February's issue of Lutheran Witness, focuses on the effects and uses of technology in the life of the individual Christian and with the Church. I think examining technology like this can aid Christian apologetics. Apologetics after all in its root means, defense. Does the use of technology potentially lead us away from Christ? Does it distract from the central teachings of the Bible? If the answer is yest to any of these questions, then we'll need to provide a defense for the faith in these areas. An article by Rev. Derek Roberts, associate pastor of First Lutheran Church, Knoxville, Tenn., provided "A Technology Litmus Test":
What do you think? Is this a good "litmus test"? How would you answer these questions the way you have seen technology used in the individual life of Christians and within the Church?
1. Does the new medium help convey the message or does it become the message, meaning, can the employment of the new technology overshadow or compromise the truth and mystery of Christ and the biblical Gospel, or does it further the Gospel message?
2. Is there a biblical or churchly reason to do something though new and different means?
3. How will specific populations such as the aged in the church respond to the new medium? Will it exclude or offend anyone, or will it enhance worship?
4. What is the total cost, and should those funds be distributed to a more worthy mission?
5. What kind of staff or volunteer help will this technology require?
What do you think? Is this a good "litmus test"? How would you answer these questions the way you have seen technology used in the individual life of Christians and within the Church?
No comments:
Post a Comment