As a pastor who has used social media to share the Gospel for a few years now, I have learned a few things and discovered some nuggets every social media pastor should know.
These simple truths I share below are based on 2 Timothy 2:20-21 and why it’s imperative for pastors and ministry leaders to be vessels of honor including when using social media or any virtual platform.
But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay, some for honor and some for dishonor. Therefore if anyone cleanses himself from the latter, he will be a vessel for honor, sanctified and useful for the Master, prepared for every good work.
1. Let your focus be Jesus.
It doesn’t matter whether your platform is virtual or live, preach one message ==>Jesus. You are dealing with human beings. When you communicate, act like the person is right in from of you and not via a computer, tablet or any other handheld device.
2. Be a vessel of honor.
Speak love and kindness.
3. Don’t engage in mindless chatter.
The world is watching and listening to you.
4. Don’t quit.
You will encounter periods where you want to quit ministering online because of time, low audience engagement, issues and everything. Remember, if only one soul is saved from your posts, it’s worth the effort. Your audience engagement may be low but it doesn’t mean people aren’t reading or hearing what you are saying. Some people are shy to post comments or even like a post, but they hear you!
5. Interpret and teach God’s message of truth correctly.
Don’t post or share messages to draw a following but make sure your followers understand His Word.
6. Whatever you post online does not disappear even if you delete it.
You don’t always have to respond to critics and haters. Avoid foolish and ignorant disputes.
7. If you make a mistake, admit it.
If you need time out, take it and let someone else handle your social media platforms. Hire a social media manager. Delegate tasks that are making you ineffective in ministry but don’t delegate your purpose or anointing.
Whatever you do, make sure God gets the glory. You are God’s vessel and he owns the mansion. Be of good use to the mansion.
There’s nothing wrong with using social media to share Christ’s love. Infact, it is a total disservice to not use it.
You have a message that God has placed in you so why not share it with the world? No matter how shy you are or what you think, there’s someone out there who needs to hear from you. The fields are indeed very vast and the workers are few.
I said this before, the Internet is Rehoboth (open space) and God has created enough space for us to prosper in this land. So, let’s use everything He has given us for His glory.
Question: Got some more nuggets on what pastors should know about social media? Let’s hear you!
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Belinda is a Global Privacy and Cybersecurity Consultant, Corporate Trainer (leadership, culture, diversity and inclusion, cyber privacy and security awareness), Writer, and International Speaker with a unique blend of law and technology. She is a digital entrepreneur, author, ordained pastor, mentor to women ready to impact their generation and host of Destiny Chats podcast. For consultation, click here and invitation to speak, click here
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