I have posted on Philippians 4: 8, twice previously on this website. See 'Search' top right for archives.
An elder and I discussed this verse and related theology at church today. The conclusion was that everything, including all Christian teaching, preaching and writing is tainted. Everything in this physical realm, at least related to humanity, is under the taint of sin (Genesis 1-3, Romans 1-6). Therefore, taking what is good and pure from something is key.
As examples:
Pornography may feature attractive women, but it is inherently evil in lust and should be avoided by everyone, including the Christian.
In contrast, an atheistic writer, although wrong about the gospel, may have some good intellectual insights. Perhaps he/she should be read by at least some Christians.
In my opinion, in regard to spiritual discernment, the overall good versus the overall evil needs to measured in regard to something.
Philippians 4:8 New American Standard Bible (NASB)
8 Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is [a]lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, [b]dwell on these things. Footnotes: Philippians 4:8 Or lovable and gracious Philippians 4:8 Lit ponder these things New American Standard Bible (NASB)
Strictly speaking if I was to take this verse legalistically, perhaps as a fundamentalist, if consistent, no theological or Biblical preaching, teaching or writing, could pass the test.
