This past Saturday August 12th, marked the 25th anniversary of the IBM PC. While there were other personal computers prior to the PC, it was IBM that took the idea of the personal computers mainstream. Since its introduction in 1981, the PC and its many variants have changed the way we work, play and communicate.
I thought I'd commemorate the occasion with a few random thoughts on technology. How should we as Christians, think about technology, its role and influence on our daily lives? Here are my thoughts -
First, we should consider the invention and development of technology as a gift from God. Even among Christians who love and live technology, it's not a view commonly considered. Unfortunately,we too often credit the advancement of technology to the ingenuity of man rather than the common grace of our Maker who enables such advancement.
Second, computing and communications technology has made the gospel more readily accessible to areas and populations that were previously unreached or limited in some way. Undoubtedly, technology such as the Internet has been used to propagate pornography and accentuate other societal ills. However, it's also been used for good. Chief among the good applications of technology is the advancement of the gospel and other Christian content.
Finally, it's probably just as important to recognize the inherent limitations of technology. The Internet is no substitute for gathering with the saints every Sunday. Chat rooms and blogs cannot replace pastoral care and accountability. Even the gospel is best communicated in person, its truths proclaimed and lived out rather than explained over email.
After all, you can't replicate the hugs and greetings you get on a Sunday morning with simply a computer and broadband connection... at least not yet.
4 comments:
Thanks, Andre! It's so good to be reminded of the positive in what we do because sometimes it seems so 'unspiritual'. But life is worship and our work glorifies a God who is works. I especially like that the way you ended. I may get mocked for this by the guys but I think we should greet each other with hugs and firm handshakes more often. haha. But regardless, I am so grateful to God for our church. Later man...
Unfortunately,we too often credit the advancement of technology to the ingenuity of man rather than the common grace of our Maker who enables such advancement.
How true. I was told that the Harvard motto originally was; "Veritas Christo et Ecclesiae" - Truth for Christ and The Church. Today this Center of human wisdom and knowledge has a motto as simply; "Veritas". Truth not anchored in anything....
Brian
Thanks for taking the time to post a comment. I'm grateful for guys like you that are in technology and making your faith actively known.
Meng,
Your point is a stark illustration of how the Christian faith has been marginalized in the realm of higher education. Veritas (truth) is promoted but as you rightly say the truth is not anchored in the Source of All Truth.
Great point!
Andre
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