Instagram is mobile app that allows users to take a photo, apply a digital filter to it, and then share it on a variety of social networking services, including Instagram’s own, where “followers” can “like” and comment on those images.
A Brief History of Instagram
Instagram was launched October 6, 2010 by Kevin Systrom and Mike Krieger
In 2011, Apple named it “App of the Year.”
In 2012 Facebook purchased it for a whopping $1 billion.
As of 2025, Instagram claims around 2 billion monthly active users (MAUs) — making it the world’s third‑largest social network, after Facebook and YouTube
Instagram: More than a photo sharing app
While Instagram is sometimes referred to as a “photo sharing app,” in reality it is much more than that. In addition to posting their own photos, people sometimes also post photos taken by others, funny images, quotes, screenshots from their phone and text. And some people don’t post anything at all, they just “like” and comment on what others post.
Because of that I think it’s more accurate and beneficial to think of Instagram as a social network where images and videos are the primary medium.
As our culture has become more and more focused on media over text, Instagram has ridden that wave and continued its momentum.
12 Creative Ways to Share Your Faith Online with Instagram
So, let’s talk about some creative ways we can use Instagram to share our faith online.
1) Post pics of creation.
One of the most common and popular types of images posted to Instagram are nature pics. When we post nature pics, look for ways to point people to God. Give Him praise for creation or talk about how you are connecting with Him through creation.
2) Post pics of Christian community.
Share the fun and love you experience at social events at church, things you do with your small group, etc. Look for ways to highlight the love and acceptance we receive from Christ and both give and receive in Christian community.
3) Post pics of serving in your community.
When you serve the poor, paint a house or join in a community service project, take and share photos. Try not to bring attention to yourself – you don’t want to be giving off “look how great a person I am” vibes. Try to highlight how God is at work in your team and in your community.
4) Post pics from missions trips.
Missions trips are especially good opportunities for great photos because they often provide the opportunity to mix in beautiful pictures of the creation, culture and people of another country. Again, remember, it’s not about you but what God is up to.
5) Post quotes from scripture and Christian authors.
This is a little trickier than the previous suggestions. The easiest option may be to take a photo of the verse/quote in the bible or book.
Another option would be to create the image using another app. Some apps that can be used to create quote/scripture images include YouVersion Bible App, Canva, and WordSwag
6) Post pics of Christian art.
Instagram is a visual medium. Sometimes art – whether it’s paintings, stained glass, sculpture or other – speaks louder than words.
7) Post pics of the people you love & things you like.
In other words, be a real, authentic person.
8 ) Do a Faith-Based Challenge.
Start a #BibleVerseChallenge or #7DayGratitudeChallenge and invite others to join. This builds community and encourages interaction.
9) Listen and engage with others.
Remember Instagram is a SOCIAL network. Don’t just broadcast. Follower your friends, family and people in your community who use IG. View their pics, comment, encourage them.
10) Mention your faith in your Instagram bio.
After someone comes across an image of yours they like, many people will check out your bio. You can reference your faith or a favorite bible verse in your bio.
11) Post your testimony and/or a gospel presentation on the site your profile links to.
In your Instagram profile, you have the ability to include a link to a website. You can use this to link to your blog or personal website where you can tell the story of how God has transformed your life and can transform theirs as well.
12) Create an Instagram profile for your church.
If your a pastor or church communications person, you can create an Instagram account for your church and do just about all of the above on behalf of your church.
Sharing Jesus with others doesn’t have to be pushy or weird. Be strategic, gentle, and do it with kindness. -Ally Poirot, Christian content creator
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Comment and discuss…
- Are you an Instagram user? If so, post your IG username below.
- What do you think of the suggestions above? Any really resonate with you?
- Got any other ideas for using Instagram to share your faith online?
Continue reading… What is a Virtual Street Team? And 5 Benefits to Organizing One
Co-founder & CEO, OurChurch.Com
Paul has been the CEO of OurChurch.Com since its founding in 1996, combining his passion for faith and technology to lead the organization.
An accomplished writer, Paul has authored over 2,000 articles on faith and technology, featured on platforms like ChurchLeaders.com, The JoyFM, and his personal blog, LiveIntentionally.org.
Beyond his professional achievements, Paul serves as an elder at Journey Community Church and is deeply engaged in his community through his involvement with the Florida Sheriffs Youth Ranch and the Safety Harbor Chamber of Commerce. He is a contributing author of the book Outspoken! Conversations on Church Communication.
5 Comments
Awesome ideas! Thanks for putting this list together.
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Thank you! Can wait to implement these ideas!
I loved this article! I started an Instagram account for my church, @cornerstone_church_mi around 6 weeks ago. I am trying to take our pictures to the next level. Thanks for the ideas.
@shispokeitg ! Great article by the way.