my question is, how big is john pipers church? anyone been there before? I have..

Media is another way to share the message, stop and kiss this generation good-bye

Recently, my senior pastor showed a video clip from "The Shawshank Redemeption." Not to be outdone, my associate pastor showed a spoof that took a video tour through the pastor's bathroom and bedroom closet, but choosing to show all of his wife's things rather than his. Good teaching tools, huh? And now you know why, according to George Barna's research, less than 10% of born-again believers have a Biblical world view and Biblical illiteracy is at an all-time high.

For us Jesus freaks, we call it preaching, but in reality the issue is being a highly effective speaker. No doubt its the Holy Spirit that changes hearts, but you can't say we don't have a role in persuading the listeners. A pastor isn't all about preaching, but like it or not, that's what's expected of them. So, yes, they better darn well be able to sell the best product in existence, with or without media. The teaching of God's word absolutely needs to relevant/relate to the audience. I like the way God puts it..."Unless you speak intelligible words with your tongue, how will anyone know what you are saying?"

Jesus used first-century multimedia when he preached. It's hard to find a time when he "taught" the crowds that he didn't heal the sick, raise the dead, feed thousands with a a first-century Happy Meal.

When we can do that, then we can leave the projectors and lighting directors behind. Until then, let's use the technology God has given us.