The Scripture says, “everything created by God is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving”.¹ So, all the elements of romance, kindness, talent, graphic design, music or adventure… are pure. But these elements are only tools, either to portray evil or good. It’s the messages behind these elements that matters to God. Both Jesus’ parables and Greek mythology had the same elements to them, kindness, generosity, compassion, adventure, justice… but Jesus used them to glorify God, while Greek mythology glorified false gods and men. The scripture says, “To the pure, all things are pure; but to those who are defiled and unbelieving, nothing is pure, but their mind and conscience are defiled.”² I believe this is saying that every pure element used to teach a wicked doctrine is no longer pleasing to God. Even the bible was used for wickedness when the Pharisees, twisted and distorted it.³

We are not technically hanging out with the actors and musicians we watch, but they are effectively spending time with us. The scripture says, “Bad company corrupts good morals” and “worldly chatter, will lead people into more and more ungodliness”.⁴ But, godly company and words of truth can renew our mind and build us up.⁵

Beautiful graphics and perfectly pitched harmony are powerful tools to capture the attention of our mind. If we enjoyed entertainment, But our mind was filled with selfishness, pride, vengeance, lust, or greed, then we have effectively pushed God away. But if what we watch or listen to leaves us thinking about “whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure…” and “innocent to what is evil”, then we are undoubtedly pleasing God.⁶ Even the best Christian movies or music might have some corruption in them; no one is perfect.⁷ It’s not a matter of finding perfect music or movies, but finding the best possible.

① 1 Timothy 4:4     ② Titus 1:15     ③ Matthew 23:15 / Matthew 23:5     ④ 1 Corinthians 15:33 / 2 Timothy 2:16     ⑤ Romans 12:2 / Ephesians 4:29     ⑥ Philippians 4:8 / Romans 16:19     ⑦ Mark 10:18