The beauty of blogs is that you can get information to a large number of people.
Blog. A funny word. If you blog, you are called a “blogger,” participating in the act of “blogging.” So what is a blog, anyway? The word blog is a blend of the words web log. A blog is simply a website or part of a website where authors share opinions, advice, and information. Post is the term used to describe the article or information being given. Often, a blog will allow readers to comment on posts and create a discussion-like environment. Blogging has been around for many years in various forms. There are websites specifically intended for blogging. But it’s also common for other websites to have blog features which allow the posting of comments and responses.
Even this magazine you are reading is like a blog, except that it can’t facilitate instant discussion. The beauty of blogs is that you can get information and ideas to a large number of people. You may be asking, “Are blogs important to my church or ministry?” Here are three main points to consider.
1. Reach
Blogs can reach a wide audience and make it easier to send relevant content all across the world. Chuck Gianotti uses his blog very effectively and says, “Blogging has proven to be a very useful ministry tool. I use a blog to distribute Elders’ ShopNotes, a worldwide ministry letter to elders in both English and Spanish. Also, I use blogging to send out weekly meditations on current events from a biblical perspective and a daily devotional. This method of distribution gives readers an opportunity for immediate feedback and interaction. These are wonderful tools to aid in ministering to God’s people.” Check out his blog at www.bible-equip.org
2. Connect
Another feature of blogs is that you can engage in discussions with people you would never meet in real life. Talk on the Way is a blog run by FBH International (Family Bible Hour Radio). Ron Hughes has been able to give advice to many people who are seeking help with life’s questions. “Blogging gives our regular web visitors something new to read each week. Because of the comment option, it allows for some dialogue and a chance to develop a sense of relationship. Over the summer, I experimented with guest blogging. Others would write for me and I for them. This exposed our blogs to new audiences.” Visit www.talkontheway.org
3. Inform
Gordon Franz has engaged in extensive research in archaeology and has participated in a number of excavations around the world. “Usually I get questions about the latest archaeological fads on the Internet. ‘Is Mount Sinai in Saudi Arabia?’ ‘Has Noah’s Ark been found?’ I am able to point to my blog for well-researched and documented answers.” Gordon’s real desire, however, is to give accurate, expositional teaching that is illustrated by history, archaeology, geography, and the material culture of the Bible lands. His blog allows this. He writes, “I firmly believe that the Bible was written by real people, in real places, experiencing real events, and I want to communicate their story. That is why the name of my blog is The Life and Land of Biblical characters!” See Gordon’s blog at www.lifeandland.org
When considering a blog, think about what type of information you plan to post and who the audience might be. A local church might post on events and happenings around the community and engage the residents in discussion. A ministry might use a blog to talk about their programs, efforts, and ongoing updates. Teaching on various topics is another great use for a blog. Whatever the need, a blog can be a vital tool. Remember to promote your blog. For example, include your blog link in your email footer. Happy blogging!