Church Websites, Blogs, Podcasts, and Social Networking

Yesterday, an article was released by the Barna Group detailing the use of technology by churches. According to George Barna, “Churches are well-advised to have an intelligent and foresighted Internet strategy in order to facilitate meaningful ministry.” The survey touched on eight technologies and applications and the percentages of churches that have implemented the use of these emerging tools. Yesterday, I discussed the uses of large screens and movie clips. Today, let’s look at the ways that churches are using new media to communicate and connect with their congregations.

First, let’s pause for a moment of silence as we reflect on the passing of glossy paper newsletters as the primary means for a church to update members of ministry highlights and upcoming opportunities. Ladies and gentlemen I present to you: E-blasts.  If 400 million people are online worldwide and they spend 91% of their time checking and responding to e-mail, then it is no secret that e-Newsletters are a way to connect with people right where they are connecting with people. Many people will respond to an e-mail the moment it is sent. I believe that the noise that outlook makes upon receipt of an e-mail has become the best illustration for classical conditioning since Pavlov’s dog. Hang on, I just got an e-mail…be right back…
Next, the Barna study visits the topic of internet or online presence. The amount of churches with a website has doubled since the year 2000. If I could offer one piece of advice to churches it would be this: make sure your website reflects your church. I have visited churches with websites that were cutting edge and culturally relevant and have struggled to stay awake during the sermon. I have also been pleasantly surprised to find churches that have websites that need a little TLC; nevertheless, their church was on the front lines of ministry, pushing the envelope, and reaching their community in the most creative means possible. Please make sure that your website reflects who you are.
That brings up the growing trend of churches using the internet to facilitate community. Blogs are at the forefront of this use of new media and podcasts and social networking are close behind. It was recently reported that there are now over 12 million blogs in existence. Why are they so popular? Because they are the easiest way to have an instant voice online as either a broadcaster or an aggregater of information. In other words, you can become a trusted voice on a topic or as one who filters the trusted voices online writing on a particular topic.

I was surprised to find out that social networking is more popular among churches than podcasting. It is so easy to put audio on your church website, blog, or even iTunes. This does not mean you have to abandon your CD duplication, it just means that you will be duplicating less copies as people choose to stream the sermon from the internet or download a sermon to listen to on their MP3 player.

So what about social networks? Well, they take a lot of time and you have less control over content. I recommend that you let your congregation control the social networking and focus on ministry that is so powerful that they want to talk about how they have been impacted by their experience of God through the ministry of your church. However, if you do choose to dive into social networking, please do your research. Don’t use technology just to appear cutting edge, have definite goals in mind. For example, I use social networking to build community, reach the lost, and equip others to do the same. How do you leverage social networking to reach your target audience and accomplish your ministry goals?

Barna on How Technology Impacts Your Church Experience

An article was released this morning by the Barna Group detailing the use of technology by churches to “influence people’s lives and enliven their church experience.” According to George Barna, “The internet has become one of the pivotal communications and community-building tools of our lifetime. Churches are well-advised to have an intelligent and foresighted Internet strategy in order to facilitate meaningful ministry.” The survey touched on eight technologies and applications and the percentages of churches that have implemented the use of these emerging tools. Today let’s look at the first two: large screens and movie clips.

Two-thirds of the churches surveyed by the Barna group now have large screens in their church. The most common use is to project the words to worship songs. I have found that having the words on a screen allows me to raise my head from the dusty hymnal and participate in corporate worship in a new way. For me it is not just about seeing the words on a screen, but also seeing the people in front and to the side of me making a “joyful noise”, as well.

At many mega-churches the screens are used to allow those that are too far away from the stage to look on the screen on the right or left to see the pastor during the sermon. In addition, churches are using screens for announcements before and after the service.

Finally, there are a number of churches that are using the large screens for movie clips during the sermon, Barna’s second area of discussion. I have seen this method used in a number of churches and my concern is that often the medium becomes the message. I have seen pastors do a series on a particular movie, where the movie’s theme or plot becomes the primary focus and then the pastor seeks to find Scripture to support the point of the movie. If movie clips are used, they should support a message that is based upon Scripture and not vice versa. Please, no more exegesis of Forrest Gump - Yes, I have actually seen this done.

Tomorrow, I will discuss Barna’s article further, specifically the new ways that churches are communicating with their church family.

Blankets of Hope and the Gospel of Grace

Today, we were allowed to visit several groups of orphans. I love children, so this was a highlight of my trip. At one location, we were told that we were the first “westerners” the children had ever seen. Some smiled, some bashfully hid their faces, and some shrieked in sheer terror, like children afraid to sit in Santa’s lap. I’m 6’6”, so I immediately got on my knees to look less intimidating.

We were also told that the government officials in this restricted country were suspicious of anyone who was interested in orphans. They are afraid that because the orphans are “hopeless,” outsiders might try to recruit them for suicidal missions against the government.

The irony was obvious. We had come indeed to reach the hopeless, not to exploit them, but to give them hope through the gospel of Jesus Christ. We gave each child a package of necessities (soap, toothpaste) as well as one of our blankets of hope. These blankets not only meet a physical need, but a spiritual one as well. Each blanket incorporates the 5 colors found in our Good News Wristband that give a clear and simple gospel presentation. These blankets and supplies were provided by the generous support of our donors who are committed to reaching the world with the gospel of grace.

Verhoeven Claims Jesus Was Son of Mary and Roman Baptist

We interrupt our normally scheduled programming for a brief announcement: HERE WE GO AGAIN…not just another wild sci-fi fantasy or provocative thriller from Verhoeven (Total Recall, Robocop, Starship Troopers, Basic Instinct) but another wild claim about Jesus which could very well be a sci-fi fantasy or provocative work of fiction…

In terms of the historical method of criticism, very few texts can hold up as well as the gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. The quality of manuscripts, location identified in relation to the events, and the date of authorship relative to the date of the happenings are more closely linked in the case of the New Testament texts than even accounts of Alexander the Great (considered to be unquestionable history).

So, why do works keep popping up that question the historical authenticity of the gospel accounts? It’s all about worldview—without Christ, there is no accountability to His call. Paul sums it up best in 2 Corinthians 4:3-5.

One thing that I find perplexing, that never seems to be questioned in these stories: Why do supposedly scholarly people talk about “proving” or “disproving” some historical event “scientifically”? History is not a chemical reaction or physical property that can be repeated in a lab. The best way to be critical of history is not by using the scientific method, but rather the historical method. When done properly, the bible is without a doubt one of the most reliable and provable resources of true historical fact that anyone can turn to.

For more reading on the subject, I highly recommend these two resources:

Evidence that Demands a Verdict by Josh McDowell

The Case for the Real Jesus by Lee Strobel

Begin and Close a Conversation about Christ

In this episode of the Evangelism Encouragement Podcast, host Mark Rae talks with Dr. Larry Moyer about beginning and closing a conversation about Christ. This conversation on personal evangelism will encourage believers to remember a few basic concepts that can make sharing the gospel inviting instead of intimidating.

Dan Southern Interview: How Cultural Changes Impact Evangelism

AJ Rinaldi speaks with Dan Southern, who served over 18 years as a Crusade organizer with the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association. In that role he traveled extensively, speaking and preparing community leaders for the crusades. Following his work with Billy Graham, Dan spent twelve years as President and Chief Executive Officer of the American Tract Society during which time he wrote several impactful pieces.

In addition to his work in evangelism, Dan enjoys speaking on the topics of leadership and discipleship, and has recently published a devotional book called “The Message of Leadership”.

Currently, Dan is the president of Stephen Baldwin’s Breakthrough Ministries, or BTM; a multi-faceted, cutting edge outreach program that includes skateboarding, BMX, motocross, live music and multimedia entertainment.

Signs of the Times – Church Opportunity

Is outreach a part of your Church DNA? In order for a church to be effectively outward-focused, it must be aware of the main entry points for the unchurched in their community that they are trying to reach. There are two main entry points for the unchurched according to Barna Research.

The worship service is the main point of entry for the unchurched in your community. Research shows that 40% of unchurched families will first encounter the church by visiting on a Sunday morning. In fact, the first impression of a church is extremely important, because most visitors evaluate the atmosphere above the content. Therefore, the church’s goal should be to do everything possible to minimize the potential frustrations and distractions. Everything from the parking, to the crowds, and even a warm welcome all contribute to minimizing frustrations and distractions.

Another entry point into the church for those who are unchurched are church outreach events, one of the most effective ways for a church to reach out to their community. These events serve as the means for individuals to build a relational bridge to families in their neighborhoods or workplaces.  Options for a church trying to implement relationship-building opportunities with the unchurched include holiday outreach events, outreach small groups, and music productions. And as always make sure that your church body knows that these events exist for them to have an opportunity to invite an unchurched friend. People will visit an outreach event that would never consider visiting your church on a regular Sunday morning. Because of this fact, the gospel should be shared at these outreach events. If you host a concert, have the lead singer or have a pastor share the gospel. If it is a Christmas or Easter event, don’t let them miss the reason we celebrate! If it is an outreach small group, share the gospel every time a new couple joins your group.

Due to the fact that many Christians do not have significant relationships with those outside of their Christian bubble; as a church, give them a head start by making outreach events a priority in your planning and in your budget. I could take one glance at your budget and tell you what your priorities are as a church and you can, too. And remember, outreach should be more than a department in your church; it should be a core value that finds expression in a majority of your church programming. It should be part of your Church DNA.

Scripture says that we should make the most of every opportunity. Take the next exit, and don’t be an inwardly focused church! Knock out the stained glass windows that keep you from seeing those outside of your church! Go beyond the walls of your church and live the Great Commandment while fulfilling the Great Commission.

Sharing the Gospel with Children

Each generation of people has a two-fold responsibility. One is to reach its own generation. The second is to prepare the next generation to reach their peers. In so doing, not only does each person leave a legacy behind them, but their lives count for something eternal.

What happens if we don’t? Studies show that as few as 4% of children born after 1984 are trusting Christ as their Savior. We risk an entire generation missing out on the goodness of God’s grace.

That is one reason we are committed to reaching children. If we reach them for Christ, they in turn will reach their children. But in reaching and training the next generation, a clear gospel must be at the center of that training.

Let’s equip the next generation. Years after we enter His presence, the impact of our lives will continue on earth. That impact will surround one thing – the clear message of the gospel of grace.

R. Larry Moyer

Be Clear When Presenting the Gospel with Children

How many adults grow up doubting their salvation because of an unclear gospel presentation as a child? Only the Lord knows for sure, but if you spend any time walking closely alongside other Christians you will run into many who say “I know I had some kind of spiritual experience when I was a child, but I’m not quite sure what happened.”

Doubt about salvation can stunt spiritual growth and often prevents a person from getting involved in evangelism. After all, how can you lead a person to Christ when you are unsure of your own eternity?

That’s why it is critical that we make the gospel clear when leading children to Christ. We do not need to demand or coerce, - but should simply explain the gospel in a way that a child knows exactly what he must do to have eternal life with God.

When sharing the gospel with children remember to:

Pray: The Holy Spirit will guide you in a one-on-one conversation with the child.

Make the gospel clear: Explain that Christ took the punishment for our sins by dying on the cross and on the third day He rose from the dead. Then explain that we can only be saved by trusting in Christ alone.

Ask the child questions to discern his understanding: “Why did Jesus die on the cross?” “Why do we need a savior?”

Assure a new believer of his eternal security using Scripture: John 5:24 says that whoever hears and believes has eternal life!

Let’s leave a legacy. Let’s make an impact on future generations by sharing the gospel with children clearly and simply.

Sharing the Gospel in a Group Setting

Several years ago a mission’s team organized a weeklong backyard Bible club for kids. At the end of the week, the kids were gathered together to hear the final version of John 3:16. The group presentation was evangelistic and included all the essential elements of the gospel. At the end of the lesson the teacher asked the children, “If you would like to trust Christ right now, just raise your hand.” Some of the children raised their hand immediately while others did after looking around. In the end, every child in attendance raised their hand in response to the invitation.

How many of those decisions were genuine? How could we possibly know?

Here are some key things to keep in mind whenever sharing the gospel message in a group setting:

Keep the presentation simple, clear and biblically accurate to avoid confusion.

Never let a physical action (raising a hand, standing up, praying a prayer, walking an aisle) be confused as part of salvation for the child. Coming forward to talk to an adult is appropriate but make it clear to the child that it is a way to find out more – it is not how he is saved.

Do not lead the children in a group prayer of salvation. This may lead some to believe that the prayer has the power to save.

Give the children specific directions on who can help them if they want to learn more. Also, tell them specifically when they can talk to that person and where to find him/her.

If you are a designated counselor to receive kids who respond to a presentation, remember to first establish why a child is coming to talk to you. Your first question is: “Why did you come to talk to me?”

Present the gospel to children on a regular basis. Do it often – individually and in groups. Remember: group presentations should always be followed up with one-on-one interactions with children who respond.

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