The internet is a dangerous place. In the last couple of years I have noticed a steady increase of spiritual-based conversations built on the foundation of something like “I was watching YouTube and heard someone talk about…” or “the podcast I listened to told me…” While there is nothing inherently wrong with listening to some of the other voices, the problem arrives when those voices become louder than the Word of God. Perhaps the most disturbing aspect of this reality is how easy it can be to wander from the inspired scriptures and let those outside voices become the new authority.

The internet is a dimension where gatekeepers are absent, imagination is rampant, and egos are famished for attention. Spirituality is no longer viewed as sacred and holy, but is being monopolized for self-promotion. Deconstruction, EXvangelicalism, postmodernism, new hermeneutics (or existential hermeneutics), QSpirit (or queer spirituality), New Ways ministry, Mysticism and so on are all examples of voices that are being streamed though millions of screens right now. While some theologies are clearly outlandish, there are those that are deceivingly convincing. Influencers are taking the stage and replicating the Lord by proclaiming their own version of “you have heard it said, but I say unto you” in an effort to promote a new theology.

This isn’t exclusively a 21st century problem though. It’s been a problem for a long time. The Talmud was the Jewish literature that, even though had some good intents, enforced traditions. Jesus condemned those who allowed the Word of God to be washed out because of such resources, “You have a fine way of rejecting the commandment of God in order to establish your tradition” (Mark 7:9). One of the most nourishing practices we can involve ourselves in is that of good, authentic, concentrated Bible study. Put down the commentaries for a moment, amputate the phones, close the laptops, and open the Word. When we familiarize ourselves with scripture, the YouTube theologies become easier to identify as false.

I love the account of Josiah in 2 Kings 22. In the historical narrative, the writer established the devastation Israel was gazing upon. Corrupt government, apathetic spirituality, widespread idolatry, and war-torn landscapes were all things Josiah had to deal with (and became king at 8 years old nonetheless). Josiah sends Hilkiah the high priest to go collect funds to start construction on the temple. When Hilkiah goes to the house of the Lord, he comes across the Law and brings it to Josiah. Immediately a sequence of events took place that led Josiah to totally reform the land (2 Kings 23). There’s an interesting principle gleaned from 2 Kings 22 — truth is obvious when God’s Word is present. When voices outside of scripture start reigning, truth becomes subjective and doctrines become plentiful. Passages such as 2 Timothy 3:16 invite us out of the treachery of man’s mind and into the safety of God’s wisdom.

Tyler King