Digital Discipleship

We live in a world where childhood has gone online. Tablets, smartphones, and gaming consoles are now as common as toys and books once were. Technology has incredible potential for learning, creativity, and connection — but it also comes with risks that can quietly shape a child’s heart, mind, and values.

As Christian parents and mentors, we’re not just raising children — we’re raising disciples.
 That means helping them not only to navigate the digital world but to reflect Jesus in it.

Why Digital Discipleship Matters

The Bible reminds us:

“Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.” – Proverbs 22:6

In the digital age, this “way” includes their online habits, the media they consume, the friends they make, and the values they form through constant connection. Without guidance, children can easily be swept into content, conversations, and communities that draw them away from God’s truth.

Digital discipleship means being intentional about:

• Teaching children how to use technology for good.
  
  
• Modeling Christlike behavior in our own digital lives.
  
  
• Protecting them from harmful influences.
  
  
• Empowering them to be light in the online world.
  
  

Practical Ways to Raise Spiritually Strong Digital Natives

1. Set a Christ-Centered Digital Example
    Children mirror what they see. If they notice you using devices thoughtfully — not endlessly scrolling or reacting — they’ll learn that self-control is possible.
   
   
2. Create Tech-Free Sacred Times
    Keep family worship, meals, and bedtime screen-free. These moments become anchors for faith and connection.
   
   
3. Teach Digital Discernment
    Equip children to ask: Does this content draw me closer to God or pull me away?
   
   
4. Use Technology for Discipleship
    Share Bible apps, Christian music playlists, and online sermons that encourage spiritual growth.
   
   
5. Stay Involved and Aware
    Know what your children watch, who they talk to, and what apps they use — not as a spy, but as a shepherd.
   
   

The Church’s Role

The Seventh-day Adventist Church calls for a united effort to equip the young with both biblical truth and digital wisdom. Through children’s and youth ministries, Sabbath School lessons, and mentorship programs, we can create safe spaces for open conversations about faith and technology.

A Final Word

The internet will continue to evolve, and so will its influence on our children. But God’s Word is unchanging. When we root our children in Scripture, model Christ in our own lives, and teach them to live intentionally online, we prepare them to stand firm — no matter what the digital world throws at them.

About the Author

Link to Learning Curves Newspaper,

Bryan K Senfuma

Bryan K. Senfuma is a Digital Advocate and Writer at Najjanankumbi Seventh-day Adventist Church, and a columnist for Learning Curves Newspaper, where he shares insights on faith, technology, and purposeful living.

Reach out: sdanajjachurch@gmail.com