Dear friend,
In an article published by Channel News Asia (CNA) about a year ago talking about social media polarisation in Singapore[1], the reporter asked two very pertinent questions as a lead-in to her article: “Is it possible to have a civil discussion online when you disagree with each other without getting “cancelled”? Or does social media inadvertently turn everyone into a troll, complete with name-calling and snarky “clapbacks”?”
In case you are wondering what “troll,” “cancelled” or “clapbacks” mean, you risk being called a “boomer” by the young people, just like what had happened to me on several occasions. Alright, I shall not confuse you further. All these words are social media slangs. A “troll” is someone who posts offensive and provocative comments online, getting “cancelled” means to be no longer supported by others or simply being boycotted, “clapbacks” means to respond quickly and sharply to criticism and a “boomer” is basically a baby boomer.
Before we are lost in trying to figure out what these slangs are, the two questions that were raised by the CNA reporter are what we as believers need to give some thought to. To extend her questions a little, I will ask if it is possible for us to have a discussion with others on faith and faith-related issues without getting “cancelled”, and can we share our views on issues honestly and lovingly without being dismissed as being “old fashion” or “bigoted?”
Recently, we organised a talk seeking to help our young people and volunteers to engage their friends on an issue that many viewed as controversial —same sex attraction (SSA). The purpose of the talk was not so much to prove who is right or wrong. Rather, the organisers understood that it is a topic that we cannot avoid talking about today and rather than us getting all awkward about it, we can learn to be better ambassadors for Christ.
Here are some tips I have picked up from the talk in engaging others (whether on the topic of SSA or not). First, we need to take time to read and know what the Word of God says about the different issues since the Bible is our definitive source of instructions for life. The Bible also prepares us with the right attitude as to how we can engage others who hold a different view from us. One thing I was reminded of is the importance of being sincere and interested to listen to what others think and feel about different issues and the agreements and objections they have with us. Prayerfully, in the course of that, the Lord will give us opportunities to share our Christian perspectives and about God with them in a loving and sensitive manner.
God be our Helper.
All Glory To God,
Richard Tan
National Director
