Philosophy of Deal with Objectionable Elements in Literature

It is a challenge deciding the appropriateness of literature.  As a school, we try to apply biblical principles in our guidelines.  Checking everything is impossible. In dealing with literature, consideration has to be given to the objectionable elements that may be present in reading materials. The types of elements that usually have to be dealt with are profanity (sacrilegious and blasphemy), scatological realism, erotic realism, lurid violence, and religious/philosophical assumptions of the material.

There are those who take the position that Christians must avoid exposure to everything that is objectionable. However, avoiding everything would include the Bible, God’s word. The Bible contains all six objectionable elements.

At the other extreme are the secularists that suggest that artistic quality is the only standard to use, as long as there is some compensating artistic quality, the elements should be included in the literature. Others claim if the objectionable elements mirror reality everything is acceptable.

I would suggest neither position is appropriate. Centuries ago monks attempted to isolate themselves from the wickedness that surrounded them. Our Lord has commissioned us here to be “salt and light” which cannot be accomplished in isolation. Exposing ourselves is everything imaginable is also contrary to what God expects (i.e. Rom. 12:1, 2).

In Romans 16:19b we read, “I would have you wise unto that which is good, and simple concerning evil.” God expects innocence but not ignorance. The passage begins with the word wise. Jesus said, “I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves, be wise [shrewd] as serpents and harmless [innocent] as doves (Matt. 10:16).”  We must have some knowledge to avoid evil—to avoid wolves we need to be able to recognize wolves. The word harmless means innocent in practice. “God does not put a premium on ignorance.”

In Eph. 5:3, 4 and Gal. 5:19-21 the Apostle names many objectionable behaviors. This assumes the reader knows what the words mean to avoid sin. These kinds of objectionable elements need to be exposed and condemned; they should not be examples of our conduct. We are never to take objectionable elements lightly. In our recreational reading or viewing of other media, if these elements become our source of pleasure, they need to be set aside. We are not to dwell on impure thoughts, these turn to lust and other sins.

The Bible teaches that we are to choose well (Eph. 5:17). We need to establish a moral position to avoid evil and to choose the right. In Eph. 6:11, the Christian is instructed to “stand against the schemes of the devil.” We need to be prepared (II Cor. 2:11), to be informed, and not ignorant of Satan’s devices. Believers should be able to identify the “dogs and the swine” and know their techniques (Matt. 7:6). Above all, knowledge of God’s truth will empower us to recognize evil. God’s word inoculates us in a world where avoidance is not always possible.

Back to philosophies