AI and the Pulpit: Navigating Faith in an Age of Intelligent Machines

From practical ministry tools to apocalyptic fears, artificial intelligence is reshaping the landscape of religion, demanding discernment over dogma.

Article link: https://open.substack.com/pub/johanosteyn/p/ai-and-the-pulpit-navigating-faith?r=73gqa&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true

Audio summary: https://youtu.be/oTDsVmuFE2c

As someone deeply invested in the intersection of Artificial Intelligence and its societal impact, I frequently write about various issues of interest that I believe warrant the reader’s attention. While my main work is in AI and technology, this article specifically touches upon areas around education and the future of our children, as the integration of AI into spiritual life will undoubtedly shape their understanding of faith and technology. Artificial intelligence is rapidly moving from the realm of abstract theological debate to the everyday life of faith communities.

Far from being solely a threat, AI is already deeply embedded in how mosques, churches, synagogues, and temples communicate, translate, secure their spaces, and even approach their mission. This widespread adoption necessitates a nuanced understanding, moving beyond knee-jerk reactions to embrace thoughtful engagement.

CONTEXT AND BACKGROUND

Across the globe, religious institutions are embracing AI as a valuable tool for ministry and administration. Surveys from 2025 indicate that nearly half of church leaders now utilise AI tools, with a significant majority supporting AI in various forms of ministry. This ranges from drafting newsletters and sermons to managing volunteers and livestreaming services.

Real-time translation services, powered by AI, are breaking down language barriers, allowing multilingual congregations to worship together seamlessly. Furthermore, AI-driven security systems are enhancing the safety of vulnerable houses of worship by detecting threats and monitoring spaces in real-time, without necessarily compromising privacy or hospitality. This pattern of adopting new technologies is not new; religious communities have historically integrated innovations like the printing press, radio, and the internet for spiritual purposes, demonstrating a long tradition of adapting to new eras.

INSIGHT AND ANALYSIS

Despite the practical benefits, a growing online ecosystem, particularly within certain segments of the Christian right and evangelical circles, frames AI as “Antichrist technology”. Commentators often link generative models, deepfakes, and biometric surveillance to biblical prophecies about end-times deception, suggesting AI itself could be the Beast or its infrastructure. This reaction, while understandable in the face of rapid technological change, mirrors historical patterns where poorly understood innovations like electricity, cinema, or even credit cards drew similar apocalyptic suspicion.

Such technophobia often stems from a lack of understanding, leading to spiritual panic rather than informed discernment. Theologically grounded responses stress that AI is a human-made tool, a product of human ingenuity and stewardship, not a rival deity. It lacks the spiritual dimension, moral agency, and capacity for genuine human connection that are intrinsic to humanity, created in the image of God. The real challenge lies not in whether AI is inherently evil, but in how we, as humans, choose to develop and deploy it.

IMPLICATIONS

The implications of this discourse are profound for me personally, for the future of our country, and critically, for our children. As a technologist and parent, I observe that misinformed fear can hinder progress and prevent the responsible application of tools that could genuinely benefit society. When religious leaders denounce what they do not understand, they risk alienating younger generations who are growing up with AI as an integral part of their lives.

For our country, a balanced and ethical approach to AI, guided by human-centred values, is essential to foster innovation while protecting fundamental liberties and spiritual well-being. We must guard against deception, bias, and dehumanisation in AI systems, ensuring they support education, inclusion, and mission rather than undermining human dignity. This requires political resolve, robust ethical frameworks, and continuous dialogue between faith leaders, technologists, and policymakers.

CLOSING TAKEAWAY

The pervasive fear of AI as an “Antichrist technology” is a recurring historical pattern of misunderstanding new innovations. Instead of succumbing to spiritual panic, a faithful and discerning approach to AI, recognising it as a powerful human tool, is crucial for navigating its complexities and harnessing its potential to enrich faith communities and serve humanity responsibly.

Author Bio: Johan Steyn is an AI and technology expert, author, and speaker, focusing on the ethical and practical implications of artificial intelligence in business and society. He is passionate about ensuring technology serves humanity. Find out more at https://www.aiforbusiness.net