What does the verse “Do not love the world or the things in the world” (1 John 2:15) signify in the Bible? Does this imply that since technology might lead us astray, we shouldn’t use it to watch TV, use our phones, or utilize other devices?
It is helpful to examine John’s exact words in this passage in order to respond to this question: “Do not love the world or the things in the world.” The love of the Father is not in someone who loves the world. Because everything in the world, including pride in material belongings, eye and fleshly appetites, and desires, is not from the Father. And while the world and its desires are dying, those who follow God’s will live eternally (1 John 2:15–17).
The rebellious world
Here, “the world” does not refer to all that exists on our planet. There are many positive things about the earth that God made. Here, “the world” alludes to the world’s rebellion against God. What is it that opposes God in this world? John speaks about the pride in material riches as well as the desires of the flesh and the eyes. For those who have not experienced rebirth, ambition, material possessions, and sexual cravings are the most significant things.
It’s about what’s going on inside
The intriguing aspect of this situation is that these aren’t devices or “things.” This relates to internal processes. John warns us that making a snowman out of your heart is a waste of time if your heart is fixed on worldly things. These things are merely transitory. They’ll get over it. However, [you will live forever] if you are living with God.
Do the will of God
Therefore, the question of which gadgets we should or shouldn’t have is not the most crucial one. What is most crucial is what enables us to carry out God’s desire. The issue is not with the TV per se. Does watching TV aid in your comprehension and execution of God’s will? That greatly depends on the shows you choose to watch. However, generally speaking, we may conclude that [many TV shows] appeal to the kinds of appetites that John criticizes here: ambition, the need for worldly goods, and extramarital lust. It would be beneficial for many Christians to watch TV significantly more critically.
The issue is not with the phone. What we discuss is the issue. Are we spreading rumors or disparaging others? Alternatively, are we assisting others while mentioning the Lord? The issue is not with the internet. What we read and watch on the internet is the issue. A concern for many women and the majority of men is internet pornography. Thus, we ought to figure out how to use the internet without giving in to temptation. For that, an internet filter is quite helpful.
The issue is not with music. [What type of music are we listening to] is the issue. Is it music that exalts such evils as extramarital sex, aggression, and greed? Or does God get glorified in music? The issue is not one of money. However, we are prone to sin if our goal is to become wealthy.
Love God more
Your inquiry regarding how it relates to “luring us into sin” is spot on. Realizing that sin persists in us even after we are adopted into God’s family will help us understand how crucial it is to avoid situations that could lead us astray. Nothing should be more loved by us than God. As a result, we ought to be prepared to give up anything that causes us to drift from God.
Ultimately, though, we must always remember that it is not about material possessions. Sin is not caused by things. If we are not crucified with Christ, then sin comes from our old nature. Our primary goal shouldn’t be to love the world less. The goods of this world will become less appealing as we put more of our attention toward loving God. “However, I considered any gain I had to be a loss for the cause of Christ.” True enough, I consider everything to be lost in light of the immeasurable value of knowing Christ Jesus as my Lord (Philippians 3:7-8).
