I have been thinking about how people often lack restraint in what they post on social media. People post things they would never say face-to-face. Without another’s presence in the conversation, there is a perceived lack of accountability.
Followers of Jesus should review all the passages about speech and interpret them for social media. For instance, Ephesians 4:29 and 4:31-32 could be used. What if they were re-written for social media? They might read like this:
Do not let any unwholesome tweet or post come out on your media account, but only what is helpful for building up others according to their needs. Only post what will benefit all who read it.
Get rid of all bitterness from your tweets and posts, along with all rage and anger, flaming and slander, and every form of malice. Post with kindness and compassion to each other. Forgive each other and show it in your posts. Remember to forgive as Jesus has forgiven you.
Paraphrase of Ephesians 4:29, 31-32 based on NIV