In the past year, you have probably heard stories, good and bad, about megachurches where technology plays a central role.
The explosive growth of the Internet and social media, and its influences on society and churches, has often been characterized by some through a variant of the saying, “Technology is a blessing and a curse.”
It might be more appropriate to to say, “Technology is neither a blessing or a curse, it’s how people use the technology that makes it positive or negative.”
Since God has created all things – the Internet included – being adept at using it for His purposes is an important skill.
Christian media leaders should be embracing the Internet.
We’re at an exciting time in history, when models of media ministry are being expanded and enhanced in ways that we could never imagine.
The extent to which the Internet leads to undesirable outcomes is well documented. If used in a positive direction, however, the Internet and social media can prove to be very productive. That’s our focus here.
Five positive effects of technology on the gospel
1. A way to make Jesus known. The focus should not be on creating rock-star personalities, establishing a brand, promoting a book, or reporting stellar net income growth. The most important positive aspect of the Internet is that it presents new far-reaching opportunities to speak about Jesus.
“And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains.” Colossians 4:3
2. A way to request and receive prayer. Regardless of how it’s done – online forms, email, or social networks – access to prayer ministry online has a positive ripple effect on individual lives and kingdom initiatives. Through prayer, God greatly multiplies our efforts. C.H. Spurgeon said, “Whenever God determines to do a great work, He first sets His people to pray.” I can personally attest to the benefits of praying for and with others online.
3. A way to provide resources to a wide variety of people. Audio and video, transcripts of sermons, apps to download, e-books, it has never been easier to transmit the gospel electronically and get resources into peoples hands.
4. A way to partner and collaborate. Video conferencing, blogs, and other interactive technologies allow a greater exchange of information and knowledge with people in different locations. It can facilitate partnerships and strategic alliances on a variety of projects and initiatives.
5. A way for small organizations to have big reach. A pastor of two small church-radio stations told me that ten years ago he began to pray about one day using technology to expand the impact of his stations beyond the reach of the transmitters. “All in God’s timing,” he said. In 2014, the broadcast ministry that began with a tiny 380-watt station in the middle of cane field of Erwinville, LA, started offering God’s Word to the world through on-demand audio AND video.
“Who dares despise the day of small things, since the seven eyes of the LORD that range throughout the earth will rejoice when they see the chosen capstone in the hand of Zerubbabel?” Zechariah 4:10
The ways we are using technology is radically changing our world. There are negative effects. But for those who are 1) walking closely with God in total trust and obedience, 2) keeping their organizations in gear and moving toward God, and 3) waiting on God to open doors and reveal His providential purposes…
“At just the right time you will reap a harvest of blessing if you don’t give up.” Galatians 6:9