Page 19 - Digital Church in a Lonely World

In a content-obsessed world, we may instinctively think that if content is being delivered, then the
model of ministry is effective. Remember, though: Content is not the goal; it is simply a part of our
church experience.

Content delivery of preaching and worship has escaped the four walls of the local church since church
services were first broadcast on radio. Public radio broadcasts started on November 2, 1920. Within a
couple of months, church services were on the airwaves. Pittsburgh’s Calvary Episcopal Church was
the first to trial this new technology. In the years that followed, churches that used radio exploded in
popularity. And wouldn’t you know it, many pastors considered using the radio to be an evil, unbiblical
practice. 10

We have also had church television programs for many years. In fact, there are now at least 1,600
11
television and radio stations across the U.S. Live streaming platforms and apps have added interactive
elements, but it is not a new game we are playing. Churches have been using technology to broadcast
content for decades.

Radio did not replace the need for physical gatherings. Neither did TV. What about the internet?

Well, that brings us back to our crucial question: What does the Bible mean by community?

U.S. ADULTS SHARE POST-PANDEMIC SERVICE PREFERENCES, BY GENERATION

After the COVID-19 pandemic, what kind of church service gathering will fit your expectations best?
Base: Ever attended a church

Gen Z Millennials Gen X Boomers

40%
Primarily physical 36%
gatherings 39%
53%

9%
Primarily digital 17%
gatherings 13%
8%
37%
36%
Both
37%
26%
14%
Neither 10%
11%
13%

n=1,303 U.S. adults who have ever attended a church; April 23–May 5, 2021.

DIGITAL CHURCH IN A LONELY WORLD 19