In a recent Facebook post (!!!), pastor Tim Keller made the following claim:
First, because megachurches have some design deficits. In general, they are poor places for formation and pastoral care due to their size. In our current cultural moment that is a deadly problem because Christians are being more formed by social media than local Christian community. We need thick communities and the size of our churches factor into that.
Pause and think with me.
First thought: “Christians are being more formed by social media than local Christian community.”
True or false?
I’d say, in general, Tim is absolutely right. What do you think?
I serve in my local church because it is an essential part of my growth in Christ. I am excited about the members of the UP community experiencing spiritual vitality here that they bring to their local church!
Second thought: Tim Keller shared this perspective on a) social media or b) his local Christian community?
Follow-up: Is this conversation taking place on a) social media or b) your local Christian community?
My take-away: social media can form us!
The question is: what “social media” are you participating in? It’s a HUGE word! It means a billion different things. The Uncommon Pursuit community will form you into one kind of person. Certain TikTok influencers will form you in another direction…
Which social media platform you choose, who you follow, and how you participate are the crucial questions.
Next question: What if churches and social media worked together to form people into Christlikeness?
Can you imagine a church community that intentionally, strategically, and persistently partnered with UP to build a stronger, healthier, more missional community of disciples? (I’m praying for this to happen).
Keller also writes:
6th, because smaller congregations must make use of a greater percentage of lay persons’ gifts & talents there is less dependence on staff and a smaller number of onlookers who only attend to observe and not participate.
Fascinating. What’s better for your spiritual health? Passive or active involvement? Listening to a podcast, reading a book, watching a video… or doing the hard work of participating to serve others?
For instance, who benefits more from this post? Me, as I thought about this issue and then wrote it? Or you, as you read it?
How could you get the same benefit I did? By taking the time to pray, think, and then clearly write out your perspective.
Over to you… how can ‘social media’ be part of your ongoing growth in Jesus? What is your plan to benefit from the formational power of social media?