Christians and social media, being aware, being equipped and being a good witness
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How should a Christian make the best use of social media? 13 key questions to ask yourself, some pitfalls to avoid, and the biblical justification for what and how you post.
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Christians and social media, being aware, being equipped and being a good witness
- 7. Viral content checklist 1. Does it stir emotion? 2. Does it show people who you are? 3. Does it provide practical value? 4. Is it timely/relevant?
Editor's Notes
- Faith sharing here does not necessarily mean evangelizing or proselytizing. This could include a wide range of interactions, such as offering a prayer or blessing, quoting from scripture or describing a religious experience
- 1. Emotion “If a story stirs an emotion, then it drives sharing.” Dao Nguyen – Publisher, Buzzfeed WHAT WORKS BEST Curiosity Surprise Amazement Joy When we share a video or an image, we’re not just sharing the object, but we’re sharing in the emotional response it creates 2. Self expression #1REASON WE SHARE 3. Practical value People don’t just want to look good, they also want to help others. So more useful equals more shared 4. Timing
- The hook The threat or promise The request
- The foundational question “Are you seeking to glorify God?” can be addressed to any situation in life because we were created to glorify God (Isaiah 43:7). When we stray from our life’s God-given purpose, we quickly fall away from where God wants us to be.
- Social media is itself a morally neutral thing, neither inherently good nor bad. But when put in the hands of sinful human beings, it should be no surprise that it can be used for a host of sinful behaviors: bullying, sinful relationships, sexual perversion, worldly ideas, and allowing yourself to be led astray by bad influences. Pray that God would reveal your sins and the idols that may exist or be fed through social media, and for the grace and power to repent.
- Social media is rampant with gossip, bullying, pessimism and complaining. Instead of conforming to the world, be a light and use your words to build others up. Know your weaknesses and be on your guard when someone posts something that pushes one of your buttons. Before you post, pray Psalm 19:14: “May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer.”
- Social networks present a unique opportunity to let your light shine before others by show the hope you have in Jesus Christ. You are able to challenge and encourage others to believe in Christ and follow him. Don’t forget the awesome opportunity you have to proclaim to the world the unsearchable riches of Christ!
- Let’s be honest: Some social media sites act as a black hole that suck up our time. It can be easy to go on Facebook to “check one thing” and to stay on for an hour. What else could you have done with that hour? Was that making the best use of the short life God has given you?
- (Romans 12:2) God can use little moments we give to him throughout our day to grow us, including time on social media. You can use your Facebook and Twitter streams to grow your faith by following accounts that honor God. Some people have sought to develop the discipline to stop and read Scripture whenever I see it posted to remind me that everything else posted is of limited importance compared to the Word of God that has eternal importance (1 Peter 1:24-25).
- God made us for relationships. Increasingly today, these relationships can take place through technology and can make people less social in real life. (So much for social media!) Instead of merely “liking” a picture or favoriting a tweet, invest in real relationships by having meaningful conversations. Take the extra step by letting people important to you know that you care about them. Or take an even greater extra step – actually talk with your friend face-to-face!
- Social media causes some people to have a shorter attention span, lose sleep, and even be depressed. Is that you? God desires that we honour God with not only our body, but also our entire being. Don’t let social media suck away your ability to follow that command.
- There is no shortage of social media arguments about politics, sports, religion – you name it! While some conversations can prove profitable, many others are a waste of time. Instead of arguing with fools, invest your time and energy into something more worthwhile.
- Don’t become a slave to the beeping of your phone or computer and always be checking your notifications online. Do you really need to check each notification, or can you check a few times throughout the day? Instead of constantly checking notifications with spare moments, read Scripture, pray, or let your mind rest.
- Paul had a lot he could have complained about (2 Corinthians 11:23-28), yet he still tells us to “do all things without grumbling or disputing.” Some turn to social media to complain, but God’s will for his children is that they give thanks in all circumstances (1 Thessalonians 5:18). Which characterizes you: thankfulness or constant complaining?
- Social media can add fuel to the fire of covetousness and insecurity because it can lead us to compare ourselves to others and their relationships, possessions, and lifestyle. Have you ever thought that your friend always posting pictures of their possessions might not be content? The secret to contentment is not having everything you want, but being thankful with what you have. May we learn to be like Paul who learned to be content in every situation (Philippians 4:11-13).
- We can fall into the trap of thinking that we only have value if people follow us or like our posts. If your mood depends on the number of “Likes” or “Retweets” your post receives, you care too much about gaining the approval of man. Rejoice in the fact that the gospel says that God accepts you because of what Christ has done.
- Christians are NOT Immune to egotistic self promotion, perhaps especially teenagers and young people who are into taking selfies! • The Bible warns us against self-love: “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.” (Phil. 2:3) • “In his pride the wicked does not seek him; in all his thoughts there is no room for God.” Psalm 10:4 • “When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.” Proverbs 11:2