Verse | Daniel 12:4 (NKJV): "But you, Daniel, shut up the words, and seal the book until the time of the end; many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall increase."
Matthew 24:14 (NKJV): "And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come."
Revelation 11:8-10 (NKJV): "And [the Two Witnesses’] dead bodies will lie in the street of the great city which spiritually is called Sodom and Egypt, where also our Lord was crucified. Then those from the peoples, tribes, tongues, and nations will see their dead bodies three-and-a-half days, and not allow their dead bodies to be put into graves. And those who dwell on the earth will rejoice over them, make merry, and send gifts to one another, because these two prophets tormented those who dwell on the earth."
1 Corinthians 10:31 (NKJV): "Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. Give no offense, either to the Jews or to the Greeks or to the church of God, just as I also please all men in all things, not seeking my own profit, but the profit of many, that they may be saved." |
Explanation |
These four passages from the Bible provide insights into various aspects of human history, prophecy, and the role of faith in a technologically advanced world. Here's an overview of each passage and their possible connections to modern-day events and Christian practices:
- Daniel 12:4: This verse speaks about Daniel sealing a book until the end times. The context suggests that knowledge will increase significantly before these prophetic events unfold, with people traveling extensively (running to and fro). In today's world, this can be interpreted as globalization, rapid communication through technology such as the internet, social media, radio, television, and high-speed travel via airplanes and automobiles.
- Matthew 24:14: Jesus prophesied that His gospel would be preached to all nations before the end comes. The rapid spread of Christianity across the globe through various forms of communication and transportation can be seen as a fulfillment of this prophecy in modern times. For example, televised sermons, online churches, missions trips, and social media outreach are ways that Christians are sharing their faith with people worldwide.
- Revelation 11:8-10: These verses describe the Two Witnesses who will prophesy in Jerusalem during a significant time near the end of days. Their bodies will lie unburied for three and a half days, causing great distress to those who dwell on earth (possibly interpreted as widespread disbelief or opposition towards their message). In our modern world, this could symbolize how media coverage of religious events may be met with skepticism or even joyous mockery by some.
- 1 Corinthians 10:31: This passage encourages believers to live their lives for the glory of God while being mindful not to offend others (Jews, Greeks, and the church). In today's world with advanced technology, Christians can use platforms like social media or digital outreach programs to spread the Gospel without causing offense. They should also strive to act in a way that brings glory to God by using their resources wisely, caring for others selflessly, and protecting our planet as part of God's creation.
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Societal Relevance | In the modern world, Christians can use technology for good instead of evil. Here are 5 examples of technology being used for good in the 21st century:
1. Digital Evangelism: Using technology like websites, social media platforms, podcasts, or online churches to share the Gospel with people around the globe. This allows for more efficient outreach and enables believers to connect with others who may not have access to physical church buildings.
2. Telemedicine & Healthcare Technology: Developing mobile apps that provide healthcare information, offer virtual consultations with doctors, or help monitor chronic conditions can make medical care more accessible in remote areas where resources are scarce. This can also benefit patients with disabilities who may have difficulty traveling to traditional clinics.
3. Low-Carbon Transportation: Encouraging the development and adoption of fuel efficient vehicles, public transportation, carpooling apps, or bike-sharing programs that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, combat climate change, and promote sustainable living in alignment with Christian values.
4. Education & Training Platforms: Creating open source digital learning platforms to provide affordable education opportunities for people worldwide, especially those in underprivileged communities who may not have access to quality educational resources. This can help break the cycle of poverty and empower individuals to better their lives through knowledge and skill development.
5. Disaster Response & Humanitarian Aid: Using technology like drones, satellite imagery, or AI-powered analytics to assist in disaster response efforts by identifying affected areas quickly, coordinating relief efforts efficiently, or providing critical supplies such as food, water, and medical aid where they're needed most. This can save lives and bring hope during challenging times for those impacted by natural disasters or conflict zones.
For myself, technology is a tool, mainly for watching movies, chatting online, or more recently, learning about Christianity. In fact, this devotional is generated 87% by a free, open-source artificial intelligence program run privately on my personal computer, known as Mistral 7B on an open source interface program named GPT4All. The other 13% is this paragraph that you are reading, written by myself. Every time we use tech, we must use it to edify God, and not ourselves. We must never use tech to harm others, physically, emotionally, or spiritually. |
