Matt Henslee (@mhenslee) is managing editor of LifeWay Pastors, coauthor of the book “Replanting Rural Churches” and pastor of Mayhill Baptist Church in Mayhill, N.M. He is married to Rebecca, and they have four daughters. The views expressed in this commentary do not necessarily represent those of BCNN1.
Social media can be an awesome tool, but it can also be a terrible temptation. It’s a mixed bag that gives people a platform to say whatever they want — the good, the bad, and the ugly — whenever they want, with little to no consequence.
I’ve made several friends on social media and have been encouraged by thousands of tweets and Facebook posts. There have been days, however, when I’ve been ready to delete every last one of my social media accounts.
But I’ve determined every second God gives me is an opportunity to “make the most of the time” (Ephesians 5:6). For this reason, I block the trolls, mute the troublemakers and am intentional and particular with what I decide to post.
Another reason I do this is because of what Jesus says in Matthew 12:36: “I tell you that on the day of judgment people will have to account for every careless word they speak.” Social media can be a breeding ground for careless words, which is why wisdom and caution are necessary.
While I’m not always successful, before sending on an online message, I try to ask myself:
— Is this true or false?
— Does it build up or tear down?
— Does it amplify or diminish Christ’s Gospel?
These questions help me accomplish three things in an effort to post to the glory of God:
1. Speak the truth
“Lying lips are detestable to the Lord, but faithful people are his delight,” (Proverbs 12:22).
I might have tens of thousands of friends and followers on social media, but the audience that really matters consists of three persons in one: the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit.
It’s out of the new nature I received from Christ I aim to speak the truth in love to those in my circle of influence (Colossians 3:9-10; Ephesians 4:15).
These verses also inform how I process and respond to the news. When breaking news occurs, I try to wait at least 72 hours before giving commentary, as more facts often come to light after the story breaks.
May we be known as a people who value honesty and likewise share the truth in love.
2. Share to edify, encourage and embolden
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up as you are already doing” (1 Thessalonians 5:11).
I’m a pastor of a normative size church in the middle of absolutely nowhere. The people I have the privilege of serving and leading are gifts from the Lord.
But like all pastors, there are days when the rise and grind of ministry gets me down. Since most of my online friends and followers are pastors who are in the same boat, the absolute last thing I want to do is add to their headaches and heartaches.
There’s a time for everything, and I’ve found the time I spend on social media should be primarily dedicated to cheering on my brothers and sisters in Christ. Do I agree with all of my social media contacts on everything they post? Of course not.
Source: Baptist Press
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