5 Ways to Use Social Media to Glorify God and Teach Others

Most teenagers have some type of social media account to exchange memes, share pictures, and keep up with friends.

Some praise the open communication of these networks, while others blame them for the downfall of society. In truth, social media platforms are neither good nor evil—they are simply tools that can be used or abused.

Like anything in our lives, Christians must use social media properly. We should aim to be bright lights in a dark world and reach out to those who do not have a relationship with Christ. Because of the connected nature of these tools, we have a unique opportunity to help others connect with God.

Here are five ways we can use social media to glorify God, teach others, and build up our spiritual lives—instead of polluting our hearts or distracting ourselves from God’s service.

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1. Reflect a Pure Heart

Your social media posts reflect what is inside your heart. The things we post, share, and “like” reveal our true interests, beliefs, principles, and loves to the world.

The apostle Paul gives us this standard:

“Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things.” (See Philippians 4:8)

Ask yourself these questions about your online presence:

• What do the music groups, television shows, movies, and actors you “like” say about what you are putting into your mind?
• Do the posts or comments you share include profane (vulgar or disrespectful) or foul language?
• Are you dressed modestly in the pictures you post?

Fill your heart with good things so that your social media feed naturally glorifies God.

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2. Edify Others

The word edify means to “build up” or encourage. Do your posts lift others up, or do they tear them down with gossip and insults?

Use your platform to encourage and support your friends. You can offer words of comfort to those who are suffering, or help friends who are in need.

When things are going well for others, use social media to celebrate their success:

“Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep.” (Romans 12:15)

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3. Invite Friends to Study the Bible

You can use social media to invite your friends to Bible studies and church services.

Here are a few ways to do this:

• Share details: Post about what you are learning in class. For example: “We’re having a great study in our Teen Class on [Topic]. I’ve been learning a lot and it has really helped me! Our next class is this Sunday morning at [Time] at [Address].”
• Promote events: Advertise special Bible series, gospel meetings, or sermons designed for visitors. Post the invitation a few times over several days, especially the day before the event.
• Be enthusiastic: Let your excitement show. When people see that your faith is real and active, they will be more interested in joining you.

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4. Share Spiritual Truths

Use your feed to share articles, Bible verses, links to sermons, books, and other good spiritual resources.

• Share what helps you: When you read a good article that teaches or encourages you, share it with others. Add a quick note about the key points that stood out to you.
• Share scripture and hymns: Posting daily Bible verses or hymn lyrics is an easy way to spread a positive, faith-filled message.
• Correct errors gently: If someone posts something inaccurate about the Bible, use it as an opportunity to correct them in a spirit of meekness (gentleness and humility) rather than starting an argument (2 Timothy 2:23-26). If someone is struggling to understand the Bible, offer to study with them privately.

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5. Be a Peacemaker

In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus said:

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.” (Matthew 5:9)

Social media gives us the choice to either create drama or build peace. If your focus is on helping others find salvation, you will not use your account to bully or insult people.

• Avoid online arguments: Do not use social media to gang up on others or get dragged into foolish debates.
• Live in peace: As Paul wrote, “If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men.” (Romans 12:18).
• Be kind when you disagree: You can disagree without being disagreeable. Choose your words and tone carefully so that your attitude remains honorable.

If you are reviled (criticized in an abusive or insulting way) for your faith, do not respond in kind. Respond with humility, just as Jesus did when He suffered (1 Peter 2:23-25).