I see some of my neighbors on social media more than I see them in person. That’s not entirely an incriminating statement, as we’ve all been more isolated during the pandemic and have wanted to respect others’ health and boundaries.

One of my neighbors posts on social media with somewhat aggressive statements reflecting what might be categorized as a liberal Christian perspective on relationships, politics, and the church. Recently I was compelled to comment—not aggressively, I trust; but the topic included the reliability of Scripture and I was concerned how others might be misled by the inaccuracy of what was stated.

Not long after, she posted again with another concerning (though not overtly wrong) mention of the third commandment. I started thinking about how I should reply. Then it struck me that this cycle of posting and commenting could be never-ending. It likely would not change her mind or her social media habits, but it probably would deteriorate the relationship my family has built with her family. I realized I should get out of isolation mode and try to get our families together again. How much better it will be to have discussions in a context of real relationship.

Some days it feels like our society is stuck in checkmark mode, where our terms of engagement and endearment with a person rely on checking the correct boxes of certain hot-button issues. Are you Republican, Democrat, or other? Everything about the future of our relationship depends on that.

It reminds me of the days when my wife and I were on the call list for participating in focus groups. Over time we began to understand the game. The questions seemed innocent: Who purchases the laundry soap in your family? Which phone carrier do you use? But soon it became clear that each successive answer spelled the difference between “Can you participate in our paid focus group?” and “Thank you for your time.”

As Christians, it seems like we ought to have a better system. We don’t want our interactions to be a case of simply, What’s your position as a Christian on this hot-button issue? While everyone reading this wants truth and orthodoxy, the need of the hour is for redemptive action toward those ends. We explore those themes on pages 8-11.

Examples of redeeming action we could take would include:

Social media is full of negative and false messages, so my posts will shine light while showing love.

I am prone to quick, angry responses when someone states a falsehood, so I will slow down and listen more carefully and thoroughly to the person, showing respect, and will take time to pray for this person and for wisdom in how to respond.

The church lacks people who know the Scriptures thoroughly, so I will make Bible reading a part of my daily routine and will encourage others to read it.

The world has a dearth of hearing the gospel, so we will go to a local highway or byway this week and share the good news.