5 common misconceptions about church technology

Church technology is not new. The idea that the use of technology in the church is somehow wrong, ineffective, or unprecedented is a misconception. God’s people have always used technology to promote the kingdom. Perhaps the confusion comes in the definition of technology.

Technology can be defined as the use of scientific knowledge for practical purposes or applications.

What is church technology?

Church technology It can then be defined as the use of methods, processes, or knowledge to further the goals and mission of the church. In the Holy Bible there are three great examples of the use of technology:

Noah used processes, methods or technological knowledge to build the ark, in order to preserve the human race.

David defeated Goliath with a sling, which was once a high-tech weapon.

Solomon used the best technology available to him, in the form of stonemasons, carpenters, silversmiths, and surveyors, to build the temple.

So right off the bat, you can dismiss the misconception that:

1. “The church does not use technology.”

One of the greatest uses of technology was the application of the printing press to mass-produce copies of the Holy Bible. Johannes Gutenberg, considered the inventor of the printing press. used technology to mass produce books and rapidly spread knowledge in 15th century Europe. The Gutenburg Bible is an early use of church technology to spread the gospel.

2. “Older parishioners will not accept technology.”

This is a common belief based largely on assumptions. Not only is this not true, but a Dunham and Company study showed that online donations among those 65 and older were equal to those of the youngest. Older Americans have traditionally been a late adopter of technology. But according to the Pew Research Center. Older people are embracing technology at a surprising rate. In 2013, 59% were Internet users.

3. “Technology will be our problem”

The technology itself is not bad, but it is not foolproof either. It all depends on how it is applied. The problem arises when church technology becomes a substitute for human interaction. People and churches require physical connection and human interaction to survive. Church technology should encourage and enhance, but not replace, the human part of the church experience.

4. “All technologies are the same” and 5. “It costs nothing.”

Due to open source technology, an increasing number of tools and applications are available for free or at very low cost.

This does not mean that there are no costs involved with the development and use of this technology. We generally don’t realize the time, labor, testing that development entails, not to mention support and updates.

Just because you pay for something does not guarantee robust technology or carry more inherent value or functionality. Price does not always indicate value. Tight church budgets require a plan. Such a plan requires not only time and education, but often financial resources as well.

Church technology should mean improvement, not replacement

Church technology can improve, but should not replace, good old-fashioned Christian fellowship. As with everything, you must proceed with a plan and good stewardship in mind.