Digital Discipleship: Navigating the Online World with Intention
Scripture Reading and Analysis
"All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." - Matthew 28:18-20 (NIV)
In this passage, Jesus commissions his disciples to go and make disciples of all nations. But what does it mean to "make disciples"? And how do we apply this commission in our digital lives?
Main Teaching
To "make disciples" means to teach others to obey everything Jesus has commanded us. This requires intentional relationship-building, spiritual guidance, and practical application of biblical principles. In our digital lives, this means being intentional about how we use social media, email, and other online platforms.
But how do we do this? We must be empowered by the Holy Spirit to navigate the complexities of online interactions. As Jesus said in Acts 1:8, "You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses...to the ends of the earth." The Holy Spirit gives us the power to be witnesses in our digital world.
Discussion Questions
- How do you currently use social media? What are your goals for your online presence?
- How can you practically apply the principles of discipleship in your online interactions?
- How can you intentionally build relationships with others online?
Key Points
- Digital discipleship requires intentional relationship-building, spiritual guidance, and practical application of biblical principles.
- The Holy Spirit gives us the power to be witnesses in our digital world.
- We must be intentional about how we use social media, email, and other online platforms.
Application
As you reflect on your online presence, consider one area where you can intentionally build relationships or apply biblical principles. This could be as simple as commenting on a friend's post or sharing a devotional on social media. Remember that being salt and light in a digital world requires intentionality and faithfulness.