Digitized- Spiritual Implications of Technology- Book Review

I have been teaching and talking about

 living as deployed digital missionaries

 for about 10 years now.

This 2018 Concordia Publishing House book

 by Bernard Bull actually uses this

term within the framework of eformation.

Bull has studied technology trends 

for more than 20 years 

and is an associate professor of education

 at Concordia University Wisconsin.

His book is divided into 2 parts.

Part One:  How is Technology Shaping Us?

The chapters deal with information overload, 

information addition, the "daily me", 

hyperreality, celebrity, digital safety and security.

 I hear many conversations 

about the changing technology paradigm 

and the shift of influence for parenting. 

I rarely hear where adults 

are seeking good information

 and thoughtful tending of the issues they face.

The strength of Bull's writing is that he offers

 a framework of reflections and questions

 to look at digital culture

 and its impact on Christians. 

Scripture is the source of truth 

and outlines the way we need 

to respond to technology.

Even when we might wish for a 

less complicated digital world- 

we do live here and now- 

for such a time as this.

(Esther 4:14)

Technology IS shaping our thoughts, 

actions, families, communities and employment.

So.....

Part 2: How Do We Respond?

Even though it appears EVERYthing has changed,

some things have not.

The Triune God, God's Word, Human Nature,

Fundamental Human Needs and Desires, and 

God's Promises remain unchanged.

With the longtime tension 

between Christ and culture, 

we must begin to think like a missionary.

We are called to be witnesses of the 

Gospel of Jesus Christ to all people.

In order to do that we need to engage the culture,

 learn the language, and build relationships.

This is the outline for living on mission

 in this time and place. 

Bull outlines 10 ways 

to embrace a missionary mindset.

This list is worthy of contemplation 

and discussion with collaboration and fellowship.

God's Word is a Lamp and Guide 

in the digital world 

and we need to build discernment skills

 that will equip us for this lifelong endeavor.

There is also a review of possible ways

 to approach faith and life in the digital world.

That can include everything from blogs and 

digital storytelling to podcasts and video sharing.

Bull's writing stresses the importance 

of asking questions, and evaluating 

rather than just offering distant criticism.

He also cautions about 

"jumping to overly judgmental or legalistic claims

 about the digital world, 

as well as the opposite extreme 

of blindly accepting and embracing

 every new development or innovation."

Digitized- spiritual Implications of Technology 

can be helpful for families navigating 

the intent and purpose of digital forms

 as well as school and church staffs and communities.

It is time to outline a plan to 

"think like a missionary."