My response to "3 Things Christians Should Stop Doing On Social Media"

Original article: http://jarridwilson.com/3-things-christians-should-stop-doing-on-social-media/

For an article written by a pastor and directed toward Christians I see a disturbing lack of scriptural references, but a whole lot of tired buzz-phrases.

1. While I am somewhat unclear on what is meant here by "publicly calling people out", the elaboration that follows uses the word "judgement" in the pejorative sense that is so often used by people who don't like to be reminded of what God doesn't like. The word "Judgmental" has been so badly abused in this way that perhaps the most humane thing to do is to put it out of its misery and have it stricken from common use. We should go on "speaking the truth in love."

2. No major objections, but if he means not sharing the gospel and/or biblical truth on social media then I strongly disagree. Everything must be brought into subjection - that includes social media. Moreover, even a nugget of truth my pique the appetite.

3. I don't disagree with what he says. I disagree with what he means. The use of the word "Argument" is loaded language. With this one term people of his persuasion sweep up petty, childish disputes, philosophical and doctrinal discussions, and political dialogue. Then they stamp them all with the same condemnation and wag a finger at it all using the sweeping term "arguing". There is absolutely nothing wrong with humbly contending for the truth as you feel led. ("in humility correcting those who are in opposition.") Just because you don't feel led to doesn't mean no one else can be, and just because you have seen it done unkindly doesn't mean that it must always be so.

Social media is a powerful tool and can be used for good or evil. The answer is not to bar all serious discussion from it. The answer is to subject all uses, including serious discussion, to God's word.