Is TikTok Melting Our Brains—or Saving the Church?

The answer, of course, is likely somewhere in-between

As someone who deeply values books, nuance, and face-to-face conversation, I often wrestle with the role of social media in faith formation. Is Tik Tok just an algorithm-driven vortex hijacking our attention spans? Is it really a place where meaningful spiritual work can happen?

These were some of the honest, maybe even skeptical, questions I brought into my recent conversation with Rev. Bethany Peerbolte—a progressive pastor whose digital ministry now reaches over 280,000 followers on TikTok.

To my surprise (and gratitude), Bethany didn’t just have quick answers—she had thoughtful, grounded responses that reframed the entire conversation. She talked about the ways social media can act as a “spiritual triage tent” for those harmed by the church. She reminded me that people in theological deserts—regions where affirming or inclusive theology is nearly impossible to find—are encountering the radical love of God in their “For You” pages. And I especially appreciated her point about “decluttering” faith instead of deconstructing it entirely.

Yes, I’m still skeptical, but maybe that’s just because Tik Tok is definitely not my space or place. I still worry abou algorithms amplifying harmful voices. And I lament the performative nature of social media. But I appreciate how Bethany is seeking to reach people online—offering pastoral care, holding worship, and reminding folks they’re not alone.