Episode 369: Social Media and the Rise of Celebrity Pastors

In Episode 369 of the NewChurches Q&A Podcast, Daniel and Ed do a live podcast recording at Exponential 2019 in Orlando. On this episode, they discuss social media and the rise of celebrity pastors. Here is today’s question:

“Planting a church in 2019 has more difficult hurdles than years past with the emphasis on celebrity pastors largely due to social media. How would you encourage a new planter to not seek performance driven ministry and fall prey to the comparison trap?” 

In This Episode, You’ll Discover:

  • The pros and cons of social media
  • How to leverage social media to reach the unchurched and de-churched

Shareable Quotes (#NewChurches):

  • “If we haven’t yet seen the detriments effects of celebrity driven culture, we have no been paying attention the last couple of years.” – @edstetzer
  • “Social media is not real world ministry.” – @edstetzer
  • “No one gives a flip about clever social media in the midst of a heartbreaking situation.” – @edstetzer
  • “Ministry does not take place with electrons and avatars. It takes place with feet and faces.” – @edstetzer
  • “Social media is a double edged sword.” – @danielsangi
  • “We need to have multiple touch points. How do you best leverage social media to reach the unchurched and de-churched?” – @danielsangi
  • “People are going to visit your Instagram before they visit your church.” – @danielsangi
  • “What does your church’s instagram communicate?” @danielsangi
  • “When celebrity comes calling, often ministry faithfulness can get lost if it becomes your primary focus.” – @edstetzer

Additional Resources:

  • Check out Daniel’s marriage and parenting podcast with his wife, Christina IMbetween 
  • Take a look at Ed Stetzer’s newest book Christians in the Age of Outrage 
  • Text “newchurches” to 888-111 for 5 FREE E-books on church multiplication 

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Published March 14, 2019

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