In a recent episode of “The John Bevere Podcast,” Darren Whitehead, founder and pastor of Church of the City, and author, speaker and minister John Bevere reflect on a striking prophecy delivered by the late Dr. Lester Sumrall over 40 years ago. Bevere emphasizes the profound implications of this word, which he believes is now coming to fruition in the digital age.
Whitehead opens the discussion by acknowledging the overwhelming influence of smartphones on contemporary life. “I’ve got to believe there has never been a more powerful piece of technology that is conforming people to the pattern of this world than these smartphones,” he states. He highlights how this digital distraction hampers one’s ability to hear God’s voice. “It is very difficult to hear the voice of God when every discretionary quiet moment in your life is filled with doom scrolling,” he adds, describing the pervasive “visual clutter” that smartphones create.
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Recalling a pivotal moment from 1984, Bevere describes a breakfast meeting with Dr. Sumrall , a renowned figure in ministry. “He said, ‘God has shown me things that are going to happen in the future,’” Bevere recounts. Sumrall prophesied that people would one day carry a box in their hands that would control their lives. “We thought, ‘Oh, bless his heart, he’s off his rocker,’” Bevere admits, reflecting on their initial skepticism.
However, as he discusses the present-day ramifications of this prophecy, Bevere highlights alarming statistics about smartphone usage. He cites research revealing that over 50% of Americans grapple with anxiety, a condition he attributes largely to smartphone dependency. “Ninety-two percent of Americans have a smartphone … what is that doing to people?” Whitehead asks. He stresses that excessive screen time—averaging between five to seven hours daily—alters social intelligence and fosters unhealthy comparisons.
“Romans 12 talks about … ‘Do not conform to the pattern of this world,'” Whitehead says. “I’ve got to believe there has never been a more powerful piece of technology that is conforming people to the to the pattern of this world than these smartphones.”
Together, they urge us as Christians to reflect on our relationship with technology and the need to reclaim our time with God and our joy. Dr. Sumrall’s prophecy echoes in their discussion, issuing a powerful warning about the unseen forces at play in a digitally driven world.
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James Lasher is staff writer for Charisma Media.
Abby Trivett 
