Should Christians Watch Horror Movies?

Hope Bolinger Author
Updated Oct 30, 2024

As Halloween approaches, horror movies seem to dominate every corner of entertainment—whether through Netflix recommendations, TV specials, or trailers filling our social feeds. For many of us, this raises a challenging question: Should Christians watch horror movies, or do these films conflict with our faith?

Some Christians argue that horror films are a gateway to spiritual darkness, a playground for fear, and even tools of the devil. Others, however, suggest that certain horror films reflect deeper truths about the human condition, the battle between good and evil, and our need for redemption—perhaps even sparking conversations about faith with non-believers.

This article will explore both sides of the issue. We’ll look at the argument that Christians should avoid horror movies entirely, citing concerns about fear, demonic influence, and Scripture's warnings about guarding our hearts. On the other hand, we’ll also examine the perspective that, while many horror movies may be problematic, some can offer insight into spiritual truths—such as the reality of evil, the hope of salvation, and the ultimate triumph of light over darkness.

To find clarity, we’ll dive into key passages from the Bible, consider examples of different horror genres, and weigh the potential benefits and pitfalls of engaging with this type of media. Is it possible to enjoy a horror movie without compromising your faith? Or should we avoid them altogether as a way to honor God and guard our minds?

Argument 1: Christians Should Not Watch Horror Movies

Most on this side of the argument will point to Scriptures such as Ephesians 4:27, which tells Christians not to let the devil get a foothold.

By watching content about demonic powers and supernatural powers, we allow those powers potential foothold.

Furthermore, one can argue that these films often will show supernatural evil as the winner or portray evil in a more positive light. They can often glorify the occult, magic, and gore, all elements we should flee from. If we are to keep a pure mind and a clean heart, we shouldn’t risk tainting either of those by plaguing our mind and hearts with images of pure evil (Psalm 51:10).

These movies can also present a numbing effect that sears our consciences. When presented with so many images that glorify the triumph of evil, or portray excess violence and gore, our brains can normalize such images. We can grow emotionless to the shocking effects they ought to produce.

Will we be caught cheering when evil triumphs on the screen? Or calloused when yet another victim in the movie dies a horrifying death?

If we are to be thinking about whatever is excellent and praiseworthy (Philippians 4:8), does watching a movie which promotes the opposite prevent us from doing this?

One of the most common arguments against horror movies is rooted in the Bible’s repeated admonitions to avoid fear. 2 Timothy 1:7 reminds us, “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-discipline.” Watching films that intentionally generate fear seems to contradict this verse. Additionally, Philippians 4:8 urges believers to dwell on things that are true, noble, right, pure, and praiseworthy—qualities that many horror films seem to lack.

But is fear inherently sinful? Some argue that fear can be a tool to point us toward God, especially in moments where we confront our own mortality or the consequences of evil. In this way, some horror films may encourage viewers to wrestle with existential questions about life, death, and what comes after—a conversation that could open the door to spiritual reflection or even evangelism.

Argument 2: Some Horror Movies are Okay

Of course, we do have to keep in mind that some movie makers who produce horror, are, in fact, Christian.

In fact, one of horror’s most influential filmmakers follows Christ. Scott Derickson has worked on films such as Sinister, The Exorcism of Emily Rose, Hellraiser: Inferno, and Deliver Us From Evil.

Derickson, like Frank Peretti in This Present Darkness, likes to tackle themes of supernatural powers head-on, from a Christian perspective. In an interview with Relevant, Derickson nods to how C.S. Lewis tackles similar themes in Screwtape Letters, and used C.S. Lewis as an influence on the plot of one of his flicks.

If we are to avoid horror films, we have to evaluate the other media we consume (such as Christian books that may tackle horrific themes). In addition to Christian media, we have to evaluate all other forms of media that we consume. Will we avoid movies with swear words because they do not cause us to think of purified things or movies that glorify acts of sex or violence?

Interestingly, some horror films have narratives that align with biblical principles. Stories about the triumph of good over evil, the power of sacrificial love, or the consequences of sin mirror spiritual realities. Movies like A Quiet Place convey themes of self-sacrifice and the importance of family, while The Exorcism of Emily Rose raises questions about the existence of spiritual warfare and the need for faith.

These films can serve as conversation starters, allowing believers to engage with non-Christians in discussions about fear, evil, and redemption. For some, horror becomes a tool to demonstrate that the Christian worldview offers the ultimate answer to fear—Jesus’ victory over sin and death.

What Can Horror Films Teach Us About Sin, Evil, and Spirituality?

Horror films can offer surprising insights into sin, evil, and spirituality, acting as modern parables that explore moral dilemmas and the human condition. While some horror films may glorify fear or violence, others reveal deeper truths about the reality of evil, the consequences of sin, and the spiritual battle that Christians believe is happening around us.

The Reality of Evil

Horror films often bring evil and darkness into sharp focus, making it impossible to ignore the presence of moral corruption and suffering in the world. Movies that feature supernatural or psychological horror highlight the battle between good and evil, mirroring the Bible’s teaching that evil is real and active in the world (Ephesians 6:12). These films can remind viewers that sin is not a trivial matter but one that causes destruction in our lives, as emphasized throughout Scripture.

For example, films like The Exorcism of Emily Rose or The Conjuring focus on themes of spiritual warfare, reflecting the biblical narrative of demonic forces and God's power over them (Mark 5:1-20). Such movies provide a stark reminder that Christians are engaged in a spiritual battle and need to remain alert to the influence of sin and temptation in their lives (1 Peter 5:8).

Sin and Its Consequences

Many horror films explore the theme of sin and its destructive impact—both on the individual and the community. In films where characters make morally questionable choices, we often see how small compromises lead to greater consequences, echoing James 1:15, which states that "after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death." This concept reflects the way that sin grows over time when left unchecked, ultimately leading to spiritual and emotional death.

Some movies depict moral decay or personal guilt, much like the biblical concept of sin as something that corrupts from the inside out. Psychological thrillers, for example, often explore characters haunted by guilt, fear, or unresolved trauma, which can serve as a metaphor for the consequences of unrepented sin.

Spiritual Reflection and Redemption

Though horror films often portray dark themes, many also include moments of hope, redemption, or self-sacrifice—reflecting biblical truths about grace and salvation. Movies like A Quiet Place highlight sacrificial love, showing how characters risk everything for their families, echoing the biblical teaching that "there is no greater love than to lay down one's life for one's friends" (John 15:13).

These narratives can inspire viewers to reflect on how they confront fear and evil in their own lives. In some cases, horror movies also raise existential questions about life, death, and the afterlife, creating opportunities for spiritual conversations. For believers, such reflections can serve as reminders that Christ’s victory over sin and death provides the ultimate answer to fear (1 Corinthians 15:57).

Discernment and Moral Lessons

Horror films challenge viewers to think about moral choices, empathy, and human frailty. They encourage discernment—the ability to distinguish right from wrong—even when the lines are blurred. Just as the Apostle Paul instructs believers to “test everything; hold fast to what is good” (1 Thessalonians 5:21), watching films that explore difficult topics can prompt us to evaluate our own faith and values.

Christians, Have Discernment When it Comes to Horror

Not all horror films are created equal. There are different genres within horror—some are focused on psychological thrillers, others on supernatural elements, and some rely purely on gore and shock value. Discernment is key when engaging with media. Just as the Apostle Paul urged believers to “test everything and hold on to what is good” (1 Thessalonians 5:21), Christians can evaluate the content of a film to see whether it aligns with their faith values or subtly undermines them.

Horror is a tricky genre, fraught with glorifications of evil. I have provided a few possible solutions below, but keep in mind not all of these criteria will work for every Christian. If a Christian feels a certain conviction (toward whether they should or should not watch a horror movie) they should follow the conviction of the Holy Spirit.

Solution One: Peruse Christian movie review websites prior to watching a certain horror flick. PluggedIn is a known resource of Christian movie reviews, including movies of the horror genre.

Solution Two: Analyze a plot summary or ask a friend who has seen the movie. How does the movie portray evil? Does it glorify it? Is the violence used in the flick senseless, or does it try to shed light on a certain issue? Read up on the directors’ backgrounds and why he or she decided to create this film. Are they anti-Christian in purpose, or do they, like Derickson, want to bring even Christianity to a very dark genre?

Solution Three: Pray about it. Ask if God wants you to see this particular film or to sit out the genre for a while. For some of us, we may not want to expose our minds to the genre in general, but for others, we could be enlightened to spiritual truths or think about the problem of evil in a new light.

Solution Four: If you find yourself desensitized to the gore or jarring elements portrayed in the movie, consider sitting out the genre for a while. As Christians, we do not want to lose our compassion and empathy.

Overall, seek the Holy Spirit’s guidance. The problem of evil isn’t something we should take lightly, but we can see even Christ in the darkest of places. Yes, possibly even in a horror movie. Ultimately, whether or not a Christian chooses to watch horror movies is a matter of personal conviction. Just as some believers feel freedom to drink wine in moderation, while others abstain entirely, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. However, it’s essential to exercise discernment, ensuring that whatever we watch doesn’t lead us away from God or open doors to spiritual harm.

At the end of the day, the goal of the Christian life is to glorify God in all we do—including what we watch. Whether we enjoy a movie with a few jump scares or choose to avoid the horror genre altogether, the question we must ask is: Does this draw me closer to Christ, or does it lead me away from Him?

As Halloween approaches and the horror movies keep coming, may we seek wisdom from the Holy Spirit to guide our decisions and remind us that perfect love drives out all fear.

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