Johnson Chapel Media Ministry

SOCIAL MEDIA RESPONSIBILITY GUIDELINES

Version 09.26.24

USING SOCIAL MEDIA AS CHRISTIANS

We have access to far more people in the digital world than in our physical neighborhood. We should be using our social media presence and influence to engage our world with truth, hope, and the good news of Jesus Christ.

YOU’RE STILL A CHRISTIAN ONLINE

As Christians, we have a high obligation to use social media with care and caution. God’s expectations for us as His children also applies to our social media use. We should communicate as Christians in the physical world as well as the digital world. Social media is communication. We need to treat every post, like or share with the same care and consideration as our face-to-face words. But it is not always clear how we should do that! Pay attention to these guidelines because we not only represent Christ, we represent the church:

• Be selective! There are a variety of digital platforms available. Use the right medium for the message. For example, don’t use a Facebook post to communicate sensitive or private information. At times, some comments should be shared in a private direct conversation or message rather than a public post.

• Be smart! A blog, community post, or social media post is often visible to the entire public and can/will be shared by others in various ways that cannot be controlled at any level. Be extremely wise with all content posted.

• Use grace! Always use Biblical wisdom when utilizing social media. For example, if someone has offended you, consider speaking with them privately on the matter. It does not need to be public. Don’t fight fire with fire. Retaliation always leads to escalation and promotes confusion. Communicating while angry is a sure way to make matters worse. STOP; spend time with God; come back later.

• Ask us! In areas where these guidelines do not provide a direct answer for how members should answer social media questions, please check with the Media Ministry, Deacons or the Pastor before speaking as a representative of the church.

EXPECTATIONS AS A CHURCH MEMBER

The Johnson Chapel Media Ministry aims to extend the church's evangelistic mission beyond its physical walls through audio and visual platforms. Our hope is that these media tools will serve, inspire, and support the church and its various ministries. By utilizing live worship services and social media, we strive to help people connect with God.

In all our efforts, it is essential that we reflect Christ and draw others toward Him. We expect church members and leaders to embody the church’s values and uphold its purpose, both in-person and online. While we encourage everyone to use social media to promote the church and spread the gospel, we expect interactions to be kind, respectful, and courteous. To ensure these standards are met, the media ministry will remove any comments that violate our social media guidelines. Repeated violations may result in individuals being restricted from commenting, at the discretion of the Media Ministry, Deacons, and/or Pastor.