on our spiritual well-being. Films like "The Shack," "Miracles from Heaven," or documentaries about faith and service can reinforce our belief in God’s goodness and encourage us to live out His love in practical ways.

Creating Healthy Media Guidelines

So, how do we navigate this complex landscape? Here are some practical steps for creating healthy media guidelines:

Set Clear Boundaries: Decide ahead of time what kinds of content you’re comfortable with and what you want to avoid.
Use Parental Controls: If you have kids, take advantage of parental controls to filter out inappropriate content.
Ask Questions: Before watching something, ask yourself, “Will this honor God? Will it build me up spiritually?”
Seek Accountability: Share your media choices with a trusted friend or mentor to stay accountable.

Remember, these guidelines aren’t about restricting freedom—they’re about protecting your heart and mind. By setting boundaries, you create space for meaningful, faith-filled experiences.

Accountability in Action

Accountability partners can be game-changers. Whether it’s a close friend, family member, or pastor, having someone to discuss your media choices with can help you stay focused on what truly matters. Plus, it adds an element of community to your spiritual journey.

Long-Term Effects on Faith and Character

Our media consumption habits have long-term effects on our faith and character. Over time, consistently watching bad things can erode our moral compass, making it harder to recognize sin and temptation. On the other hand, choosing edifying content can strengthen our faith, deepen our relationship with God, and inspire us to live out His love in everyday life.

Consider this analogy: If you feed a plant with nutrient-rich soil and sunlight, it will thrive. But if you neglect it or expose it to harmful elements, it will wither. Our spiritual lives work the same way. The media we consume is like food for our souls—choose wisely!

Building a Strong Spiritual Foundation

A strong spiritual foundation starts with intentional choices. Surround yourself with content that reflects God’s truth, beauty, and goodness. Engage with stories that challenge you to grow in faith and character. And don’t forget to balance media consumption with prayer, Bible study, and fellowship with fellow believers.

Practical Tips for Filtering Content

Here are some practical tips for filtering content:

Use Rating Systems: Websites like Plugged In or Common Sense Media offer detailed reviews of movies, TV shows, and games, highlighting both positive and negative aspects.
Preview Before You Watch: If you’re unsure about a particular show or movie, watch a preview or read reviews to get a sense of its themes and tone.
Discuss with Others: Talk to friends or family members about their experiences with certain content. They might offer insights you hadn’t considered.

By taking these steps, you can make informed decisions that align with your values and convictions.

Technology as a Tool

Modern technology can be a powerful ally in filtering content. Apps like Covenant Eyes or Screen Time trackers help monitor and restrict access to inappropriate material. While no tool is perfect, they can provide an extra layer of protection for you and your family.

Encouraging Community Discussion

One of the best ways to grow in discernment is through community discussion. Gather a group of friends or fellow church members to talk about media consumption. Share your thoughts, concerns, and successes. You might be surprised by the wisdom and encouragement that emerges from these conversations.

Community discussions also foster accountability and support. When we share our struggles and victories, we create a culture of transparency and growth. It’s a reminder that we’re not alone in our journey to live out our faith in a media-saturated world.

Starting the Conversation

Here are some questions to spark discussion:

How do you decide what media to consume?
What role does discernment play in your viewing habits?
How can we encourage each other to make faith-filled choices?

These questions can open the door to meaningful dialogue and deeper understanding.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is it wrong to watch any kind of bad content?

A: Not necessarily. Some content, while challenging, can offer valuable insights or provoke thought. The key is discernment—evaluating whether the content aligns with your values and contributes positively to your spiritual growth.

Q: How do I explain my media guidelines to others?

A: Be honest and respectful. Share your reasons for setting boundaries and emphasize that it’s about honoring your faith and values. Most people will understand and respect your decision.

Q: What if I accidentally watch something inappropriate?

A: Don’t panic! Mistakes happen. Confess the situation to God, ask for forgiveness, and refocus on building a strong spiritual foundation. Use it as a learning experience to strengthen your discernment moving forward.

Conclusion

What the Bible says about watching bad things boils down to one central idea: discernment. We’re called to be wise stewards of our minds and hearts, choosing content that uplifts, inspires, and strengthens our faith. It’s not about perfection—it’s about progress.

As you navigate the world of media, remember that you’re never alone. Lean on scripture, seek guidance from trusted mentors, and engage with your community. Together, you can create a culture of intentional, faith-filled media consumption.

Now it’s your turn—what steps will you take today to align your media choices with your faith? Leave a comment below, share this article with a friend, or start a conversation in your church group. Together, let’s live out our faith in every area of life!

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