Artificial Intelligence (AI) is gradually becoming an unavoidable part of our daily lives. AI is reshaping the way we live and the way we work, from virtual assistants and self-driving cars to advanced chatbots and automated tools. Churches have now started adopting AI equipped with examples like an AI-powered “Jesus” in a Swiss confessional booth or a prayer app led by an AI version of a megachurch pastor. Christians must ask themselves as to how we can use AI without letting it interfere with our spiritual connection.
AI can be a powerful tool to make life easier as well as more efficient. It can compose sermons, answer questions about the Bible and also assist in ministry tasks. However, it is important to approach AI thoughtfully for Christians. It is not just about using the AI, but also about ensuring that it aligns with our faith as well as glorifies God. How we engage with AI matters because it reveals where our priorities lie and what we truly value.
AI Should Glorify God, Not Replace Him
Everything we do should glorify God including how we use AI. The Bible reminds us in 1 Corinthians 10:31, “Whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” AI is a step to the creativity and intelligence God has given humanity. It can reflect His greatness when it is used correctly.
However, there is a danger in giving AI more importance than it deserves. Some people treat technology almost like a god. The “Way of the Future Church” promotes worship of AI believing it will surpass human intelligence and become divine. This is a modern version of idolatry and similar to the golden calf that the Israelites worshiped in place of God. AI is just a tool, but it is not all-knowing, it does not love us and even it certainly cannot save us. Only God deserves our worship and devotion.
Christians must guard against letting AI take center stage in their lives. It is a useful tool, but it is not our source of hope or guidance. We can appreciate AI as a gift from God and just like any other form of common grace, without letting it distract us from the Creator.
Avoiding Spiritual Laziness
The convenience of AI is a blessing as well as a potential pitfall. It can save time and effort, but it can also tempt us to take shortcuts and even in our spiritual lives. Pastors can use AI to draft sermons or research topics. It might seem helpful, but it also raises an important question as to whether relying too much on AI make us spiritually lazy.
The process of preparing a sermon or studying Scripture is more than just about producing content. It is actually about engaging deeply with God’s Word and seeking His guidance. Skipping the process by using AI might save time, but it also robs us of an opportunity to connect with God in a meaningful way. The same applies to personal spiritual growth. Reading Scripture, praying and reflecting on God’s truth require effort, but such practices strengthen our faith and draw us closer to Him. AI can support these efforts, but it should never replace them.
Real Connection Matters
One of AI’s biggest flaws is its inability to create genuine human connection. It can simulate conversations or mimic emotions, but it is still artificial. True relationships require authenticity, effort and presence. It can never replicate the depth of a real relationship no matter how advanced AI becomes.
Loneliness and isolation are common in today’s world and turning to AI for companionship or spiritual guidance might seem appealing. But it is important to remember that such interactions are not real. They lack the heart and soul that come from genuine connections. We are called to foster real relationships and whether it is through fellowship with other believers or spending time in prayer with God.
Keeping an Eternal Perspective
This world is captivated by technological advancements and Christians are reminded to stay grounded in eternal truths. AI is temporary and it is just a tool that can make life better. It is not the ultimate answer. The Bible says in 1 John 2:15, “The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever.”
Our focus as Christians should always remain on God’s kingdom. AI can assist us in many ways, but it is not where our hope lies. It is important to use the tool responsibly and to ensure that it helps us in fulfilling God’s purposes rather than distract us from them. The goal should always be to honor God and point others to Him whether we are using AI for work, ministry or personal growth.
Finding Balance with AI
AI is here to stay and its influence will only grow. The key for Christians is to find a balance. Embrace the benefits it offers and don’t let it replace the things that matter most. We can navigate the new era without losing what makes our faith special by keeping our focus on God and using AI wisely.
AI is a tool and not of course a savior. It can’t replace the love of God, the truth of Scripture or the beauty of authentic relationships. Let us use it for good and always remembering that our ultimate purpose is to glorify God in everything we do.
