Christians & Social Media
“But above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfection. And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.” (Colossians 3:14-17)
Social media is continually growing in popularity and is being used by more people now than ever. Followers of Christ are among those using social media to communicate and stay connected, but we must not forget that in all things we do we are wearing the name of Christ. Christians represent Christ at all times. We should be very careful about how we portray King Jesus and His kingdom to the world.
We all have our opinions about current issues of the day, but is it wise for us to express that opinion in a public venue if that opinion divides or offends? The Apostle Paul expressed in his first letter to Timothy that we [Christians] should lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. (1 Timothy 2:2-4)
We need to be reminded of our purpose in this life. Our purpose is not to broadcast our political opinions, our personal social policies, or our disdain for something that has nothing to do with Jesus. What is our purpose? We are to glorify God the Father, striving every day to be like King Jesus, and be a shining light to a world of darkness by spreading and living the gospel in truth and love.
Is God glorified when we start arguments on Facebook? Are we striving to be like Christ by publicly expressing our political views? Are we shining brightly in a world of darkness when we put all of our time and effort into expressing a belief that has nothing to do with the gospel of Jesus Christ? An honest heart knows the answer to these questions.
There is so much work to do for the kingdom that there is no time to worry about these things. The gospel is the most pressing matter in all of the world. The only hope people have is in the atoning blood of the eternal King we serve. Make your life about Jesus. In all things, represent your King. Instead of proving people wrong, introduce them to Jesus, and if they surrender to Him, that will take care of itself.
Before we speak or before we like, comment, or post something on social media, we need to ask ourselves if what we are about to say or support glorifies God. Will this appropriately represent King Jesus? Does this contribute to the growth of the kingdom? Let Christ truly be the most important thing in your life and you’ll soon realize how small and insignificant the matters of this world are.
We also need to be careful not to misrepresent Jesus in what we choose to like and comment on through our social media platforms. That sends a message to the world. If we like, comment, or post something that is unscriptural or sinful, the world understands that we are not serious about our allegiance to King Jesus, but we are committed to conformity with the world. The point is to be mindful of God’s word before you say anything.
- Eric Bullock, Evangelist
