Phil Cooke’s brainfood the other day about “iconoclasts” has gotten me thinking:
The definition of “Iconoclast” is someone who does things other people say can’t be done. He or she is an independent thinker – even when that means going against the crowd. That sounds easy to say, but research shows that with enough social pressure, it’s almost impossible for most people to stand alone in their beliefs, views, and opinions.
Fear is chief dilemma here.
What’s so fascinating is that at The Orange Conference this year I’ve been able to connect, discuss, and hear from what appears to be numerous “iconoclasts.” Unfortunately, none of them are digital ones.
And that vexes me, because the new front to conquer is the web and the ministries and leaders who grasp it, engage it, and aren’t stopped by the fear that so entangles are going to be the ones that take ministry (and the Church) to the next level.
Perhaps most “brick and mortar” iconoclasts aren’t made to be “digital” ones, but I’m not sure that holds true for the vast majority. A healthy does of courage could probably do the trick.
Are you a “digital” iconoclast? Is there a reason that’s stopping you from being the one that you really are?
Josh Wagner says
This is the goal. Digital is the new frontier, as you said. We have to utilize it or we go under. I strive for this, and I hope I can achieve it. Be strong and courageous…
bbrooke says
Love this post. Thanks for sharing John. If being a “digital” iconoclast mean doing something that others say can't be done and/or doing something that everyone says is impractical or too “big” for you to accomplish then I definitely am an iconoclast. As an entrepreneur I’ve learned that in the early stages of a idea/concept it is easy and “safe” for everyone to say it can’t be done. But as you execute it’s awesome to watch everyone come around. I’ve learned to be forgiving because most people oppose you not out of ill intent but out of their own insecurities which makes them cave to “social” pressure (got a great story of when I built a 2-story treehouse when I was 7 but it is a bit long for this post). I think as believer we should all believe we can and should rise above this pressure. If God is for you who can be against you?