My Answer: The Problem is Not the Internet

By Billy Graham, Christian Post Guest Columnist Monday, January 07, 2008

Q: Do you think the Internet is evil? It seems like it has opened the door to so many bad things (like identity theft and pornography) that I'm beginning to wonder if we wouldn't be better off without it. — Mrs. A.L.M

A: The Internet is like almost every other invention or scientific advance — it can be used for great good, but it also can be used for great evil. For example, a doctor may use the Internet to research a new cure that will save a patient's life — but a criminal may use it to commit fraud.

In other words, in itself the Internet is morally neutral — that is, it is neither good nor bad. When people use it for good purposes, then it becomes a useful tool that can make our lives better. (In recent years, we have seen many people commit their lives to Christ through our own Web site, billygraham.org.) But when people use the Internet for evil purposes, then it becomes a tool in their hands to make our lives worse.

The problem is not the Internet, but the hearts of those who want to use it for their own evil purposes. Almost every week, I get at least one letter from someone who has become addicted to pornography or gambling or some other evil through the Internet — and this should be a warning to us, to be very careful how we (and also our children) make use of the Internet in our homes.

The Bible says, "Avoid every kind of evil" (1 Thessalonians 5:22). It also tells us to "Flee the evil desires of youth, and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace" (2 Timothy 2:22). We are surrounded by all kinds of evil messages today, and that's why we need Christ in our hearts. Is your life committed to Him?

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Affectionately known as the "World's Preacher" for more than 60 years, the Rev. Billy Graham is one of the most influential and respected spiritual leaders of the 20th century. He has been a friend and spiritual advisor to ten American presidents and has preached the Gospel to more people in live audiences than anyone else in history — nearly 215 million people in more than 185 countries and territories — through various meetings. Hundreds of millions more have been reached through television, video, film, and webcasts. Send your queries to "My Answer," c/o Billy Graham, Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, 1 Billy Graham Parkway, Charlotte, N.C., 28201; call 1-(877) 2-GRAHAM, or visit the Web site for the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association: www.billygraham.org.