Evangelikal: Jurnal Teologi Injili dan Pembinaan Warga Jemaat
p-ISSN 2548-7868, e-ISSN 2548-7558
https://journal.sttsimpson.ac.id/index.php/EJTI/

Volume 9, Number 1, March 2025 (82-98)
DOI: https://doi.org/10.46445/ejti.v9i1.854

Digital Culture and Its Impact on New Testament
Interpretations and Religious Practices
Ezra Tari1, Abdiel Enrique Sánchez Revilla2
1

Institut Agama Kristen Negeri Kupang, Indonesia
2
Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro, Mexico

ABSTRACT
Many aspects of life, including religious ideas and rituals, have been profoundly shaped by
technology. It has affected how members of different faith communities interact and commune
with God. These days, digital channels act as forums for conversations that could influence
religious perspective. Here, the term "digital culture" describes technologically driven social
interactions including social media, websites, and easy information access. This study is a
quantitative study aimed at investigating the relationship between religious customs and the
cultural changes brought about by digitization. Data was collected from 36 respondents by using
a questionnaire. The results draw attention to the complicated relationship in modern culture
between faith and technology. In Christian communities today, effective communication calls not
just for sharing knowledge but also interacting with digital resources. Christians' practice of their
faith has evolved with the availability of online worship events and prayer meetings. The findings
also underline the need of mutual support—both psychological and financial—through trying
circumstances. Christians have additional means to study scriptures and participate in worship
because to increasing digital resources.
Keywords: communication, digital culture, religious beliefs, New Testament, religious practice.

Article history
Submitted: June 24, 2024

Revised: March 12, 2025

Accepted: March 25, 2025

Corresponding author: Ezra Tari (ezra_tari@iaknkupang.ac.id)
How to cite this article:
Tari, E. & Revilla, A.E.S. (2025). Digital Culture and Its Impact on New Testament Interpretations and Religious
Practices. Evangelikal: Jurnal Teologi Injili dan Pembinaan Warga Jemaat. 9 (1): 82-98. DOI:
https://doi.org/10.46445/ejti.v9i1.854
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permission directly from the copyright holder.

INTRODUCTION
Digital culture is the set of accepted behaviors, social conventions, and habitual patterns
formed by use of digital technologies. It covers digital media consumption, online
communication, social media participation, and technological adaptation. Though its complete
integration into education is still under development, empirical data assessing several elements
shows evidence that technology adoption influences humanities students's self-perception
(Ayala-Perez & Joo-Nagata, 2019). Technology promotes topic comprehension and increases
access to resources in humanities education. In this setting, the boundaries and character of
users' interactions with digital culture are shaped by a variety of dynamic factors, including
economic situations, social trends, technology breakthroughs, and regulatory rules. According
to (Qian et al., 2024), rural communities have been slower to adopt digital culture offerings,
underscoring the need for greater digital inclusion.
Product and service suppliers must continue to pay attention to changing conditions and
supply users with useful and pertinent material if they want to see broad adoption. For example,
by paying close attention to client wants and adjusting to changing market conditions,
businesses can improve their product development and marketing strategies. The learning
process can also be supported and improved by incorporating digital technology within a clear
pedagogy framework (Høium et al., 2024). Digital technology has the potential to greatly
improve learning results when used properly and in accordance with accepted teaching
methods.
Due to its special qualities, which have been influenced by both online and offline user
experiences, digital technology has a lot of promise. In an increasingly linked world, the quick
development of digital technologies is changing how we interact with and perceive life (Deuze,
2006). Yet from a theological standpoint, technology must continue to be a tool rather
than a source of unwavering dedication or confidence. The unquestioning worship of
technology runs the possibility of replacing faith in God, reflecting the First
Commandment's biblical warning against idolatry (Tandana, 2023).
Mihelj et al. (2019) assert that digital media is an essential tool for reaching new
audiences. It enables the audience to join in conversations, express their opinions, and
interact directly with the information. Digital technology and the general availability of
internet access make it possible to communicate with a wider range of people on a local
and international level through digital media. Despite the wide-ranging nature of digital
culture, this paper will concentrate on the establishment and upkeep of communities (A.
Cloete, 2015). This study looks at how communities are created and maintained in the
vast world of the digital age.
Examining the technology infrastructure and community demands reveals a more
complex picture, despite the fact that online communities are frequently seen as hostile
settings (Davis, 2019). In digital contexts, the primary difficulty is striking a balance
between the need for regulation and individual freedom. Scholars contend that users are
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accountable for their use of digital technologies and have agency over their own digital
behavior (Aprilia, 2023). This involves exercising screen time awareness, safeguarding
privacy, and selecting content carefully. This approach encourages an active mindset for
making effective and positive use of digital technologies.
Whether or not colleges actively support intellectual progress in a technologydriven culture, it will nevertheless occur (Murphy & Costa, 2019). People today have
additional possibilities for self-directed learning and knowledge acquisition thanks to the
growth of the internet, smart gadgets, and educational apps. While contributing to the
creation of contemporary theoretical frameworks in this quickly developing subject,
digital networks also share certain characteristics with social networks (Lewis, 2024).
While social networks and digital networks both have a big impact on society, social
networks are more focused on community dynamics and social interactions, while digital
networks are more focused on hardware and technical efficiency. The concepts of
marketization, increased visibility, and the digital evolution of "observability" are
examined in this work in connection to how online culture, celebrities, and customers
interact with modern notions and expectations of social justice projects (Sobande et al.,
2022). Such changes highlight how the internet and digital technology affect how we see
online security and privacy. Online privacy standards have changed dramatically as a
result of technological breakthroughs and the broad use of the internet.
The best strategy for promoting digital culture is one that is community-focused
and people-centered (Leal-Rodríguez et al., 2023). This involves encouraging members
to improve their digital literacy in addition to strengthening bonds within the community.
Furthermore, online religion, sometimes known as "digital religion," refers to the
blending of offline and online religious activities, illustrating the blurring of the lines
between the two (Evolvi, 2021).
Digital culture encourages collaboration and information exchange among team
members and external stakeholders. The digital viewpoint shapes the vocabulary and
framework of Christian theology, which influences digital discipleship (Zaluchu et al.,
2023). Digital technology today helps to facilitate the implementation of religious beliefs
and rituals. This approach, referred to as "digital religion," demonstrates how technology
is utilized to mediate religious activities and interaction. Beyond impacting religious
engagement, digital culture poses concerns about the sustainability of virtual
environments. Sustaining virtual ecosystems necessitates aligning them with sustainable
design principles and providing individuals with critical future skills (Limano, 2023).
These positions necessitate a combination of technical expertise, effective leadership,
excellent communication abilities, and a thorough awareness of virtual ecosystem
sustainability.
As digital technology continues to mediate religious interaction, it not only
optimizes worship and discipleship, but also alters the fundamental essence of religious
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practice. Digital religion is more than simply a spiritual activity performed online; it
signifies the transition of conventional religion into a new culture impacted by societal
digitization (Zaluchu, 2024). In contemporary setting, the practice of religion and
spirituality is not limited to in-person interactions or physical locations. Digital religion
describes the ways technology and online communities enable online worship, education,
and spiritual discussion.
As digital religion reshapes spiritual engagement, its influence extends to youth
ministry, where digital media plays a crucial role in discipleship and faith formation.
Coaching, studies on spiritual growth and salvation, motivational materials, and the use
of digital media in youth ministry in this digital era are all examples of the support offered
(Darmawan et al., 2024). A significant challenge in using digital media for youth ministry
is teaching young people to discern reliable information and safeguard themselves against
negative effects of technology, such as digital addiction or exposure to contents
contradicting their desired spiritual values. In this context, the concept of "citizenship
lived with religious values" emphasizes that faith is an integral part of personal and civic
life, adding depth to both spiritual identity and social engagement (Laksana & Wood,
2019).
Beyond shaping spiritual formation, digital culture also influences the way
biblical texts, particularly the New Testament, are understood and applied in
contemporary settings. Through digital platforms, such as social media, internet
communication, and easy access to information, people engage with the New Testament
in new ways, reflecting on its themes—such as love, forgiveness, and service—within an
open, interactive space. In this digital environment, people's relationships, beliefs, and
moral reflections become more visible and openly discussed. Digital culture fosters
personal growth and expression but also demands discernment in navigating its impact
on how individuals understand and live out Christian teachings.
In-person communication remains a crucial form of social capital, supporting the
growth and expansion of virtual relationships (Skivko et al., 2020). Digital culture
represents a new phase in the evolution of society's information landscape (Zakharov et
al., 2020). In order to harness technology’s benefits while safeguarding information
confidentiality and reliability, society must develop both digital literacy and adaptability.
Understanding digital culture requires not only technological literacy but also a
willingness to critically examine its influence on thought and behavior. In this regard,
Mezirow’s transformative learning theory provides a valuable lens for critically
examining assumptions, which leads to a shift in perspective and, eventually, a change in
behavior (E. C. Campbell, 2024). Given these considerations, this study seeks to answer
the following question: How does digital culture influence interpretations of the New
Testament and shape religious practice? Through this framework, this study explores how

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digital culture shapes interpretations of the New Testament and influences religious
practice, offering new insights into religious engagement in the digital age.
METHOD
This study employs a quantitative research methodology, utilizing a survey
approach. Reflexivity and reflective practice are often underemphasized in quantitative
social and personality psychology research (Jamieson et al., 2023). However,
communities play a crucial role in supporting quantitative research by fostering
knowledge exchange, intellectual engagement, and professional development. These
communities also help establish standards for training, research, and teaching (Franklin,
2023).
Quantitative modeling approaches are widely used across policy cycles, providing
a systematic and transparent framework for decision-making (Munda et al., 2020).
Quantitative approach was chosen due to its emphasis on measurable and standardized
data, ensuring replicability. The survey, conducted at Kupang State Christian Institute
(IAKN Kupang), involved a sample of 36 students. Data collection was carried out
through questionnaires utilizing a 5-point Likert scale, ranging from 1 (Strongly
Disagree) to 5 (Strongly Agree). This scale allowed respondents to express their attitudes,
perceptions, and opinions on various aspects of the study, enabling a detailed and
structured analysis of their responses.
All research procedures were approved by the research ethics committee under
approval number 3899/Ikn.01/IIa.1/TL.00/04/2023. Data collection methods were
systematically applied, followed by quantitative analysis to ensure validity and reliability
(Salmia, Sukmawati, 2023). The study prioritizes measurement validity, generalizability,
and causal validity as key components of robust quantitative research (Schutt, 2019).
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
Digital Culture and Influence on Religious Practices
Digital culture can be a powerful means of actualizing New Testament principles,
strengthening human connections, and exploring diverse perspectives. However, without
self-discipline, it may also lead to over-reliance on social media, weakened spiritual
relationships, and a decline in religious values. The following section presents the
research findings.
Behaviors
Individuals with such desires are inclined toward greed, deceit, and dishonesty,
prioritizing financial gain over God’s teachings, moral values, and kingdom principles.

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This attitude reflects a deeply self-serving nature, placing wealth above religious and
ethical commitments.
In Christianity, such behavior contradicts the teachings of Jesus. He emphasized
that believers must seek the kingdom of God first (Matt. 6:33) and warned that one cannot
serve both God and money (Matt. 6:24).

Description

Rate
1
2
3
4
19.4% 2.8% 8.3% 22.2%
19.4% 11.1% 13.9%
24%
33.3% 2.8% 8.3% 13.9%
27.8% 2.8% 13.9% 19.9%
13.9% 11.1% 16.7%
25%
25% 8.3% 2.8% 19.4%

5
47.2%
30.6%
41.7%
36.1%
33.3%
44.4%

Desired communication pattern
Feedback
Prevent unwanted behavior
Overcoming fear and rejection
Understanding current habits
Build new habits to support the desired
behavior
Introducing nudges and behaviors
16.7% 11.1% 11.1% 22.2% 38.9%
Table 1. Behaviors
The survey conducted at IAKN Kupang revealed commendable behavioral
attitudes among respondents. Findings show that 47.2% of participants rated a specific
communication pattern as highly important, highlighting its significance in their
interactions. Additionally, 30.6% of respondents emphasized the importance of receiving
feedback, indicating that the majority value active engagement in conversations.
The high scores in "Prevent Unwanted Behavior" and "Overcoming Fear and
Rejection" suggest that these are also key priorities. Intense interaction can lead to
differences in opinion and discussions on religious interpretation, particularly on digital
platforms where diverse perspectives intersect. Elders serve as role models within their
communities, demonstrating positive behavior for members to follow. In the era of digital
transformation, organizations seek leaders proficient in digital technology who can
inspire teams, foster a strong digital culture, and enhance productivity (Shin et al., 2023).
Similarly, Christian leaders are called to uphold high ethical and moral standards, serving
as vigilant guardians who guide their communities through example (John 10:3-4; (Pratte,
2019).
This shift presents opportunities for spreading religious influence but also raises
challenges related to the validity of teachings, digital norms, and the risk of
misinformation. Therefore, the use of technology in religious contexts must be supported
by strong digital literacy skills and a comprehensive understanding of religious values to
maintain theological integrity.
The pursuit of wealth is highlighted in 1 Peter 5:2 as a trait that church leaders
should avoid. The passage emphasizes moderation, conflict resolution, kindness over

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cruelty, hospitality, and humility while warning against greed and a love for money. A
church overseer must embody trustworthiness, patience, selflessness, and noncontentiousness while maintaining sobriety and affability. Additionally, the church
community is responsible for supporting those who oversee God’s work (Luke 10:7; 1
Cor. 9:14; 1 Tim. 5:17) so that they and their families can meet their basic needs. A
devoted follower of God should avoid using religious service as a means to accumulate
wealth.
As ethical standards evolve in response to the rapid global spread of information,
traditional communal values have increasingly been replaced by individualism and selfexpression. This shift underscores the importance of maintaining ethical and theological
consistency in digital religious engagement.
Values
Digital culture enables the formation of virtual religious communities, allowing
like-minded individuals to connect, offer support, engage in discussions, and strengthen
their faith. It expands social networks and fosters a safe environment where individuals
can freely express and practice their beliefs without fear.
However, the data suggests that most individuals remain more focused on
themselves rather than others, indicating a need for greater emphasis on community
engagement and mutual support within digital religious spaces.

Description
Focus on helping your own value
Teams to understand the overlap of
personal and organizational values
increases motivation

Rate
1
2
3
4
5
19.4%
0% 5.6% 8.3% 66.7%
19.4% 2.8% 11.1% 16.7%
50%

Table 2. Values
Overall, the data suggests that the majority of respondents place high importance
on their personal values in the workplace and believe that aligning individual beliefs with
corporate principles can enhance motivation. This implies that to maximize motivation
within an organization, it is essential to ensure that personal values and organizational
ideals are in harmony.
The digital culture practiced by Christians can serve as a reflection of their values,
such as honesty, integrity, and spiritual growth. The results indicate that self-evaluation
is often linked to spiritual introspection and repentance. In a digital environment,
Christians are called to reflect on how they interact with technology and whether their
digital engagement aligns with their faith.

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While not everyone agrees, there is a general perception that motivation can be
strengthened by harmonizing personal and corporate values. A smaller group of
respondents who disagreed may believe that motivation stems from other sources or that
the connection between personal and organizational values is less significant. However,
those who rated this statement highly likely view it as a means of creating a cohesive and
driven team culture.
The rise of digital culture has had a positive impact on promoting religious beliefs
that emphasize humanity as divine creations, fostering a spirit of mutual assistance and
harmony (Hutapea, 2023). Galatians 6:2 instructs believers to help one another carry
burdens, a principle that is valued across many religious traditions and life philosophies.
The text highlights the importance of providing both physical and emotional support in
times of hardship.
Additionally, research indicates that mobile device users engage with the Bible
more consistently than those who read printed versions, particularly among men (Dyer,
2019). In the digital age, mobile phones have become a primary tool for religious
individuals to strengthen their faith, especially through reading sacred texts such as the
Bible. This shift demonstrates that digital culture is not only reshaping how people access
information but also transforming how religious practices are carried out across different
communities.
Mindset
The mindset cultivated by the respondents plays a significant role in shaping their
thought processes and communication. This suggests that individuals with strong
leadership skills and persuasive abilities tend to structure interactions in ways that align
with their preferences. Clear and logical thinking enables a person to communicate more
effectively, particularly when leading and influencing others.

Description

Rate
2
3
4
5
0% 5.6% 16.7% 55.6%
2.8% 19.4% 16.7% 41.7%
8.3% 8.3% 13.9% 52.8%

1
Communicating the desired mindset
22.2%
Mindset impacts certain behaviors
19.4%
Discuss mindsets with the team
16.7%
(individually and/or in groups)
If a team or individual is resisting, target
30.6% 11.1%
the behavior of those around them.
Table 3. Mindset

8.3%

25%

25%

Although opinions varied in this case, the majority of respondents (30.6%) rated
it as "1" (Strongly Disagree), indicating that many believe emulating the actions of others
around a rejected individual is not an effective strategy. Digital thinking encourages
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religious individuals to be more open, critical, and collaborative in their worship
practices. At the same time, digital culture enables them to use technology to strengthen
their faith and expand access to religious teachings. Therefore, integrating religion and
technology must be done wisely, ensuring alignment with spiritual and moral values.
An approach that rigidly adheres to unchanging principles may lead to negative
consequences (Wong et al., 2020). A more effective strategy is to identify modifiable
factors and focus on solutions that promote growth and improvement. The ability to adapt
and maintain a continuously evolving mindset is essential for successfully navigating
challenges.
Humanistic-Encouraging
The humanistic approach emphasizes the importance of addressing the unique
needs of individual students while recognizing differences in their learning styles,
interests, and abilities. It focuses on fostering positive teacher-student relationships,
enhancing intrinsic motivation, and promoting personal growth and intellectual
development. Learning is designed to align with students' lives, encouraging them to learn
not through coercion, but through curiosity and personal fulfillment.
Description

Rate
3
19.4%
19.4%
11.1%
11.1%
5.6%
8.3%
11.1%

1
2
Helping others think for themselves
19.4% 5.6%
Resolve conflicts constructively
22.2% 8.3%
Encouraging others
19.4% 8.3%
Spend time with people
25%
2.8%
Helping others to grow and develop
19.4% 5.6%
Be supportive of others
19.4% 5.6%
Involving others in decisions that affect
25%
5.6%
them
Giving positive rewards to others
16.7% 8.3% 5.6%
Be a good listener
25%
2.8% 2.8%
Show concern for the needs of others
16.7% 8.3% 8.3%
Table 4. Humanistic-Encouraging

4
16.7%
11.1%
19.4%
25%
25%
13.9%
19.4%

5
38.9%
38.9%
41.7%
36.1%
44.4%
52.8%
38.9%

22.2% 47.2%
27.8% 41.7%
22.2% 44.4%

Table 4 of the survey reveals that the humanistic aspect is the predominant factor
in demonstrating respect toward others. This includes offering constructive praise,
supporting others in their personal growth and development, and showing genuine care
for their well-being. Religion should not focus solely on rules and traditions but should
also emphasize the core of humanity in accordance with Christ’s teachings. First, love
must be central to religious practice (1 Cor. 13:1-3). Second, faith should be expressed
through love and care for others (James 1:27). Third, everyone should be treated with
respect as God’s creation.
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Personal relationships are shaped by the factors that motivate individuals to
provide effective support (Lee et al., 2021). A person is more likely to help others when
they have sufficient time, energy, and resources. However, when someone is exhausted
or facing limitations, they may be unable to offer meaningful assistance.
Self-Actualizing
The process of self-actualization involves individuals striving to reach their full
potential and become the best versions of themselves. This requires making the most of
their existing talents, skills, and creativity. Kaufman (2023) discusses the use of a
foundational motivational framework in achieving self-actualization. Self-actualization
represents the final stage of personal development, attainable only after fulfilling more
basic needs. By understanding the principles of motivation, individuals can more
effectively plan their personal growth, develop their abilities, and pursue a more
meaningful life.

Description

1
2
Think in a unique and independent way
25%
2.8%
Maintain personal integrity
22.2%
2.8%
Communicating ideas
22.2%
5.6%
Open about yourself
30.6% 11.1%
Worry about one's own growth
38.9%
5.6%
Emphasize quality over quantity
33.3%
5.6%
Be spontaneous
22.2%
5.6%
Refuse to compromise
27.8% 11.1%
Table 5. Self-Actualizing

Rate
3
5.6%
2.8%
2.8%
13.9%
19.4%
5.6%
13.9%
13.9%

4
22.2%
5.6%
25%
8.3%
13.9%
27.8%
22.2%
19.4%

5
44.4%
66.7%
44.4%
36.1%
22.2%
27.8%
36.1%
27.8%

The self-actualization study reveals that 66.7% of respondents continue to uphold
their integrity, while 44.4% demonstrate unique and autonomous thinking. This relates to
the ability to express thoughts that hold equal importance and value. Applying digital
culture in accordance with New Testament teachings is not merely about achieving
success or gaining recognition; it is about spiritual growth and serving others. Developing
one's true self is not about seeking praise but about living in alignment with Christian
teachings.
Maslow described self-actualizing individuals in relation to five key interpersonal
aspects of life: companionship, romantic relationships, long-term commitment and
intimacy, raising children, and community involvement (Hoffman, 2020). Personal
growth in relationships is not only about achieving happiness but also about fostering
meaningful connections and positively impacting others. By maintaining authenticity,

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speaking with kindness, and demonstrating empathy and responsibility, individuals can
experience holistic growth in their social lives.
Discussion
According to a poll conducted at IAKN Kupang, students demonstrate a highly
admirable attitude, particularly in communication. The majority of respondents (47.2%)
identified a preferred communication pattern, which they considered highly significant.
This data suggests that many respondents respect their own values in the workplace and
believe that integrating personal convictions with corporate ideals can enhance
motivation. A considerable percentage (30.6%) disagreed with the notion that imitating
others is an effective strategy, indicating a distinct perspective. One of the survey’s main
objectives was to emphasize humanity. Respondents indicated that fostering healthy
connections and sportsmanship in an organizational context requires behaviors such as
offering encouraging remarks, supporting personal growth, and showing concern for the
well-being of others.
The digital age presents a vast range of possibilities and opportunities. Therefore,
the focus is on the formation and maintenance of communities and their potential impact
on the church as a collective (A. L. Cloete, 2020). An inclusive and cohesive community
fosters a welcoming and supportive environment, encouraging individuals to join and
actively participate in the church. Resilient communities can successfully navigate and
resolve challenges such as conflicts or societal transformations.
Soukup and Glader (2020) reflects on the importance of regulating advancements
in communication technologies to ensure they do not conflict with religious principles.
Religious beliefs have evolved over time in response to cultural shifts. The correlation
between religious views and adherence is strengthening, although the rate of increase
slows with age (Keskintürk, 2022). Factors such as high birth rates, urban migration, and
shifting social values that contradict specific religious beliefs can exert significant
influence.
An increasing number of individuals prioritize material goods over religious
convictions. (Pospíšil & Macháčková, 2021). Many people today are influenced by the
desire to acquire material possessions, driven by advertising, social media, and pop
culture, which associate wealth with success and fulfillment. Societal and economic
factors also contribute to this trend. In times of economic difficulty, individuals may
prioritize financial stability over religious observance, leading to a decline in religious
commitment.
Religious beliefs and behaviors are considered manifestations of religiosity, a
phenomenon that varies across different regions and historical periods, as stated by Voas
and Storm (2021). Religious practices are commonly regarded as components of
religiosity, reflecting an individual's level of engagement in spiritual matters. Christian
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digital advertising instruction is shaped by various values, cultures, and professional
backgrounds. Religious communities may react defensively when digital media
challenges traditional religious beliefs (H. A. Campbell, 2020). This reaction is often due
to the deep significance religion holds for individuals, leading them to perceive such
challenges as threats.
Emojis can be ambiguous or misinterpreted depending on context and cultural
background (Wagner et al., 2020). Mediation is increasingly crucial in addressing
injustices and reconciling forgiveness with religious principles. It enhances awareness of
the relationship between religion and forgiveness (Casidy et al., 2021). Mediation allows
both victims of injustice and religious representatives to communicate and foster mutual
understanding. It also serves as a means of resolving conflicts between the process of
forgiveness, justice, and religious beliefs.
Although digital prayer may sometimes convey political messages, it remains a
unifying experience that integrates religious ideas into daily life (Gao et al., 2024). Apps,
websites, and social media platforms provide individuals with opportunities to pray, read
sacred texts, and engage in religious activities. However, facts and non-rule-based mental
models do not always align. While various datasets support theories of human thought
and behavior, no single model fully explains all observed patterns (Baimel et al., 2021).
When judgments are influenced by both instinctive and deliberate thought processes, this
phenomenon is referred to as doublethink.
An individual's upbringing influences their thought processes, and adopting a
positive outlook may sometimes conflict with religious beliefs (Baron, 2020). Those who
rely on intuitive thinking may be more inclined to accept religious views without
extensive contemplation. They may adhere to religious customs and doctrines with
minimal critical analysis. A strong foundational framework is necessary to support theory
development in the digital era, as digital technology becomes increasingly integrated into
modern organizations (Grover et al., 2022). The need for a comprehensive framework to
support digital theory development has grown as society and organizations become more
reliant on technology. Understanding how digital technology interacts with various
aspects of human existence is essential. The cultural dynamics of religious beliefs and
preferences are significantly shaped by centralized religious authorities, such as religious
leaders and organizations (Bisin et al., 2023). Further research could explore the impact
of digital culture on biblical interpretation and the evolving role of social media in shaping
religious practices.
CONCLUSION
Online communication allows individuals to deepen their religious knowledge by
exploring diverse perspectives. Social media platforms and religious discussion forums
connect believers worldwide, fostering dialogue, shared learning, and mutual support in
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religious practice. This digital shift also presents opportunities for churches and religious
leaders to engage with their congregations by creating accessible learning materials and
cultivating active online communities.
However, while digitalization enhances religious accessibility, it also raises
concerns. Increased reliance on digital platforms may limit personal autonomy in
religious interpretation, as individuals depend more on widely shared perspectives rather
than developing their own theological insights. To navigate this shift, faith communities
must balance technological engagement with personal spiritual reflection.
Competing interests
The authors declare that no conflicts of interest have influenced the writing or analysis in this paper. All
information presented is the result of objective and independent research, with no personal or professional
interests that conflict with the purpose and integrity of this report.

Author contributions
ET is responsible for organizing the entire course of the research, from designing the research design to
writing the final research paper, and A. E. S. R. participated in reading, data analysis, and final article
analysis.

Ethical considerations
This article followed all ethical standards for research without direct contact with human or animal subjects.
Ethical approval to conduct the study was obtained from the Your Institution (reference no.
4522/Ikn.01/09/2024).

Funding information
Publication costs are borne by the committee The 3rd International Conference on Christian and Religious
Studies (3rd ICC-IRS) IAKN Palangkaraya 2024.

Data availability
The use of data in this survey-based research comes from the researchers themselves. Research data
collection is done through Google Forms. If the researcher uses data from other parties, the researcher lists
the source or reference of the data.

Disclaimer
The manuscript is produced by the author and is the result of professional research conducted at the Kupang
State Institute of Christian Religion. This article does not reflect the official policy or position of the
institute, funder, agency, or publisher. The authors are responsible for the results, findings, and content of
this article.

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