Technology, Faith, & Human Shortcomings | Billy Graham’s 1998 TED Talk

As I was surrounded by all things Christmas this week (as I’m sure many of us are!), I was reminded of a letter my grandfather, Daddy Bill, wrote to me in February of 1998. In the letter he wished me a Happy Valentine’s Day, and then mentioned that he was going to be speaking at the TED Conference in California, addressing that day’s leaders in technology, design, and entertainment. He was the first religious leader to ever be invited to give a TED Talk. 

Technology looks vastly different today than it did in 1998, but the questions my grandfather asked and answered during that conference are still relevant for us as Christ followers. Where does evil come from? Why does suffering exist? Where do we go when we die? We’re still grappling with these as a society today, but no advances in AI, social media, or the latest tech trend will change this essential truth: technology can’t save us, only Jesus can. 

So take 25 minutes in the midst of the Christmas craziness to listen and be encouraged—there is nothing new under the sun here, God is still in control, and only He can satisfy that longing for eternity we all carry in our hearts.