Samuel James, Crossway editor and writer, discusses the negative impact of social media on Christianity, highlighting the tribalism and superficiality it has bred. He explores the blurring of public and private in the internet age and the harmful effects of online affirmation. The podcast also delves into the transformative impact of social media on theology and the importance of investing in institutions and inventions. It ends with a discussion on the redeeming aspect of small affinity groups on platforms like Facebook and the need to separate theology from the digital world.
Technology has shifted online Christian discussions from historic doctrines to political preferences, diminishing the emphasis on theological concepts like predestination and divine sovereignty.
Digital technology, particularly social media, shapes our engagement with theology, influencing our behaviors, thoughts, and relationships, while also promoting shallow reading and negative emotions in theological discussions.
The influence of the internet and digital technology extends beyond online engagement, impacting our offline relationships, disrupting genuine fellowship, and distorting our understanding of real liturgy in worship.
Deep dives
The changing focus of online Christian debates
Online Christian discussions have shifted from historic doctrines to political preferences, with less emphasis on theological concepts such as predestination and divine sovereignty. This change has been facilitated by the influence of social media and the internet, which have become the primary platforms for these debates. The internet has transformed from a tool to an ambience, shaping the way we interact with one another and influencing the way we learn and communicate theology. The temptation to perform and present a specific image on social media has also affected the way theological discourse takes place. As social media platforms such as Facebook and Twitter face decline, a smaller, more focused internet is emerging with people forming smaller affinity groups and seeking more organic discussions. Reevaluating the impact of digital technology on theology is essential to ensure that our theological beliefs are not solely dependent on the online environment.
The shaping power of digital technology on theology
Digital technology, particularly social media, has a shaping effect on theology and the way we engage with theological concepts. The internet has become a heart-shaping practice that conditions our behaviors, thoughts, and relationships. Skimming and reading impressionistically are common practices in online engagement, shifting our focus from deep analytical thinking to superficial impressions. The internet's emphasis on negative emotions for engagement, such as outrage and offense, also shapes our approach to theological discussions. The collapse of the public-private distinction online leads to performative behavior, where identity becomes intertwined with ideas. Digital liturgies, the practices facilitated by digital technology, affect how we relate to one another and understand theology. Recognizing the influence of digital technology on our theological beliefs is important to ensure that our engagement aligns with Christian wisdom and the teachings of Scripture.
The consequences of digital technology on our offline lives
The impact of digital technology extends beyond online engagements and affects our offline relationships. The internet's influence on our theology and interactions with others can interfere with our fellowship in church and distort our understanding of real liturgy in worship. The focus on performative behavior and public-facing personas online disrupts our ability to treat one another as embodied image-bearers of God. The digital divide between online and offline personas creates a disconnect between how we engage with others and how we relate to one another in person. Recognizing the importance of offline interpersonal relationships, reconciling conflicts, and approaching theological discussions with grace and humility can help bridge this gap and maintain a more natural and genuine embodiment of our faith.
The need for a post-posting evangelicalism
As the landscape of the internet changes and social media platforms decline, it is crucial for Christians to reassess their approach to theology and online engagement. Building tribes around political issues and ideological corners can lead to toxic debates and dismissive attitudes towards one another. Instead, Christians should focus on developing genuine interpersonal relationships, growing in Christian wisdom, and reconciling differences. Emphasizing love, humility, and the pursuit of truth in offline interactions will have a more lasting impact than fleeting online debates. By untangling theology from reliance on digital technology and cultivating a deeper connection with Scripture and the physical community, Christians can navigate the changing online landscape with grace and wisdom.
The role of small communities and personal interactions
As social media platforms decline and people become increasingly burnt out by the algorithmic nature of online engagement, there is a shift towards smaller online communities and affinity groups. These spaces prioritize specific interests, hobbies, or shared values, allowing for more focused and genuine discussions. Moving away from performative behavior and large-scale platforms, Christians can find connection in smaller groups, whether through online channels like Discord or offline gatherings centered around shared theology. Personal interactions offer a humanizing and grounding experience, reminding us of the importance of fellowship and genuine engagement. By investing in smaller communities and embodying Christ-like love and humility, Christians can resist the negative aspects of digital technology and foster authentic relationships grounded in Christian wisdom.
Twitter and Facebook may be in decline, but they leave in their wake a more tribal, fractured, and superficial evangelical church. Shane welcomes Crossway editor and writer Samuel James to reveal how technology has taught us bad habits, and how Christians can recover.
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