Is it a sin to play video games?

[TonyChanYT]

No, not generally speaking. It depends on the game and the gamer. James 4:

17 If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn’t do it, it is sin for them.

If it bothers your conscience, then it is a sin.

I feel my time is better spent focusing on schoolwork (in college) and being in the Word in my free time.

Good thinking

Is it really a good idea to constantly be in the Word without anything else?

It is good to have some entertainment as well. Have self-control. Balance your time. No need to be extreme.

 

[Bob Estey]

No, not generally speaking. It depends on the game and the gamer. James 4:


If it bothers your conscience, then it is a sin.


Good thinking

Is it really a good idea to constantly be in the Word without anything else?

It is good to have some entertainment as well. Have self-control. Balance your time. No need to be extreme.

No, it is not a sin to play video games, unless the video game persuades you to sin.

 

[Ashevenny]

I appreciate your thoughtful perspective on the topic of playing video games in relation to faith. It's true that whether gaming is considered a sin can vary from person to person, depending on factors like the game itself and individual conscience.
Balancing our time among various activities, including focusing on schoolwork and spending time in faith, is crucial. It's like using a coin flip simulator to find that perfect balance between different aspects of life. Striking that equilibrium allows us to lead well-rounded lives.
Your advice on practicing self-control and avoiding extremes is spot on. It's all about finding that sweet spot where we can enjoy entertainment while also fulfilling our responsibilities.

 

[Lambano]

I always suspected Pacman was conditioning our youth to gluttony.

 

[Lambano]

Then the question becomes, are these shoot-em-up video games conditioning us to not have empathy for others? To see the world as populated by enemies to be killed?

 

[Gottservant]

On the one hand "we ought to live by imagination, and not die for glory"

On the other hand, I wouldn't play them every day.

 

[Adri65]

In many cases, video games themselves are not inherently sinful, but certain aspects of gaming or the excessive consumption of them could potentially lead to behaviors or attitudes that some religious teachings may consider sinful.