In the age of social media, churches are not exempt from having to maintain an online presence to promote their ministry and keep churchgoers informed about church activities.
However, because of the accessibility of social media, its benefits also pose a threat to churches because as easy as it is to disseminate information, it is just as easy to receive criticisms from people who do not agree with the church's positions.
According to Christian writer Jonathan Howe, there are ways to respond to online criticism directed towards your church without further fanning the flames of conflict.
"Apologize. Even if the criticism is unfounded or misinformed, your response should be apologetic. When the criticism is based in truth, an apology is even more in order. A posture of humility represents our Savior well and can often diffuse a tense online exchange," Howe advised.
If the criticism proves to be valid, he said there is nothing wrong with acknowledgement and taking corrective action if needed. It will also be a positive sign if you extend a reconciliatory hand and ask the critic for another chance to make things right.
"Keeping a record of the criticisms you receive allows you to track patterns to eliminate the criticism before it comes. If you continue to get complaints or criticism about a certain aspect of ministry, maybe there is an execution problem or communication problem that is the root of the criticism. If you notice a pattern, be preemptive and address the issue before the negativity is directed your way," Howe added.
When it comes to bibical doctrine however, churches should always stand their ground.
"You may receive complaints and criticism about a host of issues. But if they are about core biblical doctrine, there's not a lot of room for appeasement," he said.
"Always hold your ground when it comes to standing on the Word of God. Compromise is not acceptable in these instances."
Meanwhile, an article from the Daily Guru agreed that on social media "when people go out of their way to not-so-politely inform you they don't like what you do, disagree with what you say or question your authority, it can be upsetting and disheartening."
The post advised that when dealing with negative posts, you should always wait for the right moment and not respond in the heat of the argument to make sure that conflict is not exacerbated.
Like Howe, the post advised site owners to accept constructive criticism but set boundaries. If the criticisms border on abusive, tools like delete, remove and block are available on social media.
The post also advised that negative criticisms should not force site owners to stop what they are doing to achieve their purpose.
