12 Feb GOING DIGITAL WITH CHRIST

Digital Age

When Jesus prayed for His disciples, He prayed that they be not taken out of the world, but that they be protected from the evil one (Jn 17:15). Similarly, there is a sense in which believers cannot be fully detached from the technological advancements of this world, but are called to be a light that shines in the darkness that engulfs the digital kingdom (Mt 5:14-16).

Mankind has been thrust into the ‘Digital Age’, the present era in which everything depends on the widespread use of the Internet, and the majority of information is stored on computers, phones and cloud. This shift has profoundly impacted the social, political, and economic activities. How should a Christian student navigate through this increasingly digitalized world? What should a believer be mindful of?

Indeed, it is imperative for students to understand the pros and cons of this development, the various pit-falls, and the ways in which it can be put to good use. But most of all, we must consider what the Bible teaches us – so that our every action, even in the digital space, would be for the glory of God (1 Cor 10:31).

Delivered Student

Firstly, the role of a student is to study and learn their lessons, which is the primary purpose of being in an institution and not elsewhere. This may even be considered ‘work,’ and the effort put into it is largely reflected in academic performance and results. As a believer, however, that purpose is elevated to the most beautiful and powerful purpose of all: to do it in the name of the Lord Jesus (Col 3:17). This does not call for neglecting one’s studies, but for putting forth the best effort, so that one’s work may be commended, even by others (1 Thes 4:11-12).

The digital world has provided tools for everyone to access valuable in-formation from around the globe. Academic notes and educational videos can be used as study material and a supplement to one’s education. All of this is easily accessible to students, and it should be utilized effectively. It can also be used to quickly gather news and stay up-dated on current events.

However, the ease of access can become an impediment to a stu-dent’s growth. It can lead to depen-dence on the internet and artificial intelligence, rather than improv-ing the student’s talents, creativity, diligence, and abilities. Moreover, it should be understood that the online space, even with its vast amount of information, must not be the only source of knowledge. Not only can this lead one astray and foster pride, but all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge are instead found in Christ (Col 2:3). Therefore, even in the digital age, the student must recognize the true source of wisdom (Prov 9:10) and walk with the Lord.

Desires of the Flesh

With just a tap of the finger, students can now watch and enjoy all the entertainment the world has to offer. Given that content and algorithms are designed with the sole purpose of showing the most entertaining and engaging material to maximize watch-time, it is no surprise that people, both young and old, are glued to their phones and computers.

All this can lead to a plethora of physical and mental problems, making it difficult for students to use their time for studying their les-sons or for personal devotion with God. Overindulgence in worldly pleasures increases one’s attach-ment to them, which the Bible clearly tells us not to do (1 Jn 2:15), as all these things are perishing and not of God (1 Jn 2:16-17). Students must be wary not to fall in love with the dying world, but to set them-selves apart for the special purpose of being a vessel usable for God (2 Tim 2:21).

Digital for Christ

The Scriptures tell us to present our bodies as a living sacrifice and not to be conformed to the world (Rom 12:1-3). We must ask ourselves if our eyes and ears are truly used for Christ, or if they are constantly fixated on worthless things (Ps 119:37). With the world at our fingertips through the internet, we are ex-posed to many influences. Students can easily be swayed by unbiblical teachings that pervade and pervert the mind, making them captive to empty deceit, which Scripture warns us against (Col 2:8).

There are ways to use our bodies for the glory of Christ—by using the in-ternet to grow spiritually and men-tally. The ease of access can instead be utilized by listening to sermons and gospel music. The vast on-line world has also provided Bible commentaries, articles, stories, and books by godly people. All of these are ways to bring Christ with us into the digital world and to use these tools in the proper way.

Dictate on Social Media

Social media, brought about by the digital age, is a double-edged sword and may be the most significant topic when discussing the internet world. It is a place where etiquette and basic respect between people are often lost, where chaos is stirred by individuals hiding behind the mask of anonymity, and, sadly, where many believers fail to walk with Christ.

Our light should shine even on social media, handling the things we say and uploading with careful consideration (Eph 4:29). It is also a place rife with pointless arguments and insults, where believers must take care not to engage in ignorant controversies, but to patiently teach others (2 Tim 2:23-25). Social media can instead be used by students to witness for Christ, by promoting the Word of God and proclaiming the works of Jesus. It is a powerful out-reach tool where online friends can be informed about and invited to fellowships and important events.

Do it with Christ

The digital age, with all its potent venom, can become a healing tonic depending on the person. As writ-ten in 1 Cor 10:23-24, the student must always ask: Is this helpful? Is it beneficial? Does it contribute to character development and edify spiritual life? By staying vigilant and prayerful (Mt 26:41), the student can go digital WITH Christ and FOR Christ.

Samson C Lalhruaitluanga has completed his Bachelor’s Degree in History from Pachhunga University College, Aizawl, Mizoram, where he started his EU journey. He is living with his family in Upper Republic, Aizawl, presently a committed and resourceful member of Aizawl EGF, especially with his gift in the art of composition.

His regular presence at Bible study sessions and other events are of immense blessing. He can be reached at samahappy12@gmail.com