Lockwood & Co. Christian Review

Let’s dive into a world where teenagers grab swords and tackle vengeful ghosts in a supernatural London. That’s the premise of Lockwood & Co., a Netflix adaptation of Jonathan Stroud’s books, and if you’re wondering whether a Christian should engage with a show like this, you’re not alone. Ghosts, spirits, and supernatural combat might not seem like ideal Christian content, but sometimes, in stories like this, we find deeper values—virtues like courage, loyalty, and the fight against evil—that resonate more than we might expect.

And that’s what Lockwood & Co. does well. Sure, there’s ghost-hunting galore, but if you look closer, you’ll find a story about standing up to darkness, building community, and growing through hardship. While it has its flaws, this is a show with a heart. But first, let’s look at why its handling of the supernatural requires some discernment from Christian viewers.

The Supernatural: A Necessary Conversation

Let’s get this out of the way: the show’s entire premise is about hunting ghosts. So yes, there’s a lot of talk about spirits, hauntings, and other spooky things that the Bible clearly warns us to avoid dabbling in. As Christians, we know from passages like Deuteronomy 18:10-12 that engaging with the occult is off-limits. But Lockwood & Co. doesn’t encourage viewers to meddle with the supernatural. Instead, it shows its teenage characters fighting against malevolent spirits.

The show depicts these spirits as evil forces—dangerous, disruptive, and threatening—so this isn’t the kind of fantasy where ghosts are cute, misunderstood beings. There’s a battle between good and evil here, one that, strangely enough, mirrors the spiritual warfare Christians are familiar with. Ephesians 6:12 tells us that “our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, authorities, and powers of this dark world.” In Lockwood & Co., those powers are personified in literal spirits, but the battle against evil is one we can all relate to on a spiritual level. Just like Lucy, Lockwood, and George—the trio of teens running the agency in this story—we all have to face the darkness in one way or another.

Now, that doesn’t mean you should turn off your spiritual discernment. It’s important to remember that this is fiction, and the way Lockwood & Co. treats ghosts and the supernatural is a fantasy world, not a theological endorsement. But when approached with a biblical understanding, this could be an opportunity to reflect on how we, too, are called to stand firm against evil.

Community: Strength in Numbers

One of the standout themes in Lockwood & Co. is community. At the heart of the series is the bond between the three leads: Lucy Carlyle (played with remarkable poise by Ruby Stokes), Lockwood, and George. They’re young, they’re vulnerable, and they’re a little rough around the edges. But what they lack in polish, they make up for in loyalty and love for one another. It’s refreshing to see a group of friends who are willing to put their lives on the line for each other, especially in a world where they’re fighting forces far stronger than themselves.

There’s something deeply biblical about this kind of friendship. Proverbs 17:17 says, “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.” The friendships in Lockwood & Co. aren’t just about getting through the day—they’re about facing adversity together. As the series progresses, the bond between Lucy, Lockwood, and George becomes a beacon of light in the dark, ghost-infested streets of London.

This emphasis on friendship and loyalty is a welcome contrast to many teen dramas, which often highlight betrayal, shallow relationships, and fleeting emotions. Here, you get a sense that these characters are in it for the long haul. And while they aren’t overtly religious, the selflessness and sacrificial love they show for one another echoes the kind of community we’re called to build as Christians.

Courage: Facing the Darkness

Courage is another virtue that pulses through Lockwood & Co., and it’s hard to miss. Lucy, in particular, stands out as a character filled with quiet strength. She’s been through trauma and loss, yet she doesn’t back down from the challenge of facing the deadliest spirits. Even when she’s terrified, Lucy chooses to keep going, not because she’s fearless, but because she knows it’s the right thing to do. There’s something incredibly admirable about that.

In a way, Lucy’s journey can be seen as a metaphor for our own struggles in life. We all face our own versions of darkness, whether that’s fear, doubt, or suffering. But courage isn’t about never being afraid; it’s about choosing to move forward even when we are. Joshua 1:9 reminds us, “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Watching Lucy face her fears with a sword in hand might be a reminder that we, too, can face our struggles with the knowledge that we’re never truly alone.

Lockwood, the leader of the group, also exemplifies courage, though in a more reckless way. He often takes unnecessary risks, but his heart is in the right place. He’s driven by a desire to protect his friends and fight for what’s right, even when the odds are against him. George, the brainy third member of the trio, brings a different kind of courage—one grounded in knowledge and a deep sense of responsibility. Together, the three make a compelling team, each bringing their own strengths to the table.

The Downside: Predictability and Violence

For all its charm, Lockwood & Co. isn’t without its flaws. One of the biggest issues is its predictability. While the show has plenty of twists and turns, seasoned viewers might find some of the plot points a little too obvious. There’s a sense that the big reveals aren’t all that surprising, and that can take away from the excitement. Still, this doesn’t detract too much from the overall enjoyment, especially if you’re watching more for the characters and their relationships than for the shock value.

Another concern is the violence. While it’s not overly graphic, there are sword fights and moments of peril that might not sit well with younger or more sensitive viewers. Parents should be cautious about letting younger kids watch, especially since the show does deal with dark, supernatural themes.

Conclusion: Light in the Darkness

Ultimately, Lockwood & Co. is a fun, engaging series with a lot of heart. It’s not perfect—there are predictable moments, and the supernatural element requires discernment—but its positive themes of friendship, courage, and standing up against evil make it a worthwhile watch. For Christian viewers, it’s an opportunity to reflect on how we face the darkness in our own lives, relying on community, courage, and faith to carry us through.

While it may not reach the same heights as other Netflix hits, Lockwood & Co. stands out for its emphasis on virtues that matter—especially in a world where darkness often feels overwhelming. In that sense, it’s more than just another teen supernatural drama; it’s a story about fighting the good fight, something we can all get behind.

Rating: 7/10