Disney is one of the largest and most influential media companies in the world. As Christians, how should we view Disney and engage with its content? Here are some biblical principles to consider:
Be Discerning
The Bible tells us to be discerning about what we consume and allow to influence us. Philippians 4:8 says, “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.” Much of Disney’s content over the years has been relatively wholesome and family-friendly. However, some content promotes worldviews or values that may conflict with biblical principles. Christians should thoughtfully evaluate Disney movies, shows, theme parks, and products – enjoying what is good but being mindful of what may be inappropriate or misleading according to God’s truth (1 Thessalonians 5:21-22).
Guard Your Heart
The Bible instructs us to guard our hearts, because what we allow into our hearts and minds impacts how we think, feel and live. Proverbs 4:23 says, “Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life.” While Disney creates imaginative stories and fantasy worlds that can captivate our emotions, we must be careful what we internalize and not allow entertainment to distort reality or become idols in our heart. Disney themes often emphasize following your heart’s desires, achieving dreams and “being who you are meant to be”. But Scripture shows our hearts are fallen and deceitful (Jeremiah 17:9). Our identity and purpose is found in Christ alone (Galatians 2:20).
Avoid Being Conformed to the World
Romans 12:2 warns us not to be conformed to the patterns and priorities of this world. Disney films often reflect and promote cultural trends, worldly philosophies, and self-focused values that contradict Biblical principles. For example, many films feature magic and sorcery prohibited in Scripture (Deuteronomy 18:10), promote environmentalism/universalism (exalting nature over the Creator), glamorize ambition/greed and feature LGBTQ characters or themes that normalize sinful lifestyles. While we should engage culture thoughtfully, we must avoid embracing worldly attitudes and mindsets that displace God’s truth.
Focus on What is Noble, Right and Pure
Paul exhorts us in Philippians 4:8 to focus our minds on things that are noble, right, pure, admirable, praiseworthy and excellent. Certainly, Disney has brought happiness to many and created wholesome entertainment that families can enjoy together. its theme parks provide clean fun and Disney films can inspire our imagination. There are Disney stories that convey noble themes of courage, sacrifice, friendship and good conquering evil. We can appreciate these positives, while being discerning and filtering out unbiblical messages or elements.
Avoid Depictions that Promote Lust or Vulgarity
Some Disney films (Pixar’s Brave for example) contain graphic nudity that violates standards of modesty that Scripture calls us to uphold (1 Timothy 2:9). Other films may depict sensuality, crass humor or violence in ways the Bible warns against (Galatians 5:19-21). Christians should avoid entertainment that glorifies lust or vulgarity, which can open the door to sexual sin in our hearts and lives.
Be Wise Stewards of Time, Money and Attention
Christians are called to be good stewards of all God has given us – including our time, money and attention. While Disney parks and cruises may provide wholesome family recreation, these activities require substantial investments of resources. Christians should carefully consider such choices and not prioritize worldly entertainment over kingdom pursuits, spiritual disciplines or meeting urgent needs (Matthew 6:33). Be cautious of overindulging in or becoming obsessed with Disney, which can lead to idolatry.
Avoid Partnerships that Compromise Your Witness
2 Corinthians 6:14 warns against partnerships between righteousness and lawlessness. Some Disney business partnerships and sponsorship relationships may align the Disney brand with unbiblical causes like LGBT Pride events. This can compromise Christian witness. Before buying Disney related products or services, consider whether it endorses or enables anti-biblical agendas. Our purchasing decisions can represent Christ.
Pray for Disney’s Leadership
While Disney has strayed from its early foundations in Christianity, we can pray for its leaders to come to know Jesus Christ and lead the company to convey values that honor Him. We can pray the Holy Spirit will convict Disney executives of sin and truth, just as we pray for people trapped in any lifestyle of sin. While we take a stand for righteousness, we do so with compassion, hoping Disney will return to its roots in Christ (Jude 1:22-23).
Carefully Consider Working for Disney
Some Christians dream of working for Disney. But depending on your role, you may face pressure to compromise biblical values. Pray carefully about employment choices and consider whether a different company would be a better option. However, God may call some believers to work at Disney to be salt and light in a spiritually dark place (Matthew 5:13-16). This requires wisdom, maturity and accountability to withstand unrighteous influences.
Use Discernment in Allowing Children to Engage Disney Content
While Disney cartoons can capture children’s imagination, some content exposes kids to unbiblical themes like magic, premarital romance and rebellion against parents. Parents must take responsibility for what they allow their children to watch or experience. Set boundaries to shield children from inappropriate content, while also teaching them discernment skills they will need as adults (Deuteronomy 6:6-7).
Avoid Partnerships that Normalize Ungodly Lifestyles
In recent years, Disney has increasingly incorporated LGBTQ themes and characters into its content, seeking to normalize unbiblical views of gender, sexuality and family. For example, Lightyear featured Disney’s first on-screen same-sex kiss. The Bible is clear that homosexuality offends God (Leviticus 18:22). Parents should shield children from content that promotes LGBTQ ideology and take a stand by avoiding Disney offerings that partner with the agenda to validate sinful lifestyles.
Focus More on Eternity than Temporary Entertainment
Disney offers imaginative fantasy worlds, but Scripture reminds us this world is temporary and fallen. Entertainment that consumes our affections can distract us from what matters most – pursuing Christ and advancing His Kingdom. Christians must keep an eternal perspective, investing ourselves in things of eternal significance rather than temporary amusements. Our use of time and money should reflect the brevity of life on earth and the reality of eternity (James 4:14).
Avoid Partnerships Promoting Other Religions or Occultism
Some Disney storylines promote Hinduism, Buddhism or New Age spirituality contrary to God’s Word. For example, in Frozen 2, the main characters interact with ancient Norse spirits and gain magical powers. Many Disney movies glorify sorcery and witchcraft, which God forbids (Deuteronomy 18:10-12). Other films partner with pagan religions by bringing their gods to life on screen. As believers, we must reject any attempt to normalize false religions or the occult.
Do Not Idolize Disney or Look to Them as Your Source of Hope
It’s easy to become enamored with Disney’s magical stories and enthralling experiences. But we must be careful not to allow this affection to become idolatrous. Our true hope and joy is found in relationship with Jesus Christ, not manmade entertainment (Psalm 62:5-8). No movie, amusement park or cruise ship can satisfy our deepest longings. We must look to the Lord as our source of security, purpose and delight.
Evaluate Your Heart Motives and Priorities
Why are you drawn to Disney? Consider your motives honestly. Do you look to Disney for escape or self-fulfillment rather than finding your worth in Christ? Be cautious of prioritizing Disney trips over serving God and others. Scripture warns, “What does it profit a man to gain the whole world yet forfeit his soul?” (Mark 8:36) Evaluate whether enthusiasm for Disney reflects worldly values of self-glorification versus humble Christ-centered living.
Be Ready to Share God’s Truth About Life’s True Meaning
Disney stories often focus on “following your heart” to achieve your dreams. But Scripture shows this life’s meaning isn’t self-actualization. Our purpose is found in relationship with God, becoming more like Christ, and living for His glory alone (1 Corinthians 10:31). Be ready to compassionately share with Disney fans that while imagination and fantasy can be fun, only Jesus Christ provides the way, truth and life that we ultimately long for (John 14:6).
Avoid Hypocritical Judgment of Other Believers
In assessing Disney, Christians can sometimes become hypocritical and legalistic – condemning other believers who may enjoy Disney in moderation or see it as a neutral form of entertainment. Scripture warns us not to judge each other over disputable matters of conscience (Romans 14:1-12). Wisdom may lead some to abstain while others exercise liberty. We must extend grace to those who reach differing conclusions.
Pursue Greater Treasures in God’s Kingdom
Fantasy and imagination have a place, but should not consume us. Scripture calls us to pursue greater treasures – growing in our relationship with Jesus, investing in things of eternal value, and storing up heavenly rewards rather than earthly amusements (Matthew 6:19-21). As C.S. Lewis wrote, “If we find ourselves with a desire that nothing in this world can satisfy, the most probable explanation is that we were made for another world.” Disney offers fleeting diversions, but as followers of Christ we seek an everlasting kingdom.
In summary, Disney is an influential part of our culture that requires wisdom and discernment to engage. Christians should thoughtfully assess Disney offerings in light of Scripture. We can appreciate what is good while rejecting what contradicts God’s Word. Most importantly, we must guard against idolizing Disney or allowing it to shape our values and priorities. Our purpose is found in pursuing Christ alone.
