I’m a sucker.
Apple had their “Wanderlust” event 2 weeks ago. And I, of course, watched it. And I looked at the iPhone 14 Pro Max I had in my hand and immediately thought, “I should probably trade this in for a new one.”
Of course, nothing was wrong with my old phone. In fact, outside of having slightly worse battery life than I wanted, it was the best phone I had ever owned.
But I did a bunch of mental gymnastics and told myself that this new phone was WORTH my money. And I ordered it.
Spoiler: it’s fine. I’m an upgrade-every-year-because-I’m-a-nerd type of guy, and this is actually the first year where I’ve started actually contemplating returning it and sticking with the old one
“So what in the Tim Apple does this have to with digital ministry?”
Everything.
See, it’s no secret that digital has taken over the world, and that digital ministry is the way that we’re truly fulfilling the Great Commission to “go and make disciples of ALL NATIONS.” Digital ministry is not flashy, it’s not popular, but it’s something that is changing the world one person at a time.
Digital ministry is like that computer sitting in the corner of your office. The one that’s handling all of your files and acting as a server. It’s not flashy, but it’s vital to what you’re doing in your daily life. It’s not a brand new iPhone. It’s a tried-and-true Linux machine steadily humming away, getting the job done.
Ministry takes time and effort; it takes seasons of planting and harvesting before you ever really see any change or benefit.
And all too often, it takes even longer online, due to the nature of the fronts and faces we often encounter.
And because it’s not flashy, we too often run into leaders above us in organizations and churches that don’t want to invest in digital. Most of the time this is not out of ill-will or malice, but simply out of ignorance or wanting to follow the next ministry “splash” with children’s ministry or worship.
But part of our job as digital leaders is to convince people that their dollars and their time are worth investing it into.
Here’s a couple of tips to help those discussions:
1. Highlight Real-World Examples
Remember that stories of real life change can communicate more than a lecture ever will. Pastors and leaders will ALWAYS resonate with them. Start to gather them up and be ready to talk about them at the drop of a hat.
2. Demonstrate the Potential
Along with your stories, be ready to demonstrate the potential of what digital ministry and digital transformation can look like. Be ready to bring 1, 3, and 5 year goals to the discussion as well, knowing that technology is ever-changing and can affect these plans wholly. Be ready to also show that digital ministry can complement traditional services and outreach programs, reaching broader audiences and enriching spiritual experiences overall.
3. Emphasize the Changing Landscape
Point out the changing demographics and preferences of today's congregations. Younger generations, in particular, are more digitally oriented, and adapting to their preferences can ensure the future relevance and growth of religious organizations.
4. Address Concerns
Acknowledge the concerns and reservations that people may have about digital ministry. Some may worry about the loss of personal connection or the authenticity of online worship. Address these concerns empathetically, and provide solutions and assurances.
5. Provide Training and Support
Offer training and support for those who may not be technologically savvy. Empowering individuals with the skills they need to navigate the digital world can alleviate concerns and increase their comfort with digital ministry.
These are just a few of the talking points that you can have, but there are TONS more that are contextual to your situation.
Remember, you’re trying to prove that digital ministry is WORTH it. It’s worth dollars, time, and talent to be invested int it.
Digital ministry is worth my dollars. It’s worth YOUR dollars. And if you’re like me and you’re reading this, then you probably already know the impact that we can have on an Internet that is vast, wide, scary, and pretty much untamed. This is the time for the church itself to get involved. To show a waiting, watching world that we have a message of hope, peace, salvation, grace, and love.
What do you think? What are other reasons why Digital ministry is worth it? Share your ideas below or on social media.
Through the Digital Church Network we are helping physical and digital churches better understand the discipleship process, and helping churches and church planters understand this and other decentralized mindset shifts. Joining the DCN is free and be encouraged!
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