Internet and the Church - Survey Results

3/8/2011 1

Internet and the Church
Results

Published: 2/23/2011

John Brooks

3/8/2011 2

SURVEY OVERVIEW.............................................................................................................................3

DESCRIPTION......................................................................................................................................................3
INSTRUCTIONS PROVIDED TO RESPONDENTS...........................................................................................................3
RESPONDENT METRICS........................................................................................................................................3

SURVEY RESULTS..................................................................................................................................3

1. How many hours a week do you use the Internet for Personal use?.........................................................4
2. How many hours a week do you use the Internet for Work?...................................................................5
3. How many hours do you use the Internet for School?.............................................................................6
4. How many hours a week do you use the Internet for Church/Christian?.................................................7
5. Overall - what are some of the benefits of the Internet to You?...............................................................8
6. Overall - what are some of the benefits of the Internet to Society?........................................................13
7. Overall - what are some of the benefits of the Internet to the Church?..................................................18
8. Overall - what are some of the dangers/drawbacks of the Internet to You?...........................................24
9. Overall - what are some of the dangers/drawbacks of the Internet to the Society?................................29
10. Overall - what are some of the dangers/drawbacks of the Internet to the Church?...............................35
11. How does YOUR church use the Internet?..........................................................................................41
12. Are there other ways the Church could be using the Internet?.............................................................43
13. If Jesus began His earthly ministry today, would He use the Internet?................................................47
14. Any last thoughts about the impact of the Internet on the Church that would help me with my project.
...................................................................................................................................................................52

3/8/2011 3

Survey Overview
Description
As part of my Master in Ministries program I'm taking a class entitled "Contemporary
Theological Issues." This is a discussion of issues for which Bible believing Christians have
various views (such as the interpretation of Genesis 1 - was it literally six days or was it six
periods of time).

My project is on the "Impact of the Internet on the Church." If you would, please take a few
moments and answer these survey questions.

NOTE: The responses are anonymous so there is no way that I will or can determine who has
responded.

Thank you!

John Brooks

Instructions Provided To Respondents
As part of my Master in Ministries program I'm taking a class entitled "Contemporary
Theological Issues." This is a discussion of issues for which Bible believing Christians have
various views (such as the interpretation of Genesis 1 - was it literally six days or was it six
periods of time).

My project is on the "Impact of the Internet on the Church." If you would, please take a few
moments and answer these survey questions.

NOTE: The responses are anonymous so there is no way that I will or can determine who has
responded.

Thank you!
John Brooks

INSTRUCTIONS: Answer questions as they relate to you. For most answers, check the boxes
most applicable to you or fill in the blanks.

Respondent Metrics
Respondents: 66
First Response: 2/15/2011 02:22 AM
Last Response: 2/23/2011 03:23 PM

Survey Results
The following is a graphical depiction of the responses to each survey question. Additional
comments provided by respondents, if any, are included after each graph.

3/8/2011 4

1. How many hours a week do you use the Internet for Personal use?

Hours/Week Counts Percentage
0 0 0
1-2 11 17
2-4 18 28
4 or more 36 55
Total 65

Personal Internet Usage - Hours per Week

40
36
35

30

25
Responders

20 18

15
11
10

5
0
0
0 1-2 2-4 4 or more

Percentage of Time for Personal Use

0
1-2
0%
17%

4 or more
55% 2-4
28%

3/8/2011 5

2. How many hours a week do you use the Internet for Work?

0 0 0
1-2 11 17
2-4 18 28
4 or more 36 55
Total 65

Personal Internet Usage - Hours per Week

40
36
35

30

25
Responders

20 18

15
11
10

5
0
0
0 1-2 2-4 4 or more

Percentage of Time for Personal Use

0
1-2
0%
17%

4 or more
55% 2-4
28%

3/8/2011 6

3. How many hours do you use the Internet for School?

0 42 65
1-2 10 15
2-4 2 3
4 or more 11 17
Total 65

School Internet Usage - Hours per Week

45 42
40

35

30
Responders

25

20

15
10 11
10

5 2
0
0 1-2 2-4 4 or more

Percentage of Time for School Use

4 or more
17%
2-4
3%

1-2
15%
0
65%

3/8/2011 7

4. How many hours a week do you use the Internet for Church/Christian?

0 11 17
1-2 27 42
2-4 12 18
4 or more 15 23
Total 65

Church/Christian Internet Usage - Hours per Week

30
27

25

20
Responders

15
15
12
11
10

5

0
0 1-2 2-4 4 or more

Percentage of Time for Church/Christian Use

0
4 or more
17%
23%

2-4
18%
1-2
42%

3/8/2011 8

5. Overall - what are some of the benefits of the Internet to You?

Benefit to Personal Use Count
Information 32
Communication (friends and family) 24
Online Shopping 14
Study/Research Tool 14
Social Networking (e.g. Facebook) 9
Online Baking/Paying Bills 7
Evangelism 5
News and Weather 5
Fellowship/Encouragement 4
Music/E-books/Entertainment 4
Bible Study 3
Job Hunting 3
Business/Work at Home 2
Education/Training 2
Eliminates feeling of isolation 2
Issues (e.g. Egypt) 2
Prayer 2
Church at Home 1
Connect With the World 1
Cooking/Recipes 1
Criminal Information/Sexual Predators 1
Home School Aid 1
Medical Information 1

Benefits for Personal Use
M ed ical Info rm atio n 1
Ho m e S cho o l Aid 1
C rim inal Info rm atio n/S exual Pred ato rs 1
C o o king /R ecip es 1
C o nnect W ith the W o rld 1
C hurch at Ho m e 1
Prayer 2
Is s ues (e.g . Eg yp t) 2
Elim inates feeling o f is o latio n 2
E d ucatio n/T raining 2
B us ines s /W o rk at Ho m e 2
Jo b Hunting 3
B ib le S tud y 3
M us ic/E -b o o ks /E ntertainm ent 4
F ello ws hip /E nco urag em ent 4
N ews and W eather 5
E vang elis m 5
O nline B aking /Paying B ills 7
S o cial N etwo rking (e.g . F aceb o o k) 9
S tud y/R es earch T o o l 14
O nline S ho p p ing 14
C o m m unicatio n (friend s and fam ily) 24
Info rm atio n 32

0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35

Responses

3/8/2011 9

Access to information otherwise difficult to find (0000002378)

Access to information. Easily communicate with large number of people at once. Stay on touch
with friends and family. (0000002301)

access to myriad of information (some more reliable than others), keeping in contact with
friends, family & co-workers around the globe, means of having a presence in a global
community (eg via blogs, posts, website, etc.) for communication purposes. I rely on it to help
me cook & adjust to life in a foreign country through recipe websites, cooking converters, etc--
almost weekly. Online banking is a time & life saver. Shopping online saves me money in an
overpriced economy--I can find just what I need, when I need it for a fraction of the cost locally.
Helps me not to feel so cut off from people and places I've left behind. (0000002350)

allows me to quickly find information at all hours of the day/night, to be more informed and
knowledgeable (0000002313)

Can access it any time. Ability to accomplish many things without leaving my home. Internet is
worldwide. (0000002318)

Communication, keeping up with news,weather etc., information (0000002343)

Connect with family/church family by social media, Bible study and Devo's, Couponing.
(0000002372)

Connecting with friends and family all over the world. Convenience of shopping online. A great
study tool for whatever I want to study. (0000002328)

Connections with family. Resources for school and personal and business. (0000002310)

contact with a broad base of people from all over the country and the world (0000002327)

Coupons, communication with family and friends, resources for children activities and lessons,
vacation planning, pay bills, maps, etc. (0000002377)

Easy access to info.Wide range of info. able to look things up without pressure to buy
(0000002314)

Easy access to information - news, answers, information about medicine and diagnosis,
facebook, shopping deals, travel.Ability to read about both sides of an issue (0000002302)

Easy access to information at the touch of a button. Manage financial information and access to
banking. keeping in touch with friends and family. (0000002369)

Easy access to large amounts of information during the time convenient for me and the place that
is convenient for me. (0000002349)

3/8/2011 10

Easy access to material for training, studying and presentations. (0000002303)

Easy to find information, any information. Easy to communicate with others. (0000002321)

Easy, instant access to resources is the biggest benefit. I no longer have to step into a store,
bank, or even wait for some things to be delivered. I can download music, books, instructions,
and recipes. (0000002320)

Facebook offers support and encouragement for me as a single mom. Facebook and email is a
good place to share scripture and fellowship time between church on Sundays and Wednesdays.
It is also a great resource for devotions, praise music, etc. (0000002333)

Facebook, in particular, has become almost a "prayer chain" of sorts for my friends list. As well
as we(Christians) are able to more easily encourage each other. I also use the internet to stream
sermons frequently. (0000002370)

Fast Information. Accurate fact checking. Communication, socialization. (0000002304)

Finding information without having to use a phone, on my own time and schedule (0000002316)

Finding products, looking up information (0000002381)

Getting in contact with old friends and booking reservations. (0000002351)

Getting information on certain subjects that I am interested in.. (0000002331)

Great material is outbbthere but the problem is being sure that it is crediblree information.
(0000002367)

Helps communcate with others. Helps find job opportunities, clothes, and other items for my
wife, oh yea, and for the house. (0000002335)

I am able to accomplish more in a shorter time spam. (0000002356)

I am able to look up information on just about anything I want; it is very useful. (0000002373)

I can keep in touch with friends and family across seas or even the state! (0000002324)

I can research anything, I can find Bible studies, I can pay bills online, I can interact with others,
view maps, find criminal records and sexual predators in and around my neighborhood
(0000002306)

I have been able to encourage Christians around the world from my desk! ~ Facebook and e-mail
have also helped me share my blog ( www.therrrick.com ) my new book: HEADING TOWARD
THE FINAL FINISH LINE - as well as be able to know about prayer concerns! ~ I have also

3/8/2011 11

been able to share about me being Born Again to many folks that i went to school with many
years ago! (0000002326)

I make my living off the internet. (0000002340)

I use it as a primary research tool. Also to stay connected with friends. Shopping, Library,
Video... (0000002332)

I used it research word meanings and to search for information on products and services
(0000002364)

information can be searched for quickly. Business can be conducted without having to be
physically there (0000002346)

Information that I would not have on hand is at my finger tips on the internet (0000002336)

information, shopping, social networking (0000002308)

information, stay in touch with others (0000002338)

Internet benefits do help with research, and communication amongst others. (0000002368)

It allows me to quickly and easily access a wide variety of information all from one location.
Consider it an office and library that I have with me almost all of the time (I have wifi on my cell
phone). (0000002375)

It allows you to connect with 78 million young people. The millennial generation is the largest
generation in America since the Baby Boomers, and they were born with technology present.
They know nothing else. Therefore, the internet allows me to connect with young people and
find anything thing at the drop of a hat. (0000002315)

It gives me many oportunities to minister to people all over the world. (0000002307)

It is great being able to take college classes online. (0000002334)

It is like an encyclopedia without the books. Keeps you up to date with news, weather, banking
and friends and family. (0000002322)

It means I can work at home more. (0000002300)

It provides excellent entertainment and allows me to communicate with others easily.
(0000002337)

keep in touch with people (0000002363)

3/8/2011 12

Keeping in touch with others. Keeping up to date with the latest Christian resources. Study,
looking for sermons etc on particular subjects or books of the bible. Shopping. Finding places,
information. (0000002382)

Keeping up with friends and family (0000002319)

Learning new things, connecting with others (0000002376)

Looking up information is quicker. Keeping in touch with family and friends. (0000002317)

News and Purchases (0000002329)

News, weather, keeping up with friends. (0000002374)

Online banking is my favorite!! I loved that I could watch church when I was in bed sick on a
recent Sunday morning. The internet makes running my business alot easier. It allows me to
research anything I'm interested in and aides me in my homeschooling. I use it when I'm doing
in depth Bible study. It has so many uses!! (0000002357)

Research (0000002365)

Research for messages and our church web site (0000002330)

Research, job preparation, socializing, writing. (0000002299)

Social interaction with a large number of people in the church congregation. I am currently in
college - completely online. I would not be able to complete my degree with my current school
without internet. The internet is also a major source of information. We get information from the
internet and we give information through the internet, especially for the church and work.
(0000002325)

stay connected but that can be an issue too. (0000002311)

The availability of so many resources for a variety of needs. (0000002305)

The internet gives me access to information that I otherwise wouldn't have access to through my
own personal books. It makes research and studying topics very easy and saves time.
(0000002359)

Timely/extensive information available, cost savings not available in stores, time savings from
not being on the phone, immediate communication (0000002312)

to get answers to questions/keep in touch with friends & family (0000002345)

To have any type of information at my finger tips 24/7. (0000002323)

3/8/2011 13

6. Overall - what are some of the benefits of the Internet to Society?

Benefit to Society Count
Information 31
Communication (friends and family) 28
Knowledge of World Events 13
Connect with Others 12
Research 9
Medical Information 5
Online Banking 5
Online Shopping 4
Social Networking 4
Share Ideas 3
Breaks Down Barriers 2
Entertainment 2
Job Hunting 2
Monitor Sexual Predators 2
Online Education 2
Save Trees 2
Support Causes 2
Time Saver 2
Travel 2
Fellowship 1
Teaching 1
Working from Home 1

Benefits for Societal Use

Wo rk ing fro m H o m e 1
T e ac h ing 1
F e llo ws h ip 1
T rave l 2
T im e S ave r 2
S u p p o rt C au s e s 2
S ave T re e s 2
O nline E d u c atio n 2
M o nito r S e xu al P re d ato rs 2
Jo b H u nting 2
E nte rtainm e nt 2
B re ak s D o wn B arrie rs 2
S h are Id e as 3
S o c ial N e two rk ing 4
O nline S h o p p ing 4
O nlin e B ank ing 5
M e d ic al In fo rm atio n 5
R e s e arc h 9
C o nne c t with O th e rs 12
Kno wle d ge o f Wo rld E ve nts 13
C o m m u nic atio n (frie nd s and fam ily) 28
In fo rm atio n 31

0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35
Responses

3/8/2011 14

Access point for information, keeping in touch with others that are far away (0000002376)

Access to information. Communication. (0000002301)

access to more information about everything - the world, our country, our community and each
other (0000002302)

Allows a free communication of ideas and access by all to necessary information. (0000002375)

breaks down cultural barriers what existed before everyone was connected world wide
(0000002308)

business, looking for friends (0000002381)

communication and connectedness (0000002373)

communication is easier, can be less time consuming and much faster, increase in general
knowledge along with world events, it makes our world much smaller. (0000002299)

Communication, instance access to information of any kind (0000002343)

connecting people that other wise would not be able to connect to share ideas and beliefs
(0000002327)

Connections with one another. Sharing information. Supporting causes. (0000002310)

convenience of communication and access to information (0000002378)

Ease of use. Lots of information. Shopping by comparison simplified. (0000002332)

Employment, financial, communication, education, cultural (0000002377)

Fast Information. Accurate fact checking. Communication, socialization. (0000002304)

gain information quickly (0000002345)

Global and instant communication (0000002330)

Helping those with special needs/home bound in staying in touch with others. Ability to shop on
line and delivery. Wider availability of information. Easy access to news. (0000002382)

I think people have become more atttached to the internet and less attached to real people. It is
easier to communicate thur the internet than face to face. Interpersonnal interaction in fading.
(0000002335)

3/8/2011 15

I think the interent offers people the ability to be more connected to friends and family and (if
they seek it out) more informed secularly as well as spiritually. (0000002370)I'm not qualified to
answer this. (0000002300)

Information (0000002329)

information (0000002338)

Information and entertainment (0000002365)

Information available quickly. (0000002321)

information can be alot easily accessed (0000002363)

It all depends on how it is being used. (0000002368)

It allows people to search for jobs, work from home, learn and research topics of interest. It also
allows people to look up and listen to music, and connect with many people at once through
social networks. (0000002359)

It enables anyone no matter what their physical, social or financial situation to connect with other
people, places and information on any subject. (0000002364)

It has the potential to link the societies of the world through social networking. Now with
YouTube and iPhones, we can show the world what we are doing every second of the day.
(0000002320)

It is a economic way to keep in touch with friends and family that live far away. Also it is more
cost efective for businesses if their customers contact them online. (0000002334)

It is a good sorce from which to gather information. (0000002307)

It is a great resource and reference point for directions, research, fellowship, etc. People can
have an extended family online and share pictures, family updates, etc more easily with others.
(0000002333)

It keeps everyone up to date on information and news. (0000002337)

It provides a faster means of access to information so individuals can make better decisions.
(0000002340)

it’s an information world nowadays – everyone is expected to take advantage and know “things”.
Also, people communicate without being face-to-face. The social networks, email, blogs, chats,
etc. – all these things allow folks to talk to one another without actually seeing the other person.
The generation growing up doesn’t know what it means to pick up the phone when they can text

3/8/2011 16

– what it means to meet someone face to face to learn more about them – to be able to give
someone a hug (0000002313)

Keeping in touch and getting info (0000002319)
Keeping in touch with each other, medical usage - looking up medical issues. (0000002351)

Medical is the biggest asset (0000002367)

Meeting people (0000002331)

News can spread at light speed. Make contact with people and places that may have been more
difficult to contact personally. (0000002318)

News Reports, Wheather, Couponing, Merchant Sales/Internet Shopping, Radio
Broadcasting/Talk Radio (AFR/Revive Our Hearts Ministries (N.DeMoss & B.Moore pod casts),
Online Education. (0000002372)

preditors have a new place to prey as well as the positives of having information and
communication at your fingertips. (0000002311)

provide access to information when you need it (0000002316)

Quick access to varied information Can search and locate from the comfort of my home.
(0000002328)

Rapid communications (0000002356)

Rapid info. (0000002374)

Rapid, accurate communication (0000002309)

readily links people of similar interests in a global community (eg. support group websites for
TCKs, families with diabilities, missionaries, etc.), information at our fingertips for just about
anything and everything (both positive and negative), saves trees by going to a digital media vs.
paper media, helps the economy in the sense of sales/advertising/eqiupment sales &
repair/service subscriptions, etc. and creates jobs to support all of this (0000002350)

Research, news and weather, on-line banking, friends and family. (0000002322)

Research, record keeping, reduces having to travel to meetings, quick communication.Medical
information is available 24/7,Financial accounts readily accessible.... (0000002346)

Searching for information (0000002317)

Simpler and less expensive ways to communicate important information such ad weather
warnings or health issues, etc. (0000002349)

3/8/2011 17

social outlet. easy access to info. range of beliefs and opinion readily available. (0000002314)

Society benefits from the availability of every kind of information necessary for life. If your
thermostat for your a/c at the house breaks, you can go on the internet, get a skematic for it,
diagnose problems and possibly solve problems with the information available on the internet.
(0000002325)

Socitey has improved a lot by gaining access to important information. Science and research has
improved. Access to cheap telephone and messaging service. (0000002369)

Speed, consolidation of business. (0000002303)

Staying in touch with family and friends, less paper used for bills, no postage or envelopes, stay
abreast of worldly events, monitoring sexual predators in neighborhood, maps, phone book
directories, research. (0000002306)

Talking with and seeing family that lives out of state (0000002336)

The benefits and dangers are very similar. The internet has a vast amount of information, and
misinformation. But it allows people the opportunity to have there perspective and educate
themselves. (0000002305)

The internet has allowed us to become more informed, especially in terms of our health. It
allows for quick and easy research on anything we're interested in learning more about. It has
allowed us to reconnect quickly and easily with family and friends. It allows us to take our
businesses outside of our local area. (0000002357)

The internet, again, allows you to find practically anything. You hear news? Don't wait for the
paper, find out about it instantly in the headlines of fox,msn,cnn,etc. Can't remember who sings
that song, or you know, the one movie with that crazy guy? You can find it instantaneously.
(0000002315)

They can post things that just happened outside an area and then it goes on the tv or radio
(0000002324)

Timely information, immediate communication (0000002312)

Used the right way--the Internet can inform--teach--and bring the people of the world closer
together. The recent events in Egypt is a great example. (0000002323)

3/8/2011 18

7. Overall - what are some of the benefits of the Internet to the Church?

Benefit to the Church Count
Communicating/Contact Others 28
Evangelism 24
Contact/Connect Missionaries 12
Live Feed of Services 11
Research 11
Advertise Church 10
Online Sermons 9
Bible Studies 7
Prayer Request 6
Online Giving 4
Check Out Churches 3
Ministry to Others 3
Group Bible Studies 2
Online Bibles 2
Social Networking 2
Interaction with Others 1
Ordering Supplies 1
Provide Feedback 1

Benefits for Church Use

Provide Feedback 1
Ordering Supplies 1
Interaction with Others 1
Social Networking 2
Online Bibles 2
Group Bible Studies 2
Ministry to Others 3
Check Out Churches 3
Online Giving 4
Prayer Request 6
Bible Studies 7
Online Sermons 9
Advertise Church 10
Research 11
Live Feed of Services 11
Contact/Connect Missionaries 12
Evangelism 24
Communicating/Contact Others 28

0 5 10 15 20 25 30
Responses

3/8/2011 19

Evangelism/Apologetics, Missionary Support such as Skype and News Letters. (0000002372)

Access to ministry materials for all (kids, teens, single adults, etc). (0000002303)

advertisement for the church, live feeds for shut ins so they can still feel a part of the church
(0000002343)

Again many resources are available. We can hear a lot of great preaching, Be in contact with
missionaries overseas, and be informed of prayer requests and needs at a moment's notice.
(0000002305)

allows for church members to communicate during the week (0000002363)

An updated daily prayer list.Messages to the choir and other members. Sharing pictures of events
via facebook and email. Paying my tithes and offerings through my bank. No writing checks.
(0000002300)

another means for evangelism, a way to minister to the folks in the church (0000002313)

Bible studies, webcasting church services, prayer requests, sharing scriptures with people on
Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, Flicker, etc. Posting upcoming events within the community like
outreaches, concerts, charities. (0000002306)

Bible study tool (0000002365)

Communication (0000002304)

Connections with missionaries. Resources. (0000002310)

Contact point through church websites. Ability to make available teachng/christian material
(0000002382)

easy research, community of believers (0000002338)

Easy to use. Ability to reach out to people who may otherwise not be aware. (0000002332)

easy way for people to check the church out without stepping through the doors. Able to make
prayer requests available quickly. social outlet. (0000002314)

Enables the Church to reach more people at a significantly lower cost (0000002356)

Evangelism, outreach, communication with members, member retention because of higher level
of interaction and quicker feedback. (0000002340)

3/8/2011 20

getting the gospel message out to more and more people, communicating church information and
direction and activities, posting services online, communicating with missionaries (0000002299)

getting your church info out (we always look for church websites before attending or applying),
some collect tithe online through paypal, great sermon illustrations at your finger tips (we use
youtube every week), facebook is a great social networking tool for the church (it's how we sent
announcements and reminders and stay connected through the week), ordering church resources,
sermon prep listening to sermons from pastors we would never get to go to their actual churches
online anytime for free. researching the culture to see how it effects your church body.
connecting to missionaries who use to be alone on the field. (0000002308)

helps you keep on up coming events and such (0000002336)

I do not know (0000002302)

I have no idea (0000002316)

I think it is a great way to reach out to people. (0000002335)

Information, information, information. We send out emails almost daily to our church people.
We inform them of events. We inform the community about our church. People decide whether
or not to come to a church often times based on what information is given on the church website.
(0000002325)

It can allow a church to reach an audience thousands and even millions of times larger than the
local community and provides resources for the church to easier communicate with its members.
(0000002375)

It does help with information especially with missions (0000002368)

It gives the church a way to reach people that it would not be able to reach within their own
town, in a very rural area people would not respond well to "church people" getting in their
business but would reach out to people who want to help from afar. (0000002327)

It is benefical to the church because they are able to reach more people online by posting
sermons from the church. (0000002334)

It is perhaps one of the largest untapped mission fields. People around the globe can join with a
church over the web. Relatively cheap to have an internet presence. (0000002318)

It provides a live feed for sermons for everyone to see. It keeps others informed of changes,
events, and specials. (0000002337)

It should be utilitized to reach people with the message of hope through Jesus Christ. Also
inform of activities, service times and upcoming events. It can go not places that people can't or
will not go to reach others (0000002364)

3/8/2011 21

Keep people uptodate on the church events. Prayer groups sharing requests on a regular basis.
Access to valuable sermons and church related material.Worship music. (0000002369)

Keeping in touch and getting out info (0000002319)

Keeping up with people in the church. Sermons call be seen all over the world. (0000002317)

Keeping up with the quickly changing culture mostly for the use of how we are to relate to them
in terms of their worlds'. (0000002367)

live broadcasts, missionary communication (0000002381)

Making information accessible. Research. Communication. (0000002301)

Ministries can readily communicate quickly & efficiently to its membership base, as well as
extension of its ministry around the globe (eg. missions--oh that more would use this to
encourage their missionaries!!) A church without a website that is updated regularly is missing
out on a huge opportunity of exposure both inside and outside the community; online christian
resources help in discipleship (eg. sermon podcasts, group studies online, free online Bible tools,
etc.)-- the possibilities are endless. Allows for shut-ins to connect with their local assembly for
spiritual encouragement. Online giving is easy to track & maintain consistency making it
convenient for givers. Can be effective means of keeping the global church connected outside of
the local community via Skype, email, websites, etc.--inward focused churches eventually die, so
connecting members in Lakeland to say, Australia, can help prevent this as they see a world
bigger than their own; Quick means for prayer communication; can be a great way for members
who relocate to maintain contact with a church body while they re-establish into their new
community (0000002350)

Opens up a whole new world of opportunities to reach people (0000002309)

Our Web site keeps people informed and some can down load messages. Also new people can
find us this way. (0000002330)

outreach and research tool (0000002373)

Pastors blogs, sheet music downloading, broadcasting services via the web, podcasts, instant
access to Bible study programs such as an interlinear Bible and Strong's numbers. (0000002320)

Provides ways for people who cannot physically attend worship to participate in worship and
also makes the Good News available to those in places where they do not have the freedom of
open worship. (0000002349)

Puts information in a medium that is accessible. (0000002321)

3/8/2011 22

research topics, allow visitors and potential members access to church informaton, allow e-mails
to be sent to members (0000002345)

sending out bulletins, keeping members informed of events, getting volunteers, broadcast
sermons for shut-ins, podcast sermons or lessons, get input (0000002376)

sermon research on scripture, illustrations, video clips. Advertisement to the community. A web
presence tells the community that you are culturally relevant. It allows people to experience your
church prior to having to make a physical visit. Keeps the church up on current events.
Facilitates any ministry trips by scheduling, paying, even charting a course to travel there.....
(0000002346)

Services are online (0000002329)

Shut ins can attend a service. Keep in touch with your missionaries. (0000002351)

Shut ins may see church services live via interne. Bible studies are available. (0000002307)

The church can upload sermons on video for shut-ins, and those far away to watch. It also helps
with spreading the gospel to the unsaved who use the internet daily. (0000002359)

The Church or any other religion can reach out to millions of people. (0000002323)

The gospel can be shared beyond the walls of the church. (0000002322)

The internet can help people stay connected, stay up-to-date, new avenues for study.
(0000002311)

The internet gives individual churches the ablility to make themselves more accessible to the
unchurched, via websites with downloadable or streaming sermons or other media. This benefits
the Church at large simply by the ability to witness and disciple on wider scope. (0000002370)

The internet is a great way to spread God's word. One of the best benefits is the ability to watch
or listen to church services online. This is great for parents with sick children, people who are
homebound, in the military etc. We recently had a person come from Canada to be baptized at
our church. She watched the service every Sunday online and found God because of it.
(0000002333)

There are a plethora of podcasts, Bibles helps, etc. on line. These make growing and teaching
alot easier. Youtube has really been a help in bringing video and music together in our youth
group. (0000002357)

Timely information, immediate communication, reaching people beyond the local community
(0000002312)

To reach more people and stay in closer contact with their Congregation (0000002331)

3/8/2011 23

to send out information such as service times, programs, online bible study, even to stream live
services to people who cannot attend. (0000002378)

To stay in touch with friends who are on the mission field - to help raise money ( I am going to
Kenya in Oct.) - to reach out with the GOOD NEWS to many who I have come acroos with at
my races who 'gave up on church'. (0000002326)

Using Daily Bread, shopping for bible study materials, contact with sister churches and missions.
(0000002374)

Web pages, sermons online, updates! (0000002324)

When re-locating to an area it gives me quick access to Churches that I may be interested in.
Internet helps me as a member keep informed from home about the goings on at my church.
(0000002328)

Worship services, post activities, evangelism, Bible Study, Bible education and Bible studies,
outreach (0000002377)

Young people on are social media. Simply put. We try and try to find out what's the best way to
reach them! The answer is simple, log in to Facebook, surf You Tube, and tweet something and
young people will be there. Go to where the young people are. Plus, the church may thing that
internet could be unsafe, but there are plenty of reliable Christian resources and names utilizing
the web and iTunes and they are reaching millions and show no signs of slowing down!
(0000002315)

3/8/2011 24

8. Overall - what are some of the dangers/drawbacks of the Internet to You?

Dangers to Personal Use Count
Time Consuming 25
Inaccurate Information 12
Temptations 9
Loss of Contact with Friends & Family 7
Online Pornagrahpy 7
Computer Viruses 5
Hackers 5
Trash Talk/Gossip 5
Lock of Personal Contact 4
Loss of Privacy/Personal Information 4
Sexual Predators 4
Miss-reading Text (no boby language) 2
Online Gambling 2
Big Brother 1
Scams 1
Secrete Sins 1
Sharing Copywrited Material 1

Dangers of Personal Use

Sharing Copywrited Material 1

Secrete Sins 1

Scams 1

Big Brother 1

Online Gambling 2

Miss-reading Text (no boby language) 2

Sexual Predators 4

Loss of Privacy/Personal Information 4

Lock of Personal Contact 4

Trash Talk/Gossip 5

Hackers 5

Computer Viruses 5

Online Pornagrahpy 7

Loss of Contact with Friends & Family 7

Temptations 9


Time Consuming 25

0 5 10 15 20 25 30
Responses

3/8/2011 25

Before we had internet I was always afraid that the wrong kind of material would be accessed,
but I believe the benefits out weigh the dangers. (0000002343)

Big Brother watching all. Sexual predators for children. Some spend too much time in chat
rooms, gambling sites, pornography, etc. Some choose the internet over family. (0000002306)

Can be a time stealer. Can be discouraging--as a missionary, when you don't hear from people
and yet you know how easy and cheap it is to send an email, sometimes it's pretty discouraging.
Obviously can present the temptation to look/listen/read objectionable material. Malicious
hackers causing loss of work & data via viruses. (0000002350)

Can be adictive and take you away from personal or family things that need your attention.
(0000002351)

Can easily be distracted from primary focus, more exposure to unethical/inappropriate data
information, can't always verify validity of information; information overload (0000002312)

Can sometimes stunt the creative process, due to the sheer amount of information available.
(0000002318)

Could pay attention to the wrong things; the volumn of email could cause me to not respond to
important messages timely (0000002311)

Creepy people. Agenda's I don't agree with, views I don't agree with posted on sites I regularly
visit (0000002304)

easy access to bad info. easy to neglect family. misinformation (0000002314)

false information spreading like truth (0000002316)

Hacking into your bank account or personal information (0000002331)

I use the internet sparingly, so dont see any real danger. I dont like to be too reliant on it for any
one thing. I use it as a useful tool only. (0000002382)

Information that is not credible seems to outway the credible information (0000002367)

Internet can become a time waster as well as draw you into avenues that you should not be in.
(0000002328)

It can be very addictive and can easily allow people access to not only good but evil. The
internet itself, like all tools, is neutral; it is how we choose to use that makes it good or evil.
(0000002375)

3/8/2011 26

It can become a huge time waster, it can possibly lead to "secret" sins where there's no
accountability, communicating through social networks can be a drawback in some cases.
(0000002299)

it can consume alot of your time (0000002336)

it can consume time, it can distract during times that should be carved out for the person you are
at a ministry lunch with, robbing your attention and disturbing your flow of discussion. If not
careful with emails coming in on my smart phone I can give people the impression that I do not
value them or their time. (0000002346)

It can easily lead to sin if not being careful with regards to pornographic content. Children can be
target to evil schemes. (0000002369)

it can take up alot of time i kind use being more productive (0000002363)

It will take my time up that I can spend with my wife or other people I care about. It can
consume my time. (0000002335)

just as people talk trash, many write trash on things like Facebook, blogs, etc. Also, I think the
value of face to face is lost on the upcoming generation (0000002313)

Less privacy, danger of loss of personal data (0000002309)

Like other similar forms of technology when you read soneone's comments or suggestions you
do not know the tone or the intent and it is much easier to 'read' something the wrong way. It also
takes away from the personal face to face or voice to voice communication that is vital in all
types of relationships. (0000002349)

Lose of personal information, Compromise of financial data (0000002356)

My greatest grievance is the accesibility of porn. I hate how easy it is to find it! After that, I'd
say the time that it can consume checking email, running business, checking facebook, etc. Time
is precious to me, and keeping up with it all can rob me of precious time. (0000002357)

none (0000002368)

People can say inappropriate things that the whole world can hear/read. Temptations to sin are
much greater than they would be if the internet did not exist. (0000002325)

Personally the internet has a great capacity to waste my time by aimless surfing. (0000002370)

Porn, gambling, bad information (0000002365)

Proliferation of not quite accurate information. (0000002332)

3/8/2011 27

Reveling too much information about my day and myself to others, makes gossiping very easy.
My testomony for the Lord being questioned because of poor comments ex: Social Networks
(FB) due to the fact that expressions are mis-judged. (0000002372)

Scams, dis-honest people, spy-ware (0000002327)

Sharing copyrighted material, pornography, idle surfing, easy communication from a distance
(no phone call required). (0000002320)

So much of what is online is not true or biased. There is some really bad stuff online. Even the
"Good" stuff can be addictive and you waste time and close yourself off from real life
communication. (0000002305)

Some are the language and pictures people post out there and its just not edifying and just not
right! (0000002324)

Some of the advertisements. (0000002317)

Some time wasted (0000002329)

Steals time. (0000002321)

Takes time away from other responsibilities. (0000002301)

Takes time from other activities. (0000002377)

takes up too much time (0000002338)

The dangers would be only what you allow. (0000002300)

The internet shows not just things geared to Christianity. It shows various genres of content and
it could easily draw anyone to the wrong places. Nothing a little prayer, reading of the word, and
self control from the Holy Spirit can't fix. (0000002315)

The only danger I can think of is you have to be careful where you put your financial
information. (0000002334)

The typing of a simple word can throw you into web sites that you had no intention of ever
seeing or going to. (0000002322)

There are a multitude of bad websites on the internet and these present a danger to anyone
surfing the net. (0000002364)

There are many dangerous viruses that can be accidently downloaded onto my computer from
various sites, as well as many different immoral and pornographic sites, that I don't wish to be
exposed to. (0000002359)

3/8/2011 28

There is always a possibility of identity theft, virus', information stolen and ect. Then I tend to
get caught up in things and my time is drained. (0000002337)

Things popping up that I don't want or need to see. (0000002374)

time can get away from you (0000002345)

time consuming (0000002308)

too easy for others to get information about me or anyone else (0000002302)

too much personal info readily available to people, can be a HUGE time waster (0000002378)

Too much time on the computer. Its always there and i can always find work to do.
(0000002340)

too much time spent, distracts from one on one social interaction, identity theft (0000002376)

unscrupulous people (0000002373)

Used the wrong way--people can have/access private information about you without your
knowledge. We have all lost some of our personal privacy because of it. (0000002323)

Very easy to waste time on computer doing "justifiable" activities, even "righteous" activities.
(0000002310)

Viruses and bad site. (0000002330)

waste time (0000002381)

Wasting time (0000002319)

We must be careful that we do not put the internet above face to face contact. (0000002307)

We must be ever prayerful of what we write. Our words can be twisted and bring shame on us,
our faith and our witness. (0000002326)

World uses the Internet to draw people away from a Biblical worldview. (0000002303)

You have to be very careful with your security online. It is easy for people to find out
information about you online and use it against you either legally, financially, or emotionally.
Friends can quickly become your enemies. (0000002333)

3/8/2011 29

9. Overall - what are some of the dangers/drawbacks of the Internet to the
Society?

Dangers to Society Count
Online Pornography 13
Temptations 12
Loss of Privacy 8
Online Gambling 6
Sexual Predators 6
Addiction 5
Spreading Gossip/Rumors 5
Time Waster 4
Isolation 3
No Accountability 3
Scams 3
Bomb Making Information/Terror 2
Hard to Protect Children 2
Impersonal/Lack of Body Language 2
Belittling Women 1
Copyright Theft 1
Moral Negatives 1
Racial Bias 1
Ruined Reputations 1
Too Much Information 1
Violence 1

Dangers of Societal Use

Vio lence 1
T o o M uch Info rm atio n 1
R uined R ep utatio ns 1
R acial B ias 1
M o ral N eg atives 1
C o p yrig ht T heft 1
B elittling W o m en 1
Im p ers o nal/Lack o f B o d y Lang uag e 2
Hard to Pro tect C hild ren
2
B o m b M aking Info rm atio n/Terro r 2
S cam s 3
N o Acco untab ility 3
Is o latio n 3
T im e W as te r 4
S p read ing G o s s ip /R um o rs 5
Ad d ictio n 5
S exual Pred ato rs 6
O nline G am b ling
6
Lo s s o f Privacy 8
T em p tatio ns
12
O nline Po rno g rap hy 13
Inaccurate Info rm atio n
14

0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16
Responses

3/8/2011 30

Addictive nature of some internet items. Ungodly websites. The ability to conduct relationships
in secret. Too much access to information that can then be used for ungodly purposes.
(0000002382)

Again--used the wrong way false information can be spread across the Internet about
countries/governments/religions/individuals--etc. (0000002323)

Alot of garbage people can get involved with if they are not careful. Gambling, porn, chat
rooms, and lots of other things. (0000002317)

as society goes again it can become a consuming force constantly drawing people away from
"personal to Impersonal" communication, Just as great things are readily available at ones figure
tips, Vile things are as well (porn, violence, gambling, farmville...) all within the confines of
one's total privacy. Addictions not limited to porn are prevalent such as gaming. I know of those
who could not break free of a gaming addiction that was taking over every minute of their life
even leading to thief for more games. (0000002346)

Can affect morality (0000002343)

information, can't always verify validity of information (0000002312)

Can lead to bad addictions. Used for terror and anti-social activities. (0000002369)

Creates opportunities to damage reputations, spread gossip and untruths (0000002309)

visit (0000002304)

disconnection of relationships, facebook taking the place of face to face relationships, taking
time way from family and or work. Too much sedentary activity. Not to mention cyber -
stalking,bullying and sex. (0000002378)

easy to believe everything you read. easy to get sucked in and spend too much time.
(0000002314)

Equal access to good and bad information. (0000002301)

Evil preys on the innocent. (0000002377)

false information spreading like truth (0000002316)

Free access to information that should not be viewed or that could be used to harm others with
this huge social networking websites being the primary suspect. (0000002367)

3/8/2011 31

Greed, fame, self-worth, sexual perversion - all of these and so many other things can effects of
the internet on society. Sometimes we know too much because of the internet. (0000002325)

Hacking into your bank account or personal information (0000002331)

I can see that as a Society it would help feed any addictions you may have in the privacy of your
home. (0000002328)

Isolationism, public exposure to private matters (0000002320)

It allows people to be too connected. I know this was the answer I gave to the benefits question,
but just like everything else, moderation must be achieved. It's a possiblity that people can lose
their face to face interaction skills as well as "real life" interests by excessive virtual interation.
(0000002370)

It opens alot of temptation that people have become comfortable with. People can say, look, and
do things wihtout anyone knowing. There is no accountablity to most people on the internet.
(0000002335)


Like society in general, weak people are pulled to the dark side of life, but the internet may make
it easier (ie porn). Also, anonymity makes people hateful in their comments because of having
no consequences. (0000002373)

Lust of the eyes, lust of the flesh and the pride of life. (0000002303)

many (0000002368)

mis-information. There is too much information that is not correct and/or tainted - and there are
few that can really know the difference all the time. (0000002302)

Not enough space :) Seriously, to name a few: Gossipers, Slander, Affairs, Porn & Gambling.
(0000002372)

Not only good information, but bad and false information can also be available at the click of a
mouse. (0000002321)

Not qualified to answer this. (0000002300)

nothing is secret (0000002308)

people being taken advantage of (0000002336)

3/8/2011 32

people can put what ever they want on the internet whether it is true or not (0000002363)

People could find u and stalk u and even worse things! (0000002324)

People have access to material they should not (like how to make a bomb, porn, etc.) Makes
easy the theft of copyrighted material through sources like Limewire, etc. Isolates--we've gone
from a front-porch to a back-deck to a drive-thru to a never-leave-home society causing
loneliness and lack of interpersonal contact--this is very dangerous. I've seen a few marriages
wrecked due to online romances that would have not otherwise formed had it not been for things
like internet chat rooms, social websites, etc. It is harder for parents to protect their children
from objectional material and/or relationships. Families weakened by often spending more time
"doing their own thing while staring at a computer screen and participating in virtual
relationships" rather than face to face with each other. "Real life" has become virtual reality--
weakening a persons true identity and sense of purpose. (0000002350)

People start to live virtual lives, and get disconnected from reality. (0000002305)

Personal attacks can be vicious * preditors can use it * we can be fed false information.
(0000002307)

Porn is the biggest to me. I know many who have fallen prey, children and men, to this evil that
is only a click away. Identity theft also seems to be a drawback. (0000002357)

Porn, gambling, addiction to all kinds of things that take you away from the family or job.
(0000002351)


Pornography addiction (0000002330)

Pornography is a huge problem. Drawing young people (broad definition) into forums that
discuss anything AND restrict parental participation. Computers information/groups/sites/forums
can build support and/or cause conflict. (0000002310)

Pornography, gambling sites, dating sites that sexual predators use, invasion of privacy. Craig's
List and other sites that allow anyone to post racial, biased, harmful comments. Websites that
belittle or demoralize women and abuse. Children are vulnerable to predators. (0000002306)

Pornography, wasting time, strife and conflict through social networking and email, lack of
integrity and accountability. (0000002299)

preditors have a new place to prey. New additions are introduced with the various types of
information readily available. (0000002311)

Rapid dissimination of false or misleading information (0000002356)

3/8/2011 33

scams (0000002345)

scams, dis-honest people, people able to steal your information (0000002327)

Security (personal safety and banking) can be invaded. (0000002322)

SIN is too easy reached. Too many men ( from what i have read) have private sex time on the
net. (0000002326)

Some time wasted (0000002329)

The content the internet constantly streams is a huge danger to children. Should we shelter our
kids from the internet? No. Should we expose them to sexual/explicit ads, material, and crude
adult humor? Of course not! We cannot hide them from kids, but the internet can destroy an
individual's reputation and could ruin self image for kids (ie: Disney stars who have themselves
exposed for personal, media related matters) When kids stumble upon this, it sheds a bad light
and could lead to a negative influence. (0000002315)

The internet can be a source of danger especially on social network sites for men and women
both . . .as chatting with strangers who have criminal or dangerous backgrounds, often leads to
personal or emotional harm. Also, pornography is rampant on the internet, and as many citizens
delve into it, it helps to corrupt not only the unsaved, but also christian men and women on a
daily basis. (0000002359)

The internet can give people a sense of anonymity which in turn gives them the false sense that
they can be something that they are not. Bad people can use the internet as much as good people.
(0000002318)

The internet still requires a level of sophistication by the person searching so they can discern
what is truth over what is just slanted opinion. (0000002340)

the process to do anything has changed – everyone is expected to have all information available,
and to know that information. People are expected to be a part of social networks. People are
expected to communicate via the computer. (0000002313)

There are a multitude of bad websites on the internet and these present a danger to anyone
surfing the net. (0000002364)

There are some bad people out there. (0000002374)

There is always a possibility of identity theft, virus', information stolen and ect. Then people can
get caught up in things and not get many things done. (0000002337)

To easy to to the "wrong" thing. (0000002332)

3/8/2011 34

too much time spent, distracts from one on one social interaction, neglecting chores/self
(0000002376)

waste of time, easy access to sinful things (0000002338)

Wasting time and seeing and hearing innappropriate stuff (0000002319)

wrong use of information (0000002381)

You have to be very cautious of the information you find online to ensure it comes from a
reputable source. There is a lot of garbage online mixed in with the good stuff. People use it to
feed addictions, to hurt others, or as their only forms of social interaction. (0000002333)

3/8/2011 35

10. Overall - what are some of the dangers/drawbacks of the Internet to the
Church?

Dangers to Church Count
Bad/False Doctrines 10
Temptations 9
Time Waste 7
Misinterpret Information 5
Access to Personal Information 3
Divisive Preaching 3
Draw to Virtual Church 3
Gossip 3
Hackers 3
Poor Web Site 3
Dissassocation/Isolation 2
Too Much Money Spent in Internet 2
Exclusive Commincation 1
Low-budget Technology 1

Dangers of Church Use

Low -budget Technology 1

Exclusive Commincation 1

Too Much Money Spent in Internet 2

Dissassocation/Isolation 2

Poor Web Site 3

Hackers 3

Gossip 3

Draw to Virtual Church 3

Divisive Preaching 3

Access to Personal Information 3

Misinterpret Information 5

Time Waste 7

Temptations 9

Bad/False Doctrines 10

0 2 4 6 8 10 12
Responses

3/8/2011 36

A local church will have to work pretty hard to compete with flashier churches all around the
world drawing their people away into a virtual "perfect church" world; there is far more exposure
to good causes desiring donations so it draws money that might otherwise be given to support the
ministries of the local church--this has a global effect as well when churches do not have the
means to support global missions on the level they once did; We actually have seen very
negative ramifications by a lot of ultra-legalistic rhetoric on the internet that confused people in
our congregation and called into question music or materials we were trying to use. There are a
lot of divisive "preachers" out there that cause local in-the-pulpit pastors a lot of grief. Also,
unfortunately, the internet can aid in the sin of gossip among members--I have seen far too much
of this and it saddens me. (0000002350)

Again, we must be aware of how words can come back to hurt the message that we are trying to
share. (0000002326)

all depends on how it is controlled and used (0000002368)

allows not so nice people access to church meetings, etc (0000002345)

As with any Organization/Person who is identified on the Internet the information gleaned by
someone who has a purpose to destroy or defame is always present. (0000002328)

Believers being naive to Satan's traps, because "society" says it's the norm or everyone is
participating. (0000002372)

information, can't always verify validity of information (0000002312)

Church could be suceptibale to false or misleading information (0000002356)

church seems behind the times technologically. Need to invest much money for a good website
so people will be impressed. (0000002314)

Could pay too much attention to the Internet instead of staying focused on the Lord.
(0000002311)

visit (0000002304)

Danger of disseminating misleading information or creating misconceptions about the church
(0000002309)

Easy access to distorted worldviews. It's another medium to keep people from attending church
and having fellowship with one another (like TV does). (0000002303)

False teaching is easily spread. Can lack the true fellowship that can come with physically
meeting together. The internet can never replace personal contact. (0000002318)

3/8/2011 37

Gossip and false doctrine can spread easily. (0000002321)

Hackers (0000002330)

I do not know (0000002302)

i dont know (0000002363)

I have no idea (0000002316)

I really can't think of any. (0000002343)

I'll mention it again but information that is not credible with people trying to find churches
and/or using the internet as ther onnly source of information because it is so easy. (0000002367)

I've found many churches that do not deserve the name Christian, proclaiming awful messages
and claiming Christianity. This same problem is encountered in real life as well so it is not
unique to the internet. However, I believe this leads us back to the question of connectivity. A
church that is not actively involved in the lives of it's people and relies too heavily on internet
sermon, music, lessons, and interaction in general cannot be contributing to the Church as a
whole. (0000002370)

It can be an uncontrolled platform for people to use to bring detriment to God's work in the
church. It can provide people within the church greater opportunity to commit sin. (0000002325)

It can cause a church to be so engaged with new "toys and gimmicks" as to forget that ministry is
truly one to one and that the local church is our mission field. While technology is a help it is
not a replacement for person ministry. (0000002375)

It cannot be the exclusive way to communicate to members. Not all members use the internet or
use it frequently enough to get last minute details. (0000002301)

Just as the internet gives us the ability to share God, it gives non-believers the same opportunity
to discredit us, attack us, etc. Although we can broadcast our services online, it should only be
the beginning step for others....not the stopping point. Fellowship in a church (live and in
person) is important. (0000002333)


lose the face to face contact and communication – the caring can easily get removed
(0000002313)

3/8/2011 38

Misinformation (0000002374)

Misinterpretation (0000002332)

none (0000002334)

None that i can think of directly. (0000002369)

Not answering the call of the people such as having a prayer line but no one follows up with that
person. Lack of personal contact. (0000002306)

Not communicating clearly and effectively, not keeping up with websites (poor testimony), using
the internet half-heartedly and with mediocrity could communicate how the Church goes about
the rest of its business (0000002299)

Not qualified to answer this. (0000002300)

not sure (0000002331)

not sure about this one (0000002336)

Nothing beats personal relationship. That's what Christianity is all about. A quick email or
facebook post doesn't hold a candle to a phone call, handwritten card/letter, or meal.
(0000002357)

Often the church's website is now the first impression. Church seekers will readily judge a
church by its website. The production of material that is not Biblically sound is another danger.
(0000002320)

Only con I can think of is if someone happens to hack the system and use it for the wrong
reasons. (0000002337)

People can watch church services on the internet which can be good. It can be bad if this is the
only way you get church. It makes a difference to be at a church with people and not just
watching from your home. (0000002335)

People can watch other things rather than go to church (0000002329)

People hacking into the website and putting unappropriate things on the site. (0000002364)

People might use the internet in place of church membership*many false doctrins are online.
(0000002307)

People posting about things that should be kept private. Thoughts of people that might influence
others. (0000002317)

3/8/2011 39

People start to live virtual lives, and get disconnected form each other. In the church this is a
particular problem, as we are to be one body, unfortunately we are becoming just a bunch of
scattered and isolated limbs. (0000002305)

People watching online and not being connected to the fellowship of the body. (0000002378)

People/groups who wish the Church/religion harm can access private information--send false
information--try to surpress the freedom of religion--etc. (0000002323)

Porn, gambling, addiction to all kinds of things that take you away from the family or job, in
addition to keeping you from church and church functions. (0000002351)


rob individuals of time (0000002381)

security and privacy (0000002308)

The church can become consumed with technology and new, inventive ways to get the church
name to reach to other people, that the basic goal of spreading Christ, becomes lost in the pursuit
of what's "bigger and better". (0000002359)

The internet was created a cultural paradigm where we can become so dependent on the
electronic communication and interaction that pastors can lose the personal touch with people
and thereby opening the door for miscommunication and misunderstanding. Clear
communication involves body language, voice inflection, and tone. All of which are absent
electronically. Staff must also be extra careful when communicating electronically because what
they write whether via email or facebook once it's out there, it's out there. And can easily spend
to the worldwide community and create undesirable results. The internet has thrown open the
flood gates to the porn world causing much marital conflict and teen involvement. Counseling
has expanded expediently on this issue. Even well intended careful research can uncover lustful
sites that can create a temptation that's only a click away. So dangers would involve: sinful sites,
gossip, mis-communication, impersonal, time consumer.. (0000002346)

The priority of computer over church might keep some away from church. Any societal problem
(above)i would also affect the church. (0000002310)

The same drawbacks apply to society as well, but it can be worse in some cases of the church.
When it's being viewed by anyone, it's not healthy, but pornography tends to have a huge hold on
young Christian men, as well as adults. It destroys relationships and church bodies. It's a
downfall of lust for many people, but I do not believe this issue should not cause a church to not
use the internet. Instead the church should be developing alternatives and help programs that
make sure anyone under the grips of this sin is released and rehabilitated. (0000002315)

Too impersonal for witnessing ? (0000002382)

3/8/2011 40

too much time spent, distracts from one on one social interaction, neglecting chores/self
(0000002376)

Unfortunately, use of the church's computer needs to be monitored. (0000002377)

waste of time, easy access to sinful things (0000002338)

Wasting time and seeing and hearing innappropriate stuff (0000002319)

We are so easily drawn into all these dumb gimmicky things like paste this if you are truly my
friend. We have a tendency to believe first and ask questions later. (0000002340)

While the service is going on the people could be on Internet just searching and looking at stuff
they don't need to look at (0000002324)

You lose that personal one on one relationship with both believers and unbelievers.
(0000002322)

You never know who you are talking to or helping (0000002327)

3/8/2011 41

11. How does YOUR church use the Internet?

How Does Your Church Use the Internet? Counts Percent
Church Web Page 58 89%
Email to membership 37 57%
Live streaming of services 37 57%
Viewing of previous services 32 49%
Face Book page 29 45%
POD Casts (downloading of sermons) 21 32%
Bible Study programs 13 20%
Online giving 13 20%
Other: 12 18%
Sermon Notes 9 14%

How Does Your Church Use the Internet?

Sermon Notes 9

Other: 12

Online giving 13

Bible Study programs 13

POD Casts (downloading of
21
sermons)

Face Book page 29

Viewing of previous services 32

Live streaming of services 37

Email to membership 37

Church Web Page 58

0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70
Responces

3/8/2011 42

Comments/Notes:
Address of church (0000002326)

Announcements (0000002303)

Calendars (0000002337)

Connecting with missionaries and resources for pastors. (0000002310)

Feedback, suggestions (0000002376)

How to connect with the church (0000002364)

I don't have a Church (0000002323)

I don't have a church (0000002316)

Mission Activity (0000002328)

Online Volunteer Signup Sheets (0000002320)

Prayer updates (0000002307)

Prayer chain (0000002370)

Prayer groups, announcements (0000002350)

Public WiFi, App for iphone users. (0000002312)

3/8/2011 43

12. Are there other ways the Church could be using the Internet?

Opportunities for the Church Count
Bible Studies 5
Evangelism 3
Registration Forms 3
Callendars/Events 2
Missionary Information 2
Teaching Material 2
Chat Rooms 1
Counseling 1
Daily Devotionals 1
Enough Staff to Maintain Web Site 1
Face Book 1
Follow up on Sick/Absentees 1
Liniks to Online Bibles 1
Liniks to Prayer/Praises 1
Links to Missionary Web Sites 1
Links to Support (e.g. Red Croos) 1
Lists of Sick/Hospitalized 1
Online Prayer Room 1
Recruiting Vollunteers 1
Sermon Starters 1
Showcase Ministries 1

Internet Opportunities for the Church
S h o wc as e M inis trie s
1
S e rm o n S tarte rs
1
R e c ru iting Vo llu nte e rs
1
O nline P raye r R o o m
1
Lis ts o f S ic k/H o s p italize d
1
Link s to S u pp o rt (e .g. R e d C ro o s )
1
Link s to M is s io nary We b S ite s
1
Linik s to P raye r/P rais e s
1
Linik s to O nline B ible s
1
F o llo w u p o n S ic k /Abs e nte e s
1
F ac e B o o k
1
E no u gh S taff to M aintain We b S ite 1
D aily D e vo tio nals 1
C o u ns e ling 1
C hat R o o m s 1
T e ac hing M ate rial 2
M is s io nary Info rm atio n 2
C alle nd ars /E ve nts 2
R e gis tratio n F o rm s 3
E vange lis m 3
B ible S tu d ie s 5

0 1 2 3 4 5 6
Responses

3/8/2011 44

Access to better teaching materials for small groups. (0000002303)

As our culture adapts to new ways of doming things the church must stay up to date with all of
this info so that the gospel can be realytable to everyone's hotspots. (0000002367)

bible studies (0000002338)

calendars and events (0000002299)

Can't think of any. (0000002357)

Can't think of anything at the moment (0000002322)

cant think of any (0000002382)

contact new members in the community (0000002381)

Could have a Facebook (or Yahoo group) that is all about church events, activities. But then, we
do have the church web site. I'm hesitant to suggest more use of the computer because it eats up
so much of peoples' time as it is. (0000002310)

counseling, classes (0000002351)

don't know (0000002373)

Downloadable/printable forms for Church programs (permission forms, registration forms, etc.).
Online registration for programs. Church Missionary information. (0000002301)

Evangelism, Apologetics, Marketing Jesus/Church, and More Missionary Outreaching.
(0000002372)

Evangelism, fundraising (0000002365)

Exalting the Name of Jesus thru song and sermons offered in the middle of the night when there
are so many people searching, sponsoring chat rooms for the lonely people of the world
(0000002327)

Facebook is not the only Social Media outlet. I think that the church must have a full grasp on
the idea of Social Media as should any organization/company that would use this as an Ad/ P.R.
method. Working with Apple to have Podcasts on iTunes allows church goers to download the
mp3 right to their iPod/iPhone. (0000002315)

Feedback, suggestions (0000002376)

3/8/2011 45

I think all religions should be more tolerant of other religions and beliefs--for most religions
have the same basic concepts--and that can be spread to millions through the Internet.
(0000002323)

I would like to see our pastor using more sermon starters or illustrations from the web.
(0000002308)

I've seen such a variety of media and services offered that I cannot think of a way that is not in
use. I do think that as the way our society interacts changes, the church should evaluate the
benefit and strive to stay connected as long as it's not at odds with Biblical truth. (0000002370)

In the place of mailers and flyers where individuals chose to leave their email address as a means
to communicate (0000002364)

it is the big way to attracted the younger generation (0000002336)

It would be cool to have an online chat ministry where folks were available at certain times to
chat with folks and pray for them. Another thought would be online daily devotionals.
(0000002313)

May be. Not really active in this area. (0000002369)

My church could use our website and share links for support groups, community organizations
that can render aid (Red Cross, Catholic Charities, Rape Hotline, Elderly Abuse, Child Abuse,
etc.) We could have a group bible study similar to online classes with a chatroom and bulletin
board. (0000002306)

offering online Bible studies and local seminars that may even be outside of their denominational
circles. (0000002346)

Online training classes to allow Christians around the world to learn from each other and with
each other. (0000002375)

Outreach (0000002377)

Podcasts, event info (0000002349)

possibly, the biggest weakness I see is churches not having someone on staff that can keep their
websites up to date-- a website that isn't updated regularly (at least monthly if not weekly) is
pointless or at minimum ineffective for much more than advertising....but that wasn't the
question... maybe showcasing ministries/recruiting volunteers; online permission
forms/membership applications; police checks for childrens workers; sign-up sheets for events;
facilitation of contact groups--(online groups of accountability and care that generate contact of
group member when absent for a period, sick, in need, etc.--like small groups but with an added
virtual touch--small groups are only as effective as their regular attendance) (0000002350)

3/8/2011 46

probably (0000002345)

Probably, but I can't think of any right now. (0000002356)

Probably. (0000002300)

promoting and connecting with groups that are not in thee area and participating in dialogue.
(0000002340)

Provide help for understandting Bible messages. (0000002337)

skype in missionaries, link to missionary websites, outreach through social avenues.
(0000002314)

There are many ministry's available online. I am an online counselor for Global Media Outreach
which is an off shoot of Campus Crusade. I counsel people from all over the world.
(0000002307)

There are other ways the Church could be using the internet, but not any ways that are truely
neccessary or pertinent to the church, or helping save the lost. (0000002359)

They could use it to witness and to talk to people about God! (0000002324)

This about covers it. I would like to see an online Bible with links to various interpretations,
including sermons. As bad as it sounds, contradicting points of view should also be represented.
(0000002332)

To share about other denominations in areas can be visted for safe and worthy worship for folks
who travel. (0000002326)

Updated Prayer and Praise List (0000002328)

Use the internet to reach outside of its four walls and into the community; then into the world.
Find a way to use the internet to encourage members throughout the week. Continuing sermon
questions and updates. Be transparent! (0000002318)

We are still small and are using the internet to the best of our ability right now. (0000002330)

Witnessing (0000002319)

Would love to know when someone is sick or in the hospital. We would visit and pray for them.
Could have a facebook private friends only to let us know who needs prayer and a visit to lift
their spirits. (0000002317)

Yes as communication (0000002368)

3/8/2011 47

13. If Jesus began His earthly ministry today, would He use the Internet?

Would Jesus Use the Internet?
Yes 34
No 8
Maybe 23
Totals 65

Would Jesus Use the Internet?

Maybe
35%

Yes
53%

No
12%

Internet and the Church - Survey Results

Internet and the Church - Survey Results

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Internet and the Church - Survey Results