Navigating Technology and Faith: Soul Care in the Digital Age with Jon Pyle

The Post-Christian Podcast

In this episode of The Post-Christian Podcast, Dr. Eric Bryant is joined by Jon Pyle, associate pastor at City Church in San Antonio, to dive into some timely and relevant topics. They discuss the complex relationship between kids, parents, and technology, emphasizing the need for parents to model healthy digital habits. 💡 Key Takeaways: 1. Parental Influence on Tech Usage: - Jon emphasizes that children learn their relationship to technology and social media by observing their parents. To change how kids use their phones, parents need to model the behavior they want to see in their children. 2. Soul Care in a Digital Age: - The erosion of soul care has accelerated due to technology and social media, which often serve as "me machines." Jon highlights the need for individuals to be mindful of the impact of these tools on their inner lives. 3. Healthy Digital Rhythms: - Jon suggests finding personal rhythms and limits for technology use, and being introspective about when and how social media or other digital tools affect one's emotional and spiritual state. Regular "fasts" or breaks from technology can be beneficial. 4. Church Baggage: - Many people have hurtful or negative experiences with the church. Effective discipleship should acknowledge and address these wounds, focusing on authentic care rather than just content delivery. 5. Importance of Care Over Content: - In a post-Christian world, people are more interested in whether a church community cares for them authentically rather than the appeal of the church’s content. The church’s true value is demonstrated through genuine support and care. 6. Evolving Church Methods: - City Church has evolved from a presentational approach to a participatory model, involving the congregation more actively in services and community life. 7. Community Support: - Post-pandemic, there's a greater need for benevolence funds and traditional pastoral care (like hospital visits), as economic challenges and the omnipresence of death have increased the demand for these services. 8. Embracing Limitations: - Pastors should recognize and accept their limitations. These boundaries can help in focusing on what truly matters and ensure long-term sustainability in ministry. 9. Personal Soul Care for Pastors: - Pastors are reminded that they cannot pour from an empty cup. Building consistent self-care rhythms and embracing limitations can result in a healthier, more sustainable ministry. 📲 Follow Us: Stay connected and never miss an episode! • YouTube: @EricBryant777 • Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-post-christian-podcast/id1509588357 • Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ZeQIrzr2tCMyq1VdwxGNn?si=05719f4669c9479e&nd=1&dlsi=124f25d1ce43440d • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CatalyzingCommunity • TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ericbryant777 • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-bryant-397003172/ 💬 Let’s Hear From You! How has understanding your motivations changed the way you live or lead? Drop your thoughts in the comments or leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform. 🔔 Subscribe & Share: If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with fellow leaders and friends! Let’s continue helping church leaders reach people and make disciples in our increasingly post-Christian world. Timestamps: 00:00 Teaser and Introduction. 03:50 Easier no phones rule; technology connects authentically. 08:40 Underestimated church baggage and its widespread impact. 11:19 Increased demand for benevolence 14:43 From performance to participatory, engaging community involvement. 17:44 Embrace limitations as blessings and clarity. Tune in if you're looking for a conversation with tips for spiritual growth and community building in today's digital age. Head over to ericbryant.org for additional resources.