Episode 40: The Role of Digital Discipleship in the Church

To watch the full episode: https://youtu.be/W7Um8GzbDWE

To listen to the episode: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/eyesonjesus/episodes/Episode-40-The-Role-of-Digital-Discipleship-in-the-Church-e2g80gc

Below is a BLOG summary of the episode:

Episode 40: “The Role of Digital Discipleship in the Church”

Introduction

Welcome to the “Eyes on Jesus” podcast with Drew and Tim. Today, we discuss an emerging theme that is rapidly transforming how we conduct church activities and services – digital discipleship. With churches shifting towards digitization, understanding the purposeful use of technology for discipleship, acknowledging what works, what doesn’t, and sharing our personal insights help us to address this trend.

Defining Digital Discipleship

Digital discipleship is an extension of the church’s mission to educate, encourage, and engage its congregation through online platforms. However, the critical question to ask is – Can digital discipleship be as effective as in-person discipleship? In-person, we experience one-on-one interactions and group settings that allow us to engage in stimulating and enlightening conversations about Christianity. How can this richness in interaction translate digitally? Is it even possible to capture that same warmth, inclusion, and connection online?

Challenges & Dynamics of Digital Discipleship

In our rapidly evolving digital landscape, the term ‘digital’ is often fixed in front of various aspects of the church – digital evangelism, digital teaching, digital preaching. But while technology enables us to spread information quickly and across vast spaces, genuine discipleship requires all of these facets to flow into actionable, intentional, and transformative lifestyles. Therefore, the question is not just about whether we can utilize technology but whether doing so is intentional, beneficial, and eventually, fruitful for the discipleship process.

Approaches to Digital Discipleship

Understanding the role and impacts of social media in discipleship is crucial for churches. Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok have become modern pulpit extensions, and if used judiciously, they can reach far beyond the physical capabilities of a traditional church. Our digital presence should consistently steer people towards in-person interactions where deeper discipleship can take place.

Caution should be exercised in understanding the purpose behind venturing into the digital realm. Often the chase for digital existence might purely become an echo of marketing tactics. If the only validation of your digital presence is likes, comments, shares, or the pursuit of something going ‘viral’, the essence of discipleship can quickly get misplaced.

The Future of Digital Discipleship

It is exciting to visualize the future possibilities of digital discipleship. Technologies like VR (Virtual Reality) or augmented reality could offer immersive experiences for online church services or life groups. However, the ultimate focus should remain on fostering deep, transformative discipleship rather than on the technological enhancements themselves.

Conclusion

Digital discipleship can be a powerful enabler for the church when done correctly. Equally important is acknowledging that it should not substitute for the depth, connection, and transformation inherent in in-person discipleship. As churches venture into digital spaces, remembering the ‘why’ behind our actions is paramount. After all, discipleship – whether digital or in-person – is about leading believers closer to Christ.