Digital technology has spread throughout every sector of society, creating a tsunami of change. There’s no end in sight. Church leaders are still grappling with how to to stay on top of it.
Engaging with online communities is one way of getting some help.
Participating in online community for just thirty minutes a day can help any leader get a better picture of the fast moving landscape of media and technology. It can equip you for making informed decisions about what media tools to use in your ministry.
Here are six reasons leaders should engage online communities to stay on top of emerging technologies.
1. To monitor new developments
When it comes to technology, we’re living in a unique time. Rapid change will continue into the future.
The dust hasn’t settled on the discussion related to technologies making it possible to do Church Online, multi-site or to Tweet during the sermon. Are you ready for the holographic projection of pastors? Leading media channels covering church communication stay abreast of developments like this. These thought leaders start and moderate conversations. All you have to do is tune in.
Recommended leaders to follow: Phil Cooke, Todd Rhoades, John Saddington
2. To learn how to use the Internet for outreach
Supporters of online evangelism are seeing millions come to Christ and be discipled in the Word. Some ask questions about the feasibility for using online communication to help the newly saved experience spiritual growth or get into local churches. Are there biblical reasons for using or not using particular technologies? How does a technology change people? Change a church? What are the positives and negatives of a new technology?
A multiplicity of voices gather online to exchange positions, ideas and views. Listen in. Consider the implications for your ministry. For the global Church. Better yet, add your voice to the conversation.
Recommended leaders to follow: Dave Bourgeois, stickyJesus, Internet Evangelism Day
3. To take advantage of free resources
Sharing resources is an idea whose time has come. God is moving in the hearts of church leaders to develop new models of ministry. Leaders with an Acts 4:32 mindset are giving churches and ministries access to their creative assets, work processes, tools, technology applications and even their people.
Reviewing these resources may spark ideas. Perhaps you will be the next to create and pass it on.
Recommended leaders to follow: LifeChurch.tv Open, Inside Northpoint, United Methodist Church Knowledge Center
4. To gain knowledge and learn from the experiences of others
You may not personally manage the technology in your organization, but you are dealing with it every day. Church management systems, content management systems, IT infrastructure, hardware/software, website, Social Media. IT surrounds you, your staff, your constituents or congregation. Leaders must stay current on these tools to be effective in ministry today.
The good news is, there are some excellent leaders that have traveled these roads before you. Learning from the best practices of others can save you time and money down the road.
Recommended leaders to follow: Chance Mason, Kem Meyer, M2Live
5. To build relationships
Participating in online communities enables connections around the world, or in your own backyard, not previously possible. Over time, you can get to know key members of your online network. New working and ministry relationships can form. Opportunities for collaborating surface. In time, you can even meet members of your community in person. See God at work through these appointments.
Conferences are a good platform for turning online relationships into face to face meetings.
Recommended leaders to follow: Church Conference 2011 Recommendations
6. To encourage other leaders
I’ve learned that people involved with media and technology in churches and Christian organizations see it as a calling. These men and women are often engaged in online community. If you have hiring authority, your participation in their network will encourage them. Leave a comment on their blog or send a tweet to let them know how much you appreciate their kingdom service.
Who knows? You may even find your next media, technology or communications team member online.
Recommended leaders to follow: Church Marketing Directory, Church IT RoundTable, Wired Churches
Question: What other reasons should leaders be engaged in online community?