If you want to get Christians arguing with each other,
bring this question up in youth group or on a Christian message board on the
Internet. As believers, we’re very divided on this issue. At the risk of making someone angry,
here’s what I think.
There’s no question that Christians must have nothing to do with witchcraft
or any other kind of supernatural power-seeking in the real world. It’s
evil. It’s dangerous. It exposes us to the enemy’s lies, as well
as his power. It’s rebellion against God.
Books, movies, TV shows, and music about the supernatural world almost all
present a worldview that is different from what the Bible teaches. The biggest
difference is this: We believe supernatural power can only come from the biblical
God or from Satan. Any story that shows supernatural power coming form any
other source is creating a different worldview.
Yes, that would include Harry Potter, because his power
and the power used by evil witches and wizards both seem to come from the
earth or some other source. God and Satan are not presented. However, Harry’s world isn’t
the only one with that perspective. The same is true in the Star Wars movies,
most animated Disney movies (“Snow White,” “The Little Mermaid,” etc.), “Buffy” on
TV, and even “The Lord of the Rings” movies.
So if we shouldn’t watch the Potter movies because
they picture witchcraft and sorcery, we must throw all the others out, as
well. Should that be our blanket policy?
My understanding of Scripture in this case is that becomes an individual choice
between you, your parents, and God. Here is my understanding of the guidelines:
1. If you’re convinced that consuming these stories is wrong, you shouldn’t
do it. If you think supernatural evil is too serious of an issue to be used
in storytelling—even stories picturing good versus evil—don’t
take them in. Entertainment is not a good reason to violate your conscience.
But be careful not to personally condemn those who disagree.
The Bible is clear that believers have the freedom to decide in their own
hearts about some issues. I think that applies, to a point, to the issue of
the content of the stories we take in. (Check out 1 Corinthians 8 for some
teaching on the topic.)
There are definitely valid arguments on both sides of this issue, but disagreement
about Harry Potter is not a good reason to divide groups of Christians.
2. If you’re convinced that it’s okay to watch a fictional story
that includes witchcraft because you understand the lie and know God’s
truth, then enjoy your freedom to do so. However, I’d be careful not
give such movies too big a place in your life.
There’s a difference between listening to a well-told story that disagrees
with your worldview in an attempt to understand what the author has to say—and
becoming a fanatic or expert in all things to do with that story. For Christians,
God’s Word should always be a bigger part of our hearts and minds than
any movie, book, or show.
Also, be sensitive to your brothers and sisters who
don’t agree with
you. Avoid condemning them. Paul even said that if doing something you believe
is okay causes someone else to do something they believe is wrong, then you
should be willing to give it up (1 Corinthians 8:13). Being “right” about
Harry Potter is not as important as loving each other.
3. If you have the strength of conviction to take in
supernatural movies and stories that disagree with the Bible’s teaching,
you should also have the courage to talk about your worldview with friends
and family. Popular movies and books about the supernatural are an excellent
opportunity to introduce the topic of your supernatural beliefs with unsaved
friends. Show the strength of your convictions in those conversations in
a loving way.
In other words, don’t miss an opportunity to use
Potter and the Matrix and the Lord of the Rings to talk about the real supernatural
power of Jesus.
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