Cell Phones in Church?

What is the proper etiquette for mobile phone usage during church meetings?  Or is it proper at all?



Church starts and those who have their smart phones have quick and easy access to digital scriptures and manuals, while some people appear to be behind the times with their big Bibles, notepads and pens...


Who is right and who is wrong? Neither is a cut and dried way to receive the Word and participate in the church service.


For those who insist on using your phone as your Bible during church, here are some general etiquette guidelines to follow:


1. Make sure it's on Silent, not Vibrate! People will forgive the noise but, still, it's like, come on.


2. Put it away during the service except for the time the Pastor is actually teaching.


3. ONLY use it during the teaching and refuse to use it for anything besides the Bible and other related apps.


4. Never check Email nor Text during the service. Remember, God knows what you are doing, when you are pretending to be following the Pastor.


5. If you want to be an all-star, try a phone-free Sunday. Take notes with an actual pen. Sit next to someone new.


Having access to every church document is great, but someone may need you at church and if you're eyes are glued to your phone, you could miss them and the reason you are there in the first place.


Hebrews 10:24-25, "and let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near.


PS: You may feel tempted to whip out your phone as a distraction/security blanket to keep your distance from others. Don't!!! You're more attractive and approachable when standing alone, when not using or pretending to use your cell phone.


What mobile-device rules do you follow at church? How do these devices enhance or hamper your Sunday worship? Send me some feedback on either side of this issue!