Spreading the Gospel Through Social Media
Social media presentation by Kathryn Skaggs to the women of the Murrieta Stake, February 28, 2014
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PRESENTATION OUTLINE
Untitled Slide
A PICTURE, VIDEO, TEXT OR LINK IS ONLY MEDIA UNTIL YOU MAKE IT ‘SOCIAL'
MEDIA BECOMES 'SOCIAL' WHEN WE INVITE CONVERSATION!
Photo by John-Morgan
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The work of salvation is wondrous, to say the least about it - and God, in His infinite wisdom has provided the means to accomplish His work in a myriad of ways!
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At first thought, our minds readily turn to the advances in modern technology as being perhaps the most significant. However, without the restoration of the gospel of Jesus Christ, with its revealed truths, technology alone could never replace the inspired direction of those endowed with power from on high -- who desire to use these incredible inventions for the building up of the kingdom of God on earth.
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Without the covenant-keeping members of the Church to plug in, pick up and get to work using today’s technology to advance the work – social media being potentially one of the most significant (Lord's power tool) - there would be no reason for the Lord to reveal many of the amazing technological advances we enjoy today!
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We can accomplish incredible things to help 'spread the gospel' through new ways that enable us to do much more with our cell phones than calling one person – in fact, today our cellphones are smart!
Smartphones and portable tablets can often have greater capabilities for connecting and communicating with large groups of people, globally, than many people’s desktop computers!
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The capability of the Internet to broadcast a message, exponentially, can only have one single purpose from the Lord’s perspective: to help accomplish the work of salvation by connecting a teacher with a student or a missionary with an investigator, in order to share the gospel.
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Life offers an array of options for how we can spend our time, and personally we have many things we desire to do and accomplish, but first and foremost, let us be compelled to fulfill the work of the Lord, by placing Him at the center of our life’s pursuits, whatever that may be.
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President Ezra Taft Benson, said, “When we put God first, all other things fall into their proper place or drop out of our lives. Our love of the Lord will govern the claims for our affection, the demands on our time, the interests we pursue, and the order of our priorities.”
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“The power of a converted woman’s voice is immeasurable, and the Church needs your voices now more than ever… A woman’s sphere of influence is a unique sphere, one that cannot be duplicated by men... Because of that influence, women have an important responsibility in strengthening the kingdom of God on the earth.”
~ M. Russell Ballard
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My Story...
What will yours be?
"Now, may I ask that YOU join the conversation by participating on the Internet to share the gospel and to explain in simple and clear terms the message of the Restoration."
~ M. Russell Ballard
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It is imperative to the work of salvation that we realize the context in which we are living, who we are and what it is we are here to accomplish. Inspired leaders not only today, but also those down through the ages, have seen our day and were given to know the impact that the women of the Church would have in the winding up scenes of mortality.
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In 1974, Spencer W. Kimball delivered an historic and prophetic address during a regional seminar of priesthood leaders; the content he described as a “vision” in relation to what the Prophet Joseph and other Prophets’ down through the ages have seen of our day. Throughout his presentation, as he contemplated the marvelous work of salvation to be accomplished in the very near future he repeatedly asked the question:
“Is anything too hard for the Lord?”
Spencer W. Kimball: Go Ye Into All the World (Referenced in my Women’s Conference presentation — a must watch!)
Link:
Show short clip:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i1qjBgysRig
Full video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N6LvHsUvcv4
Also the text, slightly different, of this same prophetic, regional presentation he gave shortly after surprisingly found himself Prophet of the Church:
https://www.lds.org/ensign/1974/10/when-the-world-will-be-converted?lang=en...
Link:
Show short clip:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i1qjBgysRig
Full video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N6LvHsUvcv4
Also the text, slightly different, of this same prophetic, regional presentation he gave shortly after surprisingly found himself Prophet of the Church:
https://www.lds.org/ensign/1974/10/when-the-world-will-be-converted?lang=en...
Photo by More Good Foundation
The prophet, Joseph Smith Jr., understood the expanse, power and destiny of the Lord’s work in our day – the dispensation of the fullness of times. He described its mission in no uncertain terms. Said he:
"The Standard of Truth has been erected; no unhallowed hand can stop the work from progressing; persecutions may rage, mobs may combine, armies may assemble, calumny may defame but the truth of God will go forth boldly, nobly and independent, till it has penetrated every continent, visited every clime, swept every country and sounded in every ear, till the purposes of God shall be accomplished and the Great Jehovah shall say the work is done.”
Photo by Altus Photo Design
The Standard of Truth is the gospel of Jesus Christ, with all of its laws and ordinances pertaining to our happiness in this life and the next; it is Heavenly Father’s Plan to bring us back into His Presence!
Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” (John 14:6)
The gospel is the very best ‘thing’ about our personal lives—giving us purpose, direction and the vision to see things as they really are in a counterfeit world, where the progressive effects of immorality and sin are ever increasing. These effects will likely be found in more and more of the individuals’ lives whom WE LOVE AND CARE ABOUT —leaving them seeking for a remedy, but not knowing where to find it, let alone knowing that it can be!
Social Media is a tool. Tools increase our power to do things that independently are either difficult or impossible. Social media is a powerful tool that enables the individual user to broadly share a message with others nearly anywhere in the world.
Photo by Jason A. Howie
Each of can us can begin today to use social media as a power tool to increase our ability to “noise abroad” the blessings of a gospel-centered life.
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On Tuesday, August 19, 2014, Elder David A. Bednar gave the keynote address at BYU Education Week, title: To Sweep the Earth As With A Flood.
His topic was member use of social media and the Internet. He emphasized that this address is part two to a talk he gave in 2009 titled "Things as They Really Are."
In that address, he “discussed the spiritual potential and pitfalls of various technologies in our modern world.” This address “build[s] upon and extend[s] that previous message by focusing upon three related and important topics:
The Dispensation in Which We Are Living.
The Dispensation of Fulness of Times and Technology.
Social Media.
(1) The unique season in the history of the world in which we live, even “the dispensation of the fulness of times,”
(2) The inspired technological and communication innovations that have come forth in this decisive dispensation, and
(3) How we appropriately use these powerful tools to advance the work of salvation in all of the world.
His topic was member use of social media and the Internet. He emphasized that this address is part two to a talk he gave in 2009 titled "Things as They Really Are."
In that address, he “discussed the spiritual potential and pitfalls of various technologies in our modern world.” This address “build[s] upon and extend[s] that previous message by focusing upon three related and important topics:
The Dispensation in Which We Are Living.
The Dispensation of Fulness of Times and Technology.
Social Media.
(1) The unique season in the history of the world in which we live, even “the dispensation of the fulness of times,”
(2) The inspired technological and communication innovations that have come forth in this decisive dispensation, and
(3) How we appropriately use these powerful tools to advance the work of salvation in all of the world.
“We are blessed to live, learn, and serve in this most remarkable dispensation. An important aspect of the fulness that is available to us in this special season is a miraculous progression of innovations and inventions that have enabled and accelerated the work of salvation: from trains to telegraphs to radios to automobiles to airplanes to telephones to transistors to televisions to computers to satellite transmissions to the Internet—and to an almost endless list of technologies and tools that bless our lives. All of these advancements are part of the Lord hastening His work in the latter days.”
~ David A. Bednar
"Every discovery in science and art, that is really true and useful to mankind has been given by direct revelation from God, though but few acknowledge it. It has been given with a view to prepare the way for the ultimate triumph of truth, and the redemption of the earth from the power of sin and Satan. We should take advantage of all these great discoveries, the accumulated wisdom of ages, and give to our children the benefit of every branch of useful knowledge, to prepare them to step forward and efficiently do their part in the great work” (Discourses of Brigham Young, sel. John A. Widtsoe [1954], 18–19).”
"Now is the time for members and missionaries to come together, to work together, to labor in the Lord’s vineyard to bring souls unto Him. He has prepared the means for us to share the gospel in a multitude of ways, and He will assist us in our labors if we will act in faith to fulfill His work."
~ Thomas S. Monson
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As women of covenant, let us begin TODAY to see these advances in technology, which the Lord has revealed for His work, as more than social entertainment, but rather new ways to connect with, and invite, His children to come and see – thus hastening the work of salvation.
1-The Church needs you! Every one can make a difference, no matter how "tech savvy" you think you are - or not.
2-Don't be overwhelmed. Take one small step at a time. If you don't understand social networks, talk to your kids, grandkids, or someone in your ward. Resources are available.
3-You decide how overtly religious you want to be in sharing the Gospel. Make it a matter of prayer. Seek the guidance of the Spirit. Some people are very comfortable being direct, while others prefer to be more subdued and take a different cadence. Again, take it at your pace, but doing a little something is better than nothing at all.
4-The Church provides a lot of good content. But so do volunteers who create memes, videos, and other shareable content. Share content and express yourself in a way that you feel comfortable.
5-Create your own content (if you want). Just because the Church produces it doesn't mean that is all you can share. Be anxiously engaged (D&C 58:27) and the Lord will bless you and your efforts.
MOST IMPORTANT: Do something! If even 10% of members got involved and shared one piece of content, our numbers would blow up. The Church is getting less “prescriptive” so create content you enjoy sharing.
2-Don't be overwhelmed. Take one small step at a time. If you don't understand social networks, talk to your kids, grandkids, or someone in your ward. Resources are available.
3-You decide how overtly religious you want to be in sharing the Gospel. Make it a matter of prayer. Seek the guidance of the Spirit. Some people are very comfortable being direct, while others prefer to be more subdued and take a different cadence. Again, take it at your pace, but doing a little something is better than nothing at all.
4-The Church provides a lot of good content. But so do volunteers who create memes, videos, and other shareable content. Share content and express yourself in a way that you feel comfortable.
5-Create your own content (if you want). Just because the Church produces it doesn't mean that is all you can share. Be anxiously engaged (D&C 58:27) and the Lord will bless you and your efforts.
MOST IMPORTANT: Do something! If even 10% of members got involved and shared one piece of content, our numbers would blow up. The Church is getting less “prescriptive” so create content you enjoy sharing.
Be your "best self" online –
Be yourself! Open your life in natural exchanges you have with friends you will make! Friendships develop through two way communication when we share our personal lives with each other. Friendships generally begin because we share a common interest.
Because of limited time, Mormons tend to interact with members almost exclusively and so we need to actively LOOK for ways to share the gospel with others. One way to widen our circle of friends is through social networking. In this way we can increase the opportunities for having these gospel related conversations with those not of our faith.
What interests do you enjoy not necessarily church related, such as reading, traveling, photography, writing, interior design, fashion and beauty, cooking, health and fitness, hiking, painting, parenting, sewing, crafts, camping, etc... There are online groups you can join to help you connect with others who share these same passions — Google it!
Because of limited time, Mormons tend to interact with members almost exclusively and so we need to actively LOOK for ways to share the gospel with others. One way to widen our circle of friends is through social networking. In this way we can increase the opportunities for having these gospel related conversations with those not of our faith.
What interests do you enjoy not necessarily church related, such as reading, traveling, photography, writing, interior design, fashion and beauty, cooking, health and fitness, hiking, painting, parenting, sewing, crafts, camping, etc... There are online groups you can join to help you connect with others who share these same passions — Google it!
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Every disciple of Christ will be most effective and do the most good by adopting a demeanor worthy of a follower of the Savior. Discussions focused on questioning, debating, and doubting gospel principles do little to build the kingdom of God. ~ M. Russell Ballard
Photo by hljavery@verizon.net
We can be Disciples of Jesus Christ by word and deed as easily as posting one of our beliefs on Facebook, or any other social network.
Ask questions that specifically invite others to share their opinions, rather than replying with a simple yes or no, to encourage discussion.
Make what you have to say online relevant by placing it in context and making it personal.
Post information about local ward and stake activities on and invite others to come and see.
Share a status update and briefly share something that happened in your life where your faith helped to strengthen you.
Focus on building personal relationships and don’t worry about the technology side of sharing the gospel online. Just do it. Generally, we know more than we think we do -- but for certain you know enough.
Make what you have to say online relevant by placing it in context and making it personal.
Post information about local ward and stake activities on and invite others to come and see.
Share a status update and briefly share something that happened in your life where your faith helped to strengthen you.
Focus on building personal relationships and don’t worry about the technology side of sharing the gospel online. Just do it. Generally, we know more than we think we do -- but for certain you know enough.
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We can use Church created social media, such as a Mormon Message, or a link to a talk from General Conference to share a single principle of the gospel to begin a relevant conversation with our like minded 'friends' and associates.
Share link to read Book of Mormon and or receive free copy.
Friend your local missionaries on Facebook.
On occasion, present the opportunity on your social networks for friends to ask you questions about what Mormon believe? Anything. If you don’t know the answer, tag an online missionary to help you out.
Consider having full-time missionaries help you when you post something about the Church on Facebook, to have a good discussion.
Friend your local missionaries on Facebook.
On occasion, present the opportunity on your social networks for friends to ask you questions about what Mormon believe? Anything. If you don’t know the answer, tag an online missionary to help you out.
Consider having full-time missionaries help you when you post something about the Church on Facebook, to have a good discussion.
Use Credible Resources
-LDS.org -
- Mormon Newsroom -
- Mormon.org -
CREATE A MORMON.ORG PROFILE
Create a Mormon.org profile--people would be surprised how many people use Mormon.org to find someone similar to them in age, gender, demographic, etc –
Your Mormon.org profile url is the new pass-along card, online. M.org is for investigators and your personal link shared becomes a door to invite people to "come and see". The link should be included as part of your bio on every social network you have an account, or maintain a profile.
Your Mormon.org profile url is the new pass-along card, online. M.org is for investigators and your personal link shared becomes a door to invite people to "come and see". The link should be included as part of your bio on every social network you have an account, or maintain a profile.
Let's talk TONE: We can say and share bold thoughts – perceived bold because of the content and contrast to much of what is considered socially correct – most effective if we develop a few ways to manage the tone used to communicate our message.
We are more likely to be “heard” when we apply ownership to our thoughts and opinions. For instance, rather than stating our opinions as absolutes, we might say: I believe; in my opinion, in my experience; I feel, etc. With this approach, you create a door where others who do not share your thoughts to share their thoughts in response – and that is how conversations among respectful individuals begin.
Positive communication and interactions with others online demands mutual respect. We may not always agree with each other’s perspective, opinions and/or beliefs, but we must respect the other person’s space to hold these differences and share them publicly -- and we expect the same courtesy in return.
Positive communication and interactions with others online demands mutual respect. We may not always agree with each other’s perspective, opinions and/or beliefs, but we must respect the other person’s space to hold these differences and share them publicly -- and we expect the same courtesy in return.
Rather than stating our opinions as absolutes, we might say: I believe; in my opinion; I’m inclined to think; in my experience; I feel, etc. With this approach, we create a door where others who do not share our thoughts can feel comfortable sharing what they think in response – and that is how conversations among respectful individuals begin.
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“When [women] go forth in the name of Israel’s God, there is no power on earth that can overturn the truths they advocate.” (JD, 12:396) – John Taylor
What makes our lives interesting, unique or compelling is not what happens to us or what we may have accomplished, but rather it is the gospel of Jesus Christ infused into our ordinary lives that makes us extraordinary!
Let your light so shine that others may see your good WORKS! Covenants! The results and power in our lives.
TRUST GOD! He is the author behind our lives and will write His story into it as we offer it for His work and in HIS WAY!
If He needed all of us to have a sensational story to do it HE would write it! He doesn't!
Rather, through mortal experiences (all of them) he speaks to His children! This work is not progressed or hastened because of what happens to individuals rather it is individuals that happen to catch the vision of it and put their trust in Him to share it.
We become ZION as we unite under a living prophet and bring our individual offering to The Lord for the benefit of ALL!
You are enough because you are HIS! His Glory is our life made holy through the Spirit of Christ!
Let your light so shine that others may see your good WORKS! Covenants! The results and power in our lives.
TRUST GOD! He is the author behind our lives and will write His story into it as we offer it for His work and in HIS WAY!
If He needed all of us to have a sensational story to do it HE would write it! He doesn't!
Rather, through mortal experiences (all of them) he speaks to His children! This work is not progressed or hastened because of what happens to individuals rather it is individuals that happen to catch the vision of it and put their trust in Him to share it.
We become ZION as we unite under a living prophet and bring our individual offering to The Lord for the benefit of ALL!
You are enough because you are HIS! His Glory is our life made holy through the Spirit of Christ!
"The holy scriptures contain no proclamation more relevant, no responsibility more binding, no instruction more direct than the injunction given by the resurrected Lord as He appeared in Galilee to the eleven disciples. Said He: "Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost"(Matthew 28:19).
~ Thomas S. Monson
An Apostolic Invitation
#ShareGoodness
Show highlight clip of Elder Bednar's 2014 BYU Education Week devotional: https://www.lds.org/prophets-and-apostles/unto-all-the-world/to-sweep-the-e...
KATHRYN SKAGGS
PIONEER IN SHARING THE GOSPEL VIA SOCIAL MEDIA
Connect with Kathryn via social media
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Kathryn Skaggs: Latter-day Saint Woman
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Mormon.org Profile
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LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/kathrynskaggs?_mSplash=1
Kathryn Skaggs: Latter-day Saint Woman
https://kathrynskaggs.blogspot.com/
Facebook Page:
https://www.facebook.com/LatterDaySaintWoman/
@LDSNana on Twitter
http://twitter.com/LDSNana
