The Jesus Tablet?

You probably have heard that Apple is supposedly going to announce a new tablet computer this week. I am interested to see what the specs are, and what it can do.

I really am a fan of technology, and without question Apple builds fantastic, groundbreaking products. In fact, this post was typed on an Apple laptop.

However . . .

The Messiah machine?

This new tablet has been hailed by some as “The Jesus Tablet,” and others are calling it “The Messiah Machine.” One article asked breathlessly, “Can Apple’s Jesus Tablet deliver a miracle?”

Whaaa . . . ? Did I miss something here? Is this new device from Apple going to somehow deliver eternal life or the forgiveness of sins?

I am being a bit facetious here, but I think some of these techheads need to seriously get a life, preferably an eternal one.

This reminds me of the the depression some were experiencing after viewing the new film Avatar, because they could not personally experience the imaginary CGI world of Pandora. I wrote a blog about that.

Taking the Lord’s name in vain

The Bible reminds us to not take the Lord’s name in vain (Exodus 20:7) This doesn’t just mean using profanity with God’s name, but also using His Holy name in a frivolous, insincere way.

Sometimes people will sell certain things to the Christian market with a token mention of Jesus or the Bible, in hopes that we will eat it up, be it movies, products, or whatever. That is using God’s name in vain, and He does not take kindly to it.

So, Jesus tablets and Messiah machines just will not do.

There is another commandment that warns against having other gods before Him (Exodus 20:3). That is Commandment No. 1 in God’s Top 10.

Don’t get me wrong. I am not suggesting that people who are excited about a new laptop, tablet computer, or phone are necessarily idolaters (though they could be). I am simply saying that we need to keep our priorities clear here.

Having another god speaks of anything or anyone that takes the place of the true God in their life.

In 1948, General Omar Bradley observed, “We are technological giants and moral midgets. We have discovered the mystery of the atom, but we have forgotten the Sermon on the Mount.”

Let’s love the Lord and use technology, not love technology and use the Lord.