Should Christians Watch Horror Movies? Fear as a Spiritual Teacher (Kutter Callaway) Ep. #259

Can Christians watch horror movies? Is horror merely entertainment, or can it reveal profound theological truths? In this episode of The Biblical Mind Podcast, Dru Johnson sits down with theologian and film scholar Dr. Kutter Callaway to explore why horror has become one of today's most influential storytelling genres—and why Christians should take it seriously. Drawing from his new book, Be Afraid: What Horror Reveals About Facing the Darkness, Callaway argues that great horror doesn't simply frighten audiences; it exposes deep truths about evil, suffering, trauma, sin, and the human condition. Together, Dru and Kutter examine the horrifying stories already found in Scripture—from the Levite's concubine in Judges to the crucifixion—and ask what these passages have in common with modern horror films. The conversation also explores why supernatural horror resonates with younger generations, how films like Get Out, The Babadook, Hereditary, and Midsommar wrestle with inherited trauma and cultural fears, and why interpreting films in community resembles reading the Bible in community. Whether you're skeptical of horror or an avid fan, this episode offers a thoughtful biblical framework for understanding fear, art, and the stories that shape our imaginations. Learn more about Kutter Callaway at his website! (Click Here) Order his latest book (click here) We are listener supported. Give to the cause here: https://hebraicthought.org/give For more articles: https://thebiblicalmind.org/ Social Links: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HebraicThought Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hebraicthought Threads: https://www.threads.net/hebraicthought X: https://www.twitter.com/HebraicThought Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/hebraicthought.org Chapters: 00:00 Defining Horror: A Genre Exploration 02:46 Horror in Biblical Texts: A New Perspective 06:14 The Role of Horror in Understanding Humanity 09:00 Personal Experiences with Horror and Its Impact 16:09 The Supernatural vs. Slasher Horror: A Comparative Analysis 21:12 Cultural Reflections in Horror Films 22:16 Exploring Horror and Societal Trauma 25:12 Artistic Truths in Horror Films 28:01 Parent-Child Dynamics in Horror 30:26 Emerging Voices in Horror Cinema 32:42 Reflections on Personal and Societal Sin 35:31 Horror as a Reflection of Societal Fears 37:02 Engaging with Horror: Questions to Consider 41:11 Community Interpretation of Art and Scripture