You are looking at an image of the logo on the first edition of Inspiren; a monthly newsletter designed by the originators of the Christian Web Conference (formerly GodblogCon).
As the web becomes a bigger part of our lives each day, faith leaders are challenged to engage people where they live. For example, only a few years ago, the notion of belonging to an online church was unheard of. Today, it’s often a central topic of discussion & debate.
Now with individuals spending greater amounts of time online each day and frequent personal interactions often taking place via online communication, some propose online church as the next logical step to effective gospel proclamation.
Inspiren exists to thoughtfully engage this and other topics that deal with the relationship of New Media and the Christian faith.
Each monthly installment will take the main purpose of the Christian Web Conference; idea collaboration with the intent of advancing New Media and its users for the Kingdom of God; and extend it formally beyond the weekend of September 11-12.
This first edition includes the article “Some Rough Notes on Technology, Exclusivity, and Online Church” by Matthew L. Anderson. And the photo image above should link to my dear friend, Rhett Smith, and his article in the second installment “Christian Web Conference“.
I am seeing thousands of people served by the web and the uniqueness 0f it every month. In some cases people cannot get out to a church assembly wherever it may be for various reasons so this virtual thing is good.
However, I don’ t think anything can take the place of a non-virtual but actual Christian fellowship (Hebrews 10:25). Having said that, I will continue to provide a real (not virtual) presence online because I believe God can do anything to reach the lost and bring glory to His Holy Name. After all if He can use a burning bush, talking donkey, and a had writing on a wall – He can certainly use the Internet.
To God Be the Glory!
Tim, thanks for your comment. It sounds like you’re thinking through some of the very things scholars are currently dialoging about. There’s a new book coming out called Sim Church (due for Oct ‘09 release) that makes some provocative arguments for virtual church. Thanks, again.