With this being the Church Tech Blog, it's apparent that I think technology is an extremely valuable asset for the church. I decided to use "AVL (Audio, Video & Lighting) technology" because, first, this is a church media blog and, secondly, because technology is a very expansive word on its own. So it's obvious that I think the church should use AVL technology.

To be blunt, Jesus gave us the answer to the posts original question. He will draw men unto Himself (John 12:32, paraphrased). So, no, the church doesn't need technology. But we'd be foolish not to use it in this culture via our missionary outreach. Allow me to explain.

Years ago, while I was on staff at my second church, I met a foreign missionary couple who worked in South America and then South Africa. I asked them what it was like to be a missionary. The husband looked at me with a smile and said, "I was going to ask you the very same question!" I stumbled for a reply, because that was the last thing I expected him to say. He continued: "Here in America, where you've got Nintendo and TV and rock concerts, you, Anthony, are the true missionary. As a minister who uses media, you are an indigenous missionary."

The couple then went on to explain that their denomination used to send American missionaries to 3rd World countries and try to evangelize them into a western form of Christianity ("We used to Christianize and Americanize them," his wife noted.) Now, they'll go there, train up people native to that culture and then let those native (indigenous) missionaries reach their own culture.

In essence, this missionary couple to 3rd World countries was saying that we need to raise up indigenous missionaries right here in this 1st World country. We need to be reaching our culture, in a way that this culture understands.

So if I use video, it's not for the sake of being cool, but because video is a major communications format instantly accepted by many Americans. If I use lots of color and effects in lighting in a tasteful way within a service, then I can reach the large portion of Americans who go to rock and country concerts and see amazing light shows. If I use a great audio system and create excellent mixes, those same people will have one less barrier for us, as a church, to break down.

Most Americans accept - and expect - great quality AVL in their secular world, so why should the church world not meet their expectations?

So, in the context of reaching my culture, yes, the church needs to use AVL technology in two ways: 1) To support the message and 2) to help create weekend experiences (enhancement). So the next time you see that pony-tailed guy mixing audio or setting lights or running camera, realize that you're looking at a potential indigenous missionary to America!