This essay is in the Currents of Conviction series and explores a proper theological view of technology. The series overview and introduction to the Christian worldview, may be helpful to orient yourself to the goal of this series.

From the hum of our smartphones to the rumble of the tractor in the field, technology saturates our lives. These tools grant increasing power and efficiency, yet a question remains for those who “seek first the Kingdom”:

Does this ever-expanding technological landscape draw us closer to God, or does it subtly shift our gaze?

Let’s explore a theological understanding of technology and how we should relate to it in our homes and communities.

Theology of Technology

At the very beginning of creation, once God created man in His image, He commanded him to subdue the earth and have dominion over it (Genesis 1:28).1

A Gift and Tool

Ingenuity and creativity are gifts from God. Our minds were endowed with the desire—even the need—to make things. Often, it takes several iterations to create a usable form. From the simplest tool, like a hammer, to the most complex quantum computer, these forms of technology point to the Creator of it all and His impression upon us as His image bearers as we try to obey His command to subdue the earth.

Technology, in the broadest sense, helps us to create order in the chaos of the world. Sure, it can create chaos as well, but that is more a result of living in a fallen world rather than something inherently wrong in the technology itself. Think about the farmer whose tractor has broken down, so he must fabricate a part to restore functionality.3 Or, consider engineers who develop a new form of engine that is more efficient or runs on an alternative fuel source. Both of these instances offer examples of order being restored through the ingenuity of man as endowed by God.

In a less mechanical way, technology helps us to restore life to those whose life is endangered. Think about the world of medicine, particularly transplant surgery. Recently, my wife’s cousin had a baby girl—let’s call her C—that needed a heart transplant almost from birth, and a few days ago, she got one. Sadly, this means that another family’s child died. But, the fact that another child’s heart lives on in C is an amazing gift!

Limitations of Technology

While technology is a wonderful gift from God and tool by which we can subdue the earth, there are limitations to the how it can help us. From a theological perspective, the number one problem mankind must face is sin. Sin is what brought death into the world. Sin is what separates us from God. Sin can be solved only by Christ.

For many years, a movement has sought to be the solution to all of mankind’s woes: transhumanism.4 In essence, transhumanism seeks to integrate technology into the human being in order to overcome natural human limitations and enhance human capabilities. These efforts are often seen in the biotechnology sphere (e.g., Neuralink, implanted into the brain).

The prophet Jeremiah speaks wise words worth considering, especially when we remember that technology is born out of the human mind:

The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick; who can understand it? —Jeremiah 17:9

While technology can solve many problems, it is susceptible to the influence of our sinful nature. Thus, while we can gladly embrace the assistance offered by technology, we must not lose sight of the true source of our help: Jesus Christ.

It Points to God

In our efforts to improve our circumstances, we develop strategies and tools that help us in this way. If these tools are morally neutral in that it can be used for good or for evil, how can we determine whether or not to utilize a particular tool? The answer lies in whether it points us to God.

I do not mean to suggest that technology must be spiritualized. A well-designed plow can improve the agricultural yield, allowing for better stewardship of the land, or advanced communication methods can help spread the Gospel. Both of these can direct us toward God, implicitly or explicitly. What I mean by technology pointing us to God is that we ought to recognize that without the gift of knowledge, intellect, and understanding, as bestowed by God, we would be in an even more helpless estate in our sin than we are now.

Paul reminds us that we are to set out minds on the things above, not below (Colossians 3:2). Christians, therefore, must seek to consider the eternal value of technology. If technology consistently leads us away from the seeking and deepening our relationship with God, then we ought to remove it from our lives. It is helpful to remember our purpose in this world, and Solomon said it best when he said:

13 The end of the matter; all has been heard. Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man. 14 For God will bring every deed into judgment, with every secret thing, whether good or evil. —Ecclesiastes 12:13–14

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Technological Anthropology*

*Or how we might better relate to technology as human beings created in the image of God

Neither Technologist nor Luddite

Christians should strive to avoid ending up in either of the proverbial ditches, whether one nearly idolizes tech or adamantly opposes its use or implementation. The former distracts us form following after God while the latter may hinder our stewardship of creation. Neither approach is good for us. Instead, we should seek the via media, the middle way, and exercise appropriate engagement as dictated by our conscience and prayer.

The Dimmer Switch

Growing up in the 90s—such a fun time—I was introduced to technology gradually. I grew up on dial-up internet, car/bag phones, and I did not have a cell phone (call and text only) until I was seventeen and driving on my own. This slower introduction, though partly a necessity of the time, offers a valuable lesson for parents today who have a multitude of technologies readily available to their children. Through the slower, metered approach, I developed healthy digital habits, especially when compared to what might have been the case had my parents flipped the “switch” on technology and allowed me total freedom.

Cultivating Connection

Today, technology is usually associated with electronics or software, especially smartphones and tablets. These are tools that allow us to be hyper-connected and, at times, too informed with all the information available at our fingertips (some of it without a filter!). This hyper-connectedness can easily lull us into thinking we have meaningful relationships with others when in reality we have hidden ourselves away. This is where families can serve as a frontline defense to the digital disconnect by re-establishing strong connections with one another. Have real conversations. Have real contact. Be present.

These real connections are just as much a gift from God as the technology in your pocket, and they will last a lifetime rather than only one charge cycle.

For the Ploughman

God has been so gracious to us in giving us creative desires and the ability to solve problems through the use of our minds. These solutions—technology—are gifts, but they can be influenced by our sinful nature. We should be intentional in measuring the value of technology in orienting us to God as wise stewards.

In our present season, I would encourage each of us to consider our use of technology and how it relates to our eternal purpose:

• For individuals: Consider how your use of technology might help or hinder your relationship with God. It might help to write out your thoughts (physically, not digitally).

• For parents: Thoughtfully consider how technology might influence your child if introduced to early or too quickly. It’s like sugar: once they have tasted the sweetness they will refuse what is nutritious.

• For families: Make meal times tech-free time. My family always sought to see who could know more than the rest, so we would study up on trivia to stump the rest. We learned from each other and valued each other more.

• For churches: Consider how technology might actually distract from the mission of true worship and evangelism.

Until next time, keep your hand on the plow and break up the fallow ground!