How should Christians analyze Art from other Worldviews?

As art, media, and entertainment of all forms continue to hold the world’s attention and demand to be taken seriously, it is essential to recognize the authentic perspective that is behind each work. As believers consume the works of the world, whether it be for pleasure or education, we must reflect on what each piece of media means from a Christ-like perspective. 

Feeling the impact that a piece of media from another worldview has on us and attempting to understand it is not something that Christians should be afraid of, as we are not of this world but still engage with it to understand and reach others. However, if something impacts a Christian in a way that alters their perspective of themselves or reality in a significant way, then they should take it to the Lord to figure out if this revelation works in tandem with His will or against it.

Does it align with Scripture?

Gaining a new perspective from anything that causes you to question what you have known is not inherently bad, but you must make sure that Christ’s truth is guiding you through the process of understanding and not your emotions. For example, a piece of media that encourages the audience to take more agency over their lives and strive for personal growth might seem inspirational, but if it is based on an ultimately nihilistic worldview rather than a desire to serve Christ, then it is not necessarily something that believers should apply directly to their perspective. While the aspects of maturity and discipline might be appealing, it should not be imitated exactly if it encourages a different style of living and interaction with others than what God has intended for us. On the other hand, if a piece of media encourages building relationships with others despite the risks of rejection and pain in a way that is applicable to anybody regardless of their worldview, then believers are welcome to be inspired by it as long as they are taking that advice in a direction that is consistent with Scripture. Romans 12:2 tells us, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” This passage serves as a reminder that regardless of how we personally feel impacted by something of the world, we cannot allow it to take our eyes off of God’s will and make us listen to what the world is whispering.

Is it Discerning to Consume?

Another way in which Christians should analyze art from other worldviews is by reflecting on whether or not they are using discernment by consuming it. Even if a piece of media has a compelling or impactful message, it might not be worth experiencing if it contains content that goes against what God intends for us to expose ourselves to and fill our minds with. A piece of media could have very engaging drama and an effective narrative, but if it also displays blatant and possibly graphic elements of immorality that the audience is expected to remain immersed in, then believers should ponder if it is worth enduring and if they feel personally convicted. Philippians 1:9-10 makes this clear when it states, “And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ.” While it is true that each believer may personally feel convicted by things differently, we are all called to honor Christ with what we choose to let into our lives and influence our thoughts. Even if they are not explicitly being praised by the media itself in its greater context, the consumption of worldly characteristics could lead to temptation or unwise actions if it goes unchecked. 

How to apply Accountability?

Even though many Christians will likely have different interests when it comes to the art and media that they consume, the ways in which they hold each other to the standards that Christ has set should be consistent. Brothers and sisters in Christ should be quick to engage one another when conviction takes hold from what they have taken part in, as stirring in one’s own emotions will likely cause them to analyze and process more of what was causing the initial conviction. Ephesians 4:25 says, “Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body.” This is exactly what must take place between believers if one feels that something they have experienced is causing them to stumble. We often try to make justifications for things that make us feel good, but we must ultimately surrender our hearts to Christ so that we can be influenced by His truth and relative content that attempt to bring us back to it. When you find yourself in situations where you are struggling to get your mind off of art that does not glorify Christ, try to think of your favorite pieces of art that do, or at least manage to showcase and reaffirm His majesty. We here at ThankGod.com take pride in the level of artistry that goes into creating our Christian apparel, so we anticipate that our faith-based clothing will serve as an ideal way for you to wear your faith and encourage others with it.

What should be done?

Ultimately, the world will never stop making content for people of all walks of life to analyze and evaluate, but this does not mean that Christians should ever lower their guard and simply consume whatever is culturally relevant without being wary of what it contains. The enemy is always looking for opportunities to catch us when we are unprepared, as stated in 1 Peter 5:8-9: “Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings.” This reinforces that when approaching works of the world and the many lifestyles that it embodies, that we must employ the use of the wisdom and shrewdness that Christ has blessed us with as His followers.