How close are we to technology that allows the blind to see and the deaf to hear? A lot closer than you realize.

Joe is out again, so this week I'm delving into the complex and rapidly evolving topic of transhumanism and its implications for Christians and the rest of humanity. I'll explore the implications of the rapid acceleration of advanced AI, humanoid robots, and brain-computer interfaces like Neuralink.

There is no greater time to deeply consider the ethical and spiritual ramifications of pursuing technological solutions to sin problems, such as the quest for immortality and the augmentation of our physical and mental capabilities.

Despite all the uncertainty, we have nothing to fear if we maintain a Christ-centered perspective, discerning where our hope truly lies. However, it is critical that we engage in meaningful conversations about the role of technology in our lives and its potential to distract from the gospel. There is no better time to share the hope of the kingdom of God with a world that is set on seeking salvation through science.

Show Notes:

0:00 - Introduction

02:50: Defining Transhumanism

10:40: The Acceleration of Technological Advancements

15:25: Generative AI and Its Impact on Perception of AI

20:00: Humanoid Robots

24:45: Brain-Computer Interfaces

29:10: The Pursuit of Immortality and Its Pitfalls

38:30: The Role of Christians in the Transhumanism Conversation

How far would you go to hear the voice of a lost loved one or to get an answer to the question you never got to ask?

AI is making it so that you don't have to go that far. However, just because you can do something doesn't mean you should. This week Joe is out, so I'm talking about the meteoric rise of ghostbots and deathbots as AI continues making the formerly impossible possible.

Unfortunately, you won't find a chapter and verse that specifically defines the decision you should make when planning an unexpected funeral and are asked if you'd like an add-on that gives you infinite access to the deceased.

So, what do we do and what does the Bible tell us that helps us navigate this growing industry? A lot more than you may realize. Add to that my experience around this often avoided area, I have a lot to say on the matter, so check it out.

Show Notes:

0:00 - Introduction

1:30 - AI Is Doing What?!

10:42 - What Does the Bible Say?

13:00 - Secular Research

24:24 - Getting to the Root of the Problem

39:00 - Concluding Thoughts

What does it mean to walk in faith when the boundaries between the physical and digital worlds are increasingly blurred?

This week, we explore immersive technology—virtual reality, augmented reality, and beyond—and its complex and nuanced implications for Christianity. As these artificial experiences become more integrated into our daily lives, they present both unprecedented opportunities and ethical dilemmas for believers.

Together, we'll explore the potential for immersive tech to enhance how we engage with biblical history and educational endeavors as well as transform the church experience. Yet, alongside these exciting prospects, we confront the challenges posed by such technology: the thin line between beneficial engagement and problematic escapism, the risk of isolation despite increased connectivity, and the critical importance of discerning use to prevent spiritual and communal disconnection.

I think you'll find we're not shying away from the hard questions like, How can Christians harness the positive aspects of immersive technology while safeguarding against its pitfalls? What does accountability look like in virtual spaces? And most importantly, how do we ensure that these technologies serve to augment rather than replace the irreplaceable value of physical community and personal interaction in our spiritual lives?

So, join us as we pursue God's wisdom in navigating this uncharted frontier while keeping our eyes fixed on the eternal.

In a world where every swipe, like, and share shapes our identity, how do we maintain a Christ-centered self amidst the noise of social media?

This week, Joe and I are diving into the heart of digital identity in a social media world. We unpack the complexities of living out our faith online, recognizing there's no one-size-fits-all answer while acknowledging the universal biblical principles that should guide us all. We unpack some of the very real risks and why it's so important for us to remain intentional in our use of tech.

From the pitfalls of comparison and envy to the opportunities for witnessing and community building, we explore how to navigate the digital landscape without losing sight of our core identity in Christ.

Join us as we share our experiences and personal reflections while seeking the timeless wisdom in scripture capable of grounding our digital selves in the timeless truth of God's word.

Show Notes:

In a world where screens dominate our landscapes and devices dictate our daily routines, have we crossed the line from users to worshippers in the church of technology?

This week, we dive deep into the heart of our digital devotion, unpacking the subtle ways our gadgets have become gods and our apps, altars. Joe and I will tackle the pressing issue of technology's towering presence in our lives, questioning its sanctified spot on our metaphorical mantelpiece.

Together, we peel back the layers of convenience to reveal the core of our dependence, setting the stage to understand the true cost of our digital idolatry. It's a conversation that challenges us to reflect on our tech-tethered existence and consider what we're truly seeking in our scroll through the digital divine.

Join us as we confront the reality of our devotion and what it means to find balance in a world wired for worship.

Show Notes:

Are we ready for a world where technology is constantly attempting to redraw the boundary lines of sexual intimacy and offer temptations like never before?

In an era where screens were already simulating connection we're now faced with algorithms that offer us unlimited access to our deepest desire with the promise of no accountability. Given that, there's no better time to be embarking on this crucial exploration. This week we're peeling back the layers of digital temptation, weaving through the moral, spiritual, and ethical implications of navigating sexual temptation in the age of artificial intelligence.

We're mixing up our candid storytelling, biblical wisdom, and a keen eye on the horizon as we delve into what it means to uphold the virtues of sexual fidelity and integrity amidst a flurry of new technology.

Join us as we chart a course toward understanding, obedience, and resilience in the face of the unseen challenges posed by AI, fostering a dialogue that resonates with the soul's quest for authenticity in a synthetic world.

And, be sure to reach out with your comments & questions: [email protected]

Show Notes:

00:00 - Introduction

11:00 - The Evolution of Temptation

22:00 - AI's Personalization of Temptation

33:00 - Ethical and Spiritual Implications

44:00 - Navigating the Future with Integrity

54:00 - Call to Action

Can artificial intelligence deepen our relationships with Christ and others, or is it a dangerous threat to our ability to grow and develop as Christians?

Perhaps the answer isn't quite so simple. In this week's conversation, we're embarking on a journey through the complex terrain where AI, Christian Discipleship, and ethics intersect. With AI’s expanding role in our lives, we delve into its potential to transform church practices, enhance our everyday lives, and raise ethical quandaries that demand our attention.

We'll tackle pressing questions like can AI play a role in fulfilling the mission of the church without compromising the authenticity of human connection and spiritual depth? What kind of wisdom and discipleship is required by Christians in a world where AI is everywhere?

From the practical implications of AI in sermon preparation and community building to the philosophical debates around ethics and the soul, our conversation seeks to uncover the opportunities and challenges AI presents to the Christian faith. We examine how AI can be used responsibly within the church all while being vigilant of the pitfalls the technology might bring.

This episode is an invitation to explore the nuanced relationship between AI and Christian faith, encouraging listeners to consider how emerging technologies can enrich, rather than detract from, our spiritual lives and communal bonds. Join us as we contemplate the role of AI in the future of the church, guided by wisdom, discernment, and an unwavering commitment to our core values.

Show Notes:

Is a true Christian community possible in the digital realm?

This week we’re diving deep into the heart of this question, examining the feasibility and dynamics of digital Christian communities. It’s a far more complex and nuanced topic than it’s often credited, so we thought it worthwhile to explore digitalization in today's increasingly online world.

We tackle challenging questions head-on: Can the essence of church fellowship be captured through screens? How does the digital shift align with biblical teachings? Our conversation navigates through the complexities of virtual church experiences, balancing the traditional with the technological, and unraveling the skepticism often associated with digital faith practices.

Drawing from our diverse experiences and broader societal changes, we’ll lay out how digital platforms are not just supplementing but significantly transforming the way we experience community and faith. From the potential of virtual community groups to online bible studies, we scrutinize the various facets of digital Christian life.

This episode is not designed to argue which is best but rather challenge you to explore how digital tools can complement and enhance, rather than replace, the fundamental aspects of Christian community. It's a journey to discover how faith can not only survive but thrive in the digital age, fostering a sense of togetherness and spiritual growth, transcending physical barriers.

Show Notes:

00:00 - Introduction and Context Setting

15:00 - Exploring Christian Expressions in Digital Spaces

35:03 - The Reality of Virtual Relationships and Community Building

41:26 - The Untapped Potential of Digital Tools for Churches

45:33 - Intentionality in Digital Engagement

52:23 - Conclusion and Reflections

How much room is there for technology to redefine the centerpiece of most Sunday church services?

This week we’re embarking on an exploration of how technology can potentially transform the age-old practice of sermon delivery, and we don’t shy away from the uncomfortable questions. We also confront the skepticism and resistance that often accompany technological changes, especially in sacred spaces, encouraging listeners to genuinely consider the possibilities that lie ahead.

We ground our conversation in practical insights and real-world examples of how technology is already reshaping cultural practices and look at them through a biblical lens. From flipped classroom models to interactive community collaboration, we’ll explore some innovative approaches that have the potential to change things for the better.

This will be an invitation to step out of your comfort zone and consider how technology could not only preserve but enrich Christianity in our modern era.

Show Notes:

00:00 - Introduction

02:45 - The Pandemic Pivot

08:30 - Technology's Role: Enhancing Engagement

13:55 - Challenges & Skepticism

19:20 - Interactive Faith: Exploring Flipped Classrooms and Microlearning in Sermons

26:10 - Success Stories of Technology

31:40 - Philosophical Implications: Theology Meets Technology

41:50 - Conclusion: Embracing Change and Encouraging Dialogue

Welcome to the inaugural episode of "Future of Church," where your hosts, Christopher Lind and Joe Streeter, embark on a journey at the crossroads of faith, technology, and culture. In this inaugural session, we're kicking off our journey into the transformative world where traditional church values meet the rapid advancements of the digital age.

Join us as Christopher, a seasoned executive and advisor in the tech landscape, brings his expertise from the corporate world to the heart of church life. Alongside him, Joe, with his educational background and experience in church leadership, shares insights shaped by years of spiritual guidance and community involvement. Together, they engage in a dynamic dialogue, exploring the challenges and opportunities that modern technology presents to faith communities.

You can expect pragmatic discussions, practical advice, and an open forum for exploring how Scripture informs our approach to the digital challenges and opportunities within church life. Whether you're a church leader, a technology enthusiast, or someone curious about the intersection of faith and the modern world, this podcast is for you.

So, join us in the "Future of Church" as we navigate this uncharted territory, offering insights and guidance for integrating faith and technology in our daily lives. Let's journey together into the future of church, faith, and community in the digital world.

Show Notes:

00:00 - Introduction: Setting the Stage

10:15 - Technology's Impact on "The Church"

18:20 - Addressing Challenges in Faith and Tech

22:00 - What's to Come