From the early days of the internet and the social media craze, to the current age of high-tech gadgets and apps, the digital age has completely changed how we interact with one another. And the Church isn’t immune to this vast shift in societal behavior. In fact, addictions to such modern digital tools as online gaming, smartphones, and social media have become rampant among Church members and clergy.
Addictions and the Church have always been closely intertwined. Religion and substance abuse have a long, tangled history. Now, modern addictions such as internet gaming, social media, and smartphone usage have infiltrated the Church and have begun to affect faithful believers’ spiritual life.
Although the exact numbers vary, a survey of 1,500 pastors and church members conducted by the Barna Group showed that 71% of church members said that at least one individual in their church was struggling with an addiction of some kind. Furthermore, the same survey showed that 18% of pastors said they had personally battled with an addiction.
These statistics seem to indicate that the Church is affected by the modern digital society in a major way. With the advent of smartphones, it’s easy to access the internet right from our pocket and become addicted to things like online gaming. Social media can be just as addictive, with its near-constant flow of gossip and trending topics.
The Church can’t afford to take the issue of addiction lightly. It must face the challenges of modern addictions head-on, and develop thoughtful plans to help members find deliverance from harmful behavior. In addition, church leaders must ensure that members are provided with proper education so they can make wise choices.
For the Church to have an impact in the lives of those who are addicted, it must offer more than just words of hope. It must provide tangible outreach and support. Churches can create counseling programs, support groups, and even deny ministry positions to those with a history of addiction. In addition, an individual’s friends and family can provide moral support to help guide them on their journey of sobriety.
The modern digital society has had a tremendous impact on the Church, and addictions are just one of its many negative influences. But if the Church plays its role correctly, it can provide an avenue for change and help its members beat their addictions so that they can lead healthy and productive lives following God’s word.