Creative Language & Creative Filters

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Inspired from Justin Dosch’s lecture, I decided to look further into the idea that Jesus used creative language in order to reach the people of His day. Often times when Jesus was preaching He would speak in parables. Jesus did not invent the concept of parables, but He was able to use the format to make a huge impact on His listeners. In the age of technology, we have been blessed with a multitude of communication outlets at our disposal. Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Telegram, Slack, Snapchat—the list goes on and on.

My personal favorite platform is Snapchat. Snapchat takes texting a step forward with the integration of pictures, video, and artistic design. One idea could be designing a snapchat filter which could be used to reach the churchless. It would take a great deal of creativity and tact, but a well designed and implemented filter can certainly draw positive attention. When it comes to filters, there are three basic methods at present. The first is a type of mask or enhancement to an image that can turn a mundane selfie into something more colorful. The second is simply a location identifier that has a slogan or watermark accenting where the user is (i.e. Grove City College with sketch of Rockwell in the distance). Thirdly, a filter can act as a kind of game or poll.

Using a Snapchat filter as a conversation starter would have the greatest impact. The churched and the churchless can weigh in on a topic and learn more about each other from both sides. The people who use Snapchat are generally open to have all kinds of conversations, but someone has to initiate it. Everyone has an opinion and Snapchat offers an easy way to share it. What better platform to share the Gospel than one that is in almost everyone’s pocket!