Web 2.0 technology may find its way into the history books by having as much impact on the Christian landscape as the invention of the printing press in the 1440s. The printing press released the power of human communications and therefore changed human history, especially the Church. Today, Christians all over the world are fast discovering the power of the internet, which may prove to be a ministry tool that revolutionizes the way we think we think of church for generations to come. 

The impact that Web 2.0 technology will have on Christianity, will largely depend upon visionary leadership and innovative strategies. Web 2.0 is a tool; and like any tool, is only as useful as the craftsman’s skills and talents. As more and more Christians “grab hold” of the power of Web 2.O tools, millions of people will be affected by the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Well, this largely depends on who you ask. Some say Web 2.0 is the next generation of web-based services, including online desktop applications, VoIP, and social networking. Others define it in terms of “s-commerce,” using Web 2.0 technology as means to boost e-commerce.  And there are those, like me, who see Web 2.0 as an exciting way to connect people and build healthy relationships.

Web 2.0 technology serves as an emerging platform for building organic, interconnected relationships that serves both the individual and an organization. 

What’s the difference between Web 1.0 and Web 2.0?

The following video is a simple illustration of my point:

How is Web 2.0 impacting the Internet?

The internet is in the midst of a major “paradigm shift” – it traditionally served as a way to gather information; now, it’s growing to become a gathering place for building relationships. Social networking is taking full advantage of Web 2.0 technology. According to a recent marketing report by Compete, Inc:

Growth in online social networking has been explosive…increased 109% since January 2004, while site usage has increased 414%, four times faster than member growth.

A new research report just came in from the Center for the Digital Future at the University of Southern California. Their 2007 Digital Project revealed that:

More and more statistics show that online social networking is here to stay, with dramatic increases continuing for years to come. Here is where the Church can “seize the moment.”

This entry was posted on Wednesday, January 10th, 2007 at 11:09 pm and is filed under Web 2.0, Church Growth. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.