But is it really so bad to use your cell phone or electronic device during service?
I can see it being rude to interrupt the sermon with annoying rings or vibrations. Also, checking scores and Facebook statuses are without a doubt uncool. But I think there is a place for my phonw in service.
Some examples:
- Awesome Apps — No, I'm not playing bubbleburst during service, but with so many helpful apps on my smart phone, I find it indispensable during service. First of all, there's my Bible App. It allows me to follow along quickly. I'm not super Bible-literate, so it helps me track down passages quickly instead of flipping through pages, I can bookmark my favorite passages and even share them with my friends via text or Facebook. I love it, and it helps me continue studying Sunday's message all week long. I may not carry a Bible everywhere I go, but my phone is with me 24-7, so I have no excuse not to explore the Word with my bible on my device.
- Notes — Ok, so this is basically anther app, but taking notes, making list and other reminders helps me to practically use the word after service. This week my pastor gave us 12 steps to forgiveness, I immediately made a checklist in my phone, something I have referred to twice already (It's Monday)
- Status — I know, I said checking your status wasn't cool, but that's totally different from updating it! Sharing a weekly message with friends and family is an excellent practice of evangelism. We may not all be called to preach, but all Christians should freely speak the lessons we're learning on this journey. Hey, did you think twice about posting that latest viral video?
I think it's great how you have found a positive use for your phone during service. One of the problems with a lot of Christian churches I've encountered [at least the ones I'm familiar with in the Memphis area- I can't speak for them all] is how they implement technology. This world becomes increasingly modern with every passing year and unless you embrace progress you run the risk of going under. I don't think it detracts from the Bible in its original context or the message of Christianity to put a modern spin on things. Our church has Twitter, a blog, and a Facebook group for the youth.
ReplyDeletePersonally I don't use my cell phone in church but I take in my Kindle. Our sermons reference a lot of literature [we're Unitarian Universalists] so I can pull up a book and flag it if it sounds interesting.
I'm glad to see somebody else is blogging! While I don't always have the time to comment, I do read all of the blogs I subscribe to....and I look forward to hearing what you have to say.
~ Sloane
http://cocktailswithhemingway.blogspot.com