Developing Real Influence
86% of young Americans say that they want to become a social media influencer. That’s the majority of the new generation. If there is a phenomenon that we as a culture need to be studying, it’s the concept of “influence”. What is “real” influence? Why is our culture so obsessed with it? Most importantly, what does this mean for the people of God?
Influence is defined as the capacity to have an effect on the character, development, or behavior of someone or something.
In other words, influence is power. It is no secret that our society is hungry for power. Imagine having the ability to directly impact whether someone buys a certain piece of clothing or whether they begin using a certain slang term. Right now these are the things we think about when we hear the word “influencer”. While all these things seem innocent enough there is more to being an “influencer” than creating the newest dance craze.
70% of adolescents report having a high level of trust in social media influencers. That’s staggering. What happens when that influencer begins to spout dangers and false information or ideologies? How do we combat the allure of the social media culture that has gained such a hold on all of us?
The answer is that we as believers must develop an influence of our own. But how? How do we even come close to becoming as influential as someone with over a million loyal followers on instagram? At the risk of sounding cliche and out of touch, the answer is pretty unimpressive but vital to comprehend. The answer is evangelism and discipleship.
Jesus is the ultimate influencer. Think about 2 Corinthians 5:17 which says “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.” Being able to completely transform someone from the inside out is the highest form of influence we will ever encounter. While we don’t have the power to transform people, we do have the ability to make a significant impact on those around us.
Through sharing our faith with others, and introducing them to the life changing power of the Gospel is where our influence lies. In a world where most of us are searching for peace and safety the Gospel of Jesus Christ provides that to the utmost. Or have we forgotten Paul’s word in Romans 1? The Gospel is the power of salvation for all those who believe.
Not only do we have the sweet gift of the Gospel but we are called to take it a step further in discipleship. Discipleship is investing in the life of others in order to present them mature in Christ. This process is all about teaching others how to live life as a believer. High levels of trust are definitely formed in discipleship relationships.
Christ’s command to make disciples of all nations is a command to use your God given influence to make a lasting impact on others for their good. We cannot abdicate this responsibility. This is a gift that many do not have and call that we cherish.
So how do we practically tap into our Christian Influence? Here are a few things to consider as you seek to develop godly influence in the life of those around you.
Influence in Evangelism & Discipleship
Be authentic- The world is looking for Christians whose lives are real. There is no need to conform to what the culture says is influential. By having an abiding relationship with Jesus, you already have a rare and needed commodity. Just be the person God has created you to be (Romans 12:1-2).
Be Intentional- How many people around you are you praying for to be saved? When was the last time you invited someone to church? How long has it been since you shared your faith with someone? Take time to look at those around you who don’t know Christ and begin the beautiful but hard work of building a relationship with them in order to show them the love of Jesus. (1 Timothy 2:1)
Be Wise- Influence is a powerful tool. Understand that once you gain someone’s trust you must be careful to use that gift with care and love. Do not use your influence for your own selfish gain. This mindset has hurt so many in and out of the church. We are to be different from the world. (Matthew 20:25-28)
Be Goal Oriented- as someone who is investing in others to help them grow in their faith, it’s imperative that you think through goals for yourself and those you are pouring into. For example, if you are discipling someone who is new to reading their bible, a good goal could be helping them read and study an entire book of the bible by the end of the year. Having spiritual growth goals will help you and those you are leading to see their progress! (Proverbs 21:5)
Be in Community- As an individual your influence can only go so far. Make sure that you and those you are investing in have a good source of godly community. Understand that the body of Christ has so much to offer and is a place where transformation takes place. (Hebrews 10:24-25)
God has placed you in your family, work environment, school campus, friend group and relationships for a reason. Many of us forget that not only do we have a mission but we have the needed tools to carry out that mission–Christ himself! (Matthew 28:20). Don’t allow the lies of the enemy to convince you that you need more knowledge, time, resources or anything else. As you move out in obedience to share the Gospel of Christ and to invest in others, God will teach you all you need to know along the way (John 16:13).