The question of whether it is right or wrong for a Christian to own a TV
is controversial.
Personally, I think it depends upon the individual. For example: some women
have a tendency to become lazy and sit around watching soap operas instead
of getting their housework done. In such a case, I think, a Christian woman
ought to not have a TV, unless she can discipline herself concerning what
and when she watches TV. If a man is experiencing unholy sexual temptations
because of the things he is seeing on TV, then I think he ought not to have
a TV. The same is true of the internet.
I think most people would honestly agree that TV viewers have a tendency to watch the worse things on TV. So I think we need to decide prayerfully for our self whether we should allow a TV in our home or not. Yes, there are many wholesome shows and movies to watch; but most people use this as an excuse to own a TV... when in reality they end up watching violence, adultery, feminism, homosexuality, divorce, nudity, shows that mock God, shows that promote fornication, cursing, new age brainwashing, et cetera instead.
Certainly, technology is not a sin. It is not a sin to own an automobile; but it would be a sin to use that vehicle to commit a crime, or do something immoral. Likewise, television is merely a tool, a blessing or a curse, depending on how we use it. As with most other things in life, TV is a double-edged sword, i.e., it can be used for good or evil, to build or destroy. At a minimum, Christians need to exercise extreme caution regarding what INFLUENCES they allow into their home. There are many demonic influences present in TV land today.
I think it's best NOT to own a TV nowadays; but it is not sinful to do so. If TV is wrong, then so is internet and telephone. When a person goes into Wal-Mart, they don't have to buy alcohol. Certainly it is not a sin to own a telephone, unless you're using it to call a sex-talk-line. So it is clearly a matter of discipline where we go and what we buy.
There's a little song that goes (to the tune of "If You're Happy And You Know It")...
Oh be careful little eyes what you see.
Oh be careful little eyes what you see.
For the Father up above is looking down in love.
Oh be careful little eyes what you see.
The continues with "Be careful little feet where you walk"... "Be careful little hands what you touch" ... Be careful little tongue what you say" ...et cetera. What have your eyes seen on TV lately? What influence has it had upon you?
TV is a matter of personal conviction. Of course, 1st John 5:19 tells us that "the whole world lieth in wickedness," so very few people today, including Christians, are going to part with their hellivision. If you can discipline yourself to control what you and your children watch, fine; but to watch everything on TV is certainly detrimental to one's Christian growth.
