The Digital Age: Using Technology in Ministry

By Dr. Freddy Cardoza

Technology is reshaping ministry, education, and everyday life at an unprecedented speed. Using technology in ministry is not just a trend; it’s a potent tool for the Church. That’s why Grace Theological Seminary offers programs designed to equip ministry leaders with the knowledge, resources, and discernment needed to lead faithfully in a rapidly changing world. 

I remember when my own journey with technology began. As a high school student, my mom brought home a computer for the first time. I quickly enrolled in a typing elective at school, not just to fix my less-than-ideal handwriting, but because I immediately recognized the machine’s vast potential beyond word processing.

My interest became a fascination, driven by self-teaching. Later, I began exploring coding, building websites, and creating podcasts. In fact, if I could master any language, it would be coding because technology is fundamentally about communication and breaking down barriers between people.

Exploring the Early Digital World

With the explosion of new technologies in the digital age, there are countless resources available. I am particularly drawn to technology tools and software, from XLR microphones and AI notetaking to the broader concept of the Internet of Things (IoT).

Software creates efficiencies, multiplication, and convenience for yourself and for your work. I view technology as a democratizing force, leveling the playing field for everyone. A dedicated individual operating from their own home can harness technology to wield influence comparable to that of major organizations.

Using Technology in Ministry: From Hobby to Seminary

While technology started as merely a hobby, I quickly saw the value of using technology in ministry. I believe that the Lord has given us technology to minister more effectively and reach more people with the Gospel. 

Using technology in ministry allows us to expedite routine tasks, freeing us to focus on what is eternally significant. Consider the reality: sending a thousand personalized emails to ministry partners or congregants would consume hours that could be better spent on direct discipleship. 

As we embrace technology in the digital age, ministry leaders typically respond in one of two ways: technophobia or technolatry. Technophobia is when ministry leaders shy away from technology’s power and efficiencies. The other response, technolatry, occurs when ministry leaders worship technology, making it an idol that places its emphasis on the medium (technology) rather than the message.

There must be a balance between these two responses. As ministry leaders, we need to see technology as a tool and use it strategically.

The Future of Theological Education in the Digital Age

One of the best ways to learn how to harness the power of technology is through formal, theological education. While using technology in ministry can be a self-taught trial and error, this is time-consuming, and it is better to receive guidance and to learn good theology, theory, and practice in tech, rather than simply approaching it pragmatically. Otherwise, we can unwittingly misuse technology or obscure our message. 

Theological education blends academic learning and ministry practice. In this context, technology is inseparable from modern teaching. The old belief that ministry leaders don’t need to adapt is gone. They must now take on technology leadership roles to leverage the capabilities technology offers.

Using technology in ministry helps church leaders reach a wider audience with the Gospel. Here’s the truth: the Gospel is always relevant. In every context and culture, the Gospel speaks to everyone in their own way. Even so, the means of communication change, and technology can aid our work of advancing God’s Kingdom through God’s Word.

As Hebrews 4:12 says, “For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.”

Though the Bible and the Truth of God’s Word have not and will not ever change, the method in which we communicate to others must not become irrelevant.

Faith and Technology Leadership

The need to stay relevant is why Grace Theological Seminary has fully embraced innovation, offering specialized training through:

• The Master of Arts in Ministry Studies (MAMS) with a Technology Concentration.
• The DMin of Emerging Technology and Christian Ministry.

These programs explore the rapidly developing fields of technology and its dynamic intersections with faith, ethics, and Christian living. Through this specialized theological education, you will be equipped to navigate the ever-changing landscape of ministry in this new age.

Here’s my encouragement to you as a ministry leader: start with baby steps. Have someone expose you to new technology. Find some form of technology and explain its relevance in your ministry context.

God can use the tools that you learn to reach more people than ever in the Digital Age. They will help you imagine, build, and communicate at a larger scale, effectively carrying out the Great Commission from Jesus in Matthew 28:19-20, “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

Check out our technology concentrations today!