Innovation and technology shape lives. They are built on history and they shape history. Any future progress is based on past and present realities.
As the Church becomes aware of the blessings that can be found in innovation and technology, She is likely to embrace those blessings for the advancement of the gospel. For example, the missionary activities of the Apostolic and Early Church were aided by the Roman Road system of their days. Consider the great help of the steam powered locomotive to the Kingdom. What about the automobile?
I read an article in The Telegraph that caused me to stop and consider how economic improvement across Asia is likely to lead to greater opportunities for the gospel to spread rapidly and with honor (2 Thes 3:1). As China and India continue to experience a growing middle class, the demand for air travel continues to increase. And with demand comes the need for more pilots. Such was the thrust of the article.
The growth in the demand for people to take advantage of the technology of flight is so great that William Voss, President of Flight Safety Foundation was quoted as stating, “Never in human history have we seen a time when two billion people will enter the middle class and demand air travel. That time is now.”
The number of Asians traveling within their countries and across the globe is likely to grow dramatically in the next several years. Is the Church ready for such movements?
Yes, the Roman Roads, steam-powered locomotives, and automobiles made travel safer, faster and more efficient.
But is that the extent of their value? Were they allowed to develop simply so we could get to grandmother’s house in time for Christmas? Sure they were/are wonderful blessings, but is there a bigger picture?
Do you and your church recognize the impact that a rise in the Asian middle class will have on your ministry? Do you recognize the wonderful Kingdom opportunities that exist for every new Asian pilot who enters the workforce?