Social Media Hypocricy

I have always found it interesting to visit those Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and other social media sites where someone is airing dirty laundry one moment and then posting lovely Scripture memes the next. They might share photos one day of their drinking binges or wild parties and then write praises to God in a later post. How many of you have seen the vicious arguments and name calling from the very same ones who publicly claim to be Christians or even ministers? How about profuse cyber-bullying and filthy language followed by prayer requests and Bible study links in the next status? It can throw you; can’t it?

The inconsistency that is observed by the “un-churched” and the “de-churched” of this double standard is enough to cause disillusionment and an about face from anything related to Christianity or the church. Who would want to be a part of this hypocrisy?

Unfortunately, much of what we observe in social media can easily be taken out of context or be a simple mistake. For example, one might share a funny picture and not realize that the page from which they are sharing has curse words in its name. Or, one might take a selfie with a drink on the table, but wrong conclusions might be drawn about what is going on in the picture. Some of the confusion may be a result of faulty assumptions or jumping too quickly to conclusions.

What we need to understand is that as followers of Christ, it matters. What we say, what we do, what we share, how we treat others, and how we are perceived really does matter.

In everything that occurs on social media, a perception is being painted, whether we like it or not. While it would be lunacy to try to please everyone and make a perfect impression with every single thing we post, we do need to be aware of the example we are setting.

When I was young, my mother often reminded me that I represent Christ and the Seymour family with everything I did and everywhere I went. Of course, she didn’t want me to embarrass our family, but understanding my role as an ambassador of Christ made a significant impact on me.

I’ll be the first to admit that I have flubbed up more times than I wish. I have done foolish things and have said hurtful things to others. I have not always represented Christ well. Thankfully, however, because of His grace, He has redeemed my foolishness and has made me new.

From here on out, I must be keenly aware of the example I am setting to others. I must guard my words and my actions so that God will be glorified in my life. I have the opportunity to bless instead of cursing, to build others up instead of embarrassing and tearing them down in a public forum. I can choose to let go of my urge to engage in online arguments or to wear offense on my sleeve.

The Holy Spirit is still working in me, but He is helping me to be aware of how my lifestyle may hurt or hinder someone else in their walk with Christ. I will not use my freedom to become a stumbling block to someone else.

It is good not to eat meat or drink wine or do anything that causes your brother to stumble. Romans 14:21 ESV

Don’t let anyone think less of you because you are young. Be an example to all believers in what you say, in the way you live, in your love, your faith, and your purity. 1 Timothy 4:12 NLT

So, my friends, be aware of the impression you are making on social media. It is easy to hide behind a keyboard and do and say things you normally wouldn’t do in public, but if we are going to bear the name of Jesus, let us genuinely represent Him and all that He is about. In everything, even on Facebook, may the name of Jesus be glorified!

So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. 1 Corinthians 10:31 ESV

If we refuse to control our tongues (or our keyboards), we have no business claiming the name of Christ. That does not mean we will be perfect, but we will certainly be different. Let us love and encourage each other and demonstrate pure hearts that have not been soiled by the world’s influence.

If you claim to be religious but don’t control your tongue, you are fooling yourself, and your religion is worthless. Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you. James 1:26-27 NLT

God bless you all, and may let your light shine for all to see!