5 Reasons Why You Should Prefer Gospel Over Secular Movies

Movies generally have a powerful influence on our minds, shaping our thoughts, emotions, and even our spiritual lives. In today’s world, secular movies often dominate the entertainment industry, but as believers, we must be intentional about what we consume. While some secular movies may have positive moral lessons, they often promote values that contradict the teachings of Christ. On the other hand, gospel movies—whether Nigerian productions like Mount Zion Films or international works like The Chosen—are created to inspire faith, strengthen Christian values, and draw us closer to God.

Here are five compelling reasons why you should prefer gospel movies over secular ones:

1. Gospel Movies Edify the Spirit

Philippians 4:8 instructs us:

 "Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things."

Unlike secular movies that often glorify immorality, violence, and materialism, gospel movies focus on uplifting messages that build faith. Films like Abejoye (from Mount Zion Film Productions) and War Room (a global Christian movie) encourage believers to trust in God, develop a strong prayer life, and live according to biblical principles. When we feed our spirit with edifying content, our faith is strengthened, and our hearts are aligned with God’s will.

2. They Teach Sound Christian Doctrine

Many secular movies promote ideologies that are subtly or openly against biblical teachings—normalizing sin, undermining godly marriage, or glorifying self rather than God. However, gospel movies prioritize sound doctrine.

2 Timothy 3:16 says: "All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness."

Take, for example, the Nigerian movie The Train, a biographical film on Evangelist Mike Bamiloye. It powerfully teaches about obedience to God’s call and the cost of discipleship. Similarly, God’s Not Dead presents strong apologetics, equipping believers to defend their faith. Watching such films ensures that we are learning and reinforcing the right doctrine rather than being subtly misled by secular narratives.

3. Gospel Movies Strengthen Family and Moral Values

One of the challenges of secular movies today is that they often distort family values. Many promote rebellion against parents, normalize fornication, and make light of sin. But gospel movies promote godly homes, parental wisdom, and the fear of God.

Proverbs 22:6 reminds us:

 "Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it."

Films like Covenant Child by Mount Zion highlight the power of godly parenting and spiritual warfare over children’s destinies. Internationally, movies like Courageous emphasize the importance of fatherhood and leading a home in God’s way. When families watch gospel movies together, they are reminded of God’s design for marriage, parenting, and relationships.

4. They Inspire a Life of Purpose and Holiness

Secular movies often entertain without inspiring real transformation. However, gospel movies challenge believers to live purposefully and pursue holiness.

1 Peter 1:15-16 says:

 "But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy."

Consider the impact of movies like Enoch, which tells the story of Pastor E.A. Adeboye’s journey in faith. It challenges viewers to surrender to God’s calling and walk in holiness. Similarly, Fireproof teaches about godly marriages and the power of selfless love. Gospel movies push us towards righteous living, unlike secular ones that often normalize sin and compromise.

5. Gospel Movies Bring People to Christ

One of the greatest impacts of gospel movies is their ability to lead souls to salvation. Secular movies may entertain, but very few have the power to transform lives for eternity.

Romans 1:16 declares:

 "For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believeth."

Many testimonies abound of people who have given their lives to Christ after watching movies like Abejoye or The Passion of the Christ. These films do more than entertain—they minister salvation, healing, and deliverance to their viewers. Through the power of storytelling, the gospel is preached, and lives are changed.

Conclusion

As believers, we must be mindful of the content we consume. While not all secular movies are evil, many subtly plant seeds of ungodly ideologies. Gospel movies, on the other hand, serve as tools for edification, sound doctrine, family strength, holiness, and evangelism.

Next time you want to watch a movie, ask yourself:

"Will this draw me closer to God, or will it fill my mind with ungodly thoughts?"

Choose wisely. Choose edification. Choose the gospel.