Networking as servants of Christ

 Networking as servants of Christ


    Networking is generally understood through the platform in which it is created. Social media platforms, newsletters, blogs, groups...these are all ways we interpret what networking is. However, networking is not the means in which we communicate and discuss, but rather the communication itself. As we see in the bible, there were very effective systems of networking without the use of the internet or blogs. Networking is the support and communication of the people themselves. When ideas are shared within a community, networking is taking place, and this networking is only as effective as its members availability and willingness to contribute. In this regard, we are servants of Christ. We are called not just to take knowledge from forums and blogs but rather to contribute and offer additional perspectives and ideas with the hopes of offering a new point of view or idea. 

Online there are many resources to utilize and gather data, but PLN's are the most comparable to the values we uphold as everyday Christians. Networking takes the concept of sharing ideas to another level, encouraging community building. As Christians, it can be tough to reach non believers or struggling believers through networking due to the fact that many of these individuals are not seeking out blogs or social media platforms encouraging the way of the Lord. However, this does not mean we should give up. What makes social media so addictive and persistent is the nature of ads, pop ups, and the means of posting continually. While we can choose what and who we follow, this does not restrict us from "recommended searches" or "for you" prompts. By expanding our network we can slowly "infiltrate" all the different modes of social media and communication. This does  not mean undermining platforms and causing havoc on social media pages, but rather offering a small taste of what our content is like, at least exposing them to our mission. Whether they take to it or not is on them, but at least we created some form of exposure! 

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