As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to advance, its applications span a wide array of fields, including potential use in spiritual guidance. However, a recent study by the American Bible Society (ABS) reveals that most Americans remain wary of relying on AI for their religious practices.
Skepticism Surrounding AI in Spiritual Life
According to the ABS study, 68% of Americans do not believe AI can assist with spiritual practices or promote spiritual health. Furthermore, 58% doubt AI’s capability to aid in moral reasoning, and only 25% feel optimistic about the technology’s impact on their spiritual lives.
“Americans are more fearful than hopeful about artificial intelligence,” stated John Farquhar Plake, an ABS program officer and editor-in-chief of the State of the Bible series. “People don’t know how AI will change the culture—but they’re mildly uneasy about it.”
The Study’s Findings
The ABS surveyed approximately 2,500 individuals for its annual report on Scripture engagement and related topics. While technology has been a regular part of the survey, this year marked the first time ABS dedicated a set of questions specifically to AI and its potential spiritual applications.
The Divide Among Christians
AI technology ranges from virtual assistants like Amazon’s Alexa to sophisticated chatbots capable of passing professional exams. While some Christians working in technology envision these advancements as tools to deepen faith, the majority remain uncomfortable with the idea. They express significant uncertainty about AI’s ability to replace traditional, personal engagement with the Bible and God.
“People who are most connected to the Bible and have had their lives deeply impacted by studying and understanding the Bible are somewhat skeptical that that experience can be replicated by a machine learning model or a generative AI model,” Plake noted.
In contrast, those less engaged with religious communities or Scripture show more optimism about AI’s potential. This group, termed the “movable middle” by ABS, sees AI as a possible aid to initiate their Bible reading journey.
Practical Applications and Concerns
Derek Schuurman, a computer scientist at Calvin University, highlighted some beneficial uses of AI in spiritual contexts, such as Bible translation and sermon transcriptions. However, he also acknowledges widespread concerns ranging from unrealistic utopian expectations to fears of AI becoming an existential threat.
“The Bible is unequivocal in its rejection of anything in creation as either the villain or the savior,” Schuurman said. He emphasized that Christians should shape technology’s moral framework, focusing on justice, love for neighbors, and cultivating spiritual disciplines.
A Balanced Perspective
Brad Hill, the chief solutions officer at Gloo, a technology platform for ministry leaders, noted that technological apprehensions are common in the early stages of new innovations. He drew parallels with historical skepticism towards the internet, broadcast TV, and even the printing press.
“It’s actually quite normal at this stage in a new technology for people in the church, people of faith, to have reservations,” Hill observed. While he personally wouldn’t rely on ChatGPT for spiritual guidance, he encourages exploring AI’s positive potential.
“AI is really important and arguably could be one of the most important technology advances in our generation,” Hill said. “We have a moral imperative as believers to understand how we might use it redemptively and how we might use it for good.”
Navigating the Future of AI in Spirituality
Despite the technological advancements, most Americans remain skeptical about AI’s role in spiritual matters. As AI continues to evolve, it’s crucial for the faith community to engage thoughtfully, ensuring that technology serves as a tool to support, rather than replace, genuine spiritual experiences.
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