A Balanced View of AI
Artificial intelligence is everywhere these days — from the news headlines to the apps on our phones. Some people are excited. Others are terrified. Among Christians, there’s a growing concern that AI could be used by the Antichrist or play a role in end-times prophecy. Others simply don’t trust it, worried about privacy, accuracy, or the unknown.
But is AI something to fear? Or, like many of the tools humanity has created, does it depend on how we use it? As followers of Christ, how should we think about AI — and how do we respond to those who are afraid?
Let’s take an honest, Bible-based look.
Why Are People Afraid of AI?
For many Christians, the fear comes from Bible prophecy. Revelation 13 describes a world leader who deceives the nations and demands worship, using miraculous signs and economic control (Revelation 13:13-17). Some see a connection between this and the rise of powerful technologies like AI. After all, we’ve never had anything quite like this before — machines that can “think,” process vast amounts of information, and even mimic human speech.
Is it possible that AI could be used for evil? The answer is simple: yes. Like any tool, AI can be used for good or for harm. The printing press gave people access to the Bible, but it also spread lies. The internet can connect believers, but it can also be used for deception. Tools are neutral — it’s how we use them that matters.
What Does the Bible Actually Say?
The Bible doesn’t mention “artificial intelligence” by name, but it does talk a lot about wisdom, discernment, and the dangers of trusting in human inventions. Psalm 20:7 says, “Some trust in chariots, and some in horses, but we trust in the name of Yahweh our God.” The lesson? Don’t put your trust in technology — or fear it as if it’s in control. God is still sovereign.
The Bible also warns us to be wise and alert: “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour” (1 Peter 5:8). That means being cautious with any new technology — including AI.
But we’re also called to use the gifts God gives us, including knowledge and skill. In Exodus 31, God fills Bezalel with “the spirit of God, in wisdom, and in understanding, and in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship” so he can build the tabernacle. Human creativity is part of God’s design.
The Pros of AI
Let’s be honest: AI can be amazing. It can help us research faster, organize information, translate languages, and even write more clearly. For Christians, this opens up opportunities to spread the gospel, study the Bible, and encourage others. AI can free up time for prayer, service, and real relationships. It can make our work more efficient and help us reach people we never could before.
The Cons of AI
But there are real dangers, too. AI can be used to spread lies, create fake images or stories, and invade privacy. If we’re not careful, we can get lazy, letting machines do our thinking for us. There’s also the risk of putting too much trust in AI, letting it shape our beliefs or decisions without discernment.
And yes, in the wrong hands, AI could be used for control or deception — just like any other powerful tool. This is why we need wisdom, not fear.
How Should Christians Respond?
- Don’t let fear rule. God hasn’t given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind (2 Timothy 1:7). AI is not in control — God is.
- Use discernment. Test everything, hold on to what is good (1 Thessalonians 5:21). Don’t believe everything you read, even if it’s written by an AI.
- Focus on love and truth. Use AI as a tool to serve others, spread the gospel, and encourage one another in truth.
- Stay alert. Be aware of the risks, but don’t panic. Technology changes, but God’s word stands forever.
Responding to Fearful Christians
If someone is afraid of AI, listen to their concerns. Don’t mock or dismiss them. Instead, remind them that the Bible says God is our refuge and strength (Psalm 46:1). Encourage them to seek wisdom, stay grounded in scripture, and use every tool — including AI — for good.
We don’t know exactly how the end times will play out. But we do know that “perfect love casts out fear” (1 John 4:18), and that we’re called to be wise stewards, not fearful bystanders.
Final Thoughts
AI is here to stay. It can be a blessing or a curse, depending on how we use it. As Christians, let’s be known for our wisdom, our faith, and our love — not our fear. Let’s use every tool for good, stay rooted in scripture, and trust God above all.
And when in doubt, remember: no technology is more powerful than the God we serve.