Navigating Disney: A Christian Perspective

In this article, we explore how Christians should view Disney amidst concerns about its shift in content and influence on children.

How Should Christians View Disney?

When Walt Disney started his small company in Los Angeles in 1923, no one could have predicted the immense success and influence it would have on the world. Today, the Walt Disney Company and its subsidiaries, such as Walt Disney Animated Films and Pixar, have produced over 500 projects for the screen, along with thousands of books, toys, and memorabilia. Disney theme parks like Disneyland and Disney World attract millions of visitors each year, making Disney one of the top-grossing businesses in the world.

Disney has long been known for its appeal to children, providing safe and wholesome entertainment. However, in recent years, there have been concerns among Christian leaders and family values watchdogs about Disney's direction. Some argue that Disney is moving away from the Judeo-Christian worldview and reflecting the increasingly immoral culture we live in. So, how should Christians view Disney in light of these concerns?

The Shift in Disney's Content

Over the past couple of decades, there has been a subtle shift in Disney's content. While the classic Disney movies of the past, like Snow White and Pinocchio, portrayed positive moral values and taught important life lessons, some recent Disney productions have raised concerns among Christian parents.

One area of concern is the creation of a "princess culture." With the introduction of the Disney Princess brand in 2000, young girls have been encouraged to see themselves as princesses, reinforcing negative stereotypes and unrealistic expectations. While Disney has tried to diversify its princess characters in recent years, the princess culture may contribute to a sense of entitlement and low self-image among young girls.

Another issue is Disney's open support for the LGBTQ agenda. Since the early 1990s, Disney has openly supported homosexual issues. This support has been seen in various forms, from hosting gay pride parades to including LGBTQ characters in their shows. While some argue that Disney is merely reflecting the real world, others believe that these themes are inappropriate for children's entertainment.

Additionally, Disney has been criticized for its favorable portrayals of non-Christian religious practices. Movies like Pocahontas have promoted New Age beliefs and Native American religion, while others have included references to paganism and shamanism.

Assessing the Impact on Children

Supporters of Disney argue that the inclusion of these elements does not negate the positive values and role models Disney offers. They believe that children are exposed to a wide range of influences today and that Disney's questionable themes do not have a significant impact on children's development. They also emphasize that parents have the choice to decide what their children watch and can avoid content they deem inappropriate.

However, as Christians, we have a responsibility to be discerning about the media we consume and expose our children to. While it may be tempting to trust the Disney brand blindly, we must remember that Disney is a worldly, for-profit company that may not align with our values.

Guiding Our Children's Moral Development

As parents, it is our responsibility to guide our children's moral and spiritual development. We cannot delegate this task to the television or movie screen. Instead, we must actively engage with our children, discussing the content they consume and helping them discern truth from error.

One of the best ways to cultivate a strong moral compass in our children is by immersing them in God's Word from an early age. Reading and studying the Bible together with our children allows us to teach them God's truth and help them develop a biblical worldview. We can use the teachings and stories from the Bible to compare with the values portrayed in Disney movies, encouraging critical thinking and discernment.

Furthermore, we must be aware of the potential impact of media on our children and have open conversations with them about what they watch. By discussing the messages and themes in Disney movies and shows, we can help our children understand the difference between entertainment and the values we hold as Christians.

It is also important to remember that our children look to us as role models. As parents, we must lead by example and demonstrate discernment in our own choices. If we choose not to support Disney due to our convictions, we should communicate these reasons honestly and consistently to our children.

Conclusion

As Christians, we should view Disney, and any other form of media, with discernment. While Disney has produced many beloved and timeless classics, we cannot ignore the concerns raised by its shift in content. We must be proactive in guiding our children's moral and spiritual development, using the Bible as our ultimate source of truth.

Ultimately, the decision about whether or not to support Disney is a matter of personal conviction. Parents should prayerfully consider the impact of Disney's content on their children and make informed decisions accordingly. We must remember that our primary goal is to raise children who love and follow Christ, and that requires intentional and discerning parenting in all areas of life, including entertainment choices.

As we navigate the challenges of raising children in a world that often contradicts our values, let us rely on God's wisdom and guidance. May we be diligent in teaching our children to discern truth from error and to live according to God's Word, even in the face of worldly influences.