Artificial intelligence is here. We stand on the shore and look towards the horizon. A vast ocean separates us from this undiscovered frontier. What’s out there? What discoveries will be made? Are there dangers? The prophets of pop culture warn us of impending doom: war with machines, Skynet, and The Matrix. There are some here who are not only reluctant to use A.I., but would rather avoid it altogether. But the truth is, we’ve been here before: the printing press, electricity, the telephone, the automobile, radio and television, personal computing, and of course the internet. For each technological milestone, Christians across the world have tried to find the balance between unadulterated fear and probing discernment.
In the late 19th century, people were experimenting with electricity without fully understanding its potential dangers which led to electrocution and fires. But as knowledge was gained, safety measures were instituted and electricity was widely adopted. Had we allowed our fears to overtake us we might still be huddling around candles for light, instead of clean and efficient LEDs. The key approach then to artificial intelligence is to ask God for wisdom, knowledge, understanding, and discernment. Proverbs 2:3-6 says, “Yes, if you call out for insight and raise your voice for understanding, if you seek it like silver and search for it as for hidden treasures, then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God. For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth comes knowledge and understanding.”
Hebrews 5:14 says, “Solid food (speaking of the more advanced oracles of God) is for the mature, for those who have their powers of discernment trained by constant practice to distinguish good from evil.” Philippians 1:9-10 says, “And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ. 1 Thessalonians 5:21-22, “…test everything; hold fast to what is good. Abstain from every form of evil.”
The application of the Word of God is not restricted to certain segments of your life. Its utility is comprehensive. Including how to deal with disruptive technologies. When I was using AOL in the 90s, there was no way for me to predict the heights of human creativity that would come as a result of the burgeoning internet. But I was also unable to forecast, the extent of which man’s depraved nature would be put on display. A.I. will be no different. So the Christian may be tempted to boast of his “superior” choice, “I refuse the technology therefore I’m pure.” Another chides, “You are a luddite and old fashioned.” Both attitudes are erroneous. Whether you do or do not, proceed with faith. And if you do decide to make use of A.I., your options are like the soldiers of Gideon: plunge your head in and lap up the water like a dog, or kneel down, cup the water in your hands and look around while you drink.
Daniel Namahoe – March 31, 2024
