Is it okay for Christians to watch horror movies? Are horror movies just harmless entertainment? Could we be unknowingly supporting the dark influence of Satan every time we watch scary films? In this post, let me share with you the compelling reasons why you should stop watching horror movies!
You are with your group of friends. It was a movie night, and your group decided to watch the latest horror film. At first, you hesitated and suggested to just choose other movies, but your friends prevail. You end up watching the scary movie anyway.
As you went home, your conscience started to bother you. You begin to ask, “Is it wrong to watch horror movies?”
You are not the first one to ask this question. Some have initially felt their conscience telling them to turn away from horror movies. However, they didn’t give any attention to their conscience that it eventually got numb. Some, if not most, Christians today felt that horror movies are nothing but harmless entertainment.
As Christians are bombarded with gruesome, grotesque, and violent horror movies, we are being desensitized to accept something that we consider unacceptable.
Before you give in and watch horror movies, I want you to read this blog first.
I want to help you realize why Christians shouldn’t watch scary films. Please have an open mind, and I hope these seven reasons will convince you to make the right choice.
Reason no. 1: Horror movies glorify Satan
There’s no denying that horror movie producers are in competition with each other. They try their best to outdo each other’s work. They want to make their movie as scary, violent, and gruesome as possible. That’s why we see horror movies feature a significant amount of carnage, mayhem, scream, and bloodshed.
The bloodier, the better.
As we watch horror movies, we can’t deny the fact that it glorifies all things that belong to Satan – violence, death, and suffering.
Satan inspired the minds of these movie producers and directors to create movies as violent and scary as possible. They ardently aim to be the most terrifying movie of the year of all time.
All horror movies share the same theme: they all dwell on the dark side.
The Bible tells us:
“…I DO NOT WANT YOU TO HAVE FELLOWSHIP WITH DEMONS. You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons; you cannot partake of the Lord’s table and of the table of demons” (I Corinthians 10:20-21).
If we want to overcome Satan, then watching movies will not help us achieve our goals. This leads us to the next point.
Reason no. 2: Watching horror movies gives Satan a foothold
We read in Ephesians 4:26-27:
“Be angry, and do not sin”: do not let the sun go down on your wrath, nor give place to the devil.
Ever experienced after watching horror movies, you find it hard to sleep? Ever experienced how things that you weren’t scared of before are now terrifying? Did you ever notice how the gory and grotesque images of horror movies stick in your mind?
Well, that’s one way for you to give place to the devil. It is worth noting that horror movies inspire negative emotions in us. As we watch horror movies, we are entertaining the thoughts and ideas of Satan, and it gives you a foothold.
Satan is crafty. He will take advantage of the smallest weakness that we have. If we are negligent of the small sins in our lives, we will eventually reap bigger and deadlier consequences in the future.
Reason no. 3: Watching horror movies supports the work of Satan
Could something as “simple” as watching horror movies support the work of Satan? Actually, it is. How? As you watch that last full show of the scariest and latest horror movie, in a sense, you are supporting Satan’s inspired ideas.
The ticket you bought and the money you gave will go to the producers of horror movies. In turn, the money we gave them will only enable them to further create other films that do not just glorify Satan but also destroy our God-given mind.
Reason no. 4: Watching horror movies fill our mind with negative and ungodly images
We read in Philippians 4:8:
“Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, THINK ABOUT THESE THINGS” (Philippians 4:8).
Are horror movies true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable, excellent, or worthy of praise? If we are to be honest, the answer is a resounding NO!
The truth is, 90 percent of the things that enter our minds through our eyes will be retained, and they will be in our brain for an extended period of time.
If we are to fill our minds with the mind of God, then horror movies should never be there in the first place!
We need to remember what King David wrote in Psalms 101:3-4.
“I will not set before my eyes anything that is worthless. I hate the work of those who fall away; it shall not cling to me. A perverse heart shall be far from me; I WILL KNOW NOTHING OF EVIL.”
Reason no. 5: Horror movies often feature sexual immorality
In addition to diabolical and satanic scenes we find in horror movies, we also see nudity and sexual immorality. That’s how most movie producers attract viewers. Sex sells, and it definitely makes their films more attractive to people.
As Christians, we are called to abstain from sexual immorality. We read in Ephesians 5:3:
“But among you there must NOT be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God’s holy people.”
We are not just to walk away from sexual temptations, but we are commanded to FLEE!
If you want to stay away from movies that may trigger your struggle with sexual temptations, then it is a must that you avoid scary films.
Reason no. 6: We are a light of the world
Every Christian must be a light of the world. Yahshua (Jesus Christ) told us:
“YOU ARE THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:14-16).
Horror movies depict darkness. Are we to be partakers of darkness?
As we grow closer to God, we must also get farther to anything that has something to do with the dark side. God abhors Satan and the darkness he cast into this world. Thus, we must take an extra effort to overcome the influence of Satan, and that includes horror movies.
[Related: What does it mean to be a light of the world?]
Can we confidently say that we are becoming a light of the world when we watch or even encourage other people to watch horror movies? As we watch horror movies with other people, are we glorifying God or glorifying Satan? You decide which side you will be standing on.
Reason no. 7: Watching horror movies is a waste of time
While it is true that horror movies can be entertaining, it does not accomplish anything. Of course, I’m not saying that enjoying life and having fun is bad. Not at all.
My point here is that horror movies do not provide a healthy means of entertainment. They just mess up with our emotions, thinking, and even health.
At the end of the movie, we don’t feel edified and encouraged.
We must be wise with how we spend our God-given, precious time. We must be responsible stewards of the limited time that we have. Instead of watching horror movies, we can have fun and at the same time obtain more benefits that improve our overall life.
Isn’t that a better way to have fun?
We read in Ephesians 5:16:
“See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, REDEEMING THE TIME, because the days are evil.”
We have wasted so much time, and we must redeem it, not waste it. Our time on earth is limited. Once it’s gone, it’s gone forever. You can NEVER it back.
Thus, it behooves us that we must ensure that how we spend our time brings us closer to God.
Final Words
After reading the reasons mentioned here in this blog, do you still want to watch horror movies? Are you now having second thoughts of hitting that play button? Hopefully, your answer is yes.
Our conscience can be seared with hot iron. If watching horror movies does not bother your conscience anymore, then you need to go before God and ask for His help.
Watching horror movies is and will never be acceptable for Christians. We might try to rationalize and justify our wrong choice of entertainment, but it will never change the fact that horror movies do have negative effects on us, both physically and SPIRITUALLY.
So, the next time your friends thought of watching a horror movie, I hope you make a stand. Don’t be partakers of the works of darkness. Stand your ground and flee if necessary. God will reward you for that!
Becoming Christians 
You made 7 strong points very clear..
I totally agree.. It is an open door to evil spirits to steal, kill, and destroy!
Pure Flix is offering a one month free subscription.. Pure sounds good 🙂
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Thanks for your comment. I hope more Christians and even non-believers see how we must avoid horror movies. We don’t have Pure Flix in our country, but I hope it offers good and edifying movies. 🙂
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I have saved your blog and re-read it oftenly, I have learned to discern what is pleasing to God, I wish my family who profess to be Christian s would believe your warnings,thank you so much for your concern for the believers . In Christ alone love lorelei
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THANK YOU SO MUCH JOSH, I have saved your article for futur reference, excellent, I just wish my family would heed your advice do you have a book on this I can buy
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You’re welcome! I’m glad that the article is helpful for you and hopefully to your family as well. As of now, I don’t have a book on this topic.
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Well written, nice article. Recently in my life as a Christian I had to get rid of shows that I used to think were fun and cool… like the Walking Dead and Game of Thrones… but for many of the same reasons in your article I realized I could not pursue a close relationship with Christ and still love the world.
James 4:4 “You adulterous people! Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Therefore whoever wishes to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God.”
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I totally agree with your point about sexually-enticing movies, whether horror or western, but I think you’re missing the amount of horror in the Bible. You might find this interesting reading: http://amzn.to/2DleYcB
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IN THE NAME OF OUR/MY LORD JESUS CHRIST, I HAVE COMPLETELY STOPPED WATCHING HORROR MOVIES.
GOD BLESS ALL OF US
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What are your thoughts on Ted Dekker books? He’s a Christian
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I’m not too familiar with his books and I just Googled his name. From what I see, he is writing thriller and horror novels.
Now, it does not mean that a person is a Christian just because he claims to be one. The elements of darkness will never be able to mix with the elements of light. A Christian should shun away from any appearance of evil and that includes writing about horror novels.
Kind regards,
Joshua
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It’s so disrespectful to assume someone isnt a christian just because they dont match your idea of christianity. As a Christian you should be accepting, not gatekeeping.
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Hi Celeste,
What is really disrepectful is for a person to call himself/herself a Christian but not doing God’s commandments.
As a Christian, we should test what is good and not accept anything that comes our way.
Regards,
Joshua
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Before i went to this my favorite genre was horror.How i got to this site was (sorry FaZe Rug no offence)i was watching this clip on Youtube called “I recorded myself sleeping at my haunted house & caught this on camera..(REAL GHOST ACTIVITY) And it was him and his cousin sleeping at a haunted house with camera’s all around. I was just at the end of the video when i had intuitions…i kept reminding myself about all those times my mother keeps on telling me that if i keep watching horror films…the devil will play tricks on you/your putting witch craft upon yourself and i decided to get help from the internet..when i came across this…After reading this i can no longer look at horror films and be excited. THANK U SO MUCH !!!!
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I’m glad you have decided to give up horror movies, Michael. 🙂
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Yes, Josh. You are so right.
I am a believer in the Lord Jesus but for some time now, i noticed that I just love watching horror movies a lot. I actually watched Annebelle: Creation yesterday. The movie even depicted demonic “powers” defeating the power of God which is a great impossibility. It can never happen!
But i just asked myself if believers should watch horror movies and that is why i googled and found your website. Thank God that God moved my heart in seeking out this. I have decided not to defile myself with horror movies again.
May God deliver all believers who watch horror movies from their demonic grip. AMEN!
God bless you, brother Josh.
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Thanks for your message, Linda. You know that not all people like this post. They would rather find ways to justify watching horror movies. I’m glad to know that you have seen the evil of watching horror movies and why Christians should avoid them. May we continue filling our minds with the thoughts of God.
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The thing about horror is that it’s an artform. People express themselves through horror, and it can be a way to speak about their own life experiences through symbolism, instead of actually putting themselves out there. True horror—the kind that people put effort into and make to tell a story, not get money—is just as valid as any other art form. It’s meant to address human instincts and fears, which are a real part of the experience of being human. Also, getting scared with friends (or alone) is meant to be a form of entertainment—everyone involved knows it’s fiction. There’s a real person with real feelings behind the making of horror films and stories; not everything can be attributed to Satan.
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Another reason to avoid these movies is that people are always inclined, on a deep level, to do what they see. Thats why commercials are repeated over and over. so, if you watch cruelty, you are more inclined to cruelty yourself. In short, horror movies attract the evil one!
Avoid at all times!!!!
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Thanks for that additional input, Fatima. 🙂
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I guess that means if I keep watching science videos on YouTube, I’ll change my major from English to Biology?
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It depends on you.
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It means you will have a lot of knowledge on science… You know..u won’t be left out with nothing to say at any science discussions.
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That was a perfect reply-Esther!!
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It looks like they don’t realize that for a demon to come from any horror movie they have to let the movie have power. It only becomes demonic if you give it that power. The answers I’ve read they are so blinded by their own faith that if they turn the corner the Devil will be there to greet them.
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My girlfriend says she doesn’t like horror movies, she says she likes “thriller” movies, but when she tells me what she watches I know they are one and the same. We have only been dating for a short time, and I really like her, and she is a Christian. How can I gently tell her this is wrong? I know she likes those movies, but the time is coming when she will ask me to watch one with her. I know I will have to say no. I just wish she shared my perspective. Any advice on how to handle this situation? This was a very good article by the way.
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Hi Sam!
Glad to hear about your zeal, Sam. I know this can be hard, but it is important to stick to your principle and I strongly believe, she will respect you more because of that.
You mentioned that she’s a Christian so I would assume she believes her Bible. If you explain why horror movies are bad and support it with scriptures, then I would say, she would be able to understand.
Perhaps, you can let her read this article first to strike a conversation about it. Point out that there are more edifying and fun movies out there – the one that will make you laugh and smile instead of making you scream and fearful.
Another thing you can do is suggest doing other things instead of watching movies. There are other godly activities that you can do instead of watching horror movies.
I know this needs wisdom and you would need God’s help in this situation. Pray to God and ask Him to show you what you need to do. Ask Him as well to touch your girlfriends heart and would share the same perspective as you have.
Let me know how it turns out, Sam.
Regards,
Joshua
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I enjoyed reading this article. I will admit that I have watched a number of gameplay videos that have live audio commentary in them (they’re called ‘Let’s Plays’) and a few of them that I have watched are about a horror videogame series called ‘Five Nights At Freddy’s’. The games themselves were created by a man named Scott Cawthon. Mr. Cawthon claims to be a Christian, which would normally be fine, but the fact that he has created a horror video game series bothers me.
Please note that I am not judgmental, nor do I try to be, but it does bother me nontheless. I’m even more bothered now, since reading this article.
Now I wholeheartedly agree with everything said in this article. I have never liked horror films, or horror video games, and I try to find other videos and video games that are better entertainment-wise, but I do find it somewhat unnerving that someone who claims to be Christian has created a video game series that does the EXACT opposite of edifying and glorifying Christ. Again, I’m not trying to be judgmental; I’m just saying that it bothers me.
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Hi Heather,
It is only natural for you to feel bothered. Actually, it is good that you are being bothered. It means that the Holy Spirit is still active in your life. The problem is when your conscience is seared with hot iron and you don’t feel bothered anymore when you see something that isn’t godly.
I do hope that more and more Christians see that importance of avoiding evil-inspired entertainment and start living a life in the light of God.
Cheers,
Joshua
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I am not a fan of Five Nights at Freddy’s either but FNAF is one of the very few video game franchises in its genre that doesn’t contain bloodshed, gruesome images, anti-religion messages or even foul language. While the game, features haunted animatronics with a lot of jumpscares, there’s actually nothing more! The latest installment of this series (called Five Nights at Freddy’s: Security Breach) is even much more child-friendly than the previous titles. FNAF is nothing compared to famous horror games such as Poppy Playtime, Choo-Choo Charles and etc.
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Please pray for my parents and loved ones. They aren’t saved. Also, they don’t see anything wrong with horror movies. Honestly, you are able to feel demons in those movies. Could you make an article on today’s music? When I was in school (Middle and high school) they’d play stuff like Lady Gaga. In band (7th) and music (8th) and on the bus. Also, in art class. I’m telling you that you could feel demons coming from that music. It had an impact on my depression and made it worse. The band/music teacher asked if anyone didn’t like it but I was too afraid to say anything for I would have been beat up if I took their music. The bullying was severe enough already.
Please make an article to warn against this new music. While it’s true demons are in those horror films they also are in today’s music.
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Hi Michelle,
I’m sorry to hear about your experience.
Yes, you’re right. The fingerprint of Satan is almost everywhere especially in the entertainment industry.
I’ll do my best to write an article as well about music. As of now, you can make a difference in your life. Though you might not be able to change other people, I’m sure you can make decisions now to avoid these satanic entertainment.
Stay close to God and always pray. By doing so, you get to battle against this evil influence.
Regards,
Joshua
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This was a blessing. I used to watch horror movies and after watching them there was always this haunted feeling in my spirit. I knew it was coming from the horrow movies. But there was always a crave to go back and watch another. However God opened my eyes and gave me strength to overcome the temptation of going back to watching them and now I don’t even think about them anymore. By the way your article has shed some light on the issue. Thanks for sharing.
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Hi Rodcliffe!
I’m glad that you were able to overcome the urge to watch horror movies. I do hope more people see the danger of watching this type of movie.
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Interesting. There are non believers who don’t like horror films because they believe they are Christian Propaganda. I will say, a lot of horror films dig deep into biblical themes and provide us with some incredible stories about good vs evil, and in many of those movies, good prevails and because good prevails in most horror films, I do not see them as glorifying Satan.
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I was watching paranormal shows from Hong Kong. Even though I am a Christian, watching the paranormal shows brought back lots of ungodly superstitions. I also became more spooked when the lights were off, a thought which I never had before I watched those shows. It was rather unusual because as believers, we should have authority over the against the rulers of the darkness of this world. These shows are a bad influence and a tool for Satan to plant deceptions into our minds. The breaking point came when there were two distinct knocks on the shelf. I ignored the first knock but it returned again. That was when I knew that what I was watching opened the door to evil. I then stumbled upon this article and quickly repented from what I was watching. Everything which happened definitely made me think twice about watching horror flicks.
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Thanks for your comment, Ivan!
Yes, it is dangerous to dabble with the dark side even if it only involves watching horror movies.
A big part of what goes in our mind through our eyes are retained in our brain. The bad images linger long in our mind and it has a huge effect in us especially when we watch horror movies all the time.
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Great post thaank you
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Thank you, Michael.
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Hey Joshua,
My name is Maia, and I am a high school student who is legally blind. I have been commenting on some Christian blogs over the past few months. I have just stopped by your website to check out your article.
Thank you for your great insights on matters related to our entertainment choices, and how they affect our daily walk with Jesus Christ. I will gladly take these words of wisdom into consideration.
Scripture tells us that the mind is the battleground. If there is anything that Satan is truly after, it’s the mind. A negative, evil thought is nothing but poison to the soul. But, a legion of dark influence is nothing more than a treacherous virus that feeds on the lusts of the wicked heart. While I have not actually watched horror films (or at least paid attention to them in detail), I can see where you are coming from. There is nothing that delights Satan more than the perfect opportunity to gain a foothold in the life of a Christian. Let us allow the Holy Spirit to conform our hearts to walk the path to the light of Jesus Christ, and rebuke and detest everything associated with the dark realm.
Here is a Google Slides presentation I put together regarding the mind and the spiritual realm.
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1rFj7TuRryyzUYRx9imTSoIEHNGxe8A9pNXe4TOMR_OI/edit?usp=drivesdk
I looking forward to reading and commenting on future blog posts from you. I will be glad to pray for you, and endourage you during these challenging times.
May we grow in our walk with Christ as we stand strong against Satan! 🙂
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Thanks Maia for sharing your thoughts. It’s good to see more and more people coming to realization that it is not good for us to watch horror movies.
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🙂
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Thank you for putting it together easy to understand.
I was with my “Christian husband” 17 years. He went to church Sunday and acted the perfect person infront of his family. Until he got home. He is obsessed with drug lord series with high level porn/sexual violence/prostitution/Lust. Now he is also watching occult type movies about witches and satanic stuff.
He abused alcohol very badly as well as drugs. His moods were all over the place and he was abusive. He lied to my face daily (pathalogical liar) and still does now. Then he cheated. His behaviour drove me away. We were oil and water, light and dark. I have my sins but I do not watch porn, violence, drink and break the law, leave my family to go out and get drunk a few times a week, refuse to accept it was a problem.. I didn’t abuse him, I spent my best years trying to help him and raise our kids. When I left he got even worse. Because I am not there to point out watching horror and occult is wrong. I hate handing our young girls over to him because he is clearly sick and possessed. His family think he is a good christian boy. They have never had his drunk sneering face in yours laughing and calling you names while you cry and beg him to go away. Seriously demonic.
Please pray with me for my ex husband. To be delivered from demonic influence, to desire to truly know and follow God. Please pray he would reap what he has sown, that he would learn from his terrible ways. That he would choose to REPENT and truly follow Christ. He is stuck in the sins of the world since he was young. It breaks my heart. I have shown him these types of articles in the pastas well as Gods word, but it doesn’t change him. He is getting worse now 😦
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I believe his church taught him differently. He has been guided by false teachers. He must understand what truly is SIN.
I hope his heart will be touched.
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Hey Joshua,
I have a question. What are your views about war films from a spiritual perspectives? I had to watch three war films for my history class this semester.
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I do agree with a lot of what you said however, there are scary movies out there that are clean fun. I don’t watch horror movies like I used to but when I did, there were many I had to stop watching. I felt guilty watching them.
They were too horrible. Howeverr, there have been scary movies that I didn’t feel wrong watching. If a scary movie isn’t gruesome, violent, doesn’t have explicit sexual scenes, and foul language then I believe they are ok to watch even if they are scary. A movie doesn’t have to be gruesome or violent to be scary.
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I am still going to watch horror movies! this who “holy than thou” is why I do not believe God is a specific religion! watching any horror movie just creates another prayer request, or bible study time!
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I think turning on the news these days is the true horror. These films are fiction but the real evil is out there every day through mass shootings, war, to judging anyone who doesn’t think like you do.
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We live in a world ruled by Satan. Thus, we see a lot of these negative things, from movies to even in churches.
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Hmmm…my world is run by God. And he lives inside of me as well. I constantly pray to do his will and work on my spiritual fitness. I can sleep at night just fine because of my faith.
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That’s nice to know, Laurie. 🙂
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I’m so happy and relieved that I came across your article.Lol how ironic that I was watching ‘as above,so below’ horror movie today.I was so terrified after that whole movie experience and I was watching alone.I used to watch horror movies since primary school,I think it was an addiction of entertainment and never had knowledge about since my 20s.
My 2023 resolution is no more horror movies,yhooo negative emotions are real guys,I have been suffering emotionally and mentally.
Keep it up Joshua for your self awareness about Christianity.
God bless you.
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Thanks for sharing your experience, Alizwa. 🙂
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Hi. I am not a Christian, but I really enjoyed your article. Anyone with a common sense, would agree with your points, not just Christians! It is also worth mentioning, that from a scientific perspective; horror movies and true crime stories stimulate fear and anxiety which in turn release two hormones called adrenaline and cortisol. Both of these hormones are extremely addictive and can be found in many illegal drugs! That’s why people who tend to watch horror movies and scary stories are addicted to watching them, without even knowing it. While the human body releases these hormones naturally, watching horror movies will release an unnatural and abnormal amount of these hormones in a short period of time, causing psychological and physiological problems such as sleeping disorder, sweaty palms, tense muscles, a drop in skin temperature, a spike in blood pressure and an increased heart rate & so on. Also similarly, sexual scenes trigger another hormone called dopamine which is much more addictive than the previous hormones and can cause serious problems to the mind and body. As you’ve mentioned earlier we have a limited amount of time, available in our lives, and instead of wasting it with hormone syndromes (horror movies, sexual scenes & etc) we can have both fun and a good night’s sleep 🙂
God bless
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Thanks for sharing your thoughts, Ken. 🙂
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