Should a Christian prank / do pranks?

Answer

Human beings enjoy laughing. It is a natural part of our interactions with others. Even animals engage in teasing and playing with each other. Pranks and practical jokes elevate teasing to another level. In a prank, one person remains unaware of the joke until they become its target. Individuals who are comfortable laughing at themselves may find enjoyment in being pranked. However, there are those who might feel embarrassed or view pranking as unkind. Therefore, one must consider the situation and the individual who will be the focus of the prank before deciding whether to engage in such activities.

Certainly, any prank that causes harm to someone is unacceptable for a Christian. The Bible offers practical wisdom on the boundaries of pranks and practical jokes: “Like a maniac shooting flaming arrows of death is one who deceives their neighbor and says, ‘I was only joking!’” (Proverbs 26:18-19). Pranks and jokes can sometimes mask cruelty, deception, or a desire for revenge. Passive-aggression refers to actions taken by individuals seeking retaliation without being direct. Subtle, sarcastic remarks delivered with a smile exemplify passive-aggression. Pranks and practical jokes can also serve as a form of aggression disguised as humor. If a joke or prank stems from a motive of retaliation or harm, then a Christian is stepping out of God’s hands and attempting to seek revenge through passive-aggressive means (see Hebrews 10:30). In such cases, playing a practical joke on someone would be inappropriate.

At times, pranks can go awry. An ill-timed prank or unforeseen circumstances can transform a humorous joke into a disaster. To orchestrate an elaborate practical joke, the instigators should carefully plan ahead.Counting on many external factors over which they have little control. Planning a prank requires specific elements to align perfectly for the joke to be successful, and often one or more of those elements fail. Alternatively, the individual who was expected to find the joke amusing may take offense instead, potentially leading to damaged relationships. Prior to executing a prank, the individuals involved must be confident about how it will be received.

We can apply Jesus’ teachings when deciding whether to engage in a practical joke: “Do to others as you would have them do to you” «And as ye would that men should do to you, do ye also to them likewise. », (Luke 6:31). Before orchestrating a prank, it is beneficial to take that advice further and question, “Would I find this prank enjoyable if I were in their position, with their characteristics, and their sensitivities?” By prioritizing love for others as we do for ourselves, we can make more thoughtful decisions regarding whether to play a prank or practical joke on someone else (Galatians 5:14;Romans 13:10).