I am sure that almost everyone in the world has heard about Netflix. The company was started in 1997 and has since grown into a global brand. As of 2024, Netflix had more than 269 million subscribers globally. As you would expect, millions of these clients are probably Christians. Committed believers may wonder if watching Netflix is a sin.
So, is it a sin to watch Netflix?
No, watching Netflix is not necessarily a sin but it depends on the content being aired. As a company focused on maximizing profits and satisfying its audience, Netflix streams all kinds of films, some of which are unacceptable for any serious believer. Why would a believer who wants to grow more in the character of Christ as required in Ephesians 4:22-25 find pleasure in a program that explicitly promotes ideas that contradict God’s will? While Netflix has some Christian movies, they are only a fraction of the other films that perpetuate values that violate God’s precepts.
Four Reasons Why a Christian Should Not Watch Movies on Netflix.
From the onset, let me clarify something here. It is not necessary about Netflix, but any platform that provides the same service. If Netflix turns its business model to a purely Christian platform, I will come back and recommend it. For now, here are convincing reasons why you should not watch Netflix.
1. Watching Netflix movies inspires vulgarity
For reasons known more by Americans than anyone else, profanity seems like something they enjoy doing. Nearly every film and TV show contains cussing words. As believers, we are reminded in Ephesians 5:25, not to utter worthless and abusive words. Sitting for hours listening to actors and actresses cussing each other will undoubtedly inspire you to do the same.
2. Netflix promotes casual sex
As believers, we should never fall into the trap of thinking that a particular sin is somehow acceptable when repeated many times. Most programs, including those streamed on Netflix, contain scenes that promote sexual immorality. Some people might argue that such scenes are simulated and that a believer does not sin by watching them, but think about the ideas you learn from such films. Typically, Satan influences us and establishes strongholds through the principle of repetition. The more time we spend watching films with sex scenes and other sins, the easier it becomes for us to commit them. I am not saying that watching an erotic episode on Netflix will culminate in adultery or fornication, but Psalm 1:1 states that we should not sit with wicked people.
3. Netflix may be permissible but not beneficial.
Let’s even assume that the movies a believer chooses on Netflix or any other platform are not replete with nudity, cussing words, and sexual immortality. In Paul 1 Corinthians, Paul exhorts us to pursue what’s beneficial even if everything is permissible. Spending hours in binge-watching is unwise for a believer.
4. Netflix movies dishonor our Savior.
Take a moment and think about the sacrifice Christ paid for us. The shame and humiliation He suffered when His accusers stripped Him. The anguish He endured when carrying the heavy cross. Are you done? Now imagine that Netflix has the audacity to air a movie called The First Temptation of Christ, which portrays our sinless Savior as gay! You see? As believers, the name of Jesus is our treasure. It is through this Name that we are saved, and we should never sit pretty and laugh sheepishly while evil filmmakers associate it with anything God considers sinful.
Possible Contrary views
Some people might oppose any attempt to portray Netflix as unsuitable for Christians using various facts. Some may feel that the Bible, which is the authoritative word of God, does not explicitly forbid movies and Netflix for that matter. Others might argue that a believer can safely use Netflix by avoiding controversial films. Still, others could maintain that we’re saved through Grace, not works.
Conclusion
While the views are valid, Christians should remember that the Holy Spirit is available to teach us “all things” (John 14:26). The idea that one can filter unwanted programs sounds logical but the subtle nature characterizing the marketing of films, coupled with human vulnerability to temptations, raises doubts as to how many Christians can overcome the pressure.
