Should Christians Watch Secular Movies or Listen to Secular Music?

You’re driving home after a long day. A catchy song comes on the radio. It’s not Christian — but it’s not offensive either. You nod along. Later that night, you unwind with a popular movie. It’s not “Christian,” but it’s well-made, thought-provoking, and wildly entertaining.

Then the questions creep in.

“Should I be watching this?”
“Is this honoring to God?”
“Does this affect my spiritual walk?”

In a world overflowing with media, Christians can’t avoid these questions. We want to be in the world, but not of it. We want to stay faithful — without becoming fearful or legalistic.

So what do we do with secular entertainment?

This article will help you think biblically, discern wisely, and walk closely with Jesus — even when you’re holding a remote or listening through headphones.

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🔍 Biblical Foundation: What Does God Say?

1. All Things Are Lawful — But Not All Are Helpful

“All things are lawful,” but not all things are helpful. “All things are lawful,” but not all things build up.
— 1 Corinthians 10:23

Paul gives us a framework: Just because something is allowed doesn’t mean it’s beneficial. This is key for discerning secular entertainment. The real question isn’t just “Can I?” — it’s “Should I?” and “Will this build me up in Christ?”

2. Guard Your Heart and Mind

Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.
— Proverbs 4:23

Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.
— Romans 12:2

The media we consume shapes how we think, feel, and act. If our minds are constantly soaked in worldly values — even subtly — it becomes harder to think with a gospel lens.

3. Think on What Is Pure and Praiseworthy

Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable… think about such things.
— Philippians 4:8

This doesn’t mean every song or movie must quote Scripture. But it does mean we should pay attention to themes, messages, and tone. Does it stir your soul toward truth, beauty, goodness — or toward lust, pride, and rebellion?

4. Avoid Partnership with Darkness

Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them.
— Ephesians 5:11

If a movie glorifies sin — not just portrays it but celebrates it — we should be cautious. There’s a difference between recognizing evil in a story and being entertained by it.

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🛠️ Practical Guidance: How to Live It Out

1. Discern, Don’t Default

Don’t just consume what’s popular. Ask questions before you watch or listen:

• What message is this communicating?
• Does this normalize sin or mock God’s design?
• Will this draw me closer to or further from Christ?

You don’t need a legalistic checklist — but you do need spiritual filters.

2. Use Tools to Preview Content

There are websites like PluggedIn or Common Sense Media that break down movies, shows, and music for content. Use them. Know what you’re stepping into.

3. Watch With the Spirit, Not Just for Escapism

Some secular films have redemptive themes, beautiful artistry, or deep questions. Christians don’t need to avoid all secular art — but we must engage with discernment, gratitude, and awareness.

Ask:

• What does this story say about human nature?
• Where can I see traces of gospel truth, even unintentionally?
• How does this move my heart — toward worship or distraction?

4. Set Boundaries — Without Shame

It’s okay to say no. You don’t have to explain yourself to everyone.

Maybe you skip a certain genre because it tempts you toward sin.

Maybe you stop listening to a favorite artist because the lyrics grieve the Holy Spirit.

That’s not legalism — that’s wisdom and love for Christ.

5. Talk With Others About What You’re Watching or Listening To

Don’t consume media in isolation. Invite conversations. Watch movies with your small group. Ask, “How did this affect you spiritually?” Turn entertainment into discipleship moments.

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🪞 Heart Work: What’s Really Going On?

This isn’t just about movies or music. It’s about the heart behind our choices.

Ask yourself:

• Am I trying to fit in with the world or stand apart in Christ?
• Do I justify entertainment choices because I don’t want to feel left out?
• Am I numb to sin because I’ve been desensitized?
• What does my media diet say about what I hunger for most?

Sometimes we cling to secular music or movies because they offer escape. Or because we’re bored. Or because deep down, we haven’t tasted the greater joy of walking intimately with Jesus.

He’s not trying to rob your fun. He’s offering real fulfillment.

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🌱 Encouragement: You’re Not Alone

You’re not the only one navigating this. Christians throughout history have wrestled with how to live holy lives in a broken culture. Even Daniel lived faithfully in Babylon, learning their literature and customs — but never bowing to their gods.

The Holy Spirit is your guide. You don’t have to fear missing out. God isn’t impressed by external performance — but He does care about the affections of your heart.

“Turn my eyes from looking at worthless things; and give me life in your ways.”
— Psalm 119:37

And here’s the good news: the more you fix your gaze on Jesus, the less captivating worldly entertainment becomes.

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📣 Walk Forward in Faith

You don’t need a rulebook — you need a relationship.
Ask Jesus to shape your desires. Invite Him into your playlists, your movie nights, your moments of rest. Let Him speak louder than culture ever could.

A Prayer

“Father, help me to love what You love and hate what grieves Your heart. Teach me to guard my mind and delight in what is good. Give me discernment. Not just so I can avoid sin — but so I can enjoy You more. I surrender my eyes, ears, and heart to You. Amen.”

Questions for Reflection

• What secular entertainment am I consuming that shapes me more than I realize?
• How do I feel after watching certain shows or listening to certain music?
• Have I ever asked God for guidance in my media choices?

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Let your entertainment choices become part of your worship — not a wedge between you and the One who gave His life for you.

Jesus is better than any song or story the world could ever offer.