When technology meets theology, a plethora of questions arise. An intriguing query many seem to be asking is, "Does the Bible mention Artificial Intelligence (AI)?" Does the Bible say anything about AI, even indirectly? What timeless truths from scripture can guide Christians in evaluating these rapidly advancing technologies? In this extensive blog post, we will explore these questions and examine what the Bible contributes to the AI conversation.
The Evolving Nature of Artificial Intelligence
Before launching into biblical analysis, it is helpful first to define what we mean by "artificial intelligence" (if you know what AI is, feel free to skip ahead).
AI is a branch of computer science that aims to create intelligent machines capable of performing tasks that typically require human intelligence (e.g., speech recognition, image classification, language translation, etc.). The term "artificial intelligence" was coined in 1956 by John McCarthy, a computer scientist at Dartmouth College. Since then, AI has evolved to include a variety of technologies, including machine learning, natural language processing, computer vision, and more. As you probably know, AI is a rapidly evolving field, and new technologies are emerging all the time. If you use a smartphone, app, or computer, you are likely already interacting with AI systems daily. For more of a deep dive, see what is AI.
Searching Scripture
Do any verses in the Bible explicitly describe anything resembling artificial intelligence? Given when the books of the Bible were written, references to modern AI simply do not appear. There are no discussions of machine learning algorithms, natural language chatbots, or other contemporary AI technologies in the Bible.
However, while not directly describing today's technologies, Scripture still speaks to AI in three key ways:
- Cautionary themes - Passages warning against hubris and misplaced trust in human constructs applicable to advanced AI.
- Anthropological truths - Biblical teaching on human nature that distinguishes us from synthetic artifacts.
- Moral principles - Timeless ethical values to guide development and usage of emerging technologies.
Let's briefly survey examples of each.
AI and the Image of God (Study Guide)
Packed with Bible verses and thought-provoking questions, this study guide explores AI's effect on areas like creativity, morality, work, privacy, and the church itself.
Get the Study Guide1. Cautionary Themes Regarding Artificial Intelligence
Several Old Testament passages mock manmade idols - depicting them as lifeless objects undeserving of worship. Their idols are silver and gold, made by human hands. They have mouths, but cannot speak, eyes, but cannot see...Those who make them will be like them, and so will all who trust in them. (Psalm 115:4-5, 7-8)
While not explicitly about AI, these verses evoke modern systems elevated to divine status. We must avoid making an idol of that which lacks true perception or autonomy.
The prophet Isaiah also warns against prideful trust in human constructs over the Creator: Shall what is formed say to the one who formed it, “You did not make me”? Can the pot say to the potter, “You know nothing”? (Isaiah 29:16)
No matter how advanced AI becomes, Christians should thoughtfully reflect on the limits and proper roles of the technologies we create. Our works always remain subordinate to the works of God.
2. Human Uniqueness and Divine Imagining
Beyond warning against false idols, Scripture conveys foundational anthropological truths distinguishing humanity from synthetic artifacts.
The creation account in Genesis describes God directly imparting life to mankind:
Then the Lord God formed a man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being. (Genesis 2:7)
This biblical "breath of life" concept contrasts soulful humanity, made in God's image, with objects crafted by human hands - no matter how sophisticated.
Human dignity, creativity, spirituality, and sentience reflect the divine unlike anything artificially generated. As AI progresses, posing questions about the nature of being, Christians must recognize the essential qualities Scripture ascribes to mankind alone as God's living creations.
3. Ethical Guidance for Technological Progress
Finally, while not directly addressing modern technology, the Bible provides moral principles to guide ethical approaches to AI innovation:
- Human dignity and rights
- Justice and compassion
- Stewardship and accountability
- Honesty, wisdom and integrity
These values align emerging technologies like AI towards purposes promoting human flourishing and social good while avoiding potential pitfalls.
Imagery of False Idols
Several Old Testament verses use vivid imagery to mock idols - objects treated as false gods. These passages could apply metaphorically to modern AI systems elevated to inappropriate levels of devotion:
Their idols are silver and gold, made by human hands. They have mouths, but cannot speak, eyes, but cannot see...Those who make them will be like them, and so will all who trust in them. (Psalm 115:4-5, 7-8)
Reflecting on a passage from Jeremiah 10:5, we find an intriguing parallel with contemporary advancements in artificial intelligence. The verse states, "Their idols are like scarecrows in a cucumber field, and cannot speak; they have to be carried, for they cannot walk." This imagery, while seemingly distant from modern technology, resonates peculiarly with the advancements of AI models today.
It's almost comical how these ancient words inadvertently speak to the capabilities of modern AI. These parametrized machines possess 'god-like' abilities, not unlike the scarecrow in the field, standing as a testament to human ingenuity but devoid of divine essence. Yet, I must acknowledge, these verses are not directly talking about AI. Drawing such a parallel is indeed a stretch, but not without its merits.
The idea of a scarecrow-like AI system is admittedly frightening. These verses astutely highlight the folly of placing our trust in man-made objects, a caution that remains relevant in the age of AI. Our creations, however advanced, should not be mistaken for entities with divine or supernatural attributes.
In the grand tapestry of technological evolution, AI is akin to the printing press or the computer - transformative technologies that reshaped the world. These devices, once considered 'god-like' and 'magical', evoked fear and skepticism, much like AI does today.
"While AI systems can be powerful tools, they should not be elevated to the status of false gods."
The biblical verses mock man-made idols for their inability to see, speak, or move autonomously. Similarly, we must remain cautious not to ascribe undue reverence or affection to AI, or any artificial creation for that matter. Our phones, cars, and other devices are tools, not objects of affection or worship. This discussion serves as a reminder of our responsibility to use technology wisely, without losing sight of its inherent limitations.
Humanity's Divine Spark
Beyond addressing false idols, the Bible conveys truths about human nature that distinguish us from synthetic artifacts. Genesis describes God directly infusing the first man with spiritual life:
Then the Lord God formed a man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being. (Genesis 2:7)
This passage and others attribute humanity's essence to God's direct imparting of a soul or spirit. This biblical concept of the "breath of life" contrasts human beings - living souls created in God's image - with artificial objects made by human hands, no matter how intricate.
AI systems, no matter how humanlike their capabilities, ultimately lack this divine spark of life. Christians should thoughtfully consider this distinction.
The Origin of Wisdom
Where does true wisdom come from according to the Bible? Scripture explains that wisdom comes from the Lord:
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow his precepts have good understanding. (Psalm 111:10)
It's no secret that AI systems can be trained to be very intelligent. We see this in the news all the time. But it's important to note that the Bible speaks of wisdom, not intelligence. While the two are related, it's important to note that they are not the same thing. Intelligence is the ability to acquire and apply knowledge, while wisdom is the ability to discern and apply that knowledge in a godly way.
AI systems(as of right now) are not very wise. They are not very good at making decisions, and they are not good at predicting outcomes. This is because they are only as good as the data they are given, and the algorithms they are trained on (quite an oversimplification, but you get the point).
If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. (James 1:5)
These verses suggest that godly wisdom exceeds what can be artificially generated by human or AI systems. Ethics flowing from biblical truth should guide how we apply technologies like AI, rather than radically autonomous machine thinking.
Timeless Biblical Principles for AI Ethics
While the Bible does not specifically addressing modern technology, it does provide timeless principles to guide ethical approaches to AI:
- Human dignity - All people have intrinsic worth as God's creations (Genesis 1:26-27)
- Idolatry - Do not worship the work of our hands over God (Romans 1:25)
- Wisdom - Seek God's wisdom over merely human logic (Proverbs 3:5-6)
- Compassion - Treat others with the love of Christ (Matthew 22:37-39)
- Stewardship - Use resources ethically and for godly purposes (1 Peter 4:10)
These biblical values can help Christians evaluate the appropriate and ethical roles for AI in society.
"Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will." (Romans 12:2)
As AI advancements accelerate, Christians should prayerfully consider how to apply these principles to guide AI development and use. We need Christians in the AI space to help guide the development of AI systems in a Christ-honoring direction. Read more about my proposed framework for AI ethics.
We should not blindly accept AI as a panacea or reject it as inherently evil. Instead, we should engage AI with discernment and wisdom, applying biblical values to guide its development and use.
Key Takeaways
- The Bible contains no direct references to modern AI but provides applicable principles.
- Verses mocking idols as speechless and lifeless may have metaphorical cautions against trusting in AI.
- The "breath of life" distinguishes humanity's spiritual essence versus artificial creations.
- Biblical wisdom surpasses human logic and should ethically guide technology like AI.
- Christians should thoughtfully engage AI applying values like compassion, human dignity and stewardship.
- By aligning AI with biblical ethics, Christians can help direct it towards moral purposes.
The Bible equips Christians with truth and wisdom to critically engage artificial intelligence in light of their faith. With prayer and Spirit-led discernment, followers of Christ cannot only avoid pitfalls but help guide emerging technologies towards justice, love and redemption.
Frequently Asked Questions
This is just one of many questions I often come across regarding AI and the Bible. I have compiled a list of 20 questions about AI and the Bible.