AuthorElder Jim Fairchild |
The members of the Church Social Media Managers Facebook group often report receiving criticism for using digital outreach to Invite People to Christ and participate in the Great Commission. The critics say, “social media is evil! The Church doesn’t need technology! Just preach the Word of God, from the Bible!” (I have been the recipient of such comments myself.) |
But the data - and history - tell a very different story.
Today, about 62.6% of the world uses social media. That’s 5.07 billion people, with 259 million new users joining in the last year alone. The average person spends 2 hours and 20 minutes every day on social platforms.
If the Great Commission calls us to “go into all the world,” then this is the world.
Today, about 62.6% of the world uses social media. That’s 5.07 billion people, with 259 million new users joining in the last year alone. The average person spends 2 hours and 20 minutes every day on social platforms.
If the Great Commission calls us to “go into all the world,” then this is the world.
And Jesus came and said to them, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age."
Matthew 28:18-20 NRSV
Matthew 28:18-20 NRSV
The Printing Press Was the First Digital Revolution
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Christians have always used the best communication tools available to share the gospel. The printing press wasn’t just a technological breakthrough - it was a spiritual one. |
Here’s what happened when Christians embraced new technology:
- Books became accessible. Before the printing press, every book had to be copied by hand. Printing made Scripture available to everyday people, not just scholars.
- The Bible became the first mass‑produced book. Suddenly, millions could read God’s word for themselves.
- Scripture was translated into local languages. People no longer needed Latin to understand the gospel.
- Pamphlets and printed materials fueled evangelism. Missionaries used printed resources to teach, preach, and invite people to Christ.
Technology Has Always Carried the Gospel Forward
More than 5 billion copies of the Bible have been printed since Gutenberg’s press began its work in the 15th century. Technology didn’t threaten the church. It empowered it.
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Social media is simply the next printing press. It is today’s most powerful tool for connection, communication and invitation. And just like the early church embraced the press, today’s disciples are called to embrace digital spaces where billions gather daily. |
“Be not overly concerned with method as you go forth to witness in my name. There are many techniques for proclaiming my word which may be used as needs and circumstances dictate.”
D&C 155:7
D&C 155:7
If the gospel is worth sharing, it is worth sharing where people are. Use your voice, your platforms, and today’s tools to help lead the next wave of Christian communication - and Invite People to Christ with courage, creativity and conviction.
Look for Topeka Community of Christ Here!
We use this new technology to share the Good News. Follow Topeka CofChrist on social media, and visit the ACTIVITIES page on our website to see how we are making Christ’s Mission – Our Mission.
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Links to Topeka Community of Christ Social Media Accounts
Post Script
As for the Bible, I have the New Revised Standard Version, the King James Version, the American Standard Version, and the Inspired Version in electronic (pdf) format; downloaded to my smart phone and laptop computer.
The Community of Christ publishes a booklet Sharing in Community of Christ which explores Identity, Mission, Message and Beliefs of our church. Click the file link below to download (anonymously) this FREE booklet (pdf).
| sharing-in-community-of-christ-4thed-web.pdf |
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