Social media is shaping the lives of our teenagers—and not always in healthy ways. Its influence can be powerful, and at times, harmful.
Join veteran youth pastors Dorothy, Justin, and Kevin—along with host Clark Fobes—for a practical and insightful webinar on how to disciple teens in today’s digital world. Together, they’ll share strategies to help students navigate social media with wisdom, discernment, and the freedom found in the gospel.
Mark your calendar for Thursday, Oct. 9 at 12:00 p.m. CT and sign up to join us!
Following are some Rooted resources to help youth ministers and parents disciple teenagers in our digital world.
A Review of ‘Social Media Pressure: Finding Peace Alongside Jesus’ by John Perritt by Rebecca Lankford
“Far more than a “how to” book, this devotional will equip teenagers to see the “why” behind their social media use.”
Four Things Youth Workers Would Tell Parents About Teenagers, Social Media, and Technology by Cameron Cole
“When your child crosses lines via technology (regardless of how bad we may think those transgressions are in the moment), the Good Shepherd will use those mistakes to form your child through the outpouring abundance of his grace and mercy.”
Is It Time for a Phone? Practical Guidance for Parents of New Smartphone Users
“We help our kids develop a Christ-influenced filter so that they can learn to use their devices and the internet wisely.”
Series: Why Teens Compulsively Use Social Media
“Though social media platforms may trend or tank, the principles remain the same: teens are searching for identity, belonging, affirmation, and community. Let’s show them that they can find everything they need in Jesus.”
Scripture Before Phone by Justin Whitmel Earley
“More than 70 percent of teens say they often or sometimes grab their phone to check for messages and notifications as soon as they wake up.¹ By starting our morning facing a screen, we’re allowing our smartphones to set the tone for the day.”
Jonathan Haidt’s ‘The Anxious Generation’: Essential Learning for Youth Ministers by Chelsea Kingston Erickson
While we don’t want to demonize technology itself, we do need to teach and model for the teenagers in our care the ways in which our online experiences fail to promote true flourishing.
Two Views on Devices at Youth Retreats: A Case for Phone-Free Spaces by Jason Engle
The why behind a phone-free retreat must be more than just doing away with the distractions and potential issues that accompany them; it must be anchored in an overarching mission to lead students to know and treasure Jesus for a lifetime.
Two Views on Devices at Youth Retreats: A Case for Allowing Phones by Isaiah Marshall
As youth leaders, God calls us to disciple, not just discipline. That means helping students recognize the unhealthy patterns in their phone use. I believe we can teach them how to practice wisdom, self-control, and presence, even when their phone is in their pocket.
