Bible Question:

Is there any harm in allowing our children to watch programs such as superman, batman, etc? Is there any harm in allowing our children to play and dress up as these characters?

Bible Answer:

I do not see anything wrong with children role playing as a hero, but not as superman or batman. The reason is explained in “Is it a sin to watch movies containing the supernatural or the occult?” Heros “rid the world of evil” are symbols of good. Boys and girls have always “role played” down through history. As parents, we should encourage our children to think on things that are good. The Holy Spirit tells us,

Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, let your mind dwell on these things. Philippians 4:8 (NASB)

We must be careful what we determine to be good. Here is an example. After the worldwide flood, God told us that it was okay to eat meat (Genesis 9:2-6). This would have required mankind to hunt animals in order to eat. This has been a way of life for humans ever since. It would be natural for young men to mimic their fathers. Is this wrong? I do not believe role playing about hunting deer or others animals for food is wrong (I do not hunt). But role playing involving cruelty is wrong because God commands us to be kind to our animals.

A righteous man has regard for the life of his beast, But the compassion of the wicked is cruel. (NASB) Proverbs 12:10

In some homes, the family dog, cat, fish or bird, for example, suffers abuse and ill treatment at the hands of children and even by some adults. God would not call this righteous conduct.

Conclusion:

I would imagine that many Jewish boys and girls role played the stories involving Moses, Joseph, Samson, and King David as well as other Biblical characters. As parents, we could try to encourage our children to replay the Bible stories. This may require help from parents with props or costumes. Reinforcing the Biblical stories through role play, if possible, is a wonderful way to teach them the Word of Truth.

Suggested Links:

Is it a sin to watch movies containing the supernatural or the occult?