Review: How to Be a Christian Influencer by Jacqulyne Horbrook

How to be a Christian influencer book cover
Cover image courtesy of the publisher via NetGalley

Jacqulyne Horbrook writes with the conviction that influence is not a vanity project but a form of discipleship. In How to Be a Christian Influencer, she makes the case that social media is simply a modern street corner for the Great Commission, and she keeps returning to the same grounding idea: the method changes, the mission stays the same. The book is equal parts spiritual encouragement and practical coaching for Christians who want to show up online without losing themselves in the process.

The structure is clear and conversational. Horbrook traces her call to influence through family stories, then moves into where social media fits in, why marketing and excellence matter, and why innovation is required. The middle chapters lay out her four components of influence (vulnerability, transparency, originality, and relatability), followed by platform growth strategies and a chapter on navigating the whiplash pace of social media. The final section turns explicitly toward discipleship and stewardship, reminding readers that impact is measured in faithfulness, not numbers.

I appreciated the way Horbrook blends biblical themes with down-to-earth examples. She is candid about the temptations of comparison, the pressure to go viral, and the ways platforms can distort priorities. At the same time, she is not anti-platform; she pushes readers to build with integrity, set boundaries, and prioritize depth over reach. The resource lists and planning worksheet are a practical bonus for readers who want to get moving right away.

I found this quote from chapter 1 insightful and it provides a good example of the lens that the author uses throughout:

Somewhere along the way, the meaning of influencer got hijacked. What was once about impact has become about image[…] So here’s the reality check: We don’t need more influencers chasing clout. We need more influencers chasing Christ.

How to Be a Christian Influencer by Jacqulyne Horbrook, Chapter 1

If you are a Christian content creator, pastor, ministry leader, or thoughtful social media user who wants to align online presence with discipleship, this is a solid, Scripture-informed guide.

If you’re interested in learning more about the author, check out the video below:

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher via NetGalley ebook. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. In addition, some of the links in the post above are affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will add value to my readers. I am disclosing these things in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

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