How Christians should approach social media

Written by: Katie Bragg, staff writer

DAYTON, Tenn– The modern world we live in is full of things that the Bible does not mention, and social media is one of them. The Bible does, however, give us clear instructions on how we are to communicate with others and on how we should represent ourselves as followers of Christ. Since we are called to reflect Christ, we represent him not only in our daily lives but on social platforms as well. Here are a few tips on how to go about any form of social media as a Christian:

1.Understand that words have power.

It may seem easy and safe to say something hateful from behind a screen, but that does not make it any less wrong. Be mindful of how you communicate with others inside and outside of social media. Think about how your words may affect someone. If you wouldn’t say it to them in person, don’t say it to them online either. 

2.Speak only the truth.

It is never a good idea to share lies or contribute to rumor spreading. Make sure what you are posting is 100% truthful, and check the reliability of your sources before you share.

3.Don’t be an attention seeker. 

When you post or share, what are you trying to bring attention to and what kind of attention are you seeking? Are you using your words to stir up anger or to build others up? Are you pointing others to Christ or to yourself? 

It is not a sin to voice your opinion, but be cautious in using your platform this way. It is easy to get so carried away with our views on news and politics that we forget who we are representing. 

Similarly, it is not a sin to post a picture of yourself, but this brings us back to the first question – what are you trying to bring attention to and what kind of attention are you trying to get?

4.Remember that it isn’t all about likes and shares.

One thing I have noticed about social media over the years is that it is an artificial world where people are defined by numbers (number of likes, followers, shares, comments etc.). Things like these should not define our value. Our value should be defined by the fact we are made in God’s image and He loves each and every one of us. 

5.Don’t be boastful. 

Social media can be a wonderful tool for sharing God’s word as well as your own faith with others, but this should not be done with a boastful mindset. There is nothing wrong with being open about your faith (which we are commanded to do), but are you acting upon the faith you speak of? It’s all about your attitude here. Those who “brag” about their faith online without acting upon it in real life are comparable to the religious hypocrites that Jesus rebukes in Matthew 6:5 (NIV): “And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full.”  

Social media gives us easy access to the world around us, but we must remember what the Bible tells us in Romans 12:2 (NIV): “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”

This does not mean that we are to cut ourselves off from social media altogether – this just means that we should be careful in the way we approach it and interact with it. 

Before you post that comment or that picture, remember that you are not only representing yourself but Christ. Ask yourself WHY you are sharing what you’re sharing. What is your attitude or purpose?

Katie Bragg is a freshman at Bryan College with a major in communication, media, and culture and a minor in worship arts. In high school, Bragg participated in various activities such as gymnastics, 4-H clubs, and the worship team at her church. She enjoys writing and hopes to pursue a career in media.