How should a Christian view comedy?

Answer

There are many who believe Christianity to be very serious and lacking in fun and laughter. However, this is not accurate. God created each of us with a range of emotions so that we could fully experience and appreciate the entirety of His creation. He not only encourages us to find joy in the things He has given us but also to find joy and laughter in His very presence (Psalm 4:7;Psalm 16:11;Psalm 32:11).

One simply needs to observe the joy, and even humor, that God has infused into the world. From the duck-billed platypus to the lumbering hippopotamus to the playful antics of monkeys, we encounter numerous living beings that bring laughter and amusement. God has bestowed upon us the gift of laughter, whether in moments of joy, in response to a funny situation, or even upon hearing a good joke.

Having said that, it is important to note that there are many things in the world that are considered humorous but do not align with God’s standards. Numerous stand-up comedians and comedy movies rely on darker, more vulgar forms of humor to elicit cheap laughs. As Christians, we are called to focus our thoughts on things that are honorable and praiseworthy “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.”, (Philippians 4:8), and to refrain from engaging in crude humor “neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks.”, (Ephesians 5:4). This type of impurity, even if disguised as humor, does not align with the attitude that God expects us to have— an attitude ofHoliness. The Scriptures serve as an excellent filter to use when considering which things are pure and which are unclean.

Everything God does is loving and good. However, as humans tainted by sin, we often find ourselves laughing at the expense of others. These types of ridiculing jokes are questionable at best, as they do not demonstrate charity and love to those around us. Seeking to elicit laughs in a spirit of unkindness and derision is not a godly activity.

So, how should a Christian perceive comedy? At its core, there is nothing wrong with comedy. There are certainly numerous things in our lives that are pure and praiseworthy to laugh at—indeed, there are many Christian comedians and clean comedic movies. Genuine humor is a godly attribute, and the Lord desires us to be joyful « These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full. », (John 15:11). Nevertheless, we should exercise great caution when attending a comedy movie or stand-up comedy show, always questioning if the comedy in which we choose to engage would be pleasing to the Lord and positively impact our Christian journey.