Defining Online Ministry
One of the first things I noticed about the concept of Online Ministry was that there really is not a stated definition. Even Google had a hard time coming up with relevant results for the term “online ministry.” So I began to define this concept.
WHAT IS ONLINE MINISTRY?
-my first thought was to break down the word in order to come up with a definition.
Online:
Having to do with the Internet; in most cases, referring to the World Wide Web.
Ministry:
The activity carried out by members of the body of Christ in fulfillment of their mission. Some ministry is directed towards members of the body of Christ, and some towards non-members. (from Wikipedia)
With these thoughts along with some discussions with fellow staff at Gospel Communications, I put together this definition of the term Online Ministry. What do you think? Am I missing anything? How would you word it?
Online Ministry:
Serving users of the Internet by providing information, resources, tools, and opportunities in order to introduce those users to Christ or deepen their existing relationships with Christ
If we look at this definition of “online ministry,” we can see that it can be broken down into two main areas.
- introducing users to Christ (Online Evangelism)
- deepening the relationships of those who already have a relationship with Christ (Online Discipleship)
So as we continue to explore online ministry, it becomes key to understand these two areas.