Bishop T.D. Jakes is calling 50,000 thankful women (and men) to join him on Twitter as he prepares to host his renown Woman Thou Art Loosed conference. He’s asking participants to send a “thankful tweet” which may be broadcast live prior to and throughout the conference. Its a move which confirms the inescapable presence of social media in everyday life… especially ministry.
But this is not new.
Time.com, the NY Times, and Switched have covered the growing movement: Twitter and worship…and not just churches either. With Twitter being valued at $1 billion, having 54 million hits per month, and
striving to be the “pulse of the planet” …is it any wonder it’s becoming the pulse of the worship community? And many ministries are singing both the praises of Twitter and incorporating them into their services.
Others, however, believe there should be a distinction between church and “twate.”
Joshua Harris believes Twitter should take a backseat during worship. John Piper also believes Twitter has its place outside of worship, not in it.
And while I respect both men I disagree. Twitter can and should be integrated in ministry. Granted, like anything created for good it has the potential to be abused for evil. If Tweets are going to be posted in the open they should be edited… because some tweets are entirely inappropriate.
But should we pull up the wheat with the tare?
Technology should be used prayerfully and purposefully, in decency and in order…not just for the sake of using it…or trying to “keep up with everyone else.” That’s stupid.
Paul said, “So here’s what I want you to do. When you gather for worship, each one of you be prepared with something that will be useful for all: Sing a hymn, teach a lesson, tell a story, lead a prayer, provide an insight.” [1] Corporate worship is not just singing songs, listening to a message, and then going home? Its meant to be a place where we could participate and give something that would “be useful for all”?
Like I said: if used prayerfully, purposefully, in decency and in order, Twitter provides that platform.
WTAL…then what?
Who knows whats up the sleeve of Bishop Jakes. In the past, he’s been known to spearhead many technological/ministry developments. Only time can tell what he’s got planned next. We’ll have to wait and see.
The landscape for ministry has changed again–as it must. Now we have podcasts, Internet services, social media, and new technology being birthed everyday. And we as believers have an obligation to “redeem the times”? Or as Paul said, “Use your heads as you live and work among outsiders. Don’t miss a trick. Make the most of every opportunity.” [2]
Doesn’t technology grant us new opportunities? And as long as we “understand what the Lord wants” shouldn’t these opportunities be used to glorify His Name?
You think about it…but excuse me…I’ve gotta go put up my “thankful tweet.”
What are your thoughts?
- 1 Corinthians 14:26 (The Message)
- Colossians 4:5 (The Message)
