Most know the major commandments of social media, even if they often go unspoken.
For example, “Don’t feed the trolls” is one of the oldest. In fact, it was a rule before the Internet was even a figment of Al Gore’s imagination.
Yet, despite it being so well known, people frequently find themselves drawn down into mud by those who have nothing but the worst intentions.
But as bad as antagonizing trolls can be, an even more important social media is ignored on a regular basis.
And not only did this rule start before AOL was handing out free dial-up minutes, it was established even before the printing press. But this commandment is perhaps more applicable today on social media than any other.
In Romans 14:1, Paul tells the believers in Rome, “Accept anyone who is weak in faith, but don’t argue about doubtful issues.”
Don’t argue about doubtful issues. If you’ve spent any time on social media, you know that’s basically all it has become, including and especially Christian social media.
Notice how Paul frames this rule. He didn’t say don’t discuss doubtful issues. And he didn’t say don’t argue over vital issues.
Specifically, the command is not to argue over doubtful issues. We are not to get emotionally wrapped up in arguments over third tier (or lower) issues. Yet, so many Christians are consumed by this very thing.
What happens when we violate this rule for life and social media? Several of the points Paul makes following this verse in Romans 14 gives us an indication for what it would be like.
1. It violates Christian liberty — Some believers in Rome honored one day as holy, others wanted to affirm the reality of every day belonging to God. Paul tells them to do whatever they want in those debatable areas, but to do so for the glory of God.
There is liberty within the limits of the faith. On those doubtful issues, you can have freedom. But whatever you do (and here’s the limit), it must be able to be done for the glory of God.
2. It diminishes the Lordship of Jesus — Paul pulls no punches in verse 4. When we elevate smaller issues and use it to divide fellow Christians, we place ourself in throne of Christ.
We are not to criticize “another household’s slave.” It’s not my responsibility to blast every person on Twitter who disagrees with me about Calvinism or the rapture. They don’t belong to me.
3. It assumes the role of the Holy Spirit — Later on in the chapter, Paul tells us that our faith is not about eating and drinking, “but righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit.” Those who serve Christ this way are “approved by God.”
Leave doubtful issues to the Holy Spirit. He can work those things out with the individual if they are in error and will be much more convincing than your Facebook comment rant.
4. It robs God of His place as judge — We will all give an account before God. Paul wanted to remind the Romans (and us) who the ultimate authority is.
When the social media critic decides he or she must relentless go after all who disagree with their preferred position on a non-essential issue, they are, in essence, telling God that His judgement is not good enough or fast enough.
