Politics matter because they impact how we live. None of us are untouched by what happens in society. This would explain why emotions and anxiety can be high particularly during election season. Of course, this might not be true for all people all of the time. However, we can’t ignore their intensity when / as people engage. We thought we’d put together the first ChurchMag politics and elections survival guide to help us navigate those intense times.
This first survival guide is basically a collection of helpful posts and or podcasts. Without further ado, here are ideas on navigating our polarised world.
When Someone Disagrees With Something You Said Online
Being Christ followers doesn’t mean we’ll always agree or see things the same. One of those obvious areas of disagreements is politics. Allison gave invaluable tips about how we can engage each other when it comes to the differences.
“It’s too easy to shoot off a quick response to defend what you posted, but this often escalates the discussion to anger and meanness. Stop and listen to what they’re saying. Think of things from their point of view.”
See the post here.
Your Church Needs a Social Media Policy #2: Personal Reflections
“Your Church Needs a Social Media Policy #2: Personal Reflections” was part of the Social Media policy series. Phil was vulnerable. He shared his politics related faux pas as a pastor. While it has to do with a social media policy, there are nuggets on how to handle politics as a church community and church leaders.
“Winning an argument doesn’t equate to winning a soul. Nor is eternity built by “owning” our opponents with a sharp reply.”
Check out the post here.
The Un-Neutrality of Facebook
This is a pertinent post. Phil, highlights how Elizabeth Warren, a former 2020 presidential hopeful planned to address disinformation. Phil also speaks of the influence that Facebook has over our worldview.
“Facebook can do so much more than a partisan newspaper or radio because Facebook isn’t a simply a publisher of content but instead a purveying of a worldview”
Politics In The Church And Our Spirituality
How does / should the expression of our political outlook impact out witness and relationships?
“Sadly, it seems we’re just like the world outside the Church when it comes to this topic: divided, defensive, argumentative, self-righteous, arrogant, etc.
We can discuss politics, talk about our opinions, ask each other questions, even challenge each other in order to grow and learn from one another— but, loving our neighbor comes first.”
They Will Know You Are Christians By Your Facebook Election Day Likes
We are called to be like Jesus. Not just “Like” Jesus.
— Eric Dye
You just have to read this post yourself.
Other Posts
- Don’t Feed The Trolls [Video]
- Don’t Feed The Trolls [Flowchart]
- Raising Your Voice Through Social Media
- Politics? Net Neutrality? Free Speech? [Podcast #184]
This is the first, hopefully not last politics and elections survival guide. What would you add?
Blessing Mpofu
just a guy changing the world. husband to Ingrid. growing leader and communicator.
Speak your mind...