Social media has taken the world by storm. With almost 3 billion users in the world, you can connect with almost every person you’ve come into contact with. I have no problem sharing memes or recipes with my friends on social media. However, I find it daunting to share my testimony and invite others to come unto Christ. Why is that?
Related: Here’s What the Prophets Have Said About NOT Sharing the Gospel
Why should I share the gospel?
Before diving into the specifics of why we might find it difficult to share the gospel on social media, let’s talk about why it’s important. Part of our baptismal covenant was to take upon us the name of Christ (Mosiah 5). This means to stand as a witness of Him at all times and in all places. We promised to share His light wherever we are.
Joseph Smith once said, “After all that has been said, the greatest and most important duty is to preach the Gospel.” Sharing the gospel is a commandment that will bring us much gladness. If we have been blessed to have the fullness of the gospel, Heavenly Father desires that we share it with His other children. They deserve it just as much as we do!
Why is it daunting?
So, if it’s part of our purpose here on earth, why is it so daunting? There are a few answers to this question. But first, remember that you are not the only one feeling this way. When Joseph Smith asked Heber C. Kimball to embark on a mission he was overwhelmed. He said,
“I felt myself one of the very weakest of God’s servants. I asked Joseph what I should say when I got there; he told me to go to the Lord and He would guide me, and speak through me by the same spirit that [directed] him.”
I know that feelings of weakness do not come from Heavenly Father. He only wants to build us up. These negative feelings of inadequacy come from the adversary. He wishes us to feel unworthy and unable to share the good message of the gospel.
Another reason we might be worried about sharing our testimony could be the opinions of others. Social media has a reputation for igniting debates in comment sections. This is a valid concern! However, you have the power to control your account.
You don’t have to respond to comments and engage in harmful discussions. The ability is yours to delete comments or even unfriend someone who is harassing you online. Be cautious and follow the promptings of the Spirit at all times. He will never lead you astray!
“Our messages should seek to edify and uplift, rather than to argue, debate, condemn, or belittle.
Be courageous and bold, but not overbearing, in sustaining and defending our beliefs, and avoid contention. As disciples, our purpose should be to use social media channels as a means of projecting the light and truth of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ.”
How do the prophets do it?
If you want some inspiration about how to share the gospel online, make sure you are following all of the prophets and apostles on social media! They all have Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram accounts.
When reading what our leaders post on social media, I notice similarities between them. They all write with love in their hearts. As I read, I can feel their sincerity and admiration for those they are trying to enlighten. We should have this same love in our heart for our friends and family who will read our posts.
Here is a recent post from President Nelson. He sets a great example of how to share the light of Christ through social media!
What strong and unapologetic testimonies the apostles bear. They write with such conviction. Through their writing, I can feel how honest they are. These men truly know that Christ lives!
What tips can help me?
Here are just a few ideas I brainstormed to help you share the gospel online!
- Start small. Perhaps you could just retweet or share a post that touched your heart!
- Tell a story! Have you recently noticed a blessing in your life or had a spiritual experience?
- Just message one person. If you don’t feel comfortable sharing with everyone, perhaps share a scripture with just one friend that comes to your mind.
- Use scriptures! I often quote scripture in my social media posts when I’m not sure exactly what to say.
- Quote conference talks. They can be a lot more eloquent than I can, too!
- Invite. Including a “call to action” in your post to bring others closer to Christ.
- Be sincere. Just speak from your heart!
Another option could be to start with a Facebook or Instagram page that is dedicated to this type of thing. For example, the Facebook page Worldwide Unified began with the title Worldwide Fast. It was created by a Latter-day Saint missionary who wanted to invite people to fast on Good Friday last April. The page quickly burgeoned to almost 600,000 followers, with friends from many faiths joining in the fast. After the fast, the page name was changed to Worldwide Unified and has become a place for people to request prayers and share spiritual stories. Check it out and gain some inspiration!
How will I be blessed?
If you’re still needing an extra bit of courage to share the gospel, think about the blessings it will bring you. You will have incredible experiences and perhaps even make new friends along the way! Building up the kingdom of God will bring you much joy as you create bonds with the people you teach.
As others learn about your faith, you may be given opportunities to walk the walk. More chances to serve others will arise! Take them and you’ll gain more experiences to share with your followers.
When we share the gospel, we are also promised eternal life and forgiveness of sins. President Spencer W. Kimball said,
The Lord has told us that our sins will be forgiven more readily as we bring souls unto Christ and remain steadfast in bearing testimony to the world, and surely every one of us is looking for additional help in being forgiven of our sins.
Your testimony will grow as you share it. You will find yourself growing closer to Jesus Christ and you will have His Spirit in your life more often. Faith in His teachings and greater knowledge of the gospel will come to you. Joy and peace will fill your heart. All of these blessings (and more) can be yours when you spread the gospel on social media!
Related: The Best Way To Be a TERRIBLE Online Missionary
I wish you the best of luck as you share the gospel with your friends and family. Perhaps you could start by sharing this article and your testimony! Have fun!
