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The Christian And Television

As Christians, we should watch TV with the realization that God is watching us! (Hebrews 4:13). When we watch television, we should always remember that the device that is in our hand (the remote control), is one of the most dangerous devices in our house! (Ephesians 6:10-13). Guns, knives, and poison can kill the body, but what comes through the TV can ruin our eternal soul! (Matthew 10:28). There is more involved than just innocent entertainment. Through the medium of television, the devil is waging a daily battle for our hearts, minds, and souls (1 Peter 5:8). The rock-and-roll musician, Frank Zappa, argued before a Maryland State Senate subcommittee (when asked about some of his ungodly lyrics), “These are only words – words can’t hurt anyone.” Our Lord made a “different” observation (Matthew 12:36; cf. Psalm 39:1; Proverbs 13:3; Proverbs 21:23).

Having Our Minds “Set”

Before we watch TV, we should already have our minds set on the fact that “sin is sin and wrong is wrong” (Psalm 119:97-105). We ought to read the Bible before we watch TV, so our minds will already be “fixed” as to the content we will be watching (Psalm 57:7). Our minds should already be made up concerning moral issues, realizing that television is not a reliable teacher when it comes to determining what is right and what is wrong. This is exactly why children’s TV should be severely limited. Enemies that come out in broad daylight brandishing a gun (or any other weapon) are much easier to conquer than ones that “sneak” in under cover of darkness. Physical persecution would be hard to bear, but at least we would know we were under attack. Satan attacks through TV (Ephesians 2:2) by eroding our character, spoiling our innocent pleasures, and cheapening our view of life. He does it so subtly that most are unaware of what is happening (2 Corinthians 11:3).

The Devil Usually Writes The Script!

We need to remember that the devil is the one usually writing the script (Gal. 5:16, 19-21). Professors S. Robert Lichter and Stanley Rothman interviewed 240 broadcasters and journalists from national media outlets, such as the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, Time magazine, Newsweek, CBS, NBC, ABC, and PBS (1979, 1980). They reported that very few broadcasters and journalists are regular churchgoers. Only 8 percent go to church or synagogue weekly, and 85 percent seldom or never attend. 90 percent agree that a woman has the right to decide for herself whether or not to have abortion; 79 percent agree strongly. Although most Americans believe that homosexuality is wrong, Lichter and Rothman found that 75 percent of the media elite believe it is okay. A mere 9 percent felt strongly that homosexuality is wrong. The majority (54 percent) do not regard adultery as wrong, with only 15 percent strongly agreeing that extramarital affairs are immoral. Their conclusion? “Members of the media elite emerge as strong supporters of sexual freedom or permissiveness.” Should it surprise us, then, that the plot of many prime time shows promotes one or more of the offensive behaviors listed by Paul as keeping one out of the kingdom of heaven, when those who create the programs aren’t offended by them? Is it really any wonder that the perspective of news reporters tends to be favorable to homosexual radicals and abortionists? When you turn on your TV, proceed with caution! (Psalm 32:8; Proverbs 2:1).

The Attack On Spiritual Values And Parental Responsibility

When we as Christians watch television, we shouldn’t laugh at or enjoy it when our spiritual values are being attacked, mocked, or undermined by the comedian in a sitcom (or any other production!). One youth speaker said, “I never cease to be amazed at the number of students who come from so-called “good homes” and even attend private Christians schools who have watched one or more episodes of a teen soft-porn movie; typically, 60 percent of those whom I’ve surveyed”. It is inconsistent to laugh at and enjoy the very things which prompt God’s anger (Romans 1:32; cf. Colossians 3:1-6).

We as parents have the right and responsibility to tell our children (including teens) what they can and can’t watch. One parent complained, “My child is all messed up from heavy metal music and exposure to sexual videos on MTV at an early age. You can’t blame ME for his problems – I’m never home!” Brethren, that’s the main reason for the problem! (cf. Titus 2:4-5).

Conclusion

In this writer’s view, TV is the biggest waste of time and mind drain in America! The time we spend watching this mindless device could be more profitably used in teaching the saving gospel of Christ to those who are lost, learning more about the Bible, etc. thus bringing more glory to God. How can we be so selfish as to indulge in endless hours of viewing TV, while those around us slip into eternal darkness? Brethren, these issues are extremely important to think about. Our eternal dwelling place may be at stake!