Elder Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles gave two messages within the last five years. Both were about todays technology and social media. The first talk was titled “Things as They Really Are. In this talk Elder Bednar warned the members of the Church how dangerous gaming and the Internet can be. He informed us that the new virtual world can “disconnect us gradually and physically from things as they really are.” He gave numerous examples of people who were pulled into the virtual world unable to escape. To much time making relationships on the internet can heavily affect the relationships a person has in the real world. He also makes a point of how internet gaming and socializing  can be spiritually numbing if we become addicted. 

In his other talk “To Sweep the Earth as With a Flood” he focuses on the growth of technology and social media in the church. Over the time between his last talk the church has grown in followers on Facebook, twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram. This has been a great tool to share spiritual messages quickly to the world. He also talks about how useful it is to the missionaries. They are able to make appointments, share gospel videos, and keep a controlled Facebook account that shares important and meaningful insights. The lord is hastening his work by this mass growth of powerful innovations. These programs can be used for good and be a blessing in peoples lives. Towards the end of his talk he invites us to “to sweep the earth with messages filled with righteousness and truth.” 

Although these talks are similar in topic of internet and social media, they illustrate the good and evil of both extremes. One leaves a tone of disapproval for the extended usage of the internet and the other shares the blessings that can come from sharing good gospel truths. The Internet can be a tool  if used in moderation and for the right purpose.