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Like, Share, and Follow Christ: What Would Jesus’ Followers Post on Social Media?

Have you ever wondered what it would be like if the disciples of Jesus had access to social media? Imagine scrolling through your feed and seeing Peter's latest fishing adventure or John sharing his profound reflections on love. Join us as we bring the ancient stories of Jesus’ followers into the digital age, offering fresh perspectives and timeless lessons along the way.

Insta-Grace

Peter: @fishingwithpete
Peter, known for his passionate and impetuous nature, would have an alluring social media presence. Through his updates, followers would gain insights into the power of redemption, the value of faith, and the grace that allows us to rise after falling.  Peter's profile would demonstrate that faith is abundant with missteps and monumental growth, and would remind us that even our greatest failures can lead to our most significant spiritual breakthroughs.

John: @igotafriendnamedjesus
The Beloved Disciple, John’s post would attest to the foundational power of love, the triumph of good over evil, and the significance of having an intimate relationship with Christ. His online presence would reflect his deep understanding of love, faith, hope, and revelation; prompting followers to see love as a command that transforms, revealing the heart of the Gospel. 

Paul: @paulsinternationalcrusades
Paul became one of the most influential figures in early Christianity. Once a fierce persecutor of Christians, Paul became a passionate apostle and left this world with a noble and momentous legacy through his letters and missionary journeys. His posts would showcase his zeal for the spreading Gospel and his deep theological insights; emphasizing themes of joy, gratitude, and spiritual warfare. 

Thomas: @thefaithfulskeptic
Thomas’ account would capture a compelling perspective on faith, doubt, discovery, and belief. His posts would provide insight into human struggles, the role of doubt in spiritual growth, and the grace extended to those who seek truth with sincerity; challenging us to confront our doubts, embrace genuine inquiry, and ultimately find faith and commitment in Christ.

From Scrolls to Screens

Despite the unique touch of imagination and humor, each disciple would present profound insights into the human condition, faith, and our relationship with Christ. Their posts piece together their personal journeys’ and illustrate that faith is a dynamic and often challenging matter, marked by doubts, revelations, and encounters with God’s grace. Embracing the messages embedded in each post allows us to glean timeless wisdom and inspiration found within the pages of scripture.

-Torrance Community Church of Christ

Teachings from Unsung Figures: From Runaway to Redeemed

From his days as a runaway slave to his transformation into a beloved brother in Christ, the New Testament shares the account of Onesimus that exemplifies the miraculous work of forgiveness and the healing potency of reconciliation. 

 Onesimus' journey begins in the shadows of bondage, as a runaway slave seeking freedom from the chains of servitude. Fleeing from his master, Philemon, Onesimus sought refuge in the humming city of Rome, where he crossed paths with the apostle Paul. It is here, in the heart of the Roman Empire, that the power of God's grace begins to unfold in Onesimus' life. Despite his past as a fugitive, Onesimus encounters the message of salvation through Christ preached by Paul, and his heart is stirred with a longing for redemption.

Paul crafts a letter to Philemon, warmly remarking on Onesimus’ conversion, while also acknowledging the delicate situation of Onesimus' former status as a runaway slave. Paul appeals to Philemon to receive Onesimus back not as a slave, but as a brother united in faith, urging Philemon to forgive any debts and to welcome Onesimus as he would welcome Paul himself. 

Through Paul's letter to Philemon, we witness the beauty of Christ's love at work by means of:

• Bearing One Another’s Burdens by Modeling Christlike Forgiveness: By offering to repay any debts incurred by Onesimus, Paul demonstrates a willingness to shoulder the consequences of another's actions—a reflection of Christ's sacrificial death on the cross for our sins. 

Paul reveals that forgiveness is not solely a private transaction between individuals but a communal act that enhances unity and strengthens relationships. We witness this when Paul encourages Philemon to set aside any grievances and extend grace to Onesimus- not because he deserves it, but because it mirrors the love and mercy of Christ. We are called to embody the same spirit of selflessness and humility,  walk alongside one another in both joy and suffering, extending support, forgiveness, and grace to others -even at personal cost.

• Radical Inclusivity of God's Love: Onesimus' shift from a repudiated slave to a brother in Christ illustrates the radical inclusivity of God's love. 

Seeking to bridge the divide between master and slave, Paul urged Philemon to receive Onesimus back as a brother, demonstrating that in Christ, no distinction or hierarchy can separate us. God's grace knows no bounds, His perfect love embraces all. Accordingly, we are counseled to offer forgiveness and acceptance, mending divisions and promoting unity among all of God’s children, and always remember that in God’s eyes, we are all equally loved. 

From darkness to light, bondage to freedom, estrangement to embrace, through Onesimus' story, we catch a glimpse of the intricate beauty of God's plan to reconcile all things to Himself, confirming that no one is beyond the reach of His mercy and love. He invites us to participate in the ongoing work of redemption, extending grace to those around us and bearing witness to the power of His love in our lives and the world. Therefore, may we, like Philemon, embrace the call to love and forgive unconditionally, knowing that in doing so, through Christ, all things are possible.

- Torrance Church of Christ

Teachings from Unsung Figures: Jael & Boldness in Faith

Throughout the Bible, hidden among the spectacular stories of kings and prophets, there lies an underappreciated, yet extraordinary tale of boldness. Though her name may not echo as loudly as others, Jael’s actions demonstrate a courage that reveals an inspiring trust in sublime guidance. 

How It All Went Down

Pronounced with cycles of disobedience and deliverance, Jael’s story unfolds during the stormy era of the Judges, in the ancient Palestinian region of Canaan. Canaan had diverse landscapes ranging from fertile valleys to rugged mountains. It was a land rich in resources, with vineyards, olive groves, and fields of grain scattered across the countryside. With all its beauty and natural reserves, it is no wonder that various tribes, including the nomadic Kenites, settled in the area. Despite the overflowing abundance, during the disquieting vicennium of the Canaanites' oppressive reign over the Israelites, Canaan’s atmosphere was formidable, pregnant with conflict and instability. A champion for King Jabin’s brutal dominance, the ruthless Canaanite military commander, Sisera, made it his mission to instill fear and uncertainty into the hearts of God’s chosen. 
    The callous inhumanity the Israelites had suffered over the two decades was too much to bear, so they turned to God for help. God responded, setting in motion the dawn of deliverance. Aware of what had to be done, the prophetess Deborah instructed the Israelite military leader, Barak, to gather troops in preparation for battle. Relectulant, Barak offered an ultimatum, agreeing to go only if Deborah herself would accompany him. Deborah accepted Barak’s terms with a warning. She explained to Barak that his unease had changed the course; the honor of executing their tormentor would no longer be his. Instead, God would deliver Sisera into the hands of a woman. 
    The battle itself was short-lived as the Canaanite soldiers fell one by one. Quickly realizing he was the sole survivor, Sisera fled by foot. He sought refuge at the tent of a woman, as It was known that this woman’s husband, Herber the Kenite, had friendly relations with the King. Offering a safe space for the weary commander to recoup, the woman, Jael, welcomed Sisera into her home; where she cared for him. As he lay to rest, Jael reached for a nearby hammer and tent peg before aptly pounding the peg through the unsuspecting tyrant’s skull; thus ending the reign of terror. 

Jael’s Overarching Impression+Application

Emerging as an unexpected hero, Jael’s story challenges us to embrace a posture of bold faith and resolute trust in God's providence. Deeply aware of His presence, within the confines of her tent, Jael recognized the opportunity God laid out before her, relied on her ingenuity and the resources available to her—a tent peg and a hammer— willingly trusted God to lead her, and boldly executed decisive action that ensured liberation from the oppressive Canaanite regime.  
    Just as Jael used her resourcefulness and courage, you are called to be bold and innovative in your service to God. Take a moment and consider how you can use your unique gifts and talents to glorify God and further His kingdom. Whether it's through acts of kindness and compassion, sharing the message of salvation with others, or standing up for justice and righteousness in our communities, you can follow Jael's example by trusting in God's guidance, allowing yourself to become His vessel, to make a positive impact in the world. 

The Final Verdict

Through her example, Jael reminds us that courage is not the absence of fear but the triumph over it, and that true power lies in the conviction to act boldly in service of what is right. Like Jael, we are called to be vigilant and discerning, ready to recognize the opportunities that God places before us, and to act boldly in accordance with His will. By drawing upon the resources and abilities that God has given us, we can confront the challenges and obstacles in our lives with confidence, knowing that God is with us every step of the way. Therefore, let us walk forward in faith, knowing that with God's strength and empowerment, we too can be bold witnesses for Him; remembering always that our willingness to trust in Him can lead to remarkable outcomes beyond what we could ever imagine.

-Torrance Church of Christ