By Kayla DeKraker
Is AI imitating Jesus? Yes, it is. Should Christians be concerned? Well, that depends on who you ask.
A new program called Text With Jesus, created by Catloaf Software in Los Angeles, uses Open AI’s Chat GPT to explore scripture and discuss biblical topics through conversation with Jesus. Some appreciate the idea, while others believe it’s blasphemous.
“Since launch, most people have come to the app out of curiosity, and it’s been incredible to see how many want to try a conversation with biblical figures,” said Stéphane Peter, CEO of Catloaf Software, of the chatbot.
He expected controversy but noted that overall, the response has been positive.
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“We expected some pushback, especially from those who worry about AI taking on roles tied to faith,” Peter said. “But, overall, the response has been overwhelmingly positive. The vast majority of users see it for what it is – a fun, accessible way to explore Scripture and spirituality in a new format.”
The app claims to stick to biblical truth.
Crosswalk Headlines reported, “The question ‘Is Jesus the only way to salvation?’ results in the following response: ‘Yes – salvation comes through me alone, for I said, John 14:6 ‘I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.’”
The Text With Jesus website says, “Discover a new, interactive way to engage with your faith through ‘Text With Jesus,’ a revolutionary AI-powered chatbot app, designed for devoted Christians seeking a deeper connection with the Bible’s most iconic figures.”
The more concerning part of the app, though, is that for $2.99 a month, users have the option to message with Satan and can also message with Mother Mary, who according to CNN, has a nuanced stance on abortion.
When AI alters biblical truths to appease users, this creates a major concern. The Word of God is vital to the believer and should not be handled so carelessly.
Matthew 4:4 says, “Jesus answered, ‘It is written: “Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.”‘” If the words of God are necessary for live, why would we allow computers and algorithms to dictate it?
People have also started using AI as a Bible study tool, which, though less worrying that AI speaking as Jesus, still should give users pause.
“The word that always comes up is discernment,” said Dr. Drew Dickens, per Relevant Magazine. “Christians need to start asking better questions when they use AI for spiritual input. Not just, ‘Is the answer right?’ but, ‘Who built this model, what’s influencing it, and what biases are shaping the output?’”
Do you think AI tools like Text With Jesus are reliable spiritual resources?
Read Next: Majority Of Christians Don’t Want AI In Churches, Study Finds
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