Whatever is True
"Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things." (Philippians 4:8 ESV)
The exhortation to think about "whatever is true" can be tricky. Is there room to think about things that are not true? Does it mean that we should read only, or mostly, nonfiction? Maybe allow some fiction with strong elements of realism? Is there a place for fantasy?
I like nonfiction a lot. Reality raises the stakes in a story. An individual’s choices mean more when it is a real individual making real choices with real outcomes. However, I think there is a value in fiction. In fact, that was briefly one of the topics of conversation when some good friends were up visiting last weekend.
I think it is an interesting topic, so I’d like to open it up here. How do you relate the reading of fiction to Philippians 4:8, and in general, what is the value of fiction?
Comment from Matt on March 26, 2011 at 7:32 AM CDT
The list casts a big net, and its elements are (perhaps obviously) not synonyms - even though all are interrelated. Obedience to "whatever is just", for example, often requires moral imagination; that is, thinking about what has not necessarily (yet) been enfleshed in history. There is plenty of room for fiction. The point isn't to stingily sift through all our various thought-occupations, wondering which stays and which goes. The concept is easier than that, even if the practice is more difficult.
Comment from Michael E on March 26, 2011 at 9:31 PM CDT
A story does not have to be historically factual in order to communicate truth. Take Jesus - he often used parables, many of which likely did not actually happen, to communicate truth. Good fiction tells us things beyond the story that may or may not be true, and it is on the basis of those that its truth should be considered, not the veracity of the tale itself.
Just my $0.02.
Comment from Bethany on March 27, 2011 at 9:42 PM CDT
I agree with Michael. Much fiction does communicate or embody the many values and truths found in Scripture.
Maybe the verse is talking about keeping our minds focused and our thoughts honoring the Truth. Or maybe it gives that list to help us understand that our mind is to always be focused on that which brings God glory.
Comment from Jennifer Ekstrand on March 28, 2011 at 10:20 AM CDT
Thanks for the thoughts so far.
Comment from Leah Seydel on March 29, 2011 at 5:35 PM CDT
I think we were designed in God's image, which includes an imagination. I like to think a balance of it is good for everyone!
Comment from Jennifer Ekstrand on March 29, 2011 at 9:53 PM CDT
Leah,
I like that idea of imagination being part of how God created us.
Comment from Jennifer Ekstrand on July 22, 2011 at 7:59 AM CDT
Tony Reinke's blog recently addressed this: http://spurgeon.wordpress.com/2011/07/15/non-fiction-is-true-fiction-is-un-true/
(And by the way, I thought I would point out that I am in favor of fiction (especially fantasy).)