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Previous Challenge Entry (Level 3 - Advanced)
Topic: Cyber Communication (email, IM’s, etc) (11/04/10)
    The gospel must first be preached to all the nations. (Mark 13:10 NAS)
Christian Today reported on January 12, 2009 that dozens of churches around the world were planning to participate in a special missions trip. This missions trip involves bringing Christ and His message to a huge community where the gospel is not the most popular subject. Nearly 2,000 teens signed up for the 'online missions trip' to bombard popular social networking sites such as Facebook, MySpace, YouTube and Twitter with stories about God. Participants would upload videos and photos, post links, and use status updates to share what God is doing in their lives. They would also write notes, send messages, post blogs, create invitations to their youth group, and do other things that help bring God up in conversations online. Whether the outreach campaign turned out to be a success, few people know, because there was no news reported about it since. One thing is however certain—more cyber evangelism outreach efforts are being seen on the Net today than before.

All of know there are many modes of cyber communication we can use to reach others for Christ—emails, instant messaging, websites, blogs, social networking and more. As a writer for print and digital media, I, for one, have always been an advocator of online Christian outreach. It is my prayer that all of us as believers will seriously consider how we can use technological tools to reach others for the Lord, especially with the growing number of social networking communities and blogs. No doubt, there will be dangers lurking around on the Net waiting to pounce on us and draw us away from the Lord, yet it is not something we can avoid or should turn away from.

Building relationships on the Net is of course not always healthy, but even so we should still play our part in harvesting the netizens for the Lord. While there may be much truth about online communication and social networking being used by the devil, we ought also to remember that we can use the same tools to turn the tables around. Unless we are firm in the faith, however, such online ministry can also become a snare that pulls us away from our faith. When we deal with social networking or other online activities, therefore, let us be very careful because its draw is very real. We should be self-controlled and in sober spirit, always on the alert against our adversary who is constantly seeking someone to devour (1 Peter 5:8).

If we are clear with our calling to such a ministry, we can then begin by first praying and building relationships in Christian online communities such as AllAboutGOD.net, BibleStudySpace.com, ChristiansUnite.com, FaithWriters.com, GodTube.com, YourChristianSpace.com and others. Once we are familiar with how cyber communication works, then by the strength of God and the power of the Holy Spirit, let us get ready to reach the world for Christ through evangelism online.

What better way for us to reach all the nations of the earth for the Lord besides cyber evangelism? For the gospel must first be preached to all the nations before the end will come (Matthew 24:14; Mark 13:10). Knowing what cyberspace can do to close the gap between distances and draw people together, therefore, let us not be afraid to use technological tools to reach the world for Christ. Let us not throw away something good just because the same thing can be used by the devil to do evil, for what is meant for harm, God can mean it for good to preserve many lives (Genesis 50:20).

Thank You dear Lord for the many tools You have given us to improve communication. We know Lord that although such tools can be used by our adversary to do evil, this same thing can also be tools You want us to use in turning the tables around. Help us Lord to stay strong in facing cyber woes as we go forth to reach the world for You online. Do not allow us to fall prey O Lord to the temptations on the Net, but strengthen us that we may in building relationships through social networking bring many to You. Bless our efforts Lord and cause the faith of those who hear the gospel through cyber evangelism grow, that they may eventually come to know You personally.
The opinions expressed by authors may not necessarily reflect the opinion of FaithWriters.com.
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This article has been read 1446 times
Member Comments
Member
Date
Beth LaBuff 
11/12/10
The ease and availabilty of online activity sure has opened up a whole new mission field, a world without lands and boundaries, where passports are not required. The opportunities you mention are wonderful. Thanks for mentioning these different groups. I'd not heard of many of these. You've challenged me once again.
Terry Lee
11/12/10
Very empowering essay.

Amen!
Shann Hall-LochmannVanBennekom 
11/13/10
This is a wonderful idea. I also liked how you warned people to make sure they were ready before starting such an endeavor. Excellent devotion as always.
Caitlyn Meissner
11/14/10
Thanks for a great article that supports cyber communication rather than condemning it. Great job!
Noel Mitaxa 
11/15/10
A very creative challenge on the range of outreach opportunities that are almost tripping us up every day. Excellent ideas and expression.
Brenda Rice
11/15/10
Thanks for this informative article. I learned things I didn't know and I will be checking into the sites you mentioned. I believe time is short for many who are without the Lord and I feel my obligation to reach them very strongly.
Susan Montaperto
11/17/10
Thank you for a lot of great information for creating Christian outreach via the internet. God bless you in you writing.
Rachel Phelps
11/17/10
Great message for all of us who are active online. Well done.
Shann Hall-LochmannVanBennekom 
11/18/10
Congratulations for placing 13th in level 3! It is well deserved! I enjoy your devotions every week.