30-second summary
The printing press helped Martin Luther share the good news of God’s grace. It also changed work, communication, and public life. New technology carries both promise and costs. Instead of calling it all good or all bad, Pastor Hartman invites us to ask who benefits, who bears the costs, and how we can use our tools to love our neighbors.
To view online: Reformation Sunday Worship Livestream
The Reformation was a communications revolution
On Reformation Sunday, we remember more than an old argument. We remember the good news of Jesus Christ: grace is God’s gift, not a prize we earn. Martin Luther preached that promise, and the printing press helped his words travel far beyond one town. The press did not create the gospel. It helped people hear it.
That difference matters today. Technology is a tool, not our savior. But the tools we choose can help or hurt our neighbors.
Every tool has a cost
Before mass printing, skilled scribes copied books by hand. Printing changed their work and opened new paths for readers. Today, digital tools can help people connect, learn, and worship from home. They can also use resources, spread false stories, and change jobs. We should not ignore either side.
When we discuss the water used by AI, we should also ask about the water used to make paper, cool buildings, and support other parts of our daily lives. These comparisons do not excuse harm. They invite us to use the same care and honesty in every case. Numbers vary by place, process, and time, so responsible stewardship also means checking our claims.
Grace gives us courage to engage
Psalm 19:14 asks that our words and inward thoughts be pleasing to God. That is a good prayer before we post, share, print, buy, or build. Do our words tell the truth? Do our choices protect our neighbors? Are we listening to those who carry the greatest costs?
Luther used the means of his day to announce God’s mercy. We can use ours to share hope and practice love. We can also question powerful systems and demand better choices. Faithful engagement includes both imagination and accountability.
A church still being reformed
The Reformation is not a finished project on a shelf. The Spirit continues to call the church to test its habits against the gospel. We do not need to fear every change or bless every innovation. Because God’s grace comes first, we are free to learn, repent, adapt, and serve.
At New Spirit, everything proclaims. A printed bulletin, a livestream, a conversation online, and the way we treat someone whose job is changing all say something about our faith. May they proclaim grace.
Weekly Spiritual Practice
One Tool, One Good Thing: Choose a tool you use each day. Notice one benefit and one cost. Then use it to encourage someone, share truth, build a relationship, or show God’s love.
For reflection
Where do I notice costs in new technology but overlook them in familiar tools?
Whose voices are missing when decisions about technology are made?
What is one way I can use a tool this week to proclaim grace?
