The Church and Technology
How much technology should we use in church?
It seems that computers are taking over!
Honestly, I miss how simple many things used to be. It appears that I am not alone. In a recent Wall Street Journal article, car owners are not thrilled with all the technology that rides around with us now. According to the article, “Some vehicles come with infrared night vision, seasonal ambient lighting and interior ‘fam cams’ showing rear passengers.” Between 2015 and 2024 positive feelings of drivers concerning their car’s controls fell from 79% to 56%. One poor fellow couldn’t even open his door handles in 15-degree weather because it was too cold for the sensors!
It feels like technology is beginning to own us rather than the other way around. Technology is a wonderful servant but a horrible master. Frankly, it’s frustrating when we have no other choices.
I’m not writing to complain or whine; I’m simply making some observations.
Technology is not always better. Sometimes, simple is best.
While I know some readers may disagree with me, here are some decisions we've made at our church that I believe are helpful.
We do not display all the Bible verses I reference in a message, and we do not usually display the main text I preach, just the reference. Why? This encourages those listening to get into their Bibles. I don't care whether they're using an electronic or paper version; I just want them to interact with the Scripture personally.
We still sing from hymnals for part of our corporate worship. Yes, we sing "off the screen" for our contemporary songs, but when it comes to the hymns, we just display the hymnal page number. While I can't prove it, I think this helps people focus more as they sing. It is also a blessing to see parents helping their children find the correct page number and then showing them how to follow along. Also, the hymnal allows people who sing parts to flourish!
We give people paper bulletins. In the bulletin, we also print our call to worship, order of worship, and prayer guide. I know that digital bulletins save paper and money, but anytime people go online, there is a temptation to get distracted with social media. I am guilty of doing so when I attend conferences.
We have live music and live preaching. I know that this is not much of an issue with us having only our one service on one campus, but I do not think the video preaching model is good. I'm convinced that a living, breathing preacher standing before the people is way more effective.
We still pass the offering plates. Those in the know at our church tell me that most of our people are giving online now. So why pass the plates? First, you will receive money that you would not have received online. Second, how can a child give their quarter online? Third, passing a plate reminds worshippers that giving is a part of worship, even if they've set it up automatically online. Fourth, some will never give online, so why make it harder for them to give? Fifth, passing the plates gives more people (ushers) an opportunity to serve.
We don't use smoke machines. I've stirred the pot enough - I'll leave this one alone.
Now, please don’t misunderstand! This is not a rant against “technology in church.”
Anyone who knows me well knows I’m a proponent of harnessing technology. Without technology, you wouldn’t be reading this! We use technology throughout our ministry.
I’m merely saying that sometimes we’ve cluttered our lives (and churches) with unnecessary technology that distracts rather than enhances our worship.
Let’s use tech when it really helps; otherwise, let’s leave well enough alone.