advanced telecommunications and satellite uplinks, technology has
changed how we communicate. Most of us never would have imagined these
developments would also impact how we worship. However, in recent
decades, the church has entered a new era: technology.
Traditionally the church brought the
people to the message; now the challenge is taking the message to the
people, regardless of geographic location or status. Today technology
enables the church to reach multitudes worldwide through various modes:
movies, television, podcasts, satellite, streaming and social Web sites
such as Facebook.
The church is using these advancements
to bridge the generational gap. Although baby boomers are accustomed to
human interaction, this new generation isn’t. Progressive churches must
use both the personal and the technical contact of the times. This
generation will sit at the dinner table and text one another, even
though they’re sitting nearby. Because churches are beginning to
utilize technology, they are now able to effectively reach younger and
older generations globally.
For the church to continue reaching
people, we must be willing to change with the times. The Bible says for
us not to forsake the assembling of ourselves together, but who would
have thought that the assembling could one day include a chat room
called the sanctuary?
Bishop T. D. Jakes is pastor of The Potter’s House in
Dallas.
