Introduction
Since we as a conference have voted to permit the use of social media, we offer some guidelines that we believe will assist the sincere believer in discerning the will of God in the proper use of this tool.
We offer two specific Scriptures to begin with:
And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed. The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light. Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying. But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof.
Romans 13:11-14
Have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them. For it is a shame even to speak of those things which are done of them in secret. But all things that are reproved are made manifest by the light: for whatsoever doth make manifest is light. Wherefore he saith, Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee light. See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, Redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is.
Ephesians 5:11-17
In light of these truths:
It is unacceptable (a violation of our commitment to Christ and the church) to follow any person or entity, on any social app or service, that publicizes a sinful lifestyle, demonstrates an unregenerate spirit, or promotes the politics and passions of the world.
- It is unacceptable (a violation of our commitment to Christ and the church) to follow any person or entity, on any social app or service, that publicizes a sinful lifestyle, demonstrates an unregenerate spirit, or promotes the politics and passions of the world.
- Any communication and any use of online resources must pass the test of Philippians 4:8.
Finally; brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. - Before accepting a new communications tool, members must evaluate its uses and learn its features.
- Looking to the example of Jonadab in Jeremiah 35, parents are expected to proactively establish family guidelines for technology use, not simply accepting the norms of society or other church families. Using the Conference position as a starting point and considering the maturity and spiritual health of their family and its members, parents shall determine appropriate and acceptable use in their households.
- We need need to remember our brotherhood agreements in our Statement of Faith on the use of the internet and social networking, specifically the section on “Video, Computer, and Other Electronic Programs and Devices,” which states:
“We believe that such programs and devices have some legitimate uses in areas of business and instruction. However, we are in a spiritual warfare and God holds us accountable as stewards of our minds, our time, and our finances. We ask our members to refrain from sensual or frivolous use and to limit the uses of such devices and technology to those which enhance the kingdom of God and do not conflict with Biblical principles or Conference guidelines. We ask those who use the Internet to file a pledge which reads as follows: “I commit myself to an active, open, mutually accountable relationship with my church family, and specifically with one or more members, including one of my congregation’s ministerial team, regarding my use of the Internet.” - Beware of the temptation of pride (exalting self) in the use of social networking. Sharing information should be the primary use of social networking.
- One of Satan’s effective tools in this field is hypocrisy, which can be very subtle. We need to avoid communications that portray or suggest that we are something we are not (Example: Ananias and Sapphira Acts 5). We need to think seriously and collectively about the inroads of hypocrisy that have crept into our internet communications.
Conclusion
In your use of social networking, consider these Scriptural warnings:
Quench not the Spirit
1 Thessalonians 5:19
Evil communications corrupt good manners
1 Corinthians 15:33
To him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin
James 4:17
Be sure your sin will find you out
Numbers 32:23
Prove all things, hold fast to that which is good
1 Thessalonians 5:21
Be not deceived
Galatians 6:7
Be ye Holy for I am Holy
1 Peter 1:16
Walk in the Spirit and you shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh
Galatians 5:16