Digital Watchmen
The Black Church in the Fourth Industrial Revolution
Digital Watchmen
Written By: Dr. E . Bernard Jordan
The Bible, in Matthew 24:43, urges us to be vigilant: “But know
this, that if the master of the house had known in what watch the thief would come, he would have watched, and would not have suffered his house to be broken up.” This ancient wisdom holds as true today as it did over two millennia ago, especially for the Black Church as it navigates the uncharted waters of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
The Fourth Industrial Revolution, characterized by the fusion of the physical, digital, and biological worlds, has brought unprecedented advancements in artificial intelligence, robotics, and biotechnology. It can potentially reshape societies, economies, and even how we perceive ourselves as human beings. While such advancements come with immense opportunities, they pose significant challenges, particularly for marginalized communities.
The Black Church, a pillar of strength, resilience, and hope, has long played a crucial role in the African American community. It has been a sanctuary during the darkest times, from slavery to the Civil
Rights Movement, and has birthed some of the most influential leaders in American history. Now, as the world faces the transformative power of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, the Black Church must continue to lead its flock with foresight and wisdom.
To fully grasp the magnitude of this challenge, we must first understand the essence of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Revelation 13:16-17 speaks of a time when no one can buy or sell without the mark of the beast. “He causes all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and slave, to receive a mark on their right hand or on their foreheads, and that no one may buy or sell except one who has the mark or the name of the beast, or the number of his name.” While this passage has been interpreted in various ways, it bears a striking resemblance to the ever-increasing role of technology in our daily lives. As cashless transactions become the norm and digital identification systems proliferate, the line between our physical and digital selves is blurring.
One of the most pressing issues the Black Church must confront is the widening digital divide. While technology has the power to democratize access to information and opportunities, it can also exacerbate existing inequalities. In Proverbs 29:18, we are reminded, “where there is no vision, the people perish.” The Black Church must heed this warning and create a vision for its congregation to thrive in the digital age. This vision should include digital literacy programs, business initiatives, and mentorship opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
The Black Church can draw inspiration from existing initiatives, such as partnering with tech companies to provide digital literacy training and affordable broadband access to low-income families in the community. Similarly, congregations nationwide can harness the power of partnerships with educational institutions, tech companies, and government agencies to bridge the digital divide.
The Fourth Industrial Revolution is also redefining the nature of work. As automation displaces traditional jobs, the Black Church must prepare its congregation for the new economy. Proverbs 22:29 emphasizes the importance of skill and diligence: “Do you see a man who excels in his work? He will stand before kings.” The Black Church must recognize that the skills required for success in the future may differ significantly from those of the past.
As we stand on the precipice of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, the Black Church finds itself at a crossroads, presented with both unprecedented opportunities and formidable challenges. Embracing its role as the digital watchman, the Church has the power to lead its congregation into a future where they not only survive but flourish in this brave new world. Let this be the clarion call for the Black Church: to embrace the mantle of the digital watchman, to navigate uncharted territory fearlessly, and to ignite the spirit of innovation within its community. In doing so, the Church will ensure its congregation’s prosperity.∎