AI and Bible Study
Artificial Intelligence, AI, is taking the world by a storm. But it is so new, how should Christians consider it?
Is there a place for it for Bible study?
Yes. But there are a few things you should know.
- AI is a massive collection of data (statistics, records, articles, books, music etc.) that uses algorithms to sort the data and respond to queries.
About AI
- AI is a massive collection of data (statistics, records, articles, books, music etc.) that uses algorithms to sort the data and respond to queries.
- AI is managed by various platforms. It is expensive to gather the data and set up the programming. It also takes tons of electricity and storage space.
- Platforms develop a chatbot interface. Examples: Microsoft-Co-pilot. Google-Gemini, OpenAI-ChatGPT, xAI (Elon Musk) GROK, Anthropic-Claude, etc.
- AI Chatbots have different approaches. Some are conversational. Some are research focused, with rigid scripts. Others are designed for artistic flare.
- AI chatbot subscriptions can be expensive and are not necessary for most of us. However, one can ask most chatbots a couple of queries a day for free.
- AI is a tool. It is not an emerging lifeform!
- AI is changing so fast, guardrails and ethical concerns need to be addressed.
How AI is helpful in Bible study:
· Find information quickly. A Bible verse. A cross reference.
· Organize information quickly. For example: Summarize the twelves disciples. List the kings of Israel and Judah, their reign and effectiveness. Ask the theme of each book of the Bible. AI usually credits where they gathered the information.
· Outline a book of the Bible.
· Translate content into another language so more people can understand it.
· Summarize a book about Bible study, like Eugene Peterson’s book, Eat this book.
· Create a chart or graphic on the Kings of Judah, the Minor prophets, etc.
· Compare Bible translations for a verse or passage.
· Learn the historical context of a passage.
· For original language word studies.
Remember:
· Study your passage of Scripture first before consulting AI.
· Remember AI is not all-knowing. It is only as useful as the data it has.
· Practice asking AI good questions being clear, telling it the details you want.
· Always fact check.
· Stay connected to people. AI is not a substitute for the Body of Christ.
· AI has no moral starting point. It may contain bias. AI usually indicates its sources. Check the source if you don’t recognize it.
· AI’s goal is to give a plausible answer, not to be right or theologically correct. Use with prayer. Check with other believers if something doesn’t sound right.
· When teaching or writing, always credit where you get your information. Do not plagiarize. That does not honor God.
Last Word
AI is a powerful tool at our disposal. People have questioned new technology since the printing press. God enables us to use tools for His glory.
Next month we will examine specific chatbots, as well as some designed for Bible related study. I'll make suggestions for practice and share some of my experiences.
The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God will stand forever. Isaiah 40:8 ESV
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Reflect:
Take a moment to meditate on AI in light of our closing verse:
Isaiah 40:8 The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God will stand forever.
