Behold, to the Lord your God belong heaven and the highest heavens, the earth and all that is in it. – Deuteronomy 10:14
As I wrestle with the idea to use or not to use Artificial Intelligence (AI), I must ask myself if the principles some people use to condemn this technology are upstanding, then I’m going to have to go back to a gear-shift car with roll-down windows. If the argument AI is used for evil keeps me from using it look up an alternative ingredient in my recipe or to identify the sickness in my beloved Dogwood, then I should close my laptop for good. And throw my evil smart phone into Lake Waxahachie.
Let’s face it, AI existed in several lower-level forms long before the AI boom of the last two years. Like it or not, we’ve been using forms of artificial intelligence in daily life for years through our work-management platforms, our internet usage, our social media platforms, and our automated banking systems. We’ve called it algorithms and software, and these terms have proven to be easier to digest that “AI,” which harkens fear of the unknown. Although … plenty of sci-fi movies gave us a guestimated look at the future of AI living among us. Gripping our popcorn bags, we watched metal men wipe out humans on planet earth.
Caution
With the explosion of Chat GPT and advanced robotics, conversations of fallen morality and imminent danger are taking place more often than not. Passions stir as we grapple with the challenges: Privacy concerns and data security; job displacement and economic impact; the risk of misuse and unintended consequences; the importance of human Intent and governance; and the roles of regulation, transparency, and ethical oversights. These are happening and needed discussions.
AI Explosion
Artificial intelligence—it’s everywhere now. We’re talking about a force that’s flipping the script on how we work, learn, and even connect with each other. From classrooms to clinics, boardrooms to kitchen tables, AI is seeping into the cracks and corners of everything! And as it keeps showing up in more places, it’s not just technologists and entrepreneurs asking big questions. Christians—regular folks like you and me—are also standing at the crossroads, weighing what this means for faith, community, and the choices we make daily but also long term. Opportunities? Absolutely. But just as surely, there’s a heap of soul-searching, too.
For many within the Christian community, the rapid ascent of intelligent systems has stirred deep anxieties. Warnings this technology will play a role in end-times scenarios, fuels fears that AI will serve as an instrument of control by the Antichrist—an entity promising order and knowledge but ultimately leading many astray.
These concerns are not new; throughout history, advances in technology have often been met with suspicion, particularly when their implications touch on matters of faith and human agency.
Yet, amidst these cautionary voices, a growing number of Christian thinkers, leaders, and everyday believers are exploring how AI can be leveraged for the greater good, in alignment with their faith’s core values. This perspective holds that, rather than shunning innovation out of fear, the Christian response should be one of discernment, intentionality, and hope: seeking to harness the potential of AI as a tool for compassion, justice, stewardship, and the flourishing of all people. By rooting their engagement with artificial intelligence in a commitment to love, truth, and service, Christians can help ensure that technology serves a higher purpose rather than becoming an idol or a source of division.
For Him; by Him
I passionately believe the opening Scripture I used in this blog (Deuteronomy 10:14). Everything belongs to our God. Everything means everything and encompasses technology.
Here’s another Scripture stating the truth of God’s sovereignty:
For by Him all things were created, both in the heavens and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things have been created through Him and for Him. Colossians 1:16
And if all things have been created through and for Him, then yes, technology is from God and to be used for His glory.
Rainbows
Some years ago, when working on a marketing campaign for a ministry I worked for, our graphic artist created an ombre of colors for our design, starting with a pink that went through several shades to end with blue. We loved the innovative and fresh approach the artist took. But our leadership had us scrap the design saying it resembled the rainbow, and the rainbow, one declared, was a symbol of the gay movement. That decision perplexed me then and I’m still bewildered at how quickly some Christians will open-handedly give Satan what he’s come to steal. How does this resemble “storming the gates of hell” which Christ told Peter the church would do?
The rainbow belongs to God and His people as a sign of a hopeful and loving promise.
Just as we shouldn’t be quick to give up on the symbol of the rainbow, I believe we shouldn’t roll over and call for doomsday as technology is speeding forward.
Yes, the “beast system” of the seven-year tribulation will require advanced technology as a super system will track and control people that make the sci-fi movies of old look like child’s play. It will be awful, and the Word of God urges believers who are still on earth at that time to resist the controlling evil. God has told us and showed us through the Apostle John’s eyes what is coming and it will be horrific.
We are not there yet. And until we are, I advocate for using what God created for a “time such as this.” Let’s fight fire with fire and utilize the advantages of this advanced technology to God’s glory.
Harnessing Technology for Good
Before ascending, Jesus left us with His ultimate command. He told His disciples to go into all the world and preach/teach others what He had taught His disciples. This is called evangelism and it’s a fancy word for sharing the love of our Christ with those who have yet to find Him. Here are some ways we can use the AI we have now to impact the Kingdom to come:
- Multilingual Translation: Advanced AI translation tools can break down language barriers, enabling the message of Christ to be shared in thousands of languages and dialects. This allows ministries to reach people in remote areas who have never encountered the gospel in their native tongue.
- Content Creation and Distribution: AI can aid Christians in producing engaging devotionals, sermons, podcasts, and videos, tailoring content to diverse audiences and delivering it through the channels they frequent most. Algorithms can recommend faith-based material to seekers, helping them discover resources made by men and women that speak to their spiritual journey.
- Virtual Discipleship and Community: AI-driven platforms aid human facilitators with online Bible studies, prayer groups, and discipleship communities, connecting believers across continents. These virtual spaces can offer mentorship, accountability, and encouragement in a way that transcends geographical limitations.
- Accessibility for All: AI can be used to create tools for those with disabilities, such as audio Bibles for the visually impaired or sign-language interpretation for the deaf. Inclusive technology ensures that no one is left behind in hearing the good news. The ministry I work for is using AI to create first drafts of the Bible in languages that have yet to be written.
In every approach, the aim is to steward technology for God’s glory, echoing the belief that all things—visible and invisible—can be used as instruments of hope and love in a world hungry for truth.
Let’s not run from technology, but let’s grab at the tools that, for now, are under God’s supreme authority. The day will come when we resist. For now, I believe we should use AI as our tool, under Christ’s God-given authority, with discernment, honesty, and with God’s objectives driving us forward.
Onward Christian warriors!
Laurie
PS – Writing the Bible Brief UNDERESTIMATED has been a journey of courage and discovery.
Why do some Bible verses feel like barriers? What if they’re actually invitations? Join me as we see Paul’s writing about women in the church in a new light—one that elevates spiritual calling over tradition.