In the world of cybersecurity, as in faith, the adoption of new ideas follows a pattern. Some are eager to embrace change, others hesitate until they see proof, and some resist until there is no choice left. This pattern is captured in Everett Rogers’ Law of Diffusion of Innovation, which explains how people adopt new technologies, ideas, and even spiritual truths.
Let’s explore how this plays out in both cybersecurity and our walk with Christ—and why crossing the chasm between early adoption and mass acceptance is often the greatest challenge.
The Bell Curve of Adoption: Technology and Faith
Ever wonder why some organizations adopt Zero Trust, AI-driven threat intelligence, or stronger identity protections quickly, while others lag behind? The same could be asked about faith—why do some people immediately accept the gospel, while others take years (or never) come to Christ?
Both cybersecurity and faith follow the Diffusion of Innovation model, which divides people into five categories:
1. Innovators (2.5%) – These are the risk-takers. In cybersecurity, they are the researchers and ethical hackers who push the limits. In faith, they resemble the apostles, who boldly spread the gospel despite persecution.
2. Early Adopters (13.5%) – They see the value early and help drive change. In cybersecurity, this could be forward-thinking CISOs championing Zero Trust before breaches force the issue. In faith, they are like the first-century church, embracing Christ even when it was unpopular.
3. Early Majority (34%) – This group waits for proof before acting. In security, they won’t deploy AI-based defense tools until they see case studies. In faith, they’re like Nicodemus, cautiously seeking truth but needing time to commit.
4. Late Majority (34%) – They adopt only when they must. These are the organizations that move to cloud security after a data breach or churches that start digital ministries only after a pandemic forces them online.
5. Laggards (16%) – They resist change until there is no alternative. These are companies still running Windows XP in 2025 or people who reject faith until they’re at life’s end.
The Chasm: Why Some Never Cross Over
In cybersecurity, there is a dangerous gap—the chasm—between early adopters and the early majority. Many security initiatives die here because organizations fail to convince skeptics that the risk of staying the same is greater than the risk of change.
The same happens in faith. Many hear the Word, but it doesn’t take root because the leap of faith feels too big. The Bible speaks to this in Matthew 13:3-9 (The Parable of the Sower)—some seeds fall on rocky ground and never grow.
For security leaders and believers alike, crossing the chasm means:
• Communicating clearly – In cybersecurity, show how new defenses prevent real-world attacks. In faith, share testimonies of God’s power in your life.
• Leading by example – Organizations look to those who have successfully adopted change. Likewise, people watch how Christians live out their faith before accepting it themselves.
• Addressing fear – In tech and faith, fear stops many from moving forward. But as 2 Timothy 1:7 says, “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”
What This Means for Cybersecurity and the Church
1. CISOs Must Be Evangelists – Just like the apostles spread the gospel, cybersecurity leaders must spread awareness about threats and solutions. Security is a mission, not a project.
2. Faith and Security Require Investment – You can’t wait until a breach (or a crisis of faith) to start caring. Preparing now prevents disaster later.
3. Some Will Never Adopt – Move On – Not everyone will embrace security best practices or accept Christ. As Jesus said in Luke 9:5, “If they do not welcome you, leave that town and shake the dust off your feet.” Focus on those willing to listen.
Spreading Truth, Security, and Salvation
The Law of Diffusion teaches us that adoption takes time, whether it’s Zero Trust in cybersecurity or trusting God in our faith journey. Some will accept quickly, others will hesitate, and some will refuse outright. Our role—whether as cybersecurity leaders or Christians—is to guide, educate, and support those willing to make the leap.
So, my challenge to you: Where do you fall on this curve? Are you leading the way, waiting for proof, or resisting the inevitable? In cybersecurity and in faith, waiting too long can have eternal consequences.
Let’s cross the chasm together—because security and salvation are worth it.
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