Blog Six-- Conclusion

After reflecting on the data gathered throughout this case study process and looking over my proposed research question: 

Are the vital ideals of Christianity being diminished (regarded as less sacred) or strengthened (becoming pervasive throughout more of society) because of the tweets from evangelical leaders alongside parody accounts of deities through the popular social media website, Twitter?  

It has become very aware to me the answer of my proposed question. After looking at the great amount of follower response seen by the three accounts (Max Lucado, Hood Jesus and Reverend Run Wisdom) one can easily conclude that the vital ideals of Christianity are not being lost over the mode in which they are being displayed (Twitter). In fact, it would seem that religion is even being enforced. Users are able to see religion lived out and are then able to apply it to their own lives more easily than one might be able to when sitting at a pew in church or reading the Bible for themselves. The information has already been interpreted and therefore presented in a clear way for others to read and find useful. 
As discussed in class, these Twitter accounts are all examples of networked religion. The best example is Max Lucado's Twitter presence. Traditionally, one would have to go and meet face to face with a pastor through a formal arrangement or call him in his church office in order to speak with him outside of church times. Pastors were held at a different level from the congregation almost making them intimidating people. Twitter works to break this barrier between the head of the church and the church's members or even anyone in society. Lucado is able to respond directly to followers on his Twitter account that many have never stepped foot into his San Antonio church. A networked religion reworks traditional boundaries and roles in religion and allows for more access by more people. This is a great aspect of using technology and new media to enhance religion. In the Christian faith it is taught that everyone is created equal in the eyes of God so having a hierarchal system in the church seems to contradict the teachings from the Bible. Twitter helps level the playing field and gives easy access to lived Christianity through accounts such as Max Lucado and even Reverend Run Wisdom. 
Christian based Twitter accounts are making religion easy and accessible to a generation of youth who are predominately non-religious. Evidence is seen in the numbers. All of the Twitter accounts being analyzed have over 100,000 Twitter followers and receive many "likes" and "retweets" and each Tweet posted by all three accounts. This shows a strong and active following from the Twitter community. 

Formulating My Research Question

This week for my analysis I decided to look at six more tweets from this past week from my three selected Christian Twitter accounts. First I am going to compare and contrast the messages represented in the three different accounts from these six examples. 

 The content of the three account's tweets have remained pretty consistent throughout my study thus far. Reverend Run continues to have uplifting tweets that are not always directly linked to Christianity or the Bible. Max Lucado remains inspirational through placing value the belief of Christ's ability for ultimately overcome your current struggle to meet your needs. Lastly, Hood Jesus continued to play on popular culture and current event references to tie in Christianity in their tweets. 

Common themes found throughout all three of the account's tweets is the idea of overall hope through Christ. All three accounts seem to portray Christ as all-knowing and the answer to any heartache one might be feeling. They all seem to be on the same page regarding Christianity and do not have any competing ideas. 

Religion through these three Twitter accounts is framed as a means to remain happy and in good spirits despite troubles in one's life. Faith in the general belief that Christ will prevail regardless of the struggles on the Earth is the theme of hope each of these Twitter users seem to be inspiring. 

After considering the data I have gathered thus far in my research I have been able to form (what I think will) be my research question for my case study.

Are the vital ideals of Christianity being diminished (regarded as less sacred) or strengthened (becoming pervasive throughout more of society) because of the tweets from evangelical leaders alongside parody accounts of deities through the popular social media website, Twitter?  

The key traits of lived religion lived out on Twitter through these few users is that all of their tweets are consistent thus far and have yet to promote contradictory messages. This will help me with my research in the future because it will help me predict future tweet trends.