The Use of Technology in the Global Church

About The Use of Technology in the Global Church

Abstract

The majority of Americans believes in God1 and use modern technology in their daily lives. Technology continues to alter the ways people interact and communicate, corporations conduct their business, and individuals occupy their leisure time. Christians possess and use technologies that are largely indistinguishable from the rest of culture. It is no surprise then that modern technology has permeated a myriad of religious activities and practices ranging from operating the business of the church, to pastoral care, to the mission field, to tithing and stewardship. Christians have often been among the first adaptors of new technologies, from the Gutenberg printing press to mass produce bibles, to evangelical radio and television broadcasts to reach the masses. More recent applications enabled by digital technologies include the wide dissemination of information and increases in productivity. And with the continued embrace of technology has come additions in the vernacular. For example, e-missionaries and cyber congregations are examples of the vocabulary additions that enunciate the penetration of technology into the Church. With the growth of technology in religious activities, cottage industries have developed that provide needed expertise and services including internet hosting, presentation software, and theological resources. Much of the motivation to embrace technology within faith organizations is powered by the younger generation who has never experienced a world without digital communications. Educators face comparable challenges and use analogous approaches, such as distance learning, appropriate technology, research databases, and scholarly conferences. Not everyone views the effects of technology use by missions organizations as positive, and there are differing views on the best implementation strategies. The examples presented here explore how technology continues to change the face of the global Church and draws parallels to common approaches practiced by university professors. Among these, engineering educators hold a unique perspective relating to technology. They are both the developers of new technologies and the conveyors of technological principles to the next generation of users and developers. Christian engineering educators may especially experience the fruits of their professional labors, both through a technological lens as well as within the operations of the Church.