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‘“When you come, bring the cloak that I left with Carpus at Troas, also the books, and above all the parchments’, 2 Tim. 4. 13 ESV.
This is the first in a series of articles about using a tablet to prepare for meetings and to preach.
As an itinerant preacher and public speaker, I have found the tablet to be suited to my needs. Are you sceptical of this claim? Maybe you’re thinking ‘What’s wrong with a traditional print Bible?’ or. ‘You just want to look like some kind of trendy Christian!’ or maybe even, ‘That’s a complete waste of the Lord’s money!’
Well, firstly there is absolutely nothing wrong with using a print Bible. However, let me assure you that using a tablet computer in the pulpit is not about looking trendy, nor is it a waste of money when done properly. And, that is what this series of articles is all about – getting the most for your (really the Lord’s) money by employing the best tablet tools and techniques for preaching.
So, why use a tablet for preaching and preparation? Here are just a few of the reasons:
Portability – the device itself is just the right size and weight to take virtually anywhere – across town or around the world.
Multiple Translations – anywhere you go you have instant access to numerous translations, including other languages and even the original languages.
Virtual Library – no matter where you go you can access an entire library. It doesn’t matter if you are at home, your office, in the pulpit or on an airplane – you will never have to worry about forgetting to bring along the right resource for your studies.
Sermon Notes – Again, never worry about forgetting your sermon outlines – you will have access to your sermon notes wherever you go.
Inexpensive – OK, so a tablet itself is not inexpensive, however the vast majority of apps and other resources you will need are either inexpensive, absolutely free, or something that you already own. For example if you already use Logos Bible Software on your Mac or PC you can instantly extend your access to this powerful tool with their free app.
Multimedia Presentations – Your tablet can send audio, video, and slide presentations to your existing AV equipment.
New Possibilities – Other possibilities include the ability to record your message in both audio and video, time how long you have been speaking, or use a ‘countdown’ timer to pace yourself, easily re-size your note’s font size, edit your notes while on the go and much more.
Other Uses – Of course, you can also use your tablet for all of the reasons everyone else uses their tablets: email, web browsing, music, photography, keeping up with the news, social networking, etc., etc.
Some two thousand years ago when Paul wrote Timothy to bring him the cloak, books, and parchments I’m sure he never imagined that one day there would be this amazing device that could do all three of these things for him … yes, all three as he could use FedEx’s tablet app to schedule a pickup for his cloak.
Editor’s note: We have refrained from using specific brand names but most of our readers will be aware of how modern computer technology works. Also note that this article is only expressing the upside of using modern technology, there are downsides, which do need to be considered.
