By Dr. Floyd Godfrey

In today’s world, children are not merely stumbling across pornography—they are being targeted by it. The ease of digital access, the rise of visual media, and the strategic tactics of the pornography industry have created an unprecedented cultural environment where even well-meaning and well-protected children can be exposed and ensnared.

“Pornographers are aggressively exploiting our children,” warn Weiss and Glaser (2021, p. 8). This disturbing reality should reshape the way Christian parents, pastors, and youth leaders approach conversations about sexual purity and online safety. While we must remain vigilant in guarding our homes and churches, we must also be equally committed to showing compassion, patience, and grace to the youth who are caught in this battle.

The Targeting of the Young

The pornography industry doesn’t wait for kids to grow up—it comes looking for them. Through algorithms, pop-ups, social media, and suggestive content embedded in otherwise “safe” platforms, children are baited into curiosity and, often, addiction. What may begin as an innocent online search or accidental click can quickly spiral into a recurring habit.

The internet has become an unavoidable landscape. As Weiss and Glaser (2021) remind us, “All of us must face a sad but important point: we can never go back to the days before the internet” (p. 8). Parents and leaders must stop viewing this problem as a simple matter of morality or personal failure. Instead, we must recognize the psychological, emotional, and spiritual manipulation taking place—and respond accordingly.

A Generation Under Pressure

Children and teenagers today are growing up under immense cultural pressure. They are constantly bombarded with messages about sex, identity, and pleasure that are radically different from the biblical truths they hear in church—if they hear them at all. Many youth caught in pornography are not rebels; they are victims of a system carefully designed to hook them early and keep them addicted.

This doesn’t excuse sinful behavior, but it does call for greater understanding. As Weiss and Glaser (2021) put it, “The reality is that pornography is impacting guys and girls, men and women, young and old. We can't afford to exclude anyone who struggles with pornography from the grace and loving support of Christ's community” (p. 9).

Responding with Grace and Truth

How, then, should we as Christian leaders and caregivers respond when a child or teen confesses a struggle with pornography? Here are a few biblical and pastoral principles:

1. Lead with Compassion
   Approach the issue from a posture of empathy. Instead of reacting with shame or shock, seek to understand what led to the exposure or behavior. Create a safe space where honesty is honored and healing is possible.
2. Teach the Truth with Patience
   Don’t shy away from biblical standards for sexuality and holiness—but be patient in the process. Young people need repeated guidance, not just one-time lectures. Ephesians 4:15 reminds us to “speak the truth in love,” which includes consistency and kindness.
3. Involve the Church Community
   Let the church be a place of restoration, not rejection. Youth who struggle need support systems, mentorship, and accountability. Whether it’s through counseling, small groups, or discipleship programs, we must ensure that no one walks this road alone.
4. Equip, Don’t Just Instruct
   Equip kids and teens with practical tools for resisting temptation—filtering software, media literacy, and healthy digital habits. At the same time, nurture their hearts with the gospel so their choices are rooted in love for Christ, not just fear of failure.
5. Support Parents in the Journey
   Many parents feel unequipped or overwhelmed when their child faces this battle. As a church, we must come alongside them with education, counseling resources, and prayer. The goal isn’t just to manage behavior, but to disciple hearts and minds.

Hope for the Wounded

Jesus always responded to the broken with both truth and tenderness. When the woman caught in adultery was brought before Him, He didn’t minimize her sin—but He also didn’t condemn her. He said, “Neither do I condemn you… Go now and leave your life of sin” (John 8:11, NIV). That same grace must mark our approach to children and teens caught in pornography.

Let us be a community that understands the battle, stands on the truth, and walks patiently with those who are wounded. The targeting of our children by pornographers is real, but so is the power of the gospel. And by God's grace, we can help this generation find freedom, healing, and purpose in Christ.

Floyd Godfrey PhD is a Board Certified Christian Counselor and has facilitated groups within different churches and denominations over the past 30 years. He worked as a licensed clinician for 23 years and provided supervision and training for other counselors as they worked toward independent licensure. You can read more about Floyd Godfrey PhD at www.FloydGodfrey.com.

References
Weiss, D., & Glaser, J. (2021). Treading boldly through a pornographic world: A field guide for parents. Salem Press.