The Trap of Church Tech

It is easy to get caught up in the mechanics of ministry. Cameras, lighting, live streams, music transitions, and programming can quickly dominate our focus. These tools are helpful, but they are not the heart of the church. The true heartbeat of ministry is people.

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My Journey Through Tech

Five years ago, I dove deep into streaming ministry at Oasis Christian Center. As a builder and innovator, I loved solving problems. What started as a single iPad stream grew into a full three-camera system broadcasting to both YouTube and Facebook. It was exciting and deeply fulfilling.

But over time, I began to feel restless. At first, I thought it was the itch to build something new. In reality, I realized I could not fully connect with people while running tech. My brain simply could not handle both at the same time.

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The Cost of Switching Roles

Research backs this up. A 2018 study found that human interruptions are cognitively disruptive for software developers. Switching between technical problem-solving and relational engagement carries a high mental cost. The American Psychological Association has shown that task switching can reduce productivity by up to 40 percent.

When church tech volunteers manage livestreams or sound every week, they may say they love it, but they are also making a sacrifice. They are likely missing opportunities for deeper human connection. The shift from tech to people is real, and it is not easy.

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Honoring Your Tech Team

That is why Paul’s words in Romans 12:10 matter so much: “Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other” (NLT). Ministry leaders, this includes your tech teams. They may be introverts or avoid the spotlight, but their sacrifice deserves recognition. Do not just thank them; take delight in honoring them.

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A Moment of Clarity

Three weeks ago, I realized I missed caring for people. I had been caring for tech, but I wanted to be like Barnabas, an encourager and disciple-maker. So I stepped away from tech. That first Sabbath was amazing. I remembered names, had deep conversations, and felt present.

But ten minutes into worship, the video operator texted me. The stream glitched. I got up, walked back to the booth, and slipped back into tech mode. By the time church ended, I felt disconnected again. That moment confirmed something: I cannot do both in this season. God will raise up another tech leader. Right now, He is calling me to pour into people.

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What Church Is Really About

Paul wrote in Galatians 6:2, “Share each other’s burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ” (NLT). In 1 Thessalonians 2:8 he said, “We loved you so much that we shared with you not only God’s Good News but our own lives, too.” That is what church is about: sharing lives, not just livestreams.

Church is not a tech platform. It is not a concert. It is not a schedule of programs or a flawless video stream. The church is a living, breathing body of believers. It is where we cry together, celebrate together, and carry one another’s burdens.

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Final Thoughts

Pastor, thank you for your sacrifice. Whether you’re leading from the platform, behind a camera, or in a quiet conversation in the corner, your faithfulness matters. You are part of something eternal. You are building a legacy of love, one person at a time. So keep showing up. Keep loving well. Keep pointing people to Jesus. God is working through you to grow His Kingdom. I love you guys. I’m cheering for you. We’ll see you next time.

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