Let’s face it—social media plays a pivotal role in nearly everything we do, so why should church be any different? If we’re honest, it isn’t. When we look closely, it’s easy to see ways in which social media can hurt our local churches and, ultimately, even our individual faith.

But remember—there are two sides to everything. Social media may be a saving grace to some people, particularly folks with special needs or limited mobility. Watching sermons online, supplementing your Bible study, and connecting with other people are not inherently bad; on the contrary, they can be valuable and important parts of spiritual life.

Read on and see if these statements have made their way into your own conversations (or thoughts!).

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Today, June 6, marks the anniversary of D-Day, when Allied forces stormed the beaches of Normandy in World War II. It was the largest seaborne invasion in history and marked a turning point in the War. Today is a day to look back in history, to learn about what happened, and honor those who fought and died to defend freedom.

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Truett Cathy, who passed away on September 8, 2014, is famous for founding the popular restaurant chain Chick-fil-A. Mr. Cathy was known for his strong work ethic and as a devoted Christian believer. While Cathy’s 2012 comments in opposition to homosexual marriage created outrage within the LGBT community and prompted a boycott of the privately held Chick-fil-A restaurant chain, the restaurant owner was known for so much more.

Here is more about his life, his values, and his vision for Chick-fil-A.

The issue of gender identity and transgenderism is at the forefront of our culture today, and it is also affecting the church. This has led to many Christian leaders to weigh in on what the Bible has to say about transgenderism. Because of the platforms that they have, these Christian leaders' beliefs on transgenderism and gender identity are particularly influential. Below are quotes from 10 different Christian leaders on this issue.

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As Memorial Day approaches, many of us are reflecting on the sacrifices made by so many to preserve our freedom and liberty. Throughout American history, so many patriots have served their country with bravery, commitment, and unparalleled dedication. Here are just 10 of these noteworthy individuals, from various time periods and various walks of life. They are both men and women, and both those who were actually enlisted in the military and those who served their country in other ways. They all, however, share a deep love for country and a firm commitment to their Christian faith.

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Memorial Day is approaching. Are you looking for ways to do more this year to honor those who sacrificed to preserve and protect the freedoms we enjoy? Memorial Day is a day to honor and commemorate the ultimate sacrifice that so many brave men and women have made, so it is certainly a day to pay our respects to these individuals, even if that is in death. Memorial Day is also a day to honor the families of these veterans who are in our communities. There are so many ways to give back even just a little bit of what these veterans have sacrificed for us, and below we provide you with just a few ideas to get you started. We thank the Lord for our vets and their families and hope that they will feel honored, appreciated, and loved this Memorial Day.

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It's not easy finding a movie that will be loved by mom and dad – and that also will be appreciated by their teenage daughter or son.

It's even harder to find ones that meet that criterion while having a positive message, a few biblical lessons and that have stood the test of time.

But we think we've found a few. Mind you, not every teenager will be crazy about all the titles on our list. Most teenagers, though, will enjoy a least a few of them.

In fact, these seven movies are so good – having set records and won awards – that every Christian teenager should check them out.

Here, then, are seven classic movies every Christian teenager should watch:

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Summer is the time of year when many families like to go on vacation. The kids are out of school, the weather is warm, and it's a great time for a roadtrip! There are many places to choose from around the country (and even around the world!), but parents may want to consider taking their families to a place where they will not only have fun, but will learn about the Bible and be encouraged in their faith. Below are seven places in different parts of the country that provide fun, educational, and edifying experiences for the whole family!

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For Christians, the Bible is much more than a simple book of faith. It’s a record of history, a collection of poetry, verses of proverbs, and a testament to the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is quite literally the inspired word of God.

Scripture was designed to speak to the heart of humanity, radically changing us from the inside out. Over the years, a number of influential Christians have shared their reflections on the Bible and how we, as believers, can better approach the gospel with open hearts. If you’re searching for a way to better understand the place of scripture in your Christian walk, you may find guidance in one of these 10 profound quotes.

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It’s a tale as old as time: your friends on social media are ranting about how a “so-called Christian” book is pure evil. “Don’t waste your money on this heresy!” they announce. “Cover your children’s eyes! These lying pages would make good toilet paper!”

Meanwhile, you’ve got other friends talking about the exact same book and singing a very different tune: “The best thing I’ve ever read! It’s changing my life! If you love Jesus, you’ll place an order tonight!”

So who do you listen to? To read, or not to read?

There’s no single answer to this question. (Unless you plan on recommending or criticizing the book yourself, in which case you should probably read it.) Controversial books aren’t inherently worth reading. But Christians don’t need to be scared by controversy either. Often, books are controversial because they raise difficult and important questions. If we only read things we already agree with—if we avoid everything that might make us uncomfortable—we’ll never learn anything new.

Here are 10 controversial Christian books that are definitely worth the read, whether you wind up agreeing with the author or not.

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