3:78 – Technology For The Win

#faithbites #faithjourney technology

Tonight, I saw the good and the bad of technology. We tried to live stream our church service for the first time. Everything was ready, people had joined the chat, and then….nothing. We couldn’t connect to the video. But instead of giving up, we went to plan C, and did a Facebook live stream. Most of the people jumped from Youtube to Facebook. Was it perfect? No. Did it work well enough? Yes. No matter what happened, we wouldn’t be stopped from worshiping.

We can let technology divide us or we can use it to bring us together. God wants his people together and Satan wants us apart. How will you use technology?

Scripture

• That the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work.- 2 Timothy 3:17
• All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made. – John 1:3
• And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!” – Romans 10:14-15

Reflection

It would be hard to say that the Bible talks about the internet and computers in ministry. While this technology isn’t directly mentioned, spreading the word of God is. God gave us skills to make and use the technology so we are equipped. (2 Timothy 3:17, John 1:3). In days past, the Good News was shared by walking it town to town. Now we can share it across miles, oceans, and borders.

Who would have thought that we could live stream a service and connect when quarantined just a couple of years ago? When the Gospel Tech Project started two years ago, we could never have imagined this situation. But God knew it was coming. He used our leadership and skills to prepare.

So we can say that technology is evil and that it divides us. But like tonight, even when it didn’t work, we had backups to bring us together. We can share His word and be together in a new way by using technology correctly. We just need to be mindful of the impact.

Challenge

Create a short 1-2 minute video on how you are going to stay connected during this time. Share it with your faith family and others. These ideas can help all of us stay connected.

Prayer

Father God, we know that Satan is alive and well trying to separate your people. Technology can help us or hurt us. Help us to use technology to gather as a faith family during this time. Let us find new ways to connect with each other and continue to grow through your word. We know it won’t be a perfect replacement for in person worship, but it may allow us to grow in new ways. We know you are with us and love us through all of this. In your name, Amen.