In the modern era, evangelical churches and ministries are pioneering innovative digital approaches
In a recent event organized by the Evangelical Council of Madrid, Indigitous, and the Lausanne Movement, Christian leaders gathered to discuss the digital age and its impact on Christian values. The event, which was attended by approximately 50 participants in person and another 10 via Zoom, showcased various efforts by the Christian world to leverage technology for the expansion of Jesus' message and disciple training.
Daniel Gómez, one of the speakers, emphasized the importance of using technology wisely and not making it an additional burden. He stressed that technology should always be used to take care of people, not the other way around. David Trujillo, a pastor and head of the Canzion Institute in Spain, highlighted the importance of using technological tools in the training of saints to fulfill the Great Commission.
Mateo, a young content editor, testified to the faithfulness of God and the development of platforms to connect with young people on social media. He spoke about the need to reach young people "where they are", which involves the use of technology and social media. Pastor Fran Quesada echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need to meet young people in their digital environment.
José Manuel Maceiras discussed digital radio broadcasting strategies for reaching young people in their closest environment. He highlighted the potential of radio as a powerful tool for evangelism and discipleship in the digital age. Aitor de la Cámara presented two Apps for prayer and biblical meditation, underscoring the importance of these tools in fostering spiritual growth.
Jorge Munoz explained the usefulness of a digital marketing strategy for promoting events or projects. He shared insights on how to effectively use social media and other digital platforms to reach wider audiences and increase engagement. Andy Wickham from Pontea introduced El Cafetal, a podcast of interviews that helps people ask relevant questions about faith.
The event also featured a digital animation project from Argentina, Biper and his friends, which has millions of subscribers. Willem van de Poll shared that the pandemic opened new horizons for a project from Alpha based on face-to-face meetings. Ale Medina, another youth pastor in Madrid, stated that the pandemic showed that social media can be a tool for kingdom extension, as long as it aligns with God's purpose.
Christian ministries are utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) and social media to accelerate the fulfillment of the Great Commission. These technologies enable ministries to reach broader audiences effectively, crossing geographical and cultural boundaries in ways previously impossible. AI helps ministries with outreach and discipleship by providing innovative ways to share the gospel, such as creating personalized digital content, automating communication, and deploying AI chatbots that can engage with individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Social media platforms amplify this impact by enabling ministries to connect with global audiences instantly, share sermons, testimonies, and biblical teachings widely, and foster interactive communities of faith.
Additionally, Christian thinkers emphasize the responsible and prayerful use of AI in ministry, encouraging believers to innovate boldly while aligning technological use with Scripture and ethical considerations. This approach helps avoid falling behind in digital evangelism, as happened with past technologies like the internet or television. In fact, the Seoul Declaration, a theological document reflecting on mission for the global church, includes a specific section dedicated to technology. One of the main emphases at a recent Lausanne global congress was to "embrace digital" as a tool for good and mission expansion.
The #OneMoreYearEF campaign, launched by Evangelical Focus, invites supporters to join their mission and contribute to their sustainability challenge ahead. As the Christian world continues to embrace technology, it is clear that the digital age presents both opportunities and challenges for evangelism and discipleship. By using technology wisely and prayerfully, Christian ministries can effectively fulfill the Great Commission and reach people around the world with the message of Jesus Christ.
- In the face of advancing digital age, it's crucial for ministries to harness the power of artificial intelligence and social media, such as creating personalized digital content, automating communication, and deploying AI chatbots for spiritual guidance, as a way to expedite the fulfillment of the Great Commission.
- The manifold impact of technology, particularly AI and social media, in the Christian world is evident, as these platforms allow ministries to connect globally, share spiritual teachings instantly, and foster communities of faith, while emphasizing responsible and prayerful usage in line with Scripture and ethical considerations.
