“There are many opinions out there about teens and social media. Some say you shouldn’t have it at all, and others say it’s no big deal. But what does the Bible say? Since social media hasn’t been around for very long, the Bible doesn’t specifically talk about it. However, there was media back in Jesus’ day. There was art, some form of news being spread, and communication. The Bible may not tell us if social media is right or wrong, but it does tell us how we should engage with media.
The Bible tells us that we should engage with media that…
- Is true, honorable, pure, and lovely (Philippians 4:8)
- Helps us to be thankful (Ephesians 5:19-20)
- Exposes and rebukes sin (Ephesians 5:11)
- Where possible, spreads the gospel (Isaiah 52:7)
- Is legal in our country and state (Romans 13:1-2)
And we would do well to steer clear of media that…
- Is deceptive (1 Corinthians 15:33)
- Is worthless (Psalm 101:3)
- Is evil (1 Thessalonians 5:22)
- Is full of gossip or lies (James 3:5-11)
- Causes us to be discontent (1 John 2:15-17)
- Causes us to sin (Mark 9:43-47)
- Is unhelpful for us personally, even if it’s fine for others (1 Corinthians 6:12-13)
- Is sexually immoral (Ephesians 5:3)
- Tears others down (Ephesians 4:29)
It’s also important to remember that you cannot ever replace true friendship with online interaction, and it’s really important as a young person to learn how to build relationships offline.
Ask yourself these questions as you interact on social media:
- How can I bear God’s image on social media?
- How do I glorify God in a digital world?
- How do I represent who God truly is in my conversations on the internet?”
Great advice for not only teens, but for ALL Christians. We need to consider what information we allow to be put in our minds. Consider how your media choices affect your relationship with God.
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