They have incredible impact.
A recent survey conducted by Lifeway Research has found that a significant majority of Protestant churchgoers believe Christian films serve as effective tools for evangelism. Despite this, many remain cautious about sharing these movies with their non-Christian acquaintances.
The survey, which gathered responses from 1,008 Protestant churchgoers in September 2023, explores opinions on Christian movies and books. The results indicate that 81% of participants view Christian films positively in terms of evangelistic potential. Specifically, 33% of respondents “strongly agree” that these films are effective in spreading the Gospel, while 48% “somewhat agree.” Conversely, 10% “somewhat disagree,” and 2% “strongly disagree” with this view.
The study also reveals that 72% of respondents intentionally watch films with Christian themes. Among them, 30% actively seek out such content, and 42% do so to some extent. In contrast, 17% “somewhat disagree” with the notion of seeking out Christian-themed movies, and 7% “strongly disagree.”
Over the past year, 68% of respondents reported watching at least one Christian movie, compared to 48% who watched secular films. However, discussions about Christian themes in secular movies with fellow believers occurred for only 30% of participants, and discussions with non-Christians were even less common, at 21%. Invitations to non-Christians to view Christian films were rare, with only 12% engaging in this practice.
Denominational breakdown shows that non-denominational Christians (60%) were the most frequent viewers of secular movies, followed by Presbyterians (57%), Baptists (44%), Lutherans (41%), and members of the Church of Christ (37%). Conversely, non-denominational Christians (77%) also led in Christian movie viewership, followed by Baptists (70%), Lutherans (53%), and Presbyterians (49%).
Regarding the invitation of non-Christians to watch Christian movies, non-denominational Christians (15%) and Baptists (14%) were most active, while fewer Lutherans (3%) and Presbyterians (3%) did the same. Non-denominational Christians (28%) and Baptists (22%) were more likely to discuss Christian themes in secular movies with non-Christians compared to Lutherans (12%) and Presbyterians (10%).
Baptists and non-denominational Christians (78%) were notably proactive in watching Christian films intentionally over the past year. Majorities among Methodists (59%), Church of Christ members (58%), Lutherans (57%), and Presbyterians (55%) also reported a deliberate interest in Christian movies. In terms of viewing Christian movies as effective evangelism tools, Baptists and non-denominational Christians led with 84%, followed by Lutherans (75%) and Presbyterians (68%).
Scott McConnell, CEO of Lifeway Research, commented on the findings, emphasizing that while churchgoers value Christian films as evangelistic tools, they may not always feel these films are suitable for non-Christian friends. He noted the survey aimed to compare the viewing of secular versus overtly Christian-themed movies.
Stephen Kendrick, a noted Christian film producer, underscored the power of movies to convey biblical truths through compelling stories, citing examples of how films like “Fireproof” and “Courageous” have led to transformative experiences and spiritual growth.
Regarding Christian books, 65% of respondents reported reading at least one in the past year. A small percentage read multiple books, with 3% reading ten or more, and 11% reading four or five. However, 31% did not read any Christian books in the past year, with Lutherans (50%) and Presbyterians (34%) leading in this category.
Kendrick encouraged Christians to complement their movie experiences with Christian literature, suggesting that books can deepen and expand the impact of the messages conveyed in films.