Fifty Shades of Nay: The Danger of Sin as a Needle, Not a Toy

Fifty Shades of Nay: Sin is a Needle, Not a Toy

Not surprisingly — and yet ironically — each of the three Fifty Shades of Grey movies released just days before our annual celebration of love. The series of erotic novels exploring sexual domination and even violence has (tragically) sold over 100 million copies and has been translated into 52 languages. Yes, America has exported these scenes and this message in 52 languages to who knows how many countries.

Full disclosure: I have not read the books or seen either movie, and I will not. I’ve read about the story and have seen a trailer. I believe I’ve learned enough to write and warn my brothers and sisters in Christ (the lead male’s name is “Christian” for crying out loud). In a society that downplays the evil of evil, and even glamorizes it, we need to be regularly reminded of the danger of sin. Like a child that discovers a needle on the street and thinks it’s a toy, we can be dangerously naïve about what’s happening in our American entertainment.

The Danger of Sin

Sin, in its essence, is a needle. It may appear harmless and alluring, but it carries with it the potential to inflict great harm and destruction. Just as a child who plays with a needle can inadvertently pierce their skin and cause injury, so too can indulging in sinful desires lead to spiritual and emotional harm.

Sin is not a game or a form of entertainment. It is a serious matter that separates us from God and damages our relationship with Him. The Bible warns us about the consequences of sin, emphasizing the need for repentance and turning away from wickedness.

The Biblical Perspective

Throughout the Bible, we find numerous examples of the dangers of sin. In the book of Genesis, Adam and Eve's disobedience in the Garden of Eden resulted in their expulsion from paradise. The story of David and Bathsheba serves as a cautionary tale, illustrating the devastating consequences of lust and adultery.

Jesus Himself spoke about the seriousness of sin, urging His followers to strive for righteousness and purity of heart. In Matthew 5:28, He says, "But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart."

These biblical examples highlight the need for us to guard our hearts and minds against the allure of sin. It is not something to be taken lightly or casually embraced, but something to be actively resisted and repented of.

The Influence of Society

In our modern society, sin is often downplayed and even glamorized. The popularity of books and movies like Fifty Shades of Grey is indicative of a culture that has become desensitized to the dangers of sexual immorality and violence.

As Christians, we should not conform to the patterns of this world, but instead, renew our minds and pursue holiness. Romans 12:2 states, "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."

Our entertainment choices should align with biblical principles and uphold values that honor God. Engaging in media that promotes sin and debauchery only serves to corrupt our hearts and minds, leading us further away from God's intended plan for our lives.

The Call to Holiness

As followers of Christ, we are called to live holy and blameless lives. Ephesians 5:3 reminds us, "But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God's holy people."

This call to holiness extends to every aspect of our lives, including our entertainment choices. We must be discerning and intentional about what we allow into our hearts and minds. Philippians 4:8 instructs us, "Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things."

By aligning our thoughts and actions with God's Word, we can guard ourselves against the dangers of sin and pursue a life that brings glory to Him.

Conclusion

The popularity of Fifty Shades of Grey and similar media serves as a stark reminder of the pervasive influence of sin in our society. As Christians, we are called to be vigilant and discerning, recognizing sin for what it truly is — a needle that can cause great harm and distance us from God.

Let us strive to live lives that honor God and resist the temptations of sin. May we be guided by the truth of His Word and seek His wisdom in all our choices, including our entertainment.