Balancing Stewardship and Innovation
One fear leaders have about technology is overspending. Stewardship doesn’t mean saying “no” to all upgrades; it means saying “yes” wisely. A tech audit helps you see where a small investment can have a large impact. For instance, upgrading your Wi-Fi may cost less than a new projector but could significantly improve livestream quality.
As John Wesley once said, “Do all the good you can, by all the means you can.” In our age, technology is one of the means God can use when stewarded faithfully.
The Spiritual Dimension of a Tech Audit
It may feel strange to connect soundboards and websites to spiritual growth, but technology can be either a stumbling block or a bridge to the gospel. If poor audio makes sermons unintelligible, or a clunky website discourages visitors, technology becomes a barrier. If those tools work smoothly, they amplify the message and help more people encounter Christ.
RELATED: When Technology Overwhelms the Gospel
By taking time for a tech audit, we honor God by removing distractions and creating clear pathways for people to hear His Word. The point is not to impress with flashy tools, but to serve faithfully with what He’s entrusted to us.
A tech audit doesn’t need to overwhelm your leadership team. Start with simple questions: What’s working well? What frustrates people? Where are we falling behind? Make a checklist, involve volunteers with technical knowledge, and set a realistic timeline for improvements.
WHy not schedule a tech audit for your church in the next 60 days? Walk through each area—sound, visuals, online presence, management tools, and volunteer training. Celebrate what’s working, address what needs fixing, and prayerfully consider where to invest next. By doing so, you’ll ensure that technology serves your mission rather than distracts from it, keeping your church ready to share Christ in every season.
