Should there be restrictions on TV programs, music, or any other form of entertainment? (Jun. ’01)
He Said by Farris Baba
I personally think that the programs of today are going way too far, and it is getting out of hand. We are sending a message to our youth that it is okay to follow the lead of some of today's stars. The song lyrics of today are sending a message that it is okay to rebel, and it is okay to go out and be a "pimp." All these songs of today talk about sex, drugs, and money. Where does it say in the Scriptures that it is lawful under God's command to do these acts of corruption? And have you heard some of the lyrics to the rap songs or the alternative songs? Every other line contains some use of obscene language. Would you listen to the songs of today in front of your parents, or better yet would you present them inside the Church? The videos shown on television are almost pornographic. They don't present any salvation for us. I'm not trying to criticize any individual, but have you seen some of the rap videos? It seems as if they were made up of a bunch of gang members. Or what about the alternative bands such as Mason? They look like they just got out of prison. The lyrics and videos of some of these songs should be revised or at least there should be some parental control.
Now that we have covered the musical industry, let's take a look at the television programs. I remember a high school coach who once said he would allow his kids to only watch Full House. I was laughing at that remark then, but the more I look at the programs of today, the more I realize that if I have kids I will restrict them from most of the programs. Take for instance wrestling. There is nothing but corruption. You have men beating each other senseless, and then at the ring side they have their playdolls barely clothed. Or what about the Christian programs on television? It's all about the money. "Show me da' money!" If you give us your money, God will reward you. That's exactly what these programs are relating to the public. Benny Hinn and my personal favorite, the Oasis of Love Church, have taken part of today's society and culture to make some cash. Anyone, and I do mean anyone, can take the Bible and interpret it into their own words.
I strongly believe that there should be restrictions made on entertainment programs. The question that needs to be asked is, What good can corruption from worldly affairs bring to our salvation?
She Said by Sylvia Araj
I think everyone's answer to this question would be yes, but it’s how far you would take it that varies for each individual. In our society, there are so many things that promote evil -- from billboards advertising gentlemen's clubs to the music we listen to and the movies and TV shows we watch. There is no escaping it. You can however cut down on how much you are exposed to.
I don't like listening to rap music because the majority of it has curse words and is talking about either killing or sex. This is when sin is allowed into your mind. You have an image of what you're singing about in your head, your mind starts to wonder about lustful and other immoral thoughts even though you don't mean to. Yeah, it might have a nice beat and you're in the mood to be hyped up, but there are other types of music. Instrumental versions to most songs are also available. I don't mean to just criticize rap, but it is the first type of music to pop into my head because of its popularity.
Movies and TV are the same way. I haven't reached the level where I can turn off Friends or not watch The Cider House Rules, but it’s the junky stuff like talk shows and dating shows that I see no point in watching. I mean do you really need to listen to other people's problems when you have your own to worry about? It’s things like these that take your focus off Christ. I, most of all, need to change the direction of my life from earthly wants and center it on the only thing that matters, salvation! Even if its something little like switching radio stations or turning off the TV, you win that battle against the Evil One and draw yourself closer to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.