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I like watching Charmed on WB, but I'm wondering about it because it's about witchcraft. Is this an OK show to watch, since I'm still shaky in my relationship with God?
—Heidi

The issue of witchcraft in entertainment has been heavily debated by Christians since Harry Potter started taking over the number one spot in bookstores and movie theaters. The Bible warns us to have nothing to do with any kind of evil, including witchcraft (Deuteronomy 18:9-13; Galatians 5:19-21). Unfortunately, shows like Charmed and Buffy can make witchcraft look fun and empowering in real life. That's a dangerous deception.

Does that mean we should stay away from any work of fiction that uses witchcraft and wizardry as part of the story?

Some Christians say, "Why entertain yourself with stories about evil things?" Others say, "The world inside a story isn't the real world. It's fine for a writer to use those things to make a bigger point." Witches and wizards even show up in some stories many Christians love, like The Chronicles of Narnia and The Lord of the Rings.

I encourage people to always compare the worldview of their entertainment with the Bible's view on things. But that would be hard to do if you don't know the Bible very well. Here's my suggestion: Take a break from Charmed and concentrate instead on getting closer to God and better acquainted with his Word.

I'd like to watch Christian movies with my non-Christian friends. But I'm worried that they'd see me as "too religious" if I do. Are there any movies that would help me share the gospel, yet keep me from looking like a religious fanatic?
—Tiffany

Every time a new "Christian movie" is released, I feel both excited and nervous. I'm excited because a movie is a powerful way to reveal our biblical worldview while telling a great story. I get nervous because making good movies is extremely hard to do. Too many Christian films just don't work.

One exception is Extreme Days. It's not going to compete for any Oscars, but it's kind of fun and funny. It's got a little romance and touches on the serious issue of trying to trust God even though bad things happen.

However, few people will choose to trust in Christ from watching a "Christian movie." The best thing about watching a movie with friends—even a secular movie —is talking about it afterward. It's a great chance for you to explain how your beliefs fit (or don't) into the worldview of the film. Here are three movies that would work well for an after-movie discussion:

1. The Lord of the Rings. I couldn't think of a better springboard for a lively discussion on good vs. evil. (Video/DVD to be released August 1.)
   
   
2. Raiders of the Lost Ark. Sure it's hokey and pretty old, but one thing is clear: Indy respects the holiness and power of God, which is why he wouldn't look at the Ark at the end. Another great springboard for discussion.
   
   
3. Any of theStar Warsmovies. The whole idea of the Force having a good side and a dark side offers a great inroad to talking about spiritual truth and about a living God who is so much more than an "impersonal force."

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