USING MEDIA AND TECHNOLOGY FOR EVANGELISM
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Psalm 68:11
"The Lord gave the word: great was the company of those that published it."
Supporting Texts: Matthew 24:14, Romans 10:14-15, Mark 16:15, Acts 13:49, 1 Corinthians 9:22
INTRODUCTION:
The advancement of media and technology has provided a powerful platform for spreading the gospel. In ancient times, God’s word was shared through oral traditions, scrolls, and personal interactions. However, in today’s digital age, we have access to radio, television, social media, podcasts, and other technological tools that allow the gospel to reach billions instantly.
Psalm 68:11 tells us that the Lord gives the word, but it is our responsibility to publish it. With the rise of the internet and digital communication, the church has unprecedented opportunities to fulfil the Great Commission. Whether through live-streamed services, Christian blogs, YouTube sermons, or evangelistic apps, technology can be used to transform lives and draw souls to Christ.
As we study this topic, we will explore how media and technology can be used effectively for evangelism and how believers can maximise these tools to advance God’s Kingdom.
1. THE BIBLICAL MANDATE FOR EVANGELISM THROUGH MEDIA
The Bible commands believers to spread the gospel to all nations.
a) The gospel must be preached to all nations (Matthew 24:14)
Technology allows us to reach the ends of the earth.
b) Faith comes by hearing the Word of God (Romans 10:14-15)
Media platforms make the message of Christ accessible to many.
c) We are commanded to go into the world and preach the gospel (Mark 16:15)
Digital evangelism is a tool for obeying this command.
d) The word of the Lord must spread rapidly (Acts 13:49)
Technology accelerates the speed of gospel dissemination.
e) Biblical Example: Paul’s Letters as a Form of Media (2 Thessalonians 3:1)
Paul used written letters to spread the gospel, similar to modern digital communication.
2. TYPES OF MEDIA AND TECHNOLOGY FOR EVANGELISM
Different media platforms can be used to spread the gospel.
a) Social Media (Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter) (Psalm 96:3)
These platforms allow for instant sharing of the gospel message.
b) Television and Radio Broadcasting (Revelation 14:6)
Christian television and radio reach people beyond physical church walls.
c) Websites, Blogs, and Christian Articles (Habakkuk 2:2)
Written content provides in-depth teaching and testimony-sharing.
d) Mobile Apps and Podcasts (Isaiah 55:11)
Audio and digital resources provide 24/7 access to biblical teachings.
e) Biblical Example: The Scrolls Used to Spread the Gospel (Luke 4:17-21)
The written word was a powerful tool even in Jesus' time.
3. ADVANTAGES OF USING MEDIA AND TECHNOLOGY FOR EVANGELISM
Media and technology offer unique benefits in fulfilling the Great Commission.
a) Global reach (Matthew 28:19-20)
The internet allows the gospel to spread worldwide.
b) Accessibility (Isaiah 40:9)
People can access the gospel anytime, anywhere.
c) Speed of communication (Daniel 12:4)
Messages can be delivered instantly across the globe.
d) Engaging and interactive evangelism (1 Corinthians 9:22)
Digital media allows for real-time interactions and discipleship.
e) Biblical Example: The Printing of the Bible by Johannes Gutenberg
The invention of the printing press revolutionised Bible distribution.
4. CHALLENGES AND DANGERS OF DIGITAL EVANGELISM
While media is a great tool, it also comes with challenges.
a) The spread of false doctrine (2 Peter 2:1-2)
Many false teachings are widely circulated online.
b) Digital distractions (Luke 10:41-42)
Excessive media consumption can reduce devotion to God.
c) Persecution and censorship (John 15:20)
Some Christian content is restricted or banned in certain regions.
d) Cyber threats and security risks (Ephesians 6:11)
Hackers and online persecution threaten digital ministries.
e) Biblical Example: Paul's Persecution for Spreading the Gospel (Acts 14:19)
Even in ancient times, spreading God’s word faced opposition.
5. STRATEGIES FOR EFFECTIVE DIGITAL EVANGELISM
To make the most of technology for evangelism, we must be strategic.
a) Be intentional and consistent (Colossians 4:5-6)
Regular posting of gospel messages keeps people engaged.
b) Maintain biblical accuracy (2 Timothy 2:15)
Ensure that online content aligns with Scripture.
c) Use engaging and creative content (Matthew 5:16)
Videos, graphics, and testimonies attract more people.
d) Leverage online communities (Hebrews 10:25)
Online Bible study groups and fellowships strengthen believers.
e) Biblical Example: Jesus Using Parables to Engage His Audience (Matthew 13:34-35)
Jesus used relatable stories to make His teachings memorable.
CONCLUSION:
Media and technology are powerful tools that can be used to fulfil the Great Commission. God has provided these platforms so that His word can reach the entire world quickly and effectively. However, while using digital evangelism, we must remain biblically sound, prayerful, and strategic to ensure that our message is effective and not compromised.
Every believer has a role to play in digital evangelism. Whether through sharing testimonies, preaching online, writing Christian articles, or supporting digital ministries, we must all be part of the great company that publishes God’s word. As we embrace media and technology for evangelism, let us do so with wisdom and the leading of the Holy Spirit.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, give me wisdom and creativity to use media for evangelism.
2. Holy Spirit, empower digital evangelists to reach the lost effectively.
3. Father, let the gospel spread rapidly through digital platforms.
4. Lord, protect Christian content from censorship and opposition.
5. Let every soul that encounters gospel media be convicted unto salvation.
