Taboo: Technology

WEB TEAM Brent Chapman, Message, Message-audio, Taboo

Summary of Taboo: Technology

Preamble

Brent starts the message by running on stage carrying an overhead projector. The audience has a good laugh at the old technology. Brent turns on the overhead and explains that he’ll utilize it throughout the message.

Let’s discuss technology

In 2007 the iPhone was launched. At the beginning there were 250,000 apps and now there are 2.2 million apps. Brent then asks who has checked their phone during the message. Several honest people raise their hands (and obviously I had to as well since I’m typing these notes on my phone. Sorry for the typos!) Brent goes on to give examples of how technology is great to help spread the gospel!

Technology aids in the spread of the church

Brent provided many examples of how technology can help our church turn outward and connect with our community. Brent discusses technology as a communication platform and a way to connect with our digital community.

1 Cor 6:12

“Everything is permissible for me, but not beneficial.” In this passage, Paul is expressing that we are free from the consequences of sin, but with freedom comes responsibility. Is technology a benefit in our walk with God?

Addiction and technology

Brent provides the crazy stat that there are 4.6 billion hours of porn — on just one porn site. Just one! Brent encourages all parents to take action to prevent their children from accessing porn.

Deep dive into 1 Corinthians 6:10

“…I will not be mastered by anything.” Is this true of you? Is technology your master? Are you comfortable living in a culture where our narcissistic tendencies are celebrated? Are you a part of this narcissistic trend? Are you providing an edited version of your life to your online communities so that you look good. If you are finding your self worth and identity through narcissistic methods, it means you are mastered by technology. God does not want you to be mastered by anything except him. He is where we must root our sense of worth and identity.

Matthew 11:28-29 – restlessness

“… You will find rest…” Technology has created a culture of relentlessness. The pace of our online lives is way too fast. Technology has created a lifestyle of interruption and a lack of focus. Yet Jesus comes along and says he offers rest for our souls. Only Jesus can offer true companionship. Only Jesus offers a peace that our souls require.

Sabbath from Technology

Brent suggests…

… and believe it or not, but my phone’s battery died at this point in the message. Ironic isn’t it. I guess I took my own digital sabbath at that very moment 😉

You’ll have to listen to the audio to get the full message.

About this Message Series

This is the second message in a series called “Taboo 2017”. This series was started in April 2017, with the purpose to bring to light all the topics we like to hide in the dark. This is the third Taboo series of messages that covers the most awkward topics in church culture.

About the Speaker

Brent is the lead pastor here at SouthRidge. He and his wife Pam were part of the original church plant.