Normally when we talk about the Christian and social media we discuss the dangers of social media. Social media can be a very dangerous place. The evil that is in the world is also on social media platforms. There are “wolves in sheeps clothing” online (Matthew 7:15), and just like the devil they are seeking who they can devour (1 Peter 5:8). We also talk a lot about how Christians should conduct themselves while using these platforms. Romans 12:1-2 speaks to how we as Christians should conduct ourselves at all times. We are to be God’s holy people(1 Peter 2:9) and we are not to be conformed to the lifestyle or even thinking of the world. All Christians, both young and old, are to be transformed in God and live Christ-like lives everywhere we go, even when we are online.
But I do not want us to immediately think badly about social media. Social media, even though it does have its probelms, is not inherently evil. It is a tool that can be used for good or evil. Actually social media can teach us some valuable lessons if we will let it. Let us all consider the following lessons as we live our lives each day.
1. A person cannot become part of a social media platform without signing up. In order to be a Christian we must appeal to God and have Him add us to His Church (1 Peter 3:21, Acts 2:47).
2. We must also agree to the terms and conditions. This is true for social media and a life as a Christian. There are terms and conditions in order to be saved (Acts 2:38) and there are terms and conditions in order to remain in a good standing with God (1 John 1:7-9).
3. Social media has different ways to filter the content we see and post. A Christian must not allow sinful things into their life. Our Christian filter must help us keep the evil things of this world from corrupting our hearts and minds (1 John 2:15-17, Matthew 15:16-20).
4. Filters on social media are not just to keep things out and away. Filters are also a way to adjust or even cover up what is actually there. We as Christians need to live honest and sincere lives before God and others. We need to be careful that we are not just doing things to be seen by others and that we do not let hypocrisy creep into our lives (Matthew 23:25-28).
5. The life we live on social media is seen by all, even when we adjust our privacy settings or clear our history. People see how we live. Most importantly, God sees how we live. What does God see when He looks at our lives? (Proverbs 10:9, Hebrews 4:11-13)
6. We influence people and sometimes create a following. If people follow us spiritually where will it lead them? Will it lead them to Christ? (Matthew 5:16)
Derek Broome