The unlikely marriage of Jesus and social media

Imagine Jesus in sandals and a tunic, surfing social media in the desert. 

Silly, right? And many would say that social media and Jesus are about as far apart as two things can be. 

But I disagree. God cares about every part of our lives (VERSE) and I believe He’s part of our social media lives, as well.

When looked at through the right lens, the “marriage” of Jesus and social media can be as natural as worship or Bible study. 

Do you ever feel guilty about the time you spend on social media? Like Jesus would be disappointed in you? You’re not alone. Read on for inspiration and encouragement!

The Role of Social Media in Christianity

What is social media?

According to Tufts University, social media refers to the means of interactions among people in which they create, share, and/or exchange information and ideas in virtual communities and networks. 

Some platforms include Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, YouTube, and Twitter. There are loads of others, though! 

How to use social media as a Christian

Even before Covid, lots of organizations and individuals reached out to the world with Scripture and messages about Jesus. Social media moved us from 1:1 communication to 1:millions, practically overnight. Social media allows us to share a message with innumerable recipients.   

Some people get nervous talking about Jesus (evangelizing) face to face. They worry that they won’t know what to say if someone objects or gets argumentative. 

Cue social media! 

When one uses social media, the people we are communicating with aren’t right in front of us, so it’s easier to share the Good News from a screen.

The Bible and social media

The Bible has lots of examples of how people used the technology of the times to communicate. Paul wrote letters (most of the New Testament is letters from Paul). The Romans sent decrees written in multiple languages to be sent to various regions under their command (Esther 9 & 10). Jesus used word of mouth (see all 4 Gospels – Matthew, Mark, Luke & John).

If The Chosen is accurate at all, his disciples went among the 5,000 to amplify Jesus’s sermons (Matthew 14). The disciples were sent out 2 by 2 to spread the Good News to others: individuals and groups (Matthew 10:1 & others). So you see, we have lots of examples of individuals spreading word about Jesus to people not in their presence. 

Cyberchurch and Online Presence

What is cyberchurch?

Cyberchurch simply refers to study, worship, and actual church services taking place in a digital (online) form. 

Before Covid, some churches were broadcasting online and there were a few companies offering online Bible studies. Covid made those activities explode, though. 

Today, even small churches are broadcasting services, hiring social media managers, and hosting studies and worship outside of church services.

How does the Church benefit from cyberchurch?

The Church (big C) benefits from cyberchurch because the Good News is spread through so many different outlets. Whether one is watching worship or following along with a Bible study, Jesus is the core message. 

We can use our social media accounts to draw people closer to Jesus. We can show how easy it is to study the Bible or worship from the comfort and safety of our own home. In doing this through our social media we can easily reach the unchurched…a goal of al Christians in the Great Commission(Matthew 28:16-20). 

Examples of cyberchurch

There are many excellent examples of cyberchurch activities. Note that every one of these sources also has social media accounts.

• Priscilla Shirer
• Andy Stanley
• Podcasts (search in your podcast platform): Tony Evans, The Daily Grace Co,
• Bible Studies: Faith Gateway, Lifeway, Proverbs 31
• Cultivate What Matters

Technology and Faith

Technology and faith don’t have to be separate realms. We can easily share our faith through technology and grow our faith through it, as well. 

We can reach others, help make disciples, deepen faith, and grow our spiritual lives in Christ all through social media. In this way, we can see Jesus “married” to social media. 

Conclusion

I hope you see now that the idea of Jesus being  “married” to social media isn’t all that crazy. I truly believe God wants us to embrace the technology we have – the means we have – of carrying out the Great commission. 

Challenge

If we have the opportunity to grow our faith, draw closer to the throne of God, and share about all that with others, why not take the opportunity? How can you share about Jesus on your social media accounts this week?  

Imagine that instead of feeling guilty about time spent on social media, you used some of it to draw others close to God and introduce them to your Savior. This week, use social media as a way to embrace technology and use it for the glory of God.

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In Christ,

🌸 Andrea

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