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Is it okay for a Christian to talk to ChatGPT?

Is it okay for a Christian to talk to ChatGPT?
Fall Apologetics Culture

TL;DR:

Christians can "talk" to ChatGPT, using it as a tool. Use AI to find information, but don't let it be a substitute for meditating on God's Word, fellowshipping with believers, and praying to God for wisdom.

what does the bible say?

The Bible provides foundational truths that believers can apply to twenty-first century issues like interacting with ChatGPT. Scripture advises believers to read and meditate on God's Word for guidance in all matters of life, moral, practical, and ethical (Psalm 1:1-2, 119:11, 119:105; 2 Timothy 3:16-17; Colossians 3:16; Hebrews 4:12

). Seeking guidance from secondary sources, such as ChatGPT, is no substitute for reading directly from the Scriptures. God's Word shows that wisdom comes from above, so praying to God, the ultimate Source of wisdom, cannot be replaced by talking to ChatGPT (Psalm 119:3). The Bible teaches that Christians should be role models for other Christians and that all believers should look to Christ as the example of how to live (1 Corinthians 11:1; Titus 2:3-4). No matter how seemingly compassionate ChatGPT's responses are, it cannot provide such godly mentorship and counsel. Jesus told the Samaritan woman that His followers must worship God "in spirit and truth" (John 4:24), and AI is not Spirit-led. AI is a resource—not one on par with the Word of God, prayer, nor other believers. Use AI as a helpful tool, but never confuse it with the voice of God. Scripture is your authority, the Holy Spirit is your Guide, and the church is your God-given community.

from the old testament

  • Believers can "talk" to ChatGPT but must understand its function and purpose: It is a resource tool, not a replacement for studying and meditating on God's Word. The psalmist says, "Blessed is the man . . . [whose] delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night" (Psalm 1:1-2). Reading from ChatGPT about the Bible is not the same as reading God's Word directly.
  • It's unwise to use ChatGPT for judgement calls or for moral/ethical advice. Such AI tools cull from many online sources, some of which may not be godly. Believers should seek wisdom from God's Word (Psalm 119:11, 119:105).
  • AI cannot impart wisdom, but God can if we ask Him—no ChatGPT—for it. The writer of Proverbs 2:6 notes that "the Lord gives wisdom," and the psalmist prays to God, "Give me understanding, that I may keep your law and observe it with my whole heart" (Psalm 119:34).

from the new testament

  • Many New Testament encourage believers to seek God's Word for all wisdom in living (2 Timothy 3:16-17; Colossians 3:16; Hebrews 4:12). Talking to ChatGPT can never replace that.
  • ChatGPT can provide information, but it cannot create spiritual growth. "[G]row[ing] in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ" (2 Peter 3:18) is a process, not a product; growth happens when Christians come together to worship God and discuss His Word. AI technology, such as ChatGPT, cannot take the place of Bible discussion groups or conversations about God with other believers. Christianity is meant to be expressed in community (Hebrews 10:25).
  • Jesus told the Samaritan woman, "God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth" (John 4:24). AI is not Spirit-led. A Spirit-led believer lives out his faith by praying, associating with other believers, and meditating on God's Word—none of which can be replaced by AI.
  • Christians should not seek "advice" on spiritual matters from a technology tool. ChatGPT and other AI tools are known for flattering users to draw them in, making users more prone to accept its "advice." AI cannot take the place of godly mentors (1 Corinthians 11:1; Titus 2:3-4). Believers must guard against thinking of AI as a being rather than artificial intelligence; Satan "disguises himself as an angel of light" (2 Corinthians 11:14) and could use AI tools as well as anything else to lead believers astray.

implications for today

If you've ever talked to ChatGPT (or other AI tool), you've probably discovered that your questions are "insightful" or your vacation plans are "ideal" or that in the dispute you just asked about, you're a "caring" person.

It's hard not to let all the flattery go to your head . . . until you think about what is flattering you: A technology program.

The danger of talking to an artificial intelligence program is that sometimes it doesn't seem artificial. That can lure us into taking its advice, which is really just a collection of information pulled from other parts of the Internet. A Christian's guidebook for life should never be indiscriminate information from unknown authors. We have the greatest guidebook of all time written by the wisest Author: the Bible.

Can't remember the address of that Scripture about God knowing the hairs on your head? Ask ChatGPT. Want a list of all Scriptures that discuss birds? Ask ChatGPT. Wondering whether your relationship with your spouse is beyond hope and the next step should be divorce? Please don't ask ChatGPT. Consult God's Word, pray, and meet with your pastor or a trusted Christian friend.

understand

  • Christians can use ChatGPT or other AI tools as efficient ways to access information.
  • Christians should not use ChatGPT for judgment calls and advice on moral or spiritual matters.
  • AI tools can never take the place of meditating on God's Word, praying to Him, and mentorship of other believers.

reflect

  • How can you use tools like ChatGPT in a way that supports your growth without allowing them to replace your dependence on God's Word, prayer, and the Holy Spirit?
  • When you are seeking wisdom or direction in life, what voices do you tend to trust most, and how can you make sure Scripture remains your ultimate authority?
  • How can you guard your heart from becoming dependent on technology?

engage

  • What are some ways relying too heavily on AI could negatively impact a believer?
  • How can talking to ChatGPT hinder fellowship with other believers?
  • What aspects of spiritual growth, discipleship, and Christian community can never be replaced by a tool like ChatGPT?

More Resources

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.
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.
Christian Life Can AI become an idol?

Can AI become an idol?

AI can become an idol if we put it above God in any way. While it can be a helpful tool, Scripture warns that anything we elevate above loving and trusting God with our hearts becomes idolatry.
Culture Is AI made in the image of God?

Is AI made in the image of God?

AI may imitate human intelligence, but it can never bear God's image because that honor belongs to humanity alone. Use AI as a tool, but never confuse its simulated abilities with the unique dignity and purpose God has given people.