The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch & the Wardrobe — Family Discussion Guide
A guided conversation resource to help families explore the themes of The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch & the Wardrobe through a biblical lens.
Key Takeaways
Evil should be resisted rather than excused.
Courage and loyalty matter when others are in danger.
The story includes a witch and magical power, which may conflict with a biblical caution against seeking spiritual power outside God.
Its supernatural world can invite confusion for younger children unless parents help separate fantasy symbolism from the real hope found in Christ.
Discussion Questions
How does the story show that evil is real and must be resisted, and what does that look like in everyday life?
Which character showed courage when it was costly, and how can we trust God when we feel afraid?
What is the difference between imaginary magic in a story and real spiritual practices God warns us to avoid?
When a story points to rescue and sacrifice, how can that help us talk about the greater hope we have in Jesus Christ?
Guidance Notes
Surface content is fairly mild for most families, with battle scenes, peril, and a threatening villain as the main concerns. The bigger area for Christian discernment is the fantasy setting itself, especially its witchcraft and magical elements, which may lead to helpful family conversation.
The story presents a clear struggle between good and evil and honors bravery, loyalty, and standing against tyranny. Those are meaningful strengths. The main tension is that the story uses witchcraft and magical power as part of its fantasy world, so parents may want to discuss the difference between literary fantasy and real spiritual practice, and to point children back to truth and hope in Jesus Christ rather than fascination with supernatural power.
Fantasy magic
Battle peril
Scripture References
Family Discussion Guide — The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch & the Wardrobe (1988)
Use this guide after watching The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch & the Wardrobe together to explore its themes through a biblical lens.
Key Takeaways
- Evil should be resisted rather than excused.
- Courage and loyalty matter when others are in danger.
- The story includes a witch and magical power, which may conflict with a biblical caution against seeking spiritual power outside God.
- Its supernatural world can invite confusion for younger children unless parents help separate fantasy symbolism from the real hope found in Christ.
Discussion Questions
- How does the story show that evil is real and must be resisted, and what does that look like in everyday life?
- Which character showed courage when it was costly, and how can we trust God when we feel afraid?
- What is the difference between imaginary magic in a story and real spiritual practices God warns us to avoid?
- When a story points to rescue and sacrifice, how can that help us talk about the greater hope we have in Jesus Christ?
Guidance Notes
- Surface content is fairly mild for most families, with battle scenes, peril, and a threatening villain as the main concerns. The bigger area for Christian discernment is the fantasy setting itself, especially its witchcraft and magical elements, which may lead to helpful family conversation.
- The story presents a clear struggle between good and evil and honors bravery, loyalty, and standing against tyranny. Those are meaningful strengths. The main tension is that the story uses witchcraft and magical power as part of its fantasy world, so parents may want to discuss the difference between literary fantasy and real spiritual practice, and to point children back to truth and hope in Jesus Christ rather than fascination with supernatural power.
- Fantasy magic
- Battle peril
Scripture to Explore Together
- Romans 12:9
- Ephesians 5:11
- Joshua 1:9
- 2 Timothy 1:7
- Deuteronomy 18:10-12
- Acts 19:19
- John 3:16
- 1 Peter 1:3