THE CHRISTIAN YOUTH AND SOCIAL MEDIA

Title: THE CHRISTIAN YOUTH AND SOCIAL MEDIA 

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: 1 Corinthians 10:31 
Supporting Texts: Ephesians 5:15-16, Matthew 5:14-16, Romans 12:2

INTRODUCTION: 
Social media has become a major platform for communication, interaction, and information sharing, especially among the youth. As Christians, we must learn how to navigate the world of social media responsibly. It is a powerful tool that can either build or destroy depending on how it is used. The Christian youth is called to be the light of the world, and this includes shining brightly in the online spaces we occupy. Today, we will explore how to use social media wisely as Christian youth, the dangers of misusing it, and how we can influence the digital world for Christ.

1. THE POWER OF SOCIAL MEDIA 

a) A Tool for Good or Evil
Social media can be a force for good when used to share the gospel, encourage others, and promote godly values. However, it can also become a platform for negativity, sin, and distraction if not handled with care.

b) Social Media’s Influence on the Youth 
Young people today are constantly exposed to content that shapes their worldview, values, and behaviour. What we consume on social media has the power to influence our thoughts, attitudes, and actions.

Biblical Example: Daniel’s resolve to remain pure in Babylon (Daniel 1:8) 
Daniel lived in a foreign land filled with ungodly practices, but he resolved to keep himself pure. Likewise, Christian youth must decide to stay pure and godly in the midst of the digital culture that promotes immorality.

2. THE DANGERS OF MISUSING SOCIAL MEDIA 

a) Addiction and Time-Wasting 
Excessive use of social media can lead to addiction, wasting precious time that could be used for more productive activities. Ephesians 5:16 reminds us to make the best use of our time because the days are evil.

b) Comparison and Envy 
Social media often portrays an unrealistic image of people's lives, leading to feelings of inadequacy and envy. Romans 12:2 warns us not to conform to the patterns of this world but to be transformed by the renewing of our minds.

Biblical Example:  The danger of comparing oneself to others (Galatians 6:4-5) 
We are called to examine our own lives rather than comparing ourselves to others. This is especially important in the age of social media, where comparison can lead to discontentment.

3. HOW CHRISTIAN YOUTH CAN USE SOCIAL MEDIA WISELY 

a) Be a Light in the Digital World
As followers of Christ, we are called to be the light of the world (Matthew 5:14-16). This means using social media to spread love, truth, and encouragement. We can share the gospel, offer hope, and speak words of life into the lives of others online.

b) Set Boundaries and Limits 
To avoid addiction and misuse, it is important to set boundaries on social media use. This includes limiting the amount of time spent online and being intentional about the kind of content we engage with.

Biblical Example: Jesus' intentional withdrawal to pray (Mark 1:35) 
Jesus regularly withdrew from the crowds to spend time in prayer and fellowship with the Father. Likewise, we need to take time away from social media to focus on our relationship with God.

4. SOCIAL MEDIA AS A PLATFORM FOR MINISTRY 

a) Sharing the Gospel 
Social media provides a unique opportunity to reach thousands, even millions, of people with the message of Christ. Whether through posts, videos, or messages, we can use these platforms to share the love of Christ.

b) Encouraging and Edifying Others 
Christian youth can use social media to build up others, offering encouragement, sharing scripture, and promoting godly values. Ephesians 4:29 reminds us to let no corrupting talk come out of our mouths, but only what is good for building up.

Biblical Example: Paul’s letters of encouragement to the churches (Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians) 
Paul used letters as a tool to spread the gospel and encourage believers. Today, we can use social media in the same way—to uplift, encourage, and spread the truth of God's word.

CONCLUSION: 
Social media is a powerful tool, and Christian youth must be wise in how they use it. We are called to be lights in this world, and that includes the digital world. By being intentional about the content we consume, setting boundaries, and using these platforms for good, we can glorify God even on social media. Let us be mindful of the influence social media has on our lives and commit to using it in a way that honours Christ.

PRAYER POINTS 
1. Lord, give me the wisdom to use social media in a way that glorifies You. 

2. Father, help me to avoid the traps of addiction and time-wasting online. 

3. Lord, let me be a light in the digital world and use my online presence to share Your love. 

4. Father, protect my heart from comparison and envy caused by social media. 

5. Lord, help me to set healthy boundaries with social media use. 

6. Father, give me the courage to share the gospel on social media platforms. 

7. Lord, protect me from harmful content that can corrupt my mind and spirit. 

8. Father, let my social media interactions reflect Your love and truth. 

9. Lord, help me to be intentional about the content I consume online. 

10. Father, use me to reach others for Christ through social media.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS 
1. I declare that you will use social media as a platform to glorify God. 

2. I prophesy that you will not fall into the trap of social media addiction. 

3. I declare that your social media presence will be a light that draws others to Christ. 

4. I prophesy that you will be protected from the negative influences of the digital world. 

5. I declare that God will give you wisdom in navigating social media. 

6. I prophesy that you will have the boldness to share the gospel on social media. 

7. I declare that you will set godly boundaries with your social media use. 

8. I prophesy that you will not be overcome by envy or comparison. 

9. I declare that your social media interactions will be filled with love, grace, and truth. 

10. I prophesy that you will influence others for Christ through your online presence.