Many functions are taken into account in forming a symbolic interaction approach in order to make it a system and religion is one of them. Both the interaction approach and the sociological perspective are interrelated and both perspectives are used in observing sociological behavior. Through the practice of religion, sociological behavior can be seen. From the selected article, cyber churches are seen as a medium used by people in their practice of religion. This article appraises the use of the internet as a base for preachers as they relate with their followers. Cyber churches have ensured that obstacles are done away hence spiritual gatherings can happen without any hindrances. The protestant Reformation belief system would not have existed if not for the formation in the allocation of religion (p. 499).
The place of technology and its influence on religion is evident. With the help of technology for instance, it is evident that live recordings and programs can now be attended and such has become part of the custom among many people. According to Marshal McLuhan, this new global changing lifestyle is called “church without walls”. Spiritual leaders have embraced this changed lifestyle thus making technology equally sacred (p. 499). Keeping track of quantitative data has helped appraise the impact of religion among the masses. Millions of books with religious undertones such as the Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown have been sold for instance (p.499). “The Passion of Christ” has also witnessed numerous views globally, further underscoring its impact on many lives.
With virtual churches, Christian ideals can be propagated with little differences from conventional churches in buildings. The controversy however lies in the conflict of belief within the church context. The bible for instance encourages physical meeting of believers, a fact that the “church without walls” concept negates. This has thus been a contentious issue in the advancement of e-churches. With e-churches also, values that are key to the faith including breaking of bread are also in jeopardy. Such ideals are communal aspects that are imposable to achieve with the electronic church. Consequently, this has been a matter of much debate in religious circles. It however goes without say that with changing times; the practice of religion is bound to be affected as the world becomes digitized.
Reference
John J. Macionis & Linda M. Gerber. Sociology 8th Canadian Edition
