In an effort to create greater impact in delivering messages to our congregations, we have started to employ and experiment with the use of computer-generated visuals through the use of PowerPoint slide presentations coupled with the use of a portable multimedia projector. These of course are tools of modern technology which we can take advantage of in God’s Work.

The philosophy behind its use comes from the well-known statement: “A picture is worth a thousand words.” In this regard, the learning process is enhanced if the material is communicated to the audience not only through their ears—by listening—but also through their eyes—visually and graphically.

Most of the weekly youth Bible studies, monthly church Bible studies, and some sermons since January this year have been conducted with the aid of such PowerPoint slide presentations. To multiply our efforts and its effect in other areas, these are recorded on digital video tape at the initial presentation, with the goal of duplicating them and editing them into CD format later so it can be sent and replayed as needed. Of course, this entails additional work initially, but this one single effort could be used indefinitely.

A survey among the membership in such designated areas showed that the preferred language for the areas of Mindanao, Leyte, and Sabah is in the Cebuano dialect. Listeners seem to grasp the message better if it is delivered in their own native tongue. Of course, our local dialects inherently have their own vocabulary and conceptual limitations compared to the much more developed English language. This presents a challenge in condensing and simplifying the message in its basic form. Another formidable challenge is the time and resources required to produce such PowerPoint presentations as required.

We of course realize that such PowerPoint presentations are just one of the means of helping God’s people toward spiritual growth and maturity. We still recognize the value of other forms of learning such as discipleship and other forms of the learning process, such as the interactive Bible study format, and the traditional inspired preaching.

We hope that with the combination of all these learning methods, we will eventually develop stronger and more mature Christians, who will be more capable of explaining God’s way of life to others. We also do not forget that the best sermon is a living example from those led by the Spirit of God. It has been said, “I would rather see a sermon than hear one any day.” May each of us eventually be that living sermon.