There was a time when “evangelism” meant one of two things: (1) holding meetings (public evangelism), or (2) giving Bible studies (personal evangelism). That was pretty much the way it was for quite a while.
Eventually the definition expanded to include radio and television evangelism. A radio evangelist is someone who uses radio technology to preach the gospel, and a televangelist uses television to do the same.
Those who were on the forefront of using these technologies were sometimes seen as pushing the envelope. Some questioned H.M.S. Richards Sr. for trying to use a medium like radio for religious purposes. While many Christians viewed television as a tool of the devil, William Fagal believed it could be used to share God’s love. Both of these men were able to look beyond how radio and television were being used to the possibilities it held for mission of the church. Looking back, we now know that God used their dreams to further His cause.
As new technologies continue to emerge we are given fresh opportunities to dream and believe.
Web Evangelism
When the Internet first came into existence, many viewed it as a novelty and amusing pastime, but few thought it would impact their lives. Now we know better.
“On a typical day at the end of 2004, some 70 million American adults logged onto the Internet to use e-mail, get news, access government information, check out health and medical information, participate in auctions, book travel reservations, research their genealogy, gamble, seek out romantic partners, and engage in countless other activities” (PEW Internet & American Life Project).
That represents a 37 percent increase from the 51 million Americans who were online on an average day in 2000 when the Pew Internet & American Life Project began its study of online life.
Have you ever wondered if ministry websites are really effective? A lot of time and money goes into the development and maintenance of hundreds of websites that supposedly reach people for Christ. But do they really?
This is a question you and your church can help answer. As with all other witnessing tools, the web must be shared and personalized to maximize its potential for good. While someone may stumble onto a website and discover wonderful truths for themselves, it will be far more effective if they are steered there by a friend or neighbor whom they can turn to for feedback and support.
The Pacific Union Conference is encouraging its members to use today’s technologies to share God’s love. One way this can be done is by sharing a colorful WebShare card with someone who has a specific life need or concern.
For more details visit churchsupportservices.org and search for "webshare."
