Watching horror movies as a Christian: Yay or nay
What is your favorite movie genre? Is it the heart-pounding excitement of action films, the heartwarming tales of romance, or perhaps the thought-provoking drama that captures your attention?
Regardless of your cinematic preference, chances are you have come across someone in your Christian circle who unabashedly enjoys watching horror movies.
It is a topic that sparks fervent debates within the Christian community. Some assert that it is perfectly acceptable as long as your faith remains steadfast. Meanwhile, others argue that it delves into the realms of the unholy.
In this article, we will not provide you with a definitive "yay" or "nay" regarding Christians watching horror movies.
Instead, we will equip you with insights to help you make an informed decision on this intriguing matter.
What are horror movies
A horror movie, as you may already know, is a tale designed to evoke intense feelings of fear, shock, or even disgust. These chilling narratives have a long history, deeply rooted in various cultures.
In the past, many of the stories that fall under the horror category were not so different from classical fairy tales, which, truth be told, could be just as brutal.
Today, horror movies employ various techniques to elicit fear. Some rely on gratuitous gore, showcasing gruesome scenes of violence. Others delve into psychological terrors.
Supernatural elements often come into play, introducing creatures or forces beyond the realm of the natural.
The psychology of watching horror movies
Like many other activities you engage in, there are reasons behind watching horror movies; otherwise, it would not be such a popular genre.
With this being said, here are some of them.
Mastery over the threat
In your everyday life, encountering truly frightening situations is a rarity. Yet, when confronted with something menacing or perilous, your attention is immediately captured.
Such a response, as explained by horror scholar Mathias Clasen, can be traced back to the constant peril our ancient ancestors faced in their environments.
Vigilance was their shield against becoming prey to larger, deadlier creatures.
While modern life doesn't present such threats as frequently, engaging in horror films provides a novel opportunity to activate your inherent threat detection system.
It does not only make horror movies captivating, but also allows you to navigate scenarios within the safety of a cinematic setting.
Moreover, emerging unscathed from a horror movie may kindle a sense of accomplishment and mastery over the encountered threat.
Satisfies curiosity about the dark side
In a society where encounters with humanity's most twisted and fearsome aspects are limited, you often suppress your own darker inclinations to fit in.
Horror movies, in a way, give you a controlled avenue to explore these hidden dimensions. They allow you to indulge your curiosity about the more sinister aspects of human nature that are usually kept at bay.
Effects of watching horror movies
While watching horror movies can bring pleasure to some, it is important to note that they can also have specific effects on you. Here are some of them.
Sleeplessness
When you watch scary things, your brain becomes active and can keep you awake at night. You might have nightmares or just find it hard to relax and fall asleep.
Anxiety
Horror movies can make you anxious because they show scary situations that your brain interprets as real threats. This can make your heart beat faster and your body feel tense.
Even after the movie was over, you might still feel worried or nervous.
New fears
Watching horror movies can create new fears by connecting scary things in the movie with real-life situations. Your brain can link what you see to things you encounter in your daily life.
For example, if you saw a scary movie about a haunted house, you might feel uneasy when you enter a dark, old building.
Why Christians should not watch horror movies
Because of these negative psychological effects of horror movies, some Christians believe that watching them should not be allowed.
Aside from these effects, however, here are their other reasons, as based on their interpretation of biblical teachings.
Glorifies the devil
Christians should avoid watching horror movies because they often glorify the devil.
Such movies can depict evil in a way that makes it seem attractive or powerful, which goes against Christian teachings that encourage you to resist the devil's temptations.
Gives the devil a foothold in life
When you watch horror movies, it can give the devil a foothold in your life. This connects with the psychological effect of creating new fears through association with real-life events.
The fear and anxiety these movies cause can open doors for negative influences.
For example, if a horror movie makes you fearful of the dark, it can lead to unnecessary anxiety and make you vulnerable to ungodly thoughts and fears.
Fill our minds with ungodly images
Horror movies often fill our minds with ungodly images of violence, darkness, and evil.
Christians are encouraged to focus on things that are pure and praiseworthy, so watching these movies can lead to a mind filled with disturbing and unholy thoughts, which are not aligned with Christian values.
Why it is acceptable to watch horror movies
While some disagree with watching horror movies for entertainment, some argue that it is acceptable for Christians to do so.
Here are the following reasons.
All is okay in moderation
Some argue that Christians can watch horror movies because everything is alright in moderation.
They believe that as long as you don't let these movies consume your thoughts and values excessively, you can enjoy them as a form of entertainment without straying from your faith.
Horror movies can become evangelistic tools
There is an argument that horror movies can be used as tools for sharing beliefs.
Many horror fans are atheists who don't believe in the supernatural. These movies can spark discussions about deep topics like the origins of evil, which align with a biblical worldview.
Evil can never truly win
Another perspective is that Christians can watch horror movies because these stories often emphasize that evil can never ultimately triumph.
In many horror narratives, evil forces are ultimately defeated or overcome by good, which aligns with the Christian belief that ultimately, good and God's righteousness prevail.
What the Bible says
In the Bible, you would not find a direct rule about watching horror movies, but there are passages that guide you.
For instance, Philippians 4:8 urges you to focus on what's true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, and commendable. This teaches you to choose thoughts and actions that reflect goodness, not darkness.
Ephesians 5:11-12 also advises you not to engage in unfruitful deeds of darkness, but to expose them. This means staying away from activities that promote evil and striving to reveal them.
Tips for watching horror movies as a Christian
If you chose to watch horror movies, you can refer to our tips for guidance. These tips can help you make informed decisions about what you're viewing.
Suspense over evil
When watching horror movies as a Christian, opt for a film with less gore and blasphemy.
For example, you might select a movie that focuses more on suspense and less on graphic violence or disrespectful themes.
Remember that what you are watching is a fictional story
Remind yourself that the eerie events and scary creatures on the screen are not real but created for entertainment.
By doing so, you can maintain a clear distinction between fantasy and reality. This helps you avoid becoming unduly disturbed or fearful after watching such movies.
Pray before you watch
Before you start watching, take a moment to pray.
Ask for guidance and protection as you engage with the content, seeking strength to discern any negative influences and to maintain a clear moral perspective.
Unshakeable
Even though horror movies are designed to be frightening, you should not let fear overcome you.
As a Christian, your faith in God should be stronger than any fear these movies may provoke.
Remember that fear is a natural reaction to scary images. But your faith can provide you with the courage and assurance needed to face such fears.
Trust in God's protection and love, and let your faith be a source of strength
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