The release of Pokemon Go in various parts of the globe has created quite a buzz and continues to gain the attention of people, even those who are not familiar of the franchise. Many of the game's current players and anticipating players from areas where the game is still unplayable all wish to try out the game's interactive feeling that would allow them to fulfil a childhood dream to become Pokemon trainers.
For pastor and inspirational author Jarrid Wilson, he points out three major lessons Pokemon Go can actually teach Christian players.
1. Explore the outside world.
Nowadays, Christians tend to stay at home most of the time, preferring to mingle online rather than interact with others outside their homes. Even the ministry can now be done online rather than going to Church to interact with fellow workers.
Pokemon Go has actually driven people out of their homes and travel, locating and catching new Pokemon for their collection. This very concept is very effective and if one considers the benefits of this concept, it is actually very encompassing. As Christians, one must learn to go outside the comfort of their homes and reach out to others and spending time learning of their community. Exploring is a very important aspect of being a Christian because they should be the ones going to the people or things they wish to seek - such as the word of the Lord - and not just wait for them or it to come to you.
2. Importance of the community
Like any mobile gaming application, Pokemon Go has made a big impact in the social media network and if one follows #PokemonGo, users worldwide are discussing the very concept of the game and assist fellow users to maximize the game's overall experience and some even use it to meet new people. The game encourages people to meet other players in their city and break them out of their self-created shells.
In Christian life, one must understand that joining other believers in worship is very important for one's continuous spiritual growth and development. No matter how one mingles with fellow believers, doing their worship together is a major way in growing together as the body of Christ.
3. Embrace the New
Christians is one of the most conservative and traditional religions in the world today and many believers and church leaders are very leery over the idea of using technology and understanding new concepts in the world today. Churches sometimes even stick to the old methods to evangelize citizens, which often times turns off the younger generation which would find traditional means of introducing the Gospel bland and boring.
With the development and popularity of Pokemon Go, Christian leaders should see it as a sign that its time for them to introduce new concepts and technology to the church as a means to attract and reach new followers, especially the younger generation.
