The Tower of Babel seemed like a good idea. It used new technology—brick instead of stone, tar for mortar (Genesis 11:3). The people were unified, aiming to build a tower to the heavens.
But the project had major flaws. God had told people to spread across the earth, but they refused. Their motives were wrong: “so that we may make a name for ourselves” (Genesis 11:4). They ignored God’s purpose and glory.
Technology today is advancing rapidly, offering benefits in health, work, knowledge, and convenience. But the downsides—like anxiety, laziness, and isolation—can be harder to see.
“Technology is a useful servant but a dangerous master” (Nobel prize winner Christian Lange). Even united efforts can do harm when they lead people away from trusting God toward human pride and self-reliance.
So God confused their language. He reminded them—and us—that projects focused on self-glory don’t lead to eternal relationship with Him. Do your undertakings include God? Do you seek His guidance and align your plans with His Word? Even unity can go wrong without God at the center.
At Pentecost, the Holy Spirit reversed Babel’s division. People of many languages heard and understood the gospel—God’s grace through Jesus. True unity comes from that message.
We’re not here to build our own towers but to help build God’s kingdom through the Holy Spirit in the gospel.
“And everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” (Acts 2:21)