Have you ever thought of the ways in which social media has changed the manner in which we communicate? Our peers prefer text messages and photo sharing rather than interacting face-to-face. Friends and strangers are privy to our grieves and interests if permitted. Words tend to be fewer, while more memes and videos are shared to get a point across. I for one prefer creating stickers of my friends and family and plastering them all over the place. I digress. The landscape of digital communication has changed for good. Even churches have to keep up with the times and adapt to this dynamic.
In 2020 when the pandemic hit, the majority of our church leaders were forced to engage congregants and unattached persons alike via social media. Since we were not “allowed” to meet in physical spaces, online worship services, and other sessions were what we clung to for a spiritual experience. Certainly, we missed the hugs and extensive conversations with our brothers and sisters. Some of whom have gone on to glory. Thankfully, through this medium we were able to minister to persons online, pointing to the person and work of Jesus Christ. This “WhatsApp Church” is now the norm and will be here to stay even with a shift in culture and technological advancements. As it was in 2020, the church will be forced to adjust to virtual life or be left behind in the post-pandemic era.
The key to keeping up is to view social media and technology as a gift and a tool for kingdom advancement. In spheres where we cannot physically interact with others, telecommunications should unapologetically be used in ministry. There are numerous ways we can engage in evangelistic efforts. We should make that phone call checking up on a friend. Send that voice message praying for our neighbours. The Word should be put on blast daily because this is our chief mandate as believers. However, it should be regulated in its use by the church. We cannot solely cling to this method. Mix it up a little when necessary. Have a worship session in the community square. Share the Gospel in person as well. Not all persons will hear about God’s love through a YouVersion graphic. We have to physically show them.
I am often reminded that a robust online presence cannot be equated to a strong church. The body must follow the leadership of the Holy Spirit to be effective in ministry. Let’s be honest with ourselves. There are many churches that do not have the infrastructure to stream an online service. Yet still, they are serving together in the physical space, positively impacting their communities. With this, God is pleased. After all, how can we feed the hungry if we don’t get up from around our devices and deliver lunch?
Folks, let us willingly meet the needs of people when the opportunity presents itself. Let us weigh our contexts to see what works for our demographics while never compromising the content we present. The bride of Christ has its work cut out for her, but by God’s grace, it is doable. I’m up for the challenge. Are you?
Photo by Anna Might (IG:@annamighttakepics)