Threads of Redemption: Tech, Faith, and the Tower of Babel

In this special bonus episode of Roots and Relevance, Tim reconnects with his old friend Roger to discuss the intersection of technology, faith, and community. The conversation begins with a brief catch-up on Roger's career and his ongoing passion for technology, particularly his investments in cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin. They then dive into the topic of how much the tech landscape has changed since their last podcast episode, focusing on advancements in AI and the implications for society. Using the biblical story of the Tower of Babel as a framework, they explore the balance between leveraging technology for good and avoiding its potential pitfalls. Key themes include the need for wisdom and discernment in using tech, the value of real-life relationships over virtual connections, and the importance of maintaining humility by relying on God rather than becoming self-reliant through technological advancements. The episode closes with practical suggestions for achieving a healthy balance, such as taking a Sabbath from technology. 00:00 Welcome and Introduction 00:58 Roger's Background and Career 01:51 Crypto and Investment Insights 02:47 Revisiting the Podcast and Tech Evolution 03:45 AI and Human Relationships 06:59 Streaming and Church Dynamics Post-Pandemic 08:34 Biblical Perspective on Technology 09:17 The Tower of Babel and Technology 13:50 Tech's Impact on Human Connection 23:42 Positive Uses of Technology 26:17 The Impact of AI on Artists and Musicians 28:44 AI in Church Ministry: A Double-Edged Sword 31:15 AI in Medicine: The Future of Healthcare 33:54 Virtual Unity vs. Embodied Community 40:55 Wisdom and Accountability in Tech Usage 48:33 The Importance of Tech Sabbaths 51:17 Closing Thoughts and Reflections