John Dyer

From the Garden to the City: The Place of Technology in the Story of God John Dyer

From ancient tools to modern devices, technology is part of what it means to be human and honor God

Christian discussion of technology tends to focus along prescriptive lines. Don't look at the wrong pictures. Don't interact with pride or wrath on social media. Be careful not to join an immodest TikTok trend. Listen only to Christian music and Christian podcasts.

But a biblical perspective on technology goes far deeper than how tools are used, and involves much more than the electronics that pervade today's world. Technology is, in fact, a foundational part of what it means to be human--and it extends back to the very beginning of Creation. Technology was included in what God declared good. But like all things impacted by the fall, it has immense power to rewire us for good or bad.

John Dyer's popular From the Garden to the City is back in this fully revised and updated edition, moving beyond moralism in order to examine the very nature of technology as essentially human and totally transformative. Perfect for both classroom use and individual contemplation, this book encourages readers to open their minds to see our technological world with biblical vision.

Creative, unpredictable, and surprisingly moving. . . . With Dyer's help, you will never see either a shovel or a smartphone the same way again.--Outreach

Dyer brings a solidly Christian perspective to the topic [of media ecology], arguing that technology is neither neutral nor evil. . . . Lively and accessible to techies and non-techies alike.--World

A helpful aid for those wanting to learn how technology fits with faith.--Ministry Today