Because streaming film, television, and music is the principal choice of entertainment among Southern students, Southern encourages you to think seriously about the artistic merits as well as the moral and philosophical implications of the material you are digesting. 2 Corinthians 3:18 gives us a glimpse of the possibility of spiritual transformation when looking to Christ: "But we all, with unveiled faces, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord." (NKJV). This transformation is possible if you apply to your choices the principle found in Philippians 4:8: “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable--if anything is excellent or praiseworthy--think about such things.”
As a result of such great possibilities if Christ and biblical principle are central to our entertainment choices, individual decisions regarding movies, television programs, music, video games, and all forms of electronic media and other activities are expected to reflect this moral commitment.
Although the university discourages the use of the industry rating code as a guide in determining which films and programs are "acceptable" for Christians, films with an "R" rating are not permitted for viewing in public places on campus, nor are television programs rated “MA.” Students are encouraged to select films and programs of aesthetic and ethical interest that offer an important perspective on contemporary culture, and will show discretion not only in the content of the material viewed, but in the amount of time spent in such activity.
Consistent with this policy, Southern reserves the right to discontinue the personal or group viewing or listening of material that is not consistent with the values of Philippians 4:8 when such activity is done in public.