A surprising Biblical Perspective...
Technology as a mediumWhen one considers a biblical response to technology, I automatically assumed that Christianity would be completely against it. However, Whiting (2011) proved me wrong.
According to Whiting (2011) technology is used throughout the Bible, however not in the form we are use to. Whiting (2011) supports this by maintaining that, "God has provided guidance in His Word that both describes and prescribes technological creation and usage. Many, if not most, people fail to realise that the Bible is replete with references concerning technology” (p. 3). The key to understanding the biblical references for technology is explored through the interpretation one selects when defining technology. McLuhan defines technology as a medium that communicates and transmits ideas (McLuhan as cited in Whiting, 2011). For example, the technology of clothes is used to cover Adam and Eve’s sin (Genesis 3.7), the technology of the ark is used to save Noah from the flood (Genesis 6-8), and Jesus used the technology of a boat when travelling. He also used the technology of a yoke to explain a biblical truth (Matthew 11:28-30). According to McLuhan (2011) technology does not only communicate ideas, but it has the power to influence how we think and feel because technology contains a value system within it (as cited in Whiting, 2011). WisdomI believe the ability to think critically must go hand-in-hand with wisdom. This is because in an age where technology exposes individuals to thousands of different worldviews which pressure them to conform to society. Students therefore need to be taught how to critically analyse, and assess their interactions with these technologies, or the material they are viewing. Consequently, they will hopefully then develop the beliefs, predispositions and intellectual abilities to drive these informed behaviours (Considine, 2002, as cited in Baker, 2010). These [digitally literate] proficiencies may find its foundation in the ability for a Christian to renew his or her mind (Romans 12:2) because students are encouraged to go against the status quo, societal expectations and values.
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"God has provided guidance in His Word that both describes and prescribes technological creation and usage. Many, if not most, people fail to realise that the Bible is replete with references concerning technology." (Whiting, 2011, p.3) Croteau, Gamson, Hoynes, & Sasson, (1992) agrees with McLuhan as the technology of media plays a large role in the construction of social reality. Through exposure to these messages it appears that the young people are unconsciously allowing and using these messages, as a foundation to determine their identities, ideologies, behaviours, inspirations, dreams, and values (Croteau et. al. 1992). Consequently, the Bible indirectly supports the implementation of digital media literacy in the classroom because the literacy frameworks teaches students how to filter, evaluate, assess and critique media messages.
Scripturally this is supported in Proverbs 3:21 says, “My son, preserve sound judgment and discernment, do not let them out of your sight” (New International Version) this could be interpreted as learn to think critically, become reliant on wisdom and adopt a spirit of discernment. I believe this then encourages Christians to develop the ability to critically think so that when Christians are faced with media manipulated information they may be able to discern what is the truth, from what is opinion. "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will" |