Modern Technology : Preparing Lessons and Sermons
Lesson Summary : Modern Technology : Preparing Lessons and Sermons
Bro. Jamie Long | Year End Seminar | 15 November 2025
Modern technology offers opportunities that never existed before — but with those opportunities come challenges and dangers. Technology is meant to make things easier and faster, yet it is only beneficial when used properly.
In earlier times, even scrolls and written letters were considered “technology.” Later, the printing press revolutionized teaching, allowing sermons to be duplicated and spread widely. In the same way, today’s digital tools have expanded the pulpit beyond the church building: the gospel can now reach the entire world within seconds.
Preachers have access to vast resources instantly. However, technology is like a wrench — useful in the hands of a mechanic, but dangerous if misused. The goal of this lesson is to understand how digital tools can assist us without ever becoming a master over our preaching. The medium may change, but the message cannot. Technology must never alter the gospel.
“The grass withers, the flower fades, But the word of our God stands forever.” (Isaiah 40:8)
“having been born again, not of corruptible seed but incorruptible, through the word of God which lives and abides forever, because “All flesh is as grass, And all the glory of man as the flower of the grass. The grass withers, And its flower falls away, But the word of the Lord endures forever.” (1 Peter 1:23-25)
“Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away.” (Matthew 24:35)
“Forever, O Lord, Your word is settled in heaven.” (Psalms 119:89)
Technology for Bible Study and Exegesis
Technology can greatly support our study. Bible software such as OliveTree, BlueLetterBible, commentaries, lexicons, digital concordances, and search tools help organize information and speed up word studies. But be warned that these advantages come with dangers.
Over-reliance on software can weaken our own thinking. Scripture still commands: “Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15).
Technology also risks encouraging shallow study, rushing through Scriptures instead of meditating “day and night” (Psalm 1).
Cost barriers also limit access. Therefore, tools must assist our effort, not replace prayerful reflection. Technology may give information, but only Scripture gives wisdom (James 3).
Technology for Organizing Lessons and Sermons
Tools such as digital notes, outlining apps, mind-mapping software, and sermon libraries help preachers plan, store, and organize their material. These systems allow preachers to build archives and structure long series.
Yet pitfalls include overcomplication — spending more time formatting slides than studying the Word — and constant distraction from endless templates or designs. We must “redeem the time” (Ephesians 5:16). Technology should simplify, not complicate.
Technology for Illustrations and Research
Online databases, digital libraries, maps, multimedia, and even ChatGPT can spark ideas, enrich explanations & understanding, and provide context. These are useful, but they come with dangers.
“Till I come, give attention to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine.” (1 Timothy 4:13)
First is plagiarism — copying online material without testing it. Scripture warns: “Test all things; hold fast what is good” (1 Thessalonians 5:21). Second is doctrinal error — not all content online is sound, and many teachings contradict Scripture. Third is the misuse of AI, which can generate text but cannot discern truth. Hebrews 4:12 describes the Word of God as “living and powerful… and a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.” No machine can replace that.
Technology for Presentation and Delivery
Tools like PowerPoint, Keynote, Canva, and tablets help visually enhance sermons.
Be warned of focusing on presentation more than truth. Technology can fail, and visual overload may distract the audience. Preaching must emphasize Scripture, not performance. God creates; man makes. The power remains in the Word.
Technology for Recording and Archiving
Modern tech allows sermons to be recorded, posted online, made into podcasts, and stored for future use. This expands teaching far beyond the physical assembly.
Yet there are concerns: privacy issues, overemphasis on performance, and even digital decay — the loss or corruption of stored material. We must use these tools wisely without letting them define our service.
Technology for Collaboration and Communication
Shared documents, communication apps and online forums help connect brethren across distances. These strengthen teamwork and encourage study.
But they also risk producing superficial connections, distraction, and dependence on constant online engagement. Real fellowship still requires presence, accountability, and shared life.
Technology in the Digital Mission Field
The gospel is no longer confined to the pulpit — through social media devotionals, short video clips, sermon quotes, websites, blogs, written lessons & sermon manuscripts, YouTube lessons, livestreams, interactive studies, and Zoom classes.
Just as Paul used letters as the technology of his time, we can use digital platforms to spread the same gospel. “Their sound has gone out to all the earth, and their words to the ends of the world” (Romans 10:18). Each generation has used the tools available to carry the unchanged message.
Broader Challenges and Spiritual Dangers
Technology carries deeper dangers:
Spiritual Danger - Substituting technology for prayer
Ethical Concerns - Using others’ work without credit
Burnout from constant availability
Pride seeking recognition through polished productions
Conclusion
Technology is neither inherently good nor bad — it is simply a tool.
Used wisely, it can deepen our study, sharpen our lessons, and expand our reach & influence. The danger is it can distract, distort, and diminish our spiritual growth.
The greatest sermon remains the same : a heart filled with the Word of God, shaped through meditation, prayer, and obedience.
“For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God…” (2 Corinthians 10:4).
The medium may change, but the message never does.
