Don't Play The Fool With the TV and Internet (Clip)
Zac Poonen warns believers to wisely guard their hearts against the spiritual dangers of television and the internet, emphasizing discernment rather than total avoidance.
This sermon emphasizes the importance of recognizing potential sources of spiritual danger in modern technology like television, the internet, and other devices. While these tools have benefits, they can also lead to worldly influences and distractions that hinder spiritual growth. The speaker cautions against being naive or careless with these technologies, likening them to plug points that can be useful but dangerous if mishandled.
Full Transcript
And I believe that's one of the main reasons why we don't have a spiritual generation growing up that values God more than everything else in this world. I don't believe merely by getting rid of television you get rid of the world. You can get rid of it and still have the worldly people long before television was invented, thoroughly worldly people.
So I'm not saying the solution is to get rid of television. There may be some good things you can get from it. But all I say is, remember that there is a potential source of danger there.
It's not just television. It can be your computer with the internet connection. So the solution is not to get rid of it because it has some advantages.
But remember that that is a source of danger. Don't play the fool with it. It's like, it's like a plug point.
Electricity is very useful, but I don't go putting metal things in.
Sermon Outline
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I. The Reality of Worldliness
- Worldliness existed before television and internet
- Removing media does not guarantee spiritual growth
- The heart's condition is the true issue
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II. The Potential Dangers of Media
- Television and internet can be sources of spiritual danger
- They have some advantages but require caution
- Believers must be vigilant and discerning
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III. The Call to Wisdom
- Do not 'play the fool' with media like one would with electricity
- Guard your heart and mind carefully
- Use media wisely without letting it control you
Key Quotes
“I don't believe merely by getting rid of television you get rid of the world.” — Zac Poonen
“Don't play the fool with it. It's like, it's like a plug point. Electricity is very useful, but I don't go putting metal things in.” — Zac Poonen
“Remember that that is a source of danger.” — Zac Poonen
Application Points
- Evaluate your media consumption carefully and avoid content that leads to worldliness.
- Set boundaries to protect your spiritual health when using television and the internet.
- Develop spiritual discernment to wisely navigate the advantages and dangers of modern media.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it wrong to watch television or use the internet?
Zac Poonen does not say it is inherently wrong but warns believers to be cautious and discerning about the content and influence.
Can removing television and internet solve worldliness?
No, worldliness is a heart issue that existed before these media and cannot be solved simply by removing them.
What does Zac mean by 'don't play the fool' with media?
He means believers should treat media like electricity—useful but potentially dangerous if misused or handled carelessly.
Are there any benefits to television and internet?
Yes, Zac acknowledges some advantages but emphasizes the need for caution due to potential spiritual dangers.
How can believers protect themselves from media dangers?
By exercising spiritual discernment, guarding their hearts, and setting wise boundaries with media use.