Making a Case for the Modern-Day House of Worship
Flashy lights. LED Walls. Coffee Stations. Fancy cameras and switchboards. Elaborate PA systems. There’s so much that goes into running a church in this day and age that many lose sight of what really matters. The church isn’t a light show, it’s not a concert, and it’s definitely not entertainment. It is a community—a body of people seeking to experience the presence of God, as well as learn and grow together in understanding His Word.
Even so…this doesn’t make any of these tools and technologies “bad”, and a church that uses these tools isn’t bad or out-of-sync with God’s Word because they use them. The truth is, we also often lose sight of why we should be excellent in our presentation, preparation, and execution. Here are a few reasons why we should seek to use whatever tools are at our disposal to run our churches (as well as how we can remain focused on what matters most).
Reason 1: Because God Deserves It
Very early in the bible, we learn about the detailed instructions God gave for the materials needed to build the tabernacle. It was both beautiful and costly. Bezalel was the first person the bible explicitly says was filled with the Spirit, and it was to design and build. It was very much a labor of love and worship unto God. And God had this done so we can dwell with Him and experience His presence, separate from the distractions of the outside world.
In our efforts to do our best in creating a space for others to experience God, it makes sense to make the space as inviting and distraction-free as possible. It also makes sense that we use all the best tools we can when building our house of worship because we are building it for the glory of God. The challenge becomes when we ascribe the worth and the value of the worship service to the tools and technology we use, rather than using them to amplify the worship we give.
Think of these tools as instruments of worship. The people behind them are giving their best to create and capture moments and opportunities for others to stop thinking about the busyness of their daily lives, their schedules, and their trials and tribulations. Their goal is to shift our attention to Jesus in worship and in the Word. This is stewardship, not self-service. Why? Because God deserves it!
Reason 2: Because It Invites Others In
Let’s face it: every visitation is preceded by a compelling invitation. During the early days of the church, our compelling invitation was characterized by our hospitality, our inclusive nature (welcoming Jews and Gentiles together), and our worship. The medium may have changed, but the mission hasn’t. In the modern church, our compelling invitation remains the same…it just looks a little different than it did almost two thousand years ago!
As we acknowledged earlier, the tools and technology we use are what help some of us fully engage with worship without the distractions (and the allure) of the world. Social media and streaming platforms (when paired with an intentional A/V setup) are a hugely effective evangelism tool that many churches neglect. Consider this: even if you’re a local church, social media and streaming church online can give others in your area an opportunity to find out more about your church community and how they can be a part of it!
Of course, we should still be hospitable, focus on community, invite others to come as they are, and worship in spirit and in truth. This is the core of who we are as the body of Christ. However, if digital media, clear branding, and a solid presentation help others connect with the gospel in our time, we should use what is at our disposal. The tools and technology we use support the mission and the way we engage in the modern world.
Reason 3: Because We Care
With the little time Jesus had walking this earth as a man, He gave a powerful charge to us all: Love God and love others (as yourself). We display our love for God with our worship and our sacrifice. We show our love for people with our service and our hospitality. That means how we serve, how we welcome, and even how we design our spaces. Earlier, we described how our care for the way we build our house of worship honors God. When it comes to loving others with how we use modern technology, there’s only one right path to take. As “The Minimalists” (Joshua Fields Millburn & Ryan Nicodemus) put it: Love People, Use Things (because the opposite never works).
Our investment in building the church should always reflect this principle. Are we using modern technology to build bridges, create community, and maximize the impact and reach of the gospel? Or are we using it as an aesthetic to sell something other than the grace that Jesus died on the cross to give us? If it’s the latter, then these things become an idol (and often mean we’re using people to advance vain, self-serving agendas that are antithetical to the Gospel of Jesus Christ).
When we love people (and use things) as a church, we want them to make it easy to worship, understand the Word of God, and have the opportunity to be a part of a community that will disciple them, stand with them in prayer, and so much more.
As a church leader or planter, the choice is yours: how will you build your foundation? In all, let form follow function. Modern technology isn’t a marker; it’s a highlighter. Let technology amplify the message, and never let it overshadow it.
If you want support in finding a balance between “gear” and “care” when it comes to building out your house of worship, visit getignitd.com and hit the Let’s Talk button on the homepage!