When I read those words from Paul, I had to marvel at the confidence he had in his walk with Christ. How many of us could boldly say to those around us to do as we do? To live as we live? To say what we say?
While we may be able to do so in a controlled environment – like perhaps an hour or two on a Sunday – that was not what Paul was saying here. He said that they learned from him, received the teaching, heard him speak it and watched him live it . . . and I don’t think it was only during a dedicated hour of his week.
I thought about how so many of us spend a lot of our time these days and then began to wonder about our social-media feeds. Would our comments, shares, posts and pictures be an effective discipling tool? Or would they lead a new Christian into turmoil and confusion? Is there consistency and authenticity reflected? Perhaps we don’t want to offend so we keep our posts focused on pets and flowers. My question remains, as social media has become a huge part of our lives, are we sharing anything that would prod others to live holy and committed lives?
And you became imitators of us and of the Lord, for you received the word in much affliction, with the joy of the Holy Spirit, so that you became an example to all the believers in Macedonia and in Achaia. (1 Thessalonians 1:6-7 ESV)
There is an amazing opportunity right in front of us – to share the gospel and to live out our lives as a witness to not only our friends and families, but strangers from far-off countries who may not hear the Truth unless we tell it. Let’s just be sure that what we are sharing is giving them a consistent message – one that we can confidently encourage new Christians to emulate.
Father, forgive us for choosing to be politically correct or neutral to not offend when it comes to our social media shares. Help us to share Truth while still being authentic, sincere and real. Let Your light shine through us and may Your message reach countries and people that we otherwise would never have a chance to share with. May we live to make You famous! In Jesus’ name, Amen!
