The Role of Technology
Original Airdate: July 30, 2008
Technology permeates our society. Billions are connected to the Internet, have cell phones, or have the center of their homes at their entertainment center. This week we talk about the role of technology in our lives and search to find some healthy balance in a world filled with tech.
(oh, and sorry about Joe's audio...this little technical glitch.)
Technological Fruits
I must agree with the general tone of the episode in that you guys talk more about balance and positives AND negatives, etc.
I just wanted to add something however. Bob, you mentioned that you haven't really seen much fruit in the merging of ministry and technology. I was immediately reminded of something.
XXXChurch.com is a ministry based out of the Grand Rapids area. It is an anti-pornography ministry that has grown to encompass a variety of aspects, including porn show evangelism, national speaking tours about the dangers of pornography, as well as a variety of other things. However, it started, first and foremost, online. They created an online community where people could interact anonymously to discuss their sexual struggles and find both help and support in facing these deep, personal issues in their lives. Something that doubtfully would have been possible in the "real" world, and it turned out that this was exactly what a lot of people struggling with this needed. Since then, they've also created their own online filtering software to help people with accountability in their struggles and maintain a regular podcast to further their message.
I just wanted to offer an example since you said you couldn't think of any.
Unfortunately, when it comes to the church, I fear that many aren't using technology properly. It's almost become a gimmick in a lot of ways. "We need a great website and an online community, etc. because...well, that's the hip thing, right?...we don't want people to think we're square do we?"
"Personal" Technology
I think the point that you guys continued to talk about without naming it is the difference between technology enhancing your life versus a technology obsession/dependence.
Like Joe, technology/internet/social networking has helped me build friendships (heck, I know half of the St Matthew congregation thanks to Twitter!). I've met people in the area (again, through technology) who have been able to help me out when I'm wearing the youth minister hat as well as the IT guy hat.
But the important point you guys really poked at is the need to be able to shut things down and build/develop real life relationships. People did get by just fine without it for...ever so we need to remember to focus on God, family, (church) community, etc. But I think that technology is also quite relevant in developing many of those avenues.