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<p>Recently, I <a data-mce-href="https://youtu.be/XbfjHOAnTdw?si=MYgX5duBeNV4yaAm&amp;t=34" href="https://youtu.be/XbfjHOAnTdw?si=MYgX5duBeNV4yaAm&amp;t=34">heard a pastor</a> mention how one of the reasons he believes we're close to the return of Christ is because of the ability to travel globally. He mentioned how in the span of a few hours he could decide he would like to travel to the other side of the world and be on his way. That simple thought experiment made me think how much more relevant the Christian faith is to the contemporary disciple in this technological era.</p><p>The modern tech era, especially with exponential AI advancements, has accelerated the instant fulfillment (or dulling) of desires. Today's tools can act as catalysts for exciting ideas, genuine curiosity, or illicit intentions, which gave me cause for pause as a parent of elementary children considering creating their own Apple ID's. This very fact made me think how much more relevant, contrary to what the world might say, the Christian faith is to the contemporary disciple following The Way, Jesus Christ of Nazareth.</p><p>It is only through the active abiding in Christ that our hearts and our very desires can be changed from selfish to a fundamentally different kind of love. If we are not careful and allow ourselves to stray away from a relationship with Him, we may end up starving the new creation God begins in the born-again follower of Jesus. The foundational work of a relationship with God has remained the same, and I will borrow the late Dr. Robert Mulholland's definition for spiritual formation found in Invitation To A Journey: <em>the process of being formed in the image of Christ for the sake of others</em>. And while that may be the effect our relationship with God has in us, I would venture to say the reason for our relationship with God is althemore sweet and simultaneously humbling: for Him to delight in us and us in Him.&nbsp;</p><p>In a time where more and faster will do, let us ensure our lives are aligned with God for Him to shape us into who He wants us to be: image bearers of His unique Son, Jesus, walking in the good works He prepared for us. Technological tools are just that: tools. What we choose to use them for will reveal what our hearts are aligned with. </p><p>What does your current relationship with technology look like? What does the majority of time and intention using it reveal about your heart right now?</p>

Relevance of Christian Faith in the Tech Era

<h2><span style="font-family: var(--head-fontFamily); font-size: calc(24px * var(--head-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--head-fontStyle, normal); color: rgb(17, 24, 39); -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; --darkreader-inline-color: #d4cfc5;" data-darkreader-inline-color="">Acts 2:42-47</span><br></h2><p>In the early days of the Christian church, believers devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer. Acts 2:42-47 paints a vivid picture of a community deeply committed to one another and to their shared faith. This passage highlights the essence of "koinonia" (κοινωνία), the Greek word for fellowship or community. It reflects a model of genuine Christian fellowship that we can strive to emulate today, even in our digitally connected world.</p><h3>Fostering Genuine Fellowship Online</h3><p>Many people view technology as a barrier to true connection, pointing to smartphones, tablets, and other devices as culprits of our disconnection. However, I believe that these tools hold immense potential to connect us more than ever before. It's not the technology itself that determines our level of connection, but the intent behind how we use it.</p><p>Technology, when used with intention and heart, can serve as a powerful bridge to foster genuine Christian fellowship and discipleship. The early church's commitment to community and teaching serves as an inspiring blueprint for how we can engage with one another through online platforms today.</p><h3>The Heart Behind the Hands</h3><p>It's crucial to recognize that the tool—be it a smartphone, a newspaper, or a book—does not decide our level of connection. The key lies in the heart and intent of the person using it. Technology can either build bridges or erect walls depending on our approach.&nbsp;</p><p>Consider the potential of a video call to bridge the gap between continents, allowing believers to share in fellowship despite physical distance. Think about how a heartfelt social media post can uplift and encourage others in their faith journey. Even a simple text message to check in on a friend can convey love and support. These are all ways technology can bring us closer together when used thoughtfully.</p><h3>The Choice is Ours</h3><p>We have all witnessed instances where technology isolates individuals—someone engrossed in their phone at a family gathering or lost in a book during a social event. However, these same tools can also spark meaningful conversations, share profound experiences, and genuinely connect us with one another. The choice lies in how we use them.</p><p>As we engage with digital tools, we must take a deep look at our hearts and ask ourselves: Why we are using them. Are we seeking to connect or disconnect? Intentional use of technology, coupled with a willingness to reach out and build relationships, can transform these modern tools from barriers into bridges.</p><h3>Building a Digital Community</h3><p>To build a digital community that mirrors the early church's fellowship, we need to prioritize:</p><p>1. Intentional Engagement: Make a conscious effort to use digital platforms to connect with others. Schedule regular video calls, participate in online Bible studies, and actively engage in faith-based online groups.</p><p>2. Authentic Sharing: Share your faith journey, struggles, and victories openly. Authenticity fosters trust and deepens connections, whether through social media, blog posts, or virtual small groups.</p><p>3. Active Listening: Pay attention to the needs and concerns of others. Respond thoughtfully to messages, comments, and posts, showing that you value and care for your digital community members.</p><p>4. Consistent Encouragement: Use digital tools to encourage and uplift others. Share scripture, positive messages, and support to help build a nurturing and faith-filled online environment.</p><h3>Conclusion</h3><p>The early church thrived on their commitment to community, teaching, and fellowship. Today, we can emulate this model through the intentional and heartfelt use of technology. By focusing on the heart behind the hands that hold the tools, we can transform digital platforms into spaces of genuine connection and discipleship.</p><p>Let's choose to use technology to build bridges, not walls. Let’s embrace the potential of digital discipleship to foster meaningful connections and grow together in faith, just as the early believers did. Together, we can use tools like social media and messaging to foster relationships and help us fulfill the Great Commission of making disciples in the digital age! May the Lord continue to make our hearts more like His and give us compassion and care for others.&nbsp;</p>

Digital Discipleship: Building Community Online

<p>If you know me at all you know how much I like technology and all the small ways it makes life easier and more enjoyable. You will also learn how much I love connecting others to Jesus!&nbsp;</p><p> In a world where technology and modern challenges constantly evolve, maintaining a strong faith can be difficult. The Contemporary Disciple offers a fresh perspective, guiding believers through the complexities of modern life with faith at the forefront. This blog blends insightful reflections, practical advice, and real-life examples, providing a bridge between ancient biblical wisdom and contemporary issues. From managing the digital age to engaging in community, it serves as a guide for living out one's faith authentically and purposefully.</p><p>I look forward to us growing together in this journey. I pray God will use this blog to shape both readers and writers more into the likeness of his Son, Jesus, and what that would look like if he lived amongst us today.&nbsp;</p>

Blog

Relevance of Christian Faith in the Tech Era

Digital Discipleship: Building Community Online

Introduction