In some of the different circles that I am involved with, Running, Gaming, Genealogy, and even Letter Writing I have found online communities of people who are interested in the topic as I am. All of those groups all are like my #Runchat community. Some are power users in the community, while other are dabblers like me. Some members are Ultra-runners, running 100 miles or more. Other members are building up to their first 5K. All are accepted around the common interest in running. This even playing field occurs in many online communities and can happen as our churches build online communities as well.
One of the biggest fears, I believe, of people attending church is the feeling of not measuring up to someone’s standard. Unfortunately, in some churches this is a valid fear. However, when the church understands that the ground is level at the foot of the cross, this is where we build community in person and online.
The internet has a way of making everybody an equal. Yes, there are still the big names, but all of us have access to the big names if the big names will take the time to listen. And listening is the best way to foster community. Building an online community, it is key that all of the other members take time to listen to one another. Listening to hear each other’s point of view, accepting each person where they are, and including them in the conversation. Understanding that not everyone is a Bible Scholar and understanding that others may have legitimate questions, is the perfect start to building a community of church members online.
As this online community is affirm and encouraged, this same community is empowered to do mighty things for the cause of Christ.
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