In this special bonus episode of Roots and Relevance, Tim reconnects with his old friend Roger to discuss the intersection of technology, faith, and community. The conversation begins with a brief catch-up on Roger's career and his ongoing passion for technology, particularly his investments in cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin. They then dive into the topic of how much the tech landscape has changed since their last podcast episode, focusing on advancements in AI and the implications for society. Using the biblical story of the Tower of Babel as a framework, they explore the balance between leveraging technology for good and avoiding its potential pitfalls. Key themes include the need for wisdom and discernment in using tech, the value of real-life relationships over virtual connections, and the importance of maintaining humility by relying on God rather than becoming self-reliant through technological advancements. The episode closes with practical suggestions for achieving a healthy balance, such as taking a Sabbath from technology.

00:00 Welcome and Introduction

00:58 Roger's Background and Career

01:51 Crypto and Investment Insights

02:47 Revisiting the Podcast and Tech Evolution

03:45 AI and Human Relationships

06:59 Streaming and Church Dynamics Post-Pandemic

08:34 Biblical Perspective on Technology

09:17 The Tower of Babel and Technology

13:50 Tech's Impact on Human Connection

23:42 Positive Uses of Technology

26:17 The Impact of AI on Artists and Musicians

28:44 AI in Church Ministry: A Double-Edged Sword

31:15 AI in Medicine: The Future of Healthcare

33:54 Virtual Unity vs. Embodied Community

40:55 Wisdom and Accountability in Tech Usage

48:33 The Importance of Tech Sabbaths

51:17 Closing Thoughts and Reflections