“Silver Linings” from the AMG Broadcasting (Acts Media Group) channel features a conversation between host Steve McAllister and guest Michael Matthews, the Vice President of Innovation and Technology at Oral Roberts University.
Summary of Discussion
In this episode, they explore the intersection of digital technology, faith, and the future. Key points include:
Technology as a Tool for Faith: Matthews argues that God is the ultimate technologist and that technology—like smartphones and the internet—can be leveraged to fulfill the Great Commission by reaching the entire world. He emphasizes that rather than fearing advancements like Artificial Intelligence (AI) or virtual reality (VR), Christians should use them to spread the gospel [03:33 Opens in a new window ], [10:48 Opens in a new window ], [26:48 Opens in a new window ].
Virtual Reality and Learning: Matthews shares a personal story about his granddaughter using VR glasses to learn orthopedic surgery techniques from a top surgeon in Florida while she was in Houston, highlighting how technology can accelerate training by approximately 600% [26:07 Opens in a new window ].
- The “Meta Church”: Matthews shares his vision of the “Meta Church,” suggesting it will replace the “Mega Church.” He defines “Meta” as “metamorphosis” and a higher level of thinking, encouraging believers to move beyond traditional structures and reach people where they are in the digital space [14:03 Opens in a new window ], [14:50 Opens in a new window ].
- Identity and Creativity: They discuss the importance of reclaiming childlike faith and identity in Jesus, noting that while children often possess high creative genius, many adults in leadership have lost this spark [36:14 Opens in a new window ].
- Beyond Politics: Matthews emphasizes that his goal is to share the “absolute truth” of scripture rather than getting involved in political debates. He views his social media presence as a way to leave a legacy for future generations [23:42 Opens in a new window ], [24:05 Opens in a new window ].
The conversation concludes with encouragement to embrace change and look toward the future with faith, rather than fear [37:05 Opens in a new window ].
