Editor’s Note: Not all computers are Internet connected, but for those that are, we add the following warnings to our brother’s timely comments.
Parents who allow their children to have Internet access need to be aware of the great danger of Internet “chat rooms” places that people can enter online, to engage in “real-time” conversation with others who have accessed that “room.”
Most Internet service providers make no attempt to “police” these rooms. Thus there is no guard against who signs in, what is said, or personal information solicited from unsuspecting children. “For there are certain men crept in unawares” (Jude 4). “Just Lot, vexed with the filthy conversation of the wicked” (2 Peter 2:7). Even more “family-oriented” providers such as America Online can’t adequately protect “chat rooms” against predators who often are disguised as children. “Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light” (2 Cor. 11:14).
We believe access to such “rooms” ought to be denied to children, and they should not be allowed email contact with any unknown person. “Knowing of whom thou hast learned them” (2 Tim. 3:14).
We also urge those planning to post family photographs or other personal information on a “home web page” to prayerfully consider whether it is wisdom to make such information available to any person who has access to the Internet.
“See therefore how ye walk carefully, not as unwise but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil. For this reason be not foolish” (Eph. 5:15-17 JND).
Ed.