The Chronicles of Narnia is a series of seven fantasy novels by C.S. Lewis that takes readers to the magical land of Narnia. This popular series has captivated both children and adults alike since the first book was published in 1950. But as Christians, should we read these fictional books or see the movie adaptations? To answer this question, we need to examine the books through a biblical lens.
An Overview of the Chronicles of Narnia
The series follows the adventures of children who discover a magical wardrobe that serves as a portal to the fantasy world of Narnia. The lion Aslan rules over Narnia and gives his life to save one of the children. In the process, he resurrects and defeats the evil White Witch. The children help Aslan fight battles and restore peace to Narnia.
Readers encounter talking animals, mythical creatures, kings and queens, and life lessons about courage, sacrifice, forgiveness, and redemption. The series contains Christian themes and borrows imagery from the Bible. Aslan has been compared to Jesus Christ because of his role as a savior figure who dies and comes back to life. The White Witch is depicted as an evil temptress aligned with dark magic and forces.
Guidelines from the Bible
The Bible does not directly address fictional fantasy worlds like Narnia. However, Scripture does provide guidelines that can help us evaluate such material. As Christians, we are called to focus our minds on what is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, and praiseworthy (Philippians 4:8). The Bible instructs us to avoid falsehood and deception (Exodus 20:16) and to think about things that are honorable (2 Corinthians 10:5).
We must be cautious about exposure to the occult, witchcraft, and depictions of evil (Deuteronomy 18:9-13). The Bible warns against loving the world or anything in the world (1 John 2:15) and calls us to be set apart from the corruption of the world (John 17:14-16). As we enjoy creative fiction, we must maintain discernment and see all things through the lens of God’s truth (Hebrews 5:14).
Redeeming Qualities of The Chronicles of Narnia
Keeping these principles in mind, the Narnia books do contain many redeeming qualities that resonate with Christian values. The series reinforces that good will ultimately triumph over evil. Readers see the children courageously battle wicked powers armed with truth, faith, and righteousness. Though some magic exists in Narnia, the children are never instructed to practice sorcery or witchcraft.
One of the strongest themes is the redemptive power of sacrificial love. Aslan surrenders his life to save one of the children from death – a clear reflection of Christ’s sacrifice on the cross. Aslan’s resurrection after death provides hope of eternal life and victory over the grave. The children grow in courage, integrity, leadership, and wisdom as they journey through Narnia. The books convey moral lessons about selflessness, humility, justice and forgiveness.
Potential Areas of Concern
At the same time, there are several aspects of the books that may require discernment for Christian readers. The series presents the magical realm of Narnia as alluring and exciting. The youngest girl, Lucy, immediately embraces the fantasy world on her first visit. This may encourage an unhealthy desire for escapism or obsession with fantasy.
The children gain access to Narnia through a freestanding wardrobe, outside the boundaries of parental oversight. The witch in the books employs manipulation, deceit, temptation, and exploitation of power – tactics the Bible attributes to Satan (John 8:44). Some warfare scenes with evil creatures may be frightening for young children.
While Aslan represents Jesus in many ways, he is still portrayed as an animal and mythical magic lion – not the true Lamb of God. Emphasis on allegory rather than direct Bible references could be confusing to young readers. The books present themes of violence, death, and witchcraft that require guidance to interpret through a biblical lens.
Wise Discernment for Christians
Given both the merits and potential pitfalls of the series, Christians should exercise some wise discernment. Parents may want to read the books first to decide if their child is emotionally and spiritually ready to process the complex themes. The movies may be less frightening for young children than vivid battles portrayed in the books.
Families can discuss biblical parallels and lessons learned after reading each book. Parents can contextualize the themes and address potential confusion about fantasy vs. truth. With guidance, the books and movies can provide opportunities to reinforce Christian values of sacrifice, leadership, and salvation. But families may want to postpone introducing the series until children have a strong foundation in biblical literacy.
For children firmly grounded in the Bible’s truth, the Chronicles of Narnia can stir spiritual imagination and touch a longing for meaning, goodness, and redemption. The books need not be avoided altogether if consumed through the correct lens. With wisdom and discernment, families can navigate potential issues and utilize the series for Christ-centered conversations.
Biblical Instruction on Literature Choices
Beyond Narnia specifically, the Bible provides helpful direction for navigating choices in literature more broadly:
“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable–if anything is excellent or praiseworthy–think about such things.” (Philippians 4:8)
“Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them.” (Ephesians 5:11)
“Do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.” (1 John 4:1)
“Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.” (2 Timothy 2:15)
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9)
With guidance, wisdom, and discernment, families can make literature choices that honor Christ and point their children to gospel truth. The Chronicles of Narnia can prompt meaningful spiritual conversations when navigated well. Above all, God’s Word itself should be our deepest source of truth and pathway to salvation.
Conclusion
The Chronicles of Narnia series captivates readers with its magical fantasy world. But as Christians, we must carefully weigh its themes against the truth of Scripture. The books have redeeming messages about sacrifice, courage, and redemption but also depict elements of violence, witchcraft, and spiritual confusion. With wisdom and age-appropriate discernment, families can utilize the series for God-honoring discussions about biblical truth versus fantasy. When grounded in spiritual maturity and biblical literacy, the books can inspire imagination and reflection. But parents may want to postpone introducing Narnia until children have a strong faith foundation.
Above all, the Bible advises us to dwell on what is true, right, pure, and praiseworthy. With the Holy Spirit’s guidance, Christians can make discerning choices about literature, media, and entertainment to glorify God with our minds. When approaching creative fictional works, we must see them through the lens of God’s Word and test all messages against its eternal truth.
