The idea of using technology to enhance worship services often evokes a mix of excitement and hesitation. When I first heard Mark Carlberg, a sound engineer, share his thoughts on using sound and lighting to create an immersive experience, it sparked a question in my heart: If I had the choice to use technology to create a more immersive worship experience, why wouldn’t I want to? As I pondered this, my thoughts turned to the Book of Revelation—a text rich with vivid imagery, divine encounters, and the awe-inspiring worship of heaven.

The Heavenly Worship Experience

Revelation 4 paints a deeply immersive picture of worship. John describes the throne of God surrounded by flashes of lightning, the sound of thunder, and voices that echo throughout heaven. The elders cast their crowns before the throne, and heavenly creatures cry out in unison, “Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty.”

This scene is not just auditory or visual—it engages every sense, immersing the worshiper fully in God's presence. The sights, sounds, and even the physical gestures of worship (such as casting crowns) work together to communicate God's greatness and the unity of heaven’s worship.

Technology as a Tool, Not a Substitute

While we cannot replicate heaven on earth, technology offers us tools to create an atmosphere that draws people into worship. Screens, lighting, sound systems, and even immersive visuals can help engage the senses, focusing attention on God's greatness. But the key is remembering that technology is a tool—not the source of worship but a means to point people to the Source.

John’s vision in Revelation doesn’t glorify the tools of worship but the One who is worshipped. If technology becomes the focus, it can distract rather than enhance. But when used wisely, it can align with the purpose of worship: to lift our eyes to Jesus and lead us to respond in spirit and truth.

Why Would We Want It?

So why would we want to use technology in worship? Here are three reasons drawn from Revelation:

1. To Reflect the Majesty of God

The imagery in Revelation is grand and awe-inspiring. Similarly, the use of technology can reflect God’s majesty—whether through the lighting of a worship set that mirrors the colours of God’s creation or sound engineering that ensures clarity and excellence in what is heard.

2. To Engage the Whole Person

Just as heaven’s worship engages all senses, technology can help us engage more than just our minds. Thoughtfully designed visuals, powerful soundscapes, and dynamic environments can create a sense of reverence and focus that leads to deeper worship.

3. To Bridge Gaps in Understanding

For congregations with diverse backgrounds, technology can help unify the worship experience. Words on a screen help everyone participate in singing. Captivating visuals can help people focus on the sermon's themes. Creative use of media can make the message of the Gospel accessible to all.

The Heart of Worship Remains Essential

While technology can enhance the experience, it cannot replace the heart of worship. Revelation reminds us that true worship flows from recognizing God’s greatness and responding with humility and reverence. Without the right heart, the most immersive experience is empty. The sound engineer’s skills, the lighting director’s creativity, and the preacher’s delivery must all work together to lead people to encounter Jesus.

Caution and Stewardship

The choice to use technology in worship should not be made lightly. Technology requires resources, effort, and discernment. We must ask questions such as:

 • Does this help or hinder people from focusing on God?

 • Are we stewarding our resources in a way that glorifies God?

 • Does this enhance community or isolate people in individual experiences?

When the focus remains on Jesus and the Gospel, technology can serve as a bridge—not a barrier—to encountering Him.

Technology is a gift, but it must serve the purpose of worship, not define it. In Revelation, we see worship as a response to God's overwhelming presence, engaging all senses to declare His glory. Similarly, our worship services can embrace tools like technology to draw people into God's presence while remaining grounded in the truth of His Word.

If we have the choice to use technology, let us use it with wisdom and humility, always remembering the purpose: to create an environment where people can encounter Jesus, the Lamb who sits on the throne and join the eternal chorus of heaven in declaring, “Worthy is the Lamb who was slain, to receive power and riches and wisdom, and strength and honour and glory and blessing!” (Revelation 5:12, NKJV).