Friday, September 12, 2008

Online presence

What does online witness or evangelism look like? (he asks after a rant)

The key, I think, is in relationship (which, surprisingly, is not unlike effective witness in RL).

An unknown person randomly preaching in a forum somewhere won't be given much credence. A person who is known for there participation, concern, respect and care will likely be given more regard.

It can take a long time to develop deep, meaningful relationships, and even longer when the only interaction is in text in the context of some topic driven forum, but I have ovserved in others that the most effective witness online is from Christians who distinguish themselves by their actions - they stand out as hard workers and as ready to answer questions or help as they are able. Characteristics of personal interaction that are very easy to lose when online.

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