rsz_articles_20webFacebook is a popular form of social media of which many Christians are a part. It is an effective way to keep in touch with relatives, and friends that live apart from one another. A user can post a “status update” that tells others what they are doing, their mood, etc. One can also post pictures, and videos for others to see. A member of Facebook has a “profile” that is able to be personalized by “liking” different pages belonging to entertainment industries, celebrities, athletes, political efforts, etc. For example, if you viewed my page you would notice I am a preacher; I am a sports fan (especially the teams that are in the DFW); I am a fan of action movies and comedic television shows; etc.

Facebook, like most things, is not inherently evil. I have heard Christians bash Facebook, talking about it as if it is inappropriate to have an account. Facebook is like anything else we have at our disposal. It can be used for good, or evil. There are many members of the church that are Facebook users. It is often used as a tool for encouragement, and edification. Scriptures, sermon audio/video, teaching articles, and other scriptural elements tend to appear on a Facebook newsfeed laced with Christian users. However, while Facebook is not inherently bad, I regret to admit I have seen some material uncharacteristic of a Christian posted by Christians. I have full confidence that I am not the only witness to this behavior.

For some illegitimate reason many tend to view Facebook as separate from real-life. It is true that Facebook interaction is not sufficient replacement for actual human contact. However, we need to be careful to ensure our lives on Facebook, like our lives in real-life, are in check with the will of God.

Facebook should not be used for:

  • Gossip (cf. 1 Timothy 5:13; 1 Peter 4:15)
  • Complaining (cf. 1 Corinthians 10:10)
  • Coarse jokes (cf. Ephesians 5:4)
  • Evil desire (cf. Colossians 3:5-7)

Facebook should be used for:

  • Encouragement (cf. Hebrews 3:13)
  • Counting blessings (cf. James 1:17)
  • Virtuous and Pure discussions (cf. Philippians 4:8-9)
  • Evangelism/Edification (cf. 1 Peter 2:11-12; Ephesians 4:29; Mark 16:15-16)

Brethren, take heed what you say and post on Facebook! You have an influence on many through this medium. More importantly, “there is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things are naked and open to the eyes of Him to whom we must give account” (Hebrews 4:13).