The Unfettered Monk asked in this post “Moratorium on video games” what we (the readers) thought of his decision of not allowing console games into his house. One of the comments took the cheap shot of asking what were the benefits to playing them. I know this question has been asked ad nauseum, but as I was writing my own ‘tongue in cheek’ comment this morning I was struck by the question of what is beneficial to a Christian?
When one looks at the various forms of electronic entertainment that we surround ourselves with, does the Christian have an obligation to weigh the merits of that entertainment? In simpler words, in what way am I spiritually improved by playing this particular game, watching this particular TV show, or seeing this movie? I am not implying that these things are never beneficial, but do we even question their worth in our lives, or are we just so enamored by the sin of immediate gratification that anything that can fill that desire is deemed as not only good but needed? And please don’t think that I ask this without firmly pointing the finger at myself. I know all too well my own shortcomings in this regard.
At the same time I’m not by any means implying that we should become the somber faced, rigid, puritans that one might envision. What I am questioning is, as Christians, isn’t it time for us to take a step back, and take a good hard look at how we entertain ourselves and with what?
Let the flaming begin.
Are you saying something like Dance Praise might be a bad idea?
We look at the children of Israel for the syncritism and think oooohhhh how bad… we’re no different.
TIMEOUT – Rong you said “One of the comments took the cheap shot of asking what were the benefits to playing them”
How is that a cheap shot? Does not Paul give parameters for what we are to participate in? Whatsoever things are good, noble, etc.? Seems to me like we are required to ask that kind of question. If that makes us Puritans then wonderful!!!
Would that we all strove to emulate the Puritan fevor for sanctification and holiness.
If you had read my one comment on that post you would realize that I’m being quite sarcastic when I use the phrase “cheap shot”. It’s the very fact that someone brought up the question of the benefit of these forms of entertainment that made me write this post.
Please – no offense was intended.
Now as to this church merch – “Dance Praise”. I’m sorry but that’s just sad. However, I can see it being a really big hit with the fundies. Oh wait, they don’t allow dancing.
DOH – that is what you are saying…. my bad.