Overseer of God’s Remnant Assembly Akintayo Emmanuel Looks at the Essence of Social Media Management
These days, the impact and reach of social media — led by platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Google (YouTube), Instagram, TikTok, Pinterest, and several others — is colossal and rapidly growing. According to Statista.com, Facebook now has 2.7 billion active users around the world. To put this number in perspective, consider that the population of the planet is around 7.8 billion people.
However, many businesses are finding that instead of managing social media, they are being managed by social media. And it’s certainly not a positive or healthy relationship. On the contrary, it’s stressful, dangerous, and risky.
Still, there is no turning back the clock. Social media — in one form or another — is here to stay, and will continue playing a role in everything from reaching customers to consuming entertainment. With this in mind, Akintayo Emmanuel, the Overseer of God’s Remnant Assembly, recommends that any business or individual that wants to make social media an asset instead of a liability should embrace and demonstrate the wisdom contained in three powerful Bible passages: Hebrews 10:24–25, Ephesians 4:29, and 1 Peter 5:5.
“And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.”
“First and foremost, we should not suspend our values, beliefs or principles simply because we are communicating with people virtually through our devices, and not face-to-face” states Akintayo. “Whether a business is trying to reach its community or an individual is trying to connect with those who share their hobbies and interests, the focus should be on uplifting and encouraging others. And when disagreements occur — and that is part of life — we should be respectful, and if necessary, agree to disagree.”
“Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.”
One of the biggest problems with social media right now is the proliferation of falsehoods and misinformation — which is like corrupting talk that comes out of our mouths. We should always and only communicate the truth as we know it. When we are expressing an opinion or a subjective perspective, we should make this clear.
“Likewise, you who are younger, be subject to the elders. Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility toward one another, for `God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.’”
Commented Dr. Akintayo Emmanuel, “Some businesses and individuals have a tremendous amount of power on social media. They must wield this power very carefully and responsibly. Otherwise, they can — through the actions of their fans and followers — inflict a significant amount of damage. With great power comes great responsibility, and those with power on social media should always act in a humble way, and ever-mindful of their influence and the potential consequences of their statements.”
