Book Review: From Social Media to Social Ministry: A Guide to Digital Discipleship by Nona Jones
In this digital age where in-person attendance is waning and church doors were temporarily shut during the pandemic, I found myself pondering how we could adapt our ministry to truly resonate with our communities. Enter Nona Jones’s From Social Media to Social Ministry: A Guide to Digital Discipleship. I stumbled upon this book at a time when I was seeking guidance on merging faith with technology, and wow, it did not disappoint!
Nona Jones, a globally recognized expert on leveraging technology for ministry, bursts onto the scene with an insightful guide that aims to equip churches—regardless of size—to navigate the often tumultuous waters of online engagement. The book explores essential themes like the fundamental nature of discipleship in the digital realm, the pressing urgency of digital engagement, and practical strategies to implement meaningful online community building.
One of the book’s standout elements is its clarity. Nona doesn’t just throw around lofty ideas; she grounds her principles in research and real-world application. For example, she emphasizes that "the internet is not just a ‘thing’ people do; it’s the place people live," particularly for younger generations. This resonated with me deeply; it reminded me that if we wish to reach audiences outside our church walls, we must venture where they already are.
Jones’s writing style is approachable and conversational. She invites her readers on a journey rather than lecturing them, making complex ideas feel accessible. The pacing keeps you engaged, with a flow that combines insightful anecdotes, practical tips, and even a bit of humor.
One chapter that particularly stood out to me was her step-by-step guide on creating an online community. Nona presents a framework for launching a "Facebook Campus," detailing everything from staffing to marketing—an essential blueprint for anyone looking to take church into the virtual space. Her quote about shifting focus from mere brand-building to expanding God’s kingdom stuck with me: "We need to help churches go beyond using social technology to build their brand to using social technology to build God’s kingdom."
Through testimonials, it’s clear that the book has already made a significant impact. Readers praise its practical insights and timely relevance, echoing my sentiment that it encourages rethinking conventional ministry practices. That’s precisely what makes it invaluable, especially for church leaders feeling the pressure of declining in-person attendance.
As I turned the final pages, I couldn’t help but feel inspired—a rare blend of empowerment and urgency. I believe From Social Media to Social Ministry is not just a manual but a heartfelt call to action. It’s an essential read for pastors, spiritual leaders, and even laypeople interested in bridging the gap between faith and the digital landscape.
In conclusion, if you’re seeking to navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by the online world, this book is a must-read. It invites you to step into a realm of possibilities, reminding you that engagement can indeed lead to transformation, both online and offline. Whether you’re a church leader or a practitioner looking to deepen your ministry impact, you’ll find invaluable lessons here that could redefine your approach in a rapidly evolving landscape.
You can find From Social Media to Social Ministry: A Guide to Digital Discipleship here >>