On the way home from church last night, I asked two brothers of mine what television shows they watched. They responded "How I met your Mother", "Big Bang Theory", "Chuck", and others. I'd have to admit I watched these shows now and then. I was thinking about challenging them in this matter, but I couldn't think of a way to say it that would be beneficial and not come off self-righteous.
Mike Cosper brings out an excellent point in this article. Evangelicals are very quick to take notice of the sexual immorality that is so prevalent in television today. However, we fail to notice our addiction to self-righteousness when watching shows like Jersey Shore. Or in the Home Makeover Extreme Edition... doesn't the family's reaction to their new home seem awfully similar to worship?
I guess what I want to point out is that even in our spare time, our periods of resting... we should be seeking activities that are enjoyable for us, but primarily honouring to God. People usually protest at this point. Their arguments tend to follow three patterns:
One, I don't find "prayer" or "bible study" or "musical worship" particularly relaxing. The range of fun-filled activities is too small! So I'm going to do my thing and repent tomorrow.
Two, X, Y, or Z watches these shows or does this or that. They seem to be in a state of progressing sanctification.
Three, I think you are being too legalistic.
Now in response to point one, it is to our shame (and I confess this too) that we cannot enjoy prayer and bible study and musical worship as something to relax too. If we put that issue aside. You are simply thinking too small if you feel that those are the only things that bring glory to God. You can do many things to the glory of God. Just as there are many things that can be corrupted by our sinful desires that is naturally a good thing (sex), but is sin when in the wrong context (premarital sex).
In response to point two, one man may be haunted by the desire to do drugs. Another man may never have that issue. We are all different and should apply discernment in the handling of our sinful flesh. And in a way this is a red herring....to be discussed in point three.
It is funny when people charge you with legalism. They exclaim, "We are in the covenant of grace; no longer bound by the works of the law!" But, we are also slaves to righteousness. We're not freed from sin to go back to the things that enslaved us in the first place. The issue we face (and I confess this too) is that we lack a holy fear of God.
God is our cosmic grandfather. He never disciplines. He's never angry. He always has a twinkle in His eye as he gives you a piece of candy. He has stories to entertain you. He never has any demands. He is laid back and easy going. It is amazing how man is so proficient at blasphemy and idolatry.
What we need to do is have a greater understanding and appreciation of the gospel. It is too costly to remain ignorant of the application of the incarnation, the sinless life of Christ, the crucifixion, the ascension, and the resurrection in our everyday life. For I do not desire that I learn to NOT enjoy shows based on man's depravity. Rather, I want to REPLACE these activities with things centered around goodness and things that are pleasing to God.
So I guess what you need to ask yourself dear reader: is your free time pleasing to God? Is it really God-honouring when you laugh at things of wickedness and evil? And if you find that your time isn't... don't try to just stop the activity. Rather, let's pray to God that we can find enjoyment in God-glorifying activities that can replace our sinful ones.
