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Should Christians use AI?

Should Christians use AI?
Fall Apologetics Culture

TL;DR:

AI can do almost anything, but that doesn’t mean Christians should let it do everything. Use it wisely and honestly—without letting AI replace your thinking, your relationships, or your dependence on God.

what does the bible say?

AI is a growing technology with ongoing news about both its advances and dangers. What does that mean for us as Christians? As a tool, AI can be used both for good and bad. But because it’s a general-purpose tool that can do almost anything one desires, it’s unlike any previous tool. Christians must decide where to draw the line. However, here are some considerations. First, believers are never to lie (Colossians 3:9). Submitting AI-generated work as one’s own may be deceit. Second, God created us for relationship with Him and others (Genesis 1:26–27; 2:18). A personal relationship with AI is theologically problematic, especially if it replaces human relationships. Third, believers have Christian liberty (Romans 14) and must withhold judgment against others for how they use AI, as long as they're not using it to sin. Fourth, human life is precious (Psalm 139:13–14). Some have allowed AI to guide them into self-harm or harm to others. Believers should consider what guidelines their situation requires. Fifth, the believer’s mind is to be renewed through God's Word and the Holy Spirit (Romans 12:2). AI must not replace biblical wisdom.

from the old testament

  • God created humanity for relationship. Because we are made in God’s image (Genesis 1:26–27), we are to relate to God as our Creator and reflect Him to creation. By creating us male and female, and not alone, God also created us to relate to one another (e.g., Genesis 2:18). Any activity that replaces our relationship with God or with other humans goes against how we were designed.

from the new testament

  • Believers must never lie (e.g., Colossians 3:9). While Christians wrestle with AI, there’s a general understanding that there’s a difference between using AI to improve something a human created and using AI to do all the creative work and submitting it as if a human did it. Believers need to consider whether they are lying if they use AI in that second way.
  • While Scripture provides wisdom and guidance on anything it doesn’t directly forbid, it offers the principle of Christian liberty (see Romans 14). Christian liberty teaches that as long as something is not inherently sinful, Christians are free to disagree on how much or how little they use something like AI. That freedom also means not judging another believer as sinful when they conclude differently on such non-essential topics.
  • Because AI “thinks” and can outsource thinking, believers must be careful not to outsource spiritual sanctification. God’s means for spiritual growth are transforming the mind (Romans 12:2) through His word (John 17:17), the Spirit (Galatians 5:16–17), and other believers (Hebrews 10:24–25).
  • Believers should also care for those in their care (e.g., Galatians 6:2; 1 Timothy 5:8). As with any tool or technology, one should consider the risks of allowing others to access AI products.

implications for today

With AI emerging as a new, potentially society-changing technology, Christians are once again faced with the question of whether we should use it. While the technology is new and, in some ways, unlike previous changes, the question isn't.

We can’t say whether or not you should use AI, or to what extent. However, we encourage you to think through it carefully. Begin by establishing boundaries, such as considering what the Bible teaches about what makes humanity unique and ensuring your use of AI respects our uniquely human qualities.

Right now, the technology seems inevitable. For better or worse, many companies have already integrated it into the products we use. So it’s not really whether we should use it but when and how often. As you consider it, remember that God’s Word is the only authority. Luke praised the Bereans for confirming what Paul, as an apostle sent by Jesus, said before accepting it (Acts 17:11). Be a Berean with AI. Make sure what it tells you is true. If checking its conclusions matters in other areas of life, how much more so in spiritual matters?

There is nothing new under the sun (Ecclesiastes 1:9). Even the newest technology intersects with God’s world and thus requires theological thinking. Think carefully and do so charitably, knowing that while believers may reach different conclusions, as a whole, they are trying to please God as they personally adapt to AI’s rapid influence on the world.

understand

  • AI is a powerful tool that requires biblical wisdom.
  • AI should never replace God, people, or personal responsibility.
  • Christians may set different boundaries for AI use.

reflect

  • Where might you rely on AI in ways that could weaken your thinking, creativity, or sense of responsibility?
  • How can you ensure your use of AI strengthens, rather than replaces, your habits of Bible reading, prayer, and genuine relationships?
  • What boundaries do you need to consider for your own AI use?

engage

  • What biblical principles should Christians consider when deciding how to use AI?
  • How can Christians distinguish between using AI as a helpful tool and allowing it to replace uniquely human thinking, relationships, or spiritual growth?
  • How can we help others navigate AI wisely and responsibly without letting it replace what matters most?

More Resources

Culture Does using AI challenge God's role as Creator?

Does using AI challenge God's role as Creator?

No matter how intelligent AI becomes, AI does not challenge God's role as Creator. God alone is the Creator; AI is simply a human-made tool that rearranges what God has already made.
Christian Life Can AI be used for discipleship?

Can AI be used for discipleship?

Because biblical discipleship is relational, incarnational, and Spirit-led, it cannot be replaced by AI, though it is possible for AI to aid in discipleship. Disciples are formed through Spirit-led, life-on-life relationships—not technology.
Culture Can AI be used to glorify God?

Can AI be used to glorify God?

AI is a tool, and it can be used in ways to glorify God. But when you start looking to AI for the wisdom, guidance, or discernment that only God can provide, a useful tool can become an idol.
Life Can AI possess moral responsibility or who holds accountability?

Can AI possess moral responsibility or who holds accountability?

AI cannot be morally responsible because it has no will, conscience, or ability to discern right from wrong. Any harm AI causes ultimately traces back to the humans who create and use it.