AI and the Church: What Research Tells Us

Have you been hesitant to jump on the artificial intelligence train? If so, you’re not alone. A recent study highlights that Christians tend to be more hesitant regarding AI than their non-Christian counterparts. Is this caution warranted? Let’s explore.  

A Whirlwind Year 

In November 2022, ChatGPT burst onto the scene and stole the world’s attention.  Since then, the market has seen a flurry of AI innovations, promising to revolutionize everything from academic writing to social media analytics to customer service. Major tech companies and startups alike have integrated AI technologies to boost productivity and streamline processes. Corporate giants like Amazon and Spotify use AI to personalize recommendations for users, while banks such as JPMorgan Chase have implemented AI to improve customer service and security. 

And this AI wave isn't just for the big players, either. Smaller companies have jumped on board, harnessing AI’s potential to automate routine tasks and unlock data insights. Playful apps have also been created on the back of AI. My favorites include one that allows you to mix multiple different songs into a super tune and another one that helps you to turn your camera roll photos into funny memes. 

It seems AI is no longer just a buzzword—it's rapidly becoming the tool of daily life. 

Mixed Reactions to Artificial Intelligence 

It really does seem like the possibilities are endless when it comes to artificial intelligence, but that’s also what appears to have a lot of people worried. 

The public sentiment about AI is a mixed bag, ranging from contagious enthusiasm to cautious skepticism. Within Christian circles, the conversation about AI is still evolving, and many church leaders are mulling over how – or even if – AI should be used.

How U.S. Christians Feel About AI

What’s the Christian consensus on AI at the moment? Barna Group's recent study indicates that a good number of U.S. Christians are still sitting on the fence about this topic, but a slight majority tend toward skepticism. 

Their latest stats also highlight the general population's relationship with AI. According to Barna, only 10% of U.S. adults are regular AI users, which is a surprisingly small amount compared to how much buzz has surrounded the conversation. There is a varied reaction to AI amongst the general population: 29% are wary, 35% are intrigued, and 21% are fascinated by it. 

Interestingly, Christians are slightly more skeptical about the benefits of AI than non-Christians. Only 28% of Christians are optimistic about the positive impact AI can have in the world, while 39% of non-Christians are optimistic. 

How U.S. Christians Feel About AI and the Church

When responding to the statement, “AI is good for the Christian Church,” 51% of survey participants either disagreed or strongly disagreed. Twenty-one percent agreed or strongly agreed, and 27% weren’t sure how they felt. The numbers tilted even more toward hesitancy when asked about AI use in their churches. 

Over half of Christians are opposed to this idea, stating that they would be disappointed if AI was used at their home churches. 

Can AI Help the Church? 

The Barna article notes that AI could probably be used to help churches in many ways – particularly those churches that have a small staff – and I tend to agree. 

Full disclosure here: I find myself in the “fascinated” category when it comes to AI. This is the reason I’m interested enough to write this article in the first place! I have also used AI for several purposes, from searching for dinner recipes to brainstorming marketing ideas. I have found AI both helpful and innovative, and I’m not concerned about the appropriate use of this technology. 

Neither am I bothered by the appropriate use of AI in churches, particularly for communication purposes.  I’ve seen creative teams make beautiful, original graphics with the help of AI. I’ve seen video editing streamlined and production made easier. I have personally made use of MailChimp’s AI feature, which helps me write better subject lines for my emails when I send them out to my church’s congregation. I didn’t choose to implement this feature - it is simply part of MailChimp now.

Personally, I value technology and the myriad of ways we've harnessed it through the ages, and this is why I am open to some of the developments we have seen in the AI space.

But, as with any tool, wisdom, humility, and a keen eye on the ethical compass are crucial. 

My openness to AI is not to say that it cannot do damage. Even good tools can be used for manipulation and power struggles, and technology can have a sneaky way of stealing our attention from God rather than pointing us to Him.

In another article about AI, I discussed the possibilities and concerns of this technology, comparing it to the invention of the internet. The use of the internet is commonplace today, but its introduction to our society brings several risks with its rewards. Cybercrime, misinformation, and privacy concerns are just a few of the risks we face when we use the internet. But that does not overshine the positive communication benefits we gain from this technology. 

How Should We Proceed? 

Kenny Jahng, quoted in the Barna study as a proponent of AI in church leadership, believes that technology should be humanity’s helper, not its ruler. He recognizes AI's potential for ideation and education. However, Jahng is also aware of the apprehensions within the Christian community.

Due to the hesitation surrounding AI, Jahng suggests a cautious and transparent approach on behalf of churches, comparing AI to a "super-intelligent student intern," a metaphor that illustrates AI as a valuable assistant capable of offering insight and support but not as an all-encompassing fix or a replacement for human judgment and spiritual discernment. This metaphor helps us to look at artificial intelligence as something that can provide some help to churches, but it is not something we should fully depend on. 

Put simply, while we may make use of AI to design a church bulletin or a Sunday slide, we shouldn’t expect ChatGTP to be able to write sermons that will adequately shepherd our congregations. Technology is a tool, but God is our leader. 

Jahng's perspective invites churches to explore AI's benefits cautiously and reinforces the importance of keeping human wisdom and ethical considerations at the forefront of technological adoption.

Will the church grow cozier with AI as time marches on? My guess is that it probably will, but I feel no need to rush the discernment process. 

For tips on how to lead your congregation through the discernment process with wisdom and humility,  check out this article.