Representation Matters
It’s possible you’ve heard someone discuss the importance of representation in media. This refers to having characters of various identity groups—whether ethnic or sexual—being portrayed in media and in a positive light. The argument is that how we see ourselves or others represented in media will affect how we view ourselves and others. This speaks to the influential power of media. This pertains to us for two reasons. One, it shows the influence that pop culture has on us. Two, it highlights the importance of having positive Christian representation in media. Think about the most famous Christian characters in TV and movies. The Simpsons’ Ned Flanders is about as dorky as humanly possible and The Office’s Angela is uptight and judgmental. How often are Christ followers presented in a positive light, as being loving and kind? Typically, Christians are portrayed as uneducated, hypocritical, judgmental, and even abusive. If the media portrays Christians negatively, the culture is more likely to view us negatively. More than that, non-Christians may be less receptive to the gospel, thinking “Why would I want to become one of them?” So, if it’s important for all people to have positive representation in media, then the same should apply to Christians.
Winning the “Culture War”
We often hear people say the job of the Christian isn’t to win the “culture war” but simply to share the gospel. In one sense, this is true. Our ultimate job isn’t just to promote Christian values in society but to lead people to Christ. However, this is much harder in a culture hostile to Christianity. Christians should prefer a world in which they are free to worship God and to evangelize. But freedom involves more than just government protection. Even if the law permits freedom of religion, Christianity may still be rejected by the general population. This is why it is important for the Christian to influence the culture. We seek to create an atmosphere in which the gospel is most able to be spread and accepted, which includes making it attractive to non-Christians. We want good laws to promote religious freedom, but also great art from a Christian worldview. It doesn’t have to be preachy; it just has to be good. Not only is Christianity true, it is good and beautiful. Let’s show the world this.
Don’t Get Comfortable
It’s great that the cultural tide seems to be swinging in a positive direction for Christians. However, we can’t allow this to make us comfortable, since comfort can lead to apathy. Many of the ideas that have dominated our culture the last few years, such as the Social Justice movement, have been quietly brewing and growing in academia for decades. It wasn’t until recently that the church began taking it seriously. Cultural moods are always coming and going, and the Christian must be aware of them to respond appropriately. When culture seems to be on our side, we can easily get complacent. We must remember that our primary allegiance is not to this fallen world but to the kingdom of God. Christians are to “be ready in season and out of season” (2 Timothy 4:2) to share the truth. Jesus reminded his followers, “If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you” (John 15:18). Whether the culture sways in our favor or against it, our mission is always the same: to share the gospel. Christianity has survived for two thousand years, sometimes under the worst persecution imaginable. We must always remain vigilant, since “the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour” (1 Peter 5:8).
Win or Lose
Like Disney, many companies are currently backing away from controversial cultural messaging and returning to political and cultural neutrality or even traditional norms. Is this a sincere course correction or is it just a business decision to regain the religious and conservative demographic? We may never know for sure. Still, this offers a few reminders for Christians. First, the culture is always in motion. It might be in our favor today and it may move against us tomorrow. Regardless, we must be faithful to Christ. His commands don’t change with the whims of society, and we cannot allow sinful aspects of the culture to influence us. The Bible reminds us, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect” (Romans 12:2). This doesn’t mean that we completely disconnect from society, however. We are part of God’s redemption plan for the world. We must always try to influence the culture for Christ. His ways are best for everyone, believer and unbeliever alike. A culture that values religious freedom and is receptive to the gospel is better than one hostile to Christianity. Whether the media represents Christians positively or negatively, and regardless if we’re currently winning or losing the “culture war,” we must remain faithful to Christ.