With the phenomena of a variety of movies and literature over the years, free speech is a common theme as people argue over the merits or issues revolving around a particular theme. Free speech is touted as a catch phrase basically allowing people to say whatever they want. But there are limits on this, certain “tests” that the Supreme Court uses to determine whether a document or rhetoric is protected by the first amendment.

Now, I’m not a lawyer. I’m not a judge. I did serve once on a jury. But since most citizens are considered capable of that duty I hardly think that qualifies me to speak. Ah, but speak I shall.

When movies are made to celebrate abuse, sexual, physical abuse, I think it fails the clear and present danger test. When pornography promotes child molesting, incest, bestiality and other forms of degradation and depravity, I think it fails this test. And if it doesn’t fail it for the Supreme Court, it should for us as human beings.

We have a scriptural mandate to think on whatever is pure and holy and true and noble.

So what should our response be as movies are released, as books hit the shelves?

We worship. We sing. We speak the truth, in love, with mercy and grace. That is what sets us apart. That is what the world needs, the love that will heal its wounds.

There is a clear and present danger, and we are armed and fit to conquer it.