The Social Media Christian

Social media has changed our world. It’s reported that more than one billion active users are on Facebook alone with other networks like Pinterest, Instagram, WhatsApp, SnapChat and Twitter representing hundreds of millions more. For the first time in history, we can now reach the world within minutes from our fingertips. We access far more people in this digital world than our physical neighborhood. While I love accessibility and opportunity, I must admit that it troubles me how some folks, even ministers, are utilizing this gift. Our goal should be to engage our world with truth, hope and the good news.

These are exciting times, yet it can also be confusing times. Technology is reshaping life and ministry, and it all seems to be moving forward at an expedited pace. We must accurately leverage these tools for the Kingdom. The Great Commission compels us to engage our world and make disciples, but with all the noise and potentially harmful things online, it’s hard to know where to begin. Yet, here are three considerations that assure that our posts glorify God:

• Speaking the truth. “Lying lips are detestable to the Lord, but faithful people are his delight” (Proverbs 12:22). This means that if you aren’t 100% certain of the accuracy of your information – DON’T POST!

• Share to edify, encourage, and embolden.

• Spread the gospel of Jesus Christ, not political posturing or opinions.

REMEMBER – you’re still a Christian (A MINISTER) even while online. Therefore, use social media to…

• Promote the church, ministry and the gospel. Why would we want to share controversial information or anything that would portray the church in a less than desirable way.

• Post content that is meaningful.

• Listen and think before you send.

• Ask before you repost. (I wish I could underline this repeatedly)

• Be kind, courteous and respectful.

• Care about your tone.

• Always take the highroad.

And, as a Christian, I believe it begins with the simple very basic question, “How would Jesus use Social Media?”

Starting with that question, I believe these simple truths can help in maximizing our online influence:

1. Don’t use social media just to inform; rather, use it to impact people.

“Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise.” Philippians 4:8

2. Keep in mind that social media is an aspect of meaningful community, not a replacement.

“And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.” Hebrews 10:25

Social media is a wonderful tool for connecting with people, but if all your interactions are happening online, then you’re missing out. I like what someone told me…” you can’t hug Facebook.”

3. Show respect even to those who don’t deserve it; not as a reflection of their character, but as a reflection of yours.

“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.“ Romans 12:18

Some people seem to use their social media platform to create “drama” and public forums for arguments. As Christians and especially as ministers, we ought to fight the temptation to be pulled into the negativity. We have to rise above it by refusing to engage in online shouting matches or by publicly criticizing. People will come to respect you more and the influence of your life and ministry will be stronger if you display dignity and restraint with what you post online.

4. Don’t be discouraged by critics. Criticism is the price of influence.

“Woe to you when everyone speaks well of you, for that is how their ancestors treated the false prophets.” Luke 6:26

Anytime you share anything online, there’s a good chance someone will misunderstand your intentions or completely disagree with your perspective. If your words and actions are consistent with your faith in Christ, then you should have peace whether you’re receiving praise or criticism from people. I believe that pleasing God is always more important than being popular with the crowd.

Choose to be an encourager; the world has plenty of critics already.

5. Don’t be online all the time. Find balance and protect boundaries.

“…have the wisdom to show restraint.” Proverbs 23:4

6. Don’t be an “Undercover Christian” online.

“Let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.” Matthew 5:16

7. Remember the goal isn’t to gain more followers for yourself; it’s to gain more followers for Jesus.

“But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.” 1 Peter 3:15

Sometimes it is impossible to be clear and accurate online, where people can and will misconstrue and misunderstand what is said. Some conversations (perhaps most) should be in private and in person, because everything that’s shared online is public forever.