Last night we went to the movie theatre in St. Peters, MO to see a limited release showing of the Christian-produced movie, "Beyond the Mask". It was a fun night out with the family. The movie, though not mainstream cinematic quality, was enjoyable and included a lot of Godly themes. And though not perfect in the "Godly theme" area either, I greatly appreciate storytellers who profess Christ and try to honor him in what they do.
I'm not writing to review the movie, for that check out http://www.pluggedin.com/movies/intheaters/beyond-the-mask.aspx. I'm writing to share my thoughts about the event (“movie night”) itself.
One thought I'd like to remind us of, is that parents, particularly fathers, must lead their family in making decisions on where to go; what to read and watch; what games are allowed; etc. We must make these decisions with prayer and a biblical worldview. As fathers (parents) it is our jurisdictional responsibility. Though we may take our child's desires into consideration, it is not for them to decide what they can and can't watch or play. Some day it will be their decisions, but until then, let's help them see our reasoning as we train and guide them. Let's teach them how to discern right and wrong from a biblical perspective.
I highly recommend always using pluggedin.com (and/or the "parent guide" section at imdb.com) to help make decisions about any movie. Most likely, those movies you watched as a kid have many more bad words and bad scenes (immodesty/lust, violence, etc.) than you remember. And don't forget, it's not just about bad words or scenes, it's the "themes" we must guard against. Does the movie teach that parents are bumbling idiots and that youthful heart-following zeal always wins out with no consequences? (Like most Disney movies.) Does the movie or game teach that the end justifies the means? Does it teach that nature is to be revered, but make fun of or ignore God and His servants? Are the lines between good and bad so smeared that we are made to root for drunken sinful pirates over civil authorities ordained of God? We are always “learning”, education and entertainment have significant overlap. Be sober and watchful (vigilant).
Another important idea to remember is that children do not need to "experience" everything. What a foolish and dangerous thought that is... A parent's decision should not be wholly based on the child "getting to experience something".
We had a good time last night. In all likelihood, it will be the only time our family ever goes together to a movie theatre. But we also had some good conversations and still have items to discuss. A child may first think going to the movies is "so cool", so we must teach them to discern what they experience...the lights, visuals, sounds, and smells of the theatre; the stories of adventure and fun (seemingly without consequence and sorrow); these are strong enticements from the world that we must recognize and learn to resist.
It is enjoyable to rest our minds and bodies by listening, reading, or watching a story. I believe God allows for this "rest" (and it can be a fun way to learn). But let us remember moderation, discipleship, vision, stewardship; let us guard our hearts and eyes (and the hearts of our family) from evil. There is so much evil in the world...of all movies ever made, the potential watch list for my family (even AFTER "filtering") is one page long (3 column). Movies without filtering I could count on my hands. That's my list; may God give you strength and wisdom in discerning yours.
Finally, one more related factor to consider in this kind of decision making is "does it appear evil?" (1 Thes 5:22). There was a time in church history that members could be excluded for going to a "movie house". Sadly today many churches bring parts of movies into the house of God). “Ye are my witnesses”, ISA 43 says...I pray our walk would testify of our desire to be holy as He is holy.
If you choose to watch a movie in your home, remember to use tools like "adblock" and "viewpure" for Youtube videos; and VidAngel or Clearplay for filtering movies that you may rent/stream. (Also remember that "themes" can't really be filtered...always read Christian reviews and ask yourself what message the movie communicates.) ...and always talk about it with your children afterwards (and many times pause, and talk during the show) about what can be learned. Examine it from a Christian worldview.
I am not recommending any movie or type of entertainment, just sharing some thoughts. I pray that entertainment would be the exception and not the rule in our lives. I pray that we would be as excited to worship God and hear from His word on Sunday mornings as we are to ________.
Rom 12:2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
Lord, give us wisdom in training our children to be thy servants.
God bless,
A Dad and Pastor
