John 3:16 says "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life."
God loved His people so much that He didn't wait for people to come to Him. He went to the people. In Young Life they have a phrase for their youth leaders, "go where they are." They take God's example and physically go where young people hung out and went to minister to them, on their territory. They went to school events, to popular youth hang out locations, and now to online places they hang out at. They are active on Instagram, TikTok, video games and other online environments.
"Go where they are" is not just a phrase youth leaders should have. It is a phrase that should inspire all ministers from all backgrounds, as well. That is why Pastors being on social media is so necessary.
Many ministers will often says that social media is so toxic that they can't possible be on it. Do you think that is what God thought when He sent Jesus to live among us? Had He thought this, Jesus would have never been on earth and people today would not have the hope of Christ in them. Social media can, in fact, be toxic. But that is exactly the reason why ministers need to be on social media.
Because social media can be toxic, it needs ministers on each platform to shine the light of Christ amongst the toxicity.
Pastors are Digital Missionaries that are ministering to their local community.
Pastors and minsters serve their communities as missionaries to that particular community. However, in this digital and online world we live in today, they have an opportunity to reach more people in their local community online. Many people check out Churches first online before they ever attend in person. As they see who the ministers are, they will sometimes check them out online and their social media profiles. By ministers being on social media, they have an opportunity for people to get to know them before they even step foot in your Church. Your social media engagement has a direct impact on your local community.
How can people get to know Pastors and ministers on social media?
Ministers being active on social media is a great way for people to get to know the type of person you are. If you are kind, generous, loving and supportive, it will make a big impact. However, if you are a jerk, rude, arrogant and divisive, they are probably going try another Church. The more active you can be on social media encouraging others and offering positive, Godly insights, the more people will be inspire and want to get to know you and your Church better. You have a true opportunity to shine the light and hope of Christ to others.
Conclusion
By ministers being on social media you have the opportunity to be the light of Christ to a very dark world. You also give people an opportunity to get to know you even before they come to your Church. It's a huge opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others. You don’t have to be on every social media platform, but you should be on at least one. Find one that you like and start engaging with others and see what God does. You will not only be impacting the online community, but you have a huge opportunity for your local community to get to know you as well.
What do you think? Why else should Pastors and ministers be on social media? Share your ideas below or on social media.
Through the Digital Church Network we are helping physical and digital churches better understand the discipleship process, and helping churches and church planters understand this and other decentralized mindset shifts. Joining the DCN is free and be encouraged!
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