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The Church of Christ In Social Media
Developing Relationships Using Social Media Tools
by William Jackson
Technology is integrated throughout society, it is connected in our homes,
schools, businesses, universities and even in churches. The skill and
knowledge of those who use technology and those who don't is evident.
There are the geeks (Bleeks-Black Geeks) and nerds (Blerds–Black Nerds)
that embrace the intricate details of technology and comfort in the
electronic guts that allow tech to connect. So ingrained in our lives is
technology, just looking at toddlers on their parents Smartphones or
tablets and you see the dynamic ability to connect not just to games
and Apps, but communicating with family and friends through tools
that are interactive. Children can speak the language of technology
before they can vocally communicate.
The geeks and nerds are a culture in themselves, those with a passion
for digital tools are encouraged to use their knowledge in church with
networking skills, computer repair, upgrading of hardware and software,
understanding the application of Social Media tools and even teaching
computer classes in churches. These create opportunities to build
relationships that extend inside and outside of the church. Geeks and
nerds are managing the tech that allows Church of Christ ministries
to bring the word of God to the world beyond their structural settings.
"If the Church of Christ is not taking advantage of Social Media and
using it to engage with the congregation they are missing an opportunity
in a transformative way to help raise the Biblical intelligence of is members."
William Jackson
Geeks and nerds are an evolution beyond the musicians; they have a
function that is just as important because without the techs, the tech
equipment does not work. Musicians have moved from hand-held
instruments to digital devices that extend the vocal talents and abilities of
those performing.
Instruments can broadcast multiple vocal inflections, cascades, and notes
that even defy the hearing abilities of seasoned musicians. Tech expands
the reach of music and the voice of ministry. The Church of Christ in its use
of acapella singing still needs tech to broadcast and amplify the songs that
are filled with spiritual passion, devotion and set the tone for the service.
If you want to see an inactive and un-involved service first look at the music
leaders, they create the atmosphere for praise and worship.
The Church of Christ with its foundation in the area of acapella music still
needs digital mics to transmit the inflections of vocal abilities so they create
a crescendo of musical accompaniment that is pleasant to the senses.
Churches in the last five years have upgraded to Smartboards that are
interactive, wireless mics that can cancel background noise and conflicting
voices, tablets with several versions of the bible to compare translations in
diverse languages, and multimedia laptops that can connect to multimedia
projectors and surround sound systems.
The hum of servers that manage productivity software, direct the wireless
Internet access that filters and collects data and even cameras that digitally
record services so the IT department can dissect frames of video and audio
for perfect production. Making the effort close to the production of a movie
more than just worship service to bring the gospel.
"When incorporating the Church of Christ doctrine with the mission to
engage with Social Media, the CofC content should be used to build
relationships, earn trust and deliver a message in-line with the Bible
(scripture)." William Jackson
The elements of Social Media working together to create a collaboration
that is inline and complimentary of the delivery of a scripture based message.
Similar to a business or educational environment, Social Media is a tool
based on a platform of social interaction. In this blog how can you use
Social Media to establish and build on relationships that draws people and
keeps them will be analyzed and engaged in.
The Church of Christ doctrine is to Save Souls and Keep Souls Saved,
but one of the efforts is to draw people to the Church of Christ using the
platforms ranging from Facebook, Instagram, Youtube, Vimeo, Twitter,
etc. Posting content that is inviting and engaging, shares a biblical
message of love and increased learning. An appropriate quote by
Bro. Elisha Taylor, Senior Minister of Westside Church of Christ is
fitting, "There is a difference between relating and understanding."
Building relationships is not just based on simple relating and
understanding it is based on foundations that extend into emotional
connections and humanistic linkages.
The diversity of Social Media networks from Facebook to Pinterest,
shows there are many social networking platforms saturating the time
people spend on the Web. Having this knowledge shows the potential
for the Church of Christ to connect with and engage with those needing
to hear about the love of Jesus Christ. The Church of Christ must learn
how to use social networks to build relationships that lead to saving
souls and keeping souls saved. Utilizing platforms to actively
pursuing two-way dialogues that are digital are just important as face to
face. An appropriate statement by Bro. Taylor takes into account the
type of person that is displayed online. Stating, "Who you are
comes out through what you do." What you do online should still
reflect being a Christian because the world can see what you are
doing online as a person that states they are a Christian or someone
that only claims to be. A Christian working for the Lord will bless the
Lord with their works to expand the kingdom not for their personal
agendas.
Conclusion:
As human beings we base our lives on relationships, either toxic or
healthy. Relationships can increase our sense of belonging, self-worth,
security and even establish a purpose in life. Relationships are an investment
not just a chance meeting. The Church of Christ's online presence must
be genuine and always share a human link based on love and sharing
the love of Jesus Christ.
Resources:
Some of the information shared is researched from
Makena Shultz, Michigan State University and online media source
"Why is social media a beneficial relationship building tool?" http://blog.zuora.com (http://blog.zuora.com)
and Building Valuable Relationships Using Social Media, http://www.retentionscience.com (http://www.retentionscience.com)