Is This AI ‘Jesus’ Leading People Astray?
As artificial intelligence is growing at a rapid pace many people today are relying on it for multiple uses. For some, this includes how they interact with God.
With the new “What Would Jesus Do?” app for iPhone, users can submit questions to a chatbot, who is supposed to reply the same way Jesus would. However, as Christian Headlines first reported, when it comes to cultural hot button topics like abortion, gender identity and homosexuality, the app falls flat.
While quoting Scripture, the app still implies that decisions like abortion or getting a transgender-affirming surgery are a matter of “following your heart” for doing what you believe is best for your life.
The reviews in the Apple store itself provide an overall positive outlook on the app.
“I was initially skeptical about using an app to connect with Jesus, but after trying it out myself, I was blown away by the depth of wisdom and insight that the chat bot provided,” one user identified as Sarah said. “It’s truly like having a personal conversation with Jesus.”
Beyond the initial concerns with this particular app, artificial intelligence’s quick expansion has caused leaders like D.L. Moody Center president Dr. James Spencer to point out the lack of regulation going into these sites today. While some may be concerned about job displacement for certain roles, artificial intelligence has been at the center of some even deeper discussions when it comes to areas like the rules of war.
So, should Christians use artificial intelligence?
Artificial intelligence can be used for good. One example is a team from Southern California’s Information Sciences Institute (ISI) who is collaborating with Wycliffe Bible Translators to bring the Word of God to even more languages and places than what may be possible without help from AI.
Just like any other tool, AI can also be used for bad. Social media can be used to tear people down and turn them away from God to the things of the world. At the same time, it can also be used to share the gospel and fulfill the Great Commission. Why would we expect AI’s influence to be any different?
No matter what app, chatbot or metaverse we use at our disposal, we must stay diligent with what we consume and make sure that everything we pour into our souls glorifies God. As Colossians 1:10 reminds us, we must “walk in a manner worthy of the Lord.” This means following His Holy Spirit every step of the way, even if the world or artificial intelligence runs contrary to Scripture. {eoa}
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Abby Trivett is a marketing copywriter and coordinator for Charisma Media.
