Digital Disciples: Living Faith Online - Story

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Social media has created unprecedented opportunities for Christian witness and unprecedented temptations for Christian failure. Every post, share, and comment is a form of witness—but what are we witnessing to? Ephesians 4:29 provides our social media filter: 'Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.' This applies to our digital 'mouths' too. The Reformed tradition emphasizes that all of life is sacred—including our online lives. We can't separate Sunday worship from Monday posts. Social media amplifies both our virtues and our vices. It can spread encouragement across continents or gossip across congregations. Jesus said, 'Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven' (Matthew 5:16). Our online presence should point people to God, not ourselves. Proverbs 27:14 warns: 'Whoever blesses their neighbor with a loud voice early in the morning will be cursed by them for it.' Even good things shared at the wrong time or in the wrong way can harm relationships. Digital wisdom means knowing when to post and when to pray, when to share and when to stay silent. Our social media should reflect the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Before posting, ask: Does this build up or tear down? Does this bring glory to God or attention to me?