Using Social Media to Spread the Gospel

Being an “instrument in the Lord’s hands” by using the internet as an effective tool.

In 2014, the information superhighway (internet) celebrated its 25th anniversary. At its inception, it could only be accessed from a select number of terminals, and only what appeared to be an encyclopedia of information and resources could be obtained from its use. Today, over two decades later, its complex infrastructure has been expanded to create a network which allows terminals worldwide to access an immense international library of knowledge.

The Use of the Knowledge Obtained

Just as every coin has two sides, there are two “sides” to the information that can be acquired from the information superhighway. The amount of information which is available is immeasurable, however, not all information that is available champions a good cause. Therefore, when a person is seeking information on any given subject, or actively engaging in any of the available free social media venues, caution and discernment are paramount.

Personal Use of Social Media

Social media venues are becoming more popular, and many people worldwide use social media as an agency for staying in contact with family, friends, colleagues, and associates on a regular basis. Social media are also used in the corporate world as convenient channels for disseminating valuable information to both small and large audiences in varied locales simultaneously. In addition, social media, combined with information and research from the information superhighway, can be used in a variety of ways to help spread the message of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Social media can be a powerful influence in the lives of those who use it. It can provide ways to express our faith in Jesus Christ and strengthen relationships. The Church encourages the use of social media so long as it supports the mission of the Church, improves relationships, and facilitates revelation among children of our Heavenly Father. Church members are encouraged to be examples of their faith at all times and in all places, including when participating in the global conversations available through social media. [1]

As members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (inadvertently referred to as the “Mormon” Church by the media and others) choose which social media venue(s) to use to spread the gospel message, there are a few tips for them to consider:

Use social media to enhance relationships, and to express faith and testimony in the Lord Jesus Christ and the gospel.
Use social media to befriend those in your wards, branches, or stakes who are struggling, or who are less active.
Your online presence should reflect your morals, standards, and values. Be true to the faith. Do not compromise with the world by posting content that is not directly in line with what the Church teaches and what you know to be true.
Connect with official Church sites and share content such as videos or links to inspiring messages or news articles about the Church which touch your heart and reflect your values, thus projecting a positive message to your audience.
Realize that not everyone who views your posts will be of the LDS faith. Therefore, if you write posts that contain LDS terminology, take the time to explain what the terms being used mean so that everyone can be on the same level of understanding. Along those same lines, learn to accept the fact that everyone will not necessarily agree with your point of view. Respect the thoughts and opinions of others.
All conversation should use a civil tone. Remember that everyone should be treated with respect and as a precious soul of worth. With that, do not attempt to be the mouthpiece in every conversation. Take some time to read or listen to what others are saying with a clear mind and an open heart.
Let the Holy Spirit be your guide as you share your personal testimony and witness of the restored gospel. In all that you say and do, do not give your audience the impression that you are an official spokesperson for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, or that any sites or groups that you create are endorsed by The Church of Jesus Christ.
“Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity” (1 Timothy 4:12). Learn to use both wisdom and discernment when communicating with others via social media. The example that you set will be a positive influence on others. Learn to distance yourself from anyone who incessantly tears others down or posts inappropriate material.

Using Social Media for Church Callings

When used appropriately, social media can help Church members share the gospel, strengthen faith, and minister to the needs of others. Remember that electronic communication should not replace opportunities for in-person contact, such as interviews and stewardship reports. [1]

The same guidelines as afore stated should be adhered to when using social media as part of a Church calling. The Church of Jesus Christ itself uses four main social media venues for furthering the gospel around the world: Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and YouTube. All members are encouraged to join the conversation via these network channels as well.

“Brothers and sisters, with the blessings of modern technology, we can express gratitude and joy about God’s great plan for His children in a way that can be heard not only around our workplace but around the world. Sometimes a single phrase of testimony can set events in motion that affect someone’s life for eternity.” — President Dieter F. Uchtdorf (Ensign, May 2011, “Waiting on the Road to Damascus.”) [2]

Avoid the Dangers of Social Media

Social media networks are excellent tools for sharing information with large numbers of people. Even so, there are potential risks that are involved. When using social media a person must be conscious of these dangers and protect himself and his family from these risks.

There are several precautions that can be taken to ensure safety when using social media:

Social media is a public, open forum. Remember that messages and posts are not private. Therefore, avoid sharing any information that is considered sensitive or confidential.
Family members who use social media should all be connected, and should allow all family members to view everything that is posted, including images. In this way, family members help to support one another in maintaining their standards.
Make sure that the proper security settings for each particular social media site that is used reflects the standards of your family’s privacy on the internet.
Realize that social media sites are prone to advertise material that may not be in line with your family’s standards. Discuss as a family what should be done when such material is encountered by a family member.
“Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man” (Colossians 4:6). Always make sure that your conversations align with your commitment to take upon yourself the name of the Savior.
Be cautious of the amount of personal information that you post on any social media site.

With so many social media resources and a multitude of more or less useful gadgets at our disposal, sharing the good news of the gospel is easier and the effects more far-reaching than ever before . . . . . perhaps the Lord’s encouragement to “open [your] mouths” might today include “use your hands” to blog and text message the gospel to all the world! But please remember, all at the right time and at the right place. [2]