Choose entertainment with discernment

As a Christian, especially a Catholic, navigating the world of entertainment can be a daunting task. It can be difficult to reconcile one’s faith with certain films that may go against their beliefs or morals. The question arises: should a Christian compromise their faith when faced with a film that contradicts their values or beliefs?

First and foremost, it is crucial to understand that Christianity is a diverse religion with a wide range of denominations, each with its own unique beliefs and interpretations of scripture. This means that what one Christian may view as unchristian or conflicting with their beliefs, another Christian may see differently. For instance, a Catholic may have differing views on moral issues compared to a Protestant or a member of another Christian denomination.

It is important to keep in mind that Christianity is centered around the teachings of Jesus Christ, who emphasized love, compassion, and forgiveness. When evaluating a film as unchristian, a Christian should approach the situation with discernment and grace. Instead of immediately condemning a film for its content, a Christian should strive to understand its underlying messages and themes, and consider how they align with the core values of their faith.

As a Catholic, it is essential to uphold the teachings of the Catholic church, which stress the significance of discernment and critical thinking. The Catechism of the Catholic church warns believers to be cautious of the potential dangers posed by the media and advertising (CCC, 2496). This prudent advice urges Catholics to carefully analyze the content they consume, such as films, and to be mindful of how it may impact their values and ethics.

Moreover, it is imperative for Christians to understand that their faith should be unwavering and enduring. Christianity is not merely a belief system but a way of life that should influence every aspect of a believer’s life, including their choices in entertainment. Compromising one’s faith to enjoy a film that contradicts Christian principles is not only disingenuous but also undermines the core tenets of Christianity.

As Christians, we are called to illuminate the world with the love and truth of Christ in all that we do, including our entertainment choices. Rather than dismissing a film as unchristian, Christians should use their faith as a compass to determine what aligns with their beliefs. This allows them to uphold their Christian values while engaging with the world around them.

I firmly believe that for a Christian to remain steadfast in their faith, there should be no conditions placed on their beliefs. Christianity is a way of life that influences every aspect of a believer’s life, including the movies they watch. By approaching films with discernment, critical thinking, and compassion, Christians can navigate the world of entertainment while remaining true to their faith.

Reginald B. Tamayo,
Marikina City