Who’s Discipling Your Child in a Digital Age—You or an Algorithm?
A while back, my son confessed something that stopped me in my tracks.
“I noticed I started thinking in 15-second clips and found reading the Bible boring.”
That was a wake-up call. The digital world isn’t just entertaining our kids—it’s discipling them. According to Barna Group research, Gen Z turns to the internet first when they have questions about faith, ahead of family members, friends, or religious leaders[i]. They’re being influenced by quick, shallow content instead of the gentle, loving guidance found in God’s word.
If we don’t intentionally disciple our children, the world will fill that void. As Jesus said, “My sheep hear My voice” (John 10:27). It’s our calling to be that gentle, guiding presence—teaching our children how to hear the Holy Spirit’s soft, life-giving whisper.
Biblical Truth:
“Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.” — Proverbs 22:6
Reflection Question:
When your child has a deep question about life, faith, or identity, where do they turn first? Have you built a home where they learn to hear the leading of the Holy Spirit through your guidance before turning to digital distractions?
Practical Tip:
Today, set aside 15 minutes to ask your child,
“What’s something you’ve searched online lately?”
No judgment. Just listen.
This simple habit repositions you as their trusted guide—helping them discern God’s gentle whisper over the noise of algorithms.
The Digital Pilgrim’s Compass: A Biblical Guide to Navigating AI & Technology
As Christian parents, we know that technology isn’t inherently evil—it’s how we use it that matters. The Digital Pilgrim’s Compass is rooted in biblical principles, empowering families to cultivate a strong biblical worldview.[ii]
1. Creation – Does This Technology Align with God’s Design?
We are made in God’s image and entrusted with His creation.
- Evaluate: Ask, “Does this digital tool honor God’s design for human flourishing?”
- Challenge: Use faith-based filters or curate Christian content to ensure technology uplifts your family’s spiritual journey.
2. Formation – How Is Technology Shaping Our Spiritual Lives?
Digital platforms shape our thoughts, habits, and relationships—often more subtly than we realize.
- Consider: Endless scrolling may replace quiet moments of prayer and reflection.
- Biblical Reminder: “My sheep hear My voice…” (John 10:27)
Natasha Crain, speaker, author and podcaster with a passion for a biblical worldview, reminds us, “The more confidently our kids can identify what the Bible says about who they are, the less vulnerable they’ll be to the world’s definitions.[iii]” - Challenge: Create a “Digital Discipleship Plan” with weekly tech talks and family discussions that teach everyone to listen for the gentle guidance of the Holy Spirit.
3. Mission – Is This Tool Helping Us Serve God’s Kingdom?
Technology can be a mission field if used wisely.
- Focus: Use digital platforms to share God’s love and truth with a world in need.
- Challenge: Encourage your children to create a piece of faith-affirming content—be it a Bible verse graphic, a testimony, or a short video—to share online.
- Our Call: Let our digital actions be a reflection of Christ’s love in every interaction.
Reflection Question:
How are the digital tools your family uses either enhancing or hindering your ability to hear God’s voice, honor His design for human flourishing, and advance His kingdom?
Practical Tip:
Create a “Technology Discernment Chart” for your home where family members evaluate apps and digital tools against three biblical criteria: (1) Does it honor God’s design for our relationships and well-being? (2) Does it support quiet moments for spiritual formation rather than constant distraction? (3) Does it provide opportunities to share God’s love with others? Review and update this chart monthly during a family discussion.
How Churches & Christian Leaders Can Take Action
Our churches and Christian leaders play a crucial role in guiding families toward true discipleship. It’s not just about protecting our children from harmful influences—it’s about empowering them with the wisdom of the Holy Spirit.
For Churches:
- Equip Parents: Offer workshops on AI and faith so that parents can confidently use digital tools to nurture their children’s spiritual growth.
- Sermons & Small Groups: Teach practical ways to apply biblical truths to everyday technology use. Remind everyone that God’s truth transcends digital distractions.
- Digital Tools: Develop or share AI-powered Bible study tools rooted in the Principle Approach—a method that has transformed many families’ spiritual journeys.
For Influencers & Bloggers:
- Share Your Testimony: Use your platform to reveal how the Principle Approach has deepened your own family’s walk with God.
- Amplify Christian Voices: Highlight faith-based tech resources that help parents sift through digital noise to find God’s gentle whisper.
- Expose Digital Discipleship Traps: Create content that shows how digital habits can lead us away from God—and offer practical, faith-based alternatives.
Reflection Question:
How can your church or ministry lead in teaching families to recognize and follow the gentle, guiding voice of the Holy Spirit in a noisy digital world?
Practical Tip:
Reach out to a church leader or ministry team this week with a specific idea—whether it’s hosting a digital discipleship workshop or forming a support group for parents. Your initiative can be the spark that strengthens the body of Christ.
Call to Action: Join the Digital Pilgrim’s Movement
In this fast-paced digital era, we face both a challenge and an opportunity. Digital tools and social media are here to stay—but will they discipline our children, or will we guide them to hear the gentle, life-giving voice of the Holy Spirit?
Today is the day to take a stand for true discipleship.
- Engage with Your Community: Start a conversation with other parents about “Discipling Your Child in a Digital Age.” Share your successes and struggles.
- Lead by Example: Whether through a small group, church workshop, or digital support forum, demonstrate how the Principle Approach—rooted in the 4R method—can navigate today’s tech challenges.
- Share the Message: Use your platform to inspire others to embrace a holistic view of digital discipleship. Your testimony can be a beacon of hope in a digital world filled with noise.
Reflection Question:
What is one step you can take today to be more intentional about guiding your child’s spiritual growth in this digital age?
Practical Tip:
Reach out to a fellow parent or church leader this week. Suggest starting a support group or hosting a workshop focused on the intersection of technology and faith. Let your action testify to God’s truth and love.
Remember, our mission is not simply to shield our children from the digital world, but to guide them into a deeper, discerning relationship with the Holy Spirit. Let’s use technology wisely—as a tool for Kingdom impact and true discipleship.
Cindy Seki is pioneering a biblical approach to Digital Discipleship, equipping Christian families to navigate technology with wisdom and faith. As the developer of The Digital Pilgrim’s Compass and an author passionate about AI and faith, she helps parents turn digital challenges into discipleship opportunities. Through her writing, speaking, and practical frameworks, Cindy is shaping the conversation on how believers engage with AI, social media, and digital culture for Kingdom impact. Learn more at CindySeki.com
[i] Barna Group. (2021). Let’s Talk Technology. https://www.barna.com/lets-talk-technology/
[ii] For more information on the Principle Approach and its resources, visit face.net.
[iii] For more information on Natasha Crain, visit Natasha Crain.