When I look at the youth (the SMS generation) in the shopping malls and on the streets, they are merrily using their mobile phones, not talking but texting. I even see people texting inside the church. The lyrics sung by Simon and Garfunkel some decades ago in the Sound of Silence reflects today's texting scenario.
“And in the naked light I saw. Ten thousand people, maybe more.
People talking without speaking…...”
As a language teacher, I wonder whether verbal/oral communication is coming to an end. Texting or text messaging has become very popular and is full of abbreviated words that look like they were just written by someone who just learned the alphabets, or typed on a keyboard with many keys missing! To me the whole language seems abnormal and the abuse of the English language.
I read on another blog about an Anglican Pastor who encouraged people to text him back in the middle of his sermon with questions on his message – in real time! He replied back by text while preaching at the same time. It was according to him a very successful trial because it reached people who were at church and those who were not there. I guess it gives a new meaning to the term "outreach".
If Jesus used different means to communicate the Good News to the poor and the Apostle Paul encourages Christians to reach the unreached by any means, then what is wrong in using txt msg 2 rch thse in the lang they cn undrstnd & the technlgy they use?
What do you think about the text-speak technology? In what ways do you use SMS technology in your ministry? Do you have any innovative ideas for its use in Christian ministry today?
Would you subscribe to a text message sermon? Would you buy an SMS TXT Bible? There is one available now!
2 comments:
hello,
i think technology is not the problem ...is how you used it..
doing it for his glory ... the best thing to do...
i'm a sunday school teacher in our church, im using my cellphone as a bible, camera, video and sound recording for the preaching of our pastor.Send txt message to my brothers and sister in christ. i have almost all the bible version in mobile phone.
Serving him is the best thing to do.
God Blesss you...
www.xtiantech.net
From my observations (and use) txting is a great way to keep in touch briefly and frequently - so supportive of creating community. It may not be the best medium for in-depth communication, but is one way of reminding people that you are there for them.
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