The Wired Word for 1130 - CourtneyR.dev's 2nd Brain

The Wired Word for 11/30 ![rw-book-cover](https://readwise-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/static/images/article0.00998d930354.png) ## Metadata - Author: [[The Wired Word]] - Full Title: The Wired Word for 11/30 - Category: #articles - Document Note: - #ArtificialIntelligence - #ChurchLeadership - #PracticalTheology Author: The Wired Word Source: The Wired Word weekly lesson (email curriculum) Reference: mailto:reader-forwarded-email/a8a0b7d5eca8b59934541b5d9e8fa5ab date created: {{date:YYYY-MM-DD}} {{time:HH:mm}} --- # Title: Pastors and Churches Are Using Artificial Intelligence ## Table of Contents: - [📝 Summary](#-summary) - [📖 Main Content](#-main-content) - [🗒️ Notes](#-notes) - [🧐 Theological Framework Analysis](#-theological-framework-analysis) - [🏛️ Historical and Cultural Context](#-historical-and-cultural-context) - [📜 Scriptural References and Interpretation](#-scriptural-references-and-interpretation) - [⚖️ Logical and Rhetorical Analysis](#-logical-and-rhetorical-analysis) - [💡 Practical Theology and Ethics](#-practical-theology-and-ethics) - [📝 Comparative / Personal Background Lens & Action-Prompt](#-comparative--personal-background-lens--action-prompt) - [🌍 Global and Ecumenical Perspectives](#-global-and-ecumenical-perspectives) - [🔄 Change Over Time](#-change-over-time) - [🎯 Author's Goals and Audience](#-authors-goals-and-audience) - [📖 References](#-references) - [🗣️ Paraphrase](#-paraphrase) - [📰 Newsletter](#-newsletter) - [🧪 Hypotheses](#-hypotheses) - [📊 Methodology](#-methodology) - [❓ Questions](#-questions) - [🔮 Future Research](#-future-research) - [💡 Implications](#-implications) - [🧠 Learning Styles Assessment](#-learning-styles-assessment) - [📊 Accessibility Assessment](#-accessibility-assessment) - [🌍 DEIB Assessment](#-deib-diversity-equity-inclusion-and-belonging-assessment) - [✅ Logical Validity](#-logical-validity) - [🔍 SEO Evaluation](#-seo-evaluation) - [🎯 Conclusion](#-conclusion) --- ## 📝 Summary: This lesson surveys how churches and pastors are adopting AI for administration, communication, and even “AI Jesus” chatbots, while warning that AI can never replace the incarnate, embodied, Spirit-filled community of Christ. Grounding the discussion in Genesis 1, John 1, Matthew 10, and 1 Corinthians 12, it calls believers to an “EPOCH” discipleship (empathy, presence, opinion/ethics, creativity, hope) that technology can assist but never substitute. --- ## 📖 Main Content: The piece opens by noting the rising use of AI in ministry: chatbots answering basic questions, tools helping pastors draft sermons, and apps promising interactions with “Jesus” or biblical figures. It highlights both pragmatic motives (shrinking staff, empty pews, online audiences) and serious concerns about deception, pastoral bypassing, and disembodied spirituality. Quoting journalists, researchers, clergy, and the “Text with Jesus” app creator, the lesson affirms AI as a useful tool but rejects it as a spiritual authority or replacement for the human soul and the gathered body of Christ. It introduces Isabella Loaiza’s “EPOCH” framework (empathy, presence, opinion/ethics, creativity, hope) to name specifically human capacities that ministry requires. The second half shifts into Bible study and discussion: Genesis 1 (imago Dei), Matthew 10 (ministry of presence to specific people), John 1 (the Word made flesh dwelling among us), and 1 Corinthians 12 (the church as Christ’s body). Each passage is followed by reflection questions contrasting the embodied, relational, Spirit-filled nature of Christian community with AI’s limitations. The lesson ends with practical questions about discernment, testing the spirits (1 John 4), and how churches can use technology faithfully while remaining centered on Jesus, the incarnate Word, and on EPOCH-shaped discipleship. --- ### 🗒️ Notes - **AI’s Growing Role in Church Life** - Churches use AI for: - Answering routine questions (service times, events) - Analyzing congregational data and customizing communication - Assisting sermon research and drafting (e.g., “Faith” chatbot for sermon prep) - Apps claim to: - Let users “text with Jesus” or “talk to the Bible” - Offer personalized prayers, confession help, and spiritual advice - Pressure points: - Shrinking staff, empty pews, growing online audiences - Desire for efficiency, innovation, and engagement - **Concerns About AI as Spiritual Mediator** - Risk that AI gives the illusion of divine or pastoral presence when it’s only pattern-matching. - “Text with Jesus” lets users talk with Jesus and other biblical characters (even Satan), without pastoral oversight. - Catholic and evangelical examples: confession-help apps, AI clones of pastors for $49/month. - Experts warn: - Early-stage tools rushed to market with high risks. - Lack of transparency about data and theological formation (“what’s under the hood?”). - **Human Beings vs. AI: The EPOCH Lens** - Human discipleship is a “high EPOCH job”: - Empathy – feeling with others in their suffering and joy. - Presence – embodied, face-to-face ministry. - Opinion/Ethical judgment – moral discernment rooted in Scripture and Spirit. - Creativity – Spirit-led imagination for mission. - Hope – capacity to envision and pursue a redeemed future. - AI may mimic language but cannot possess a human soul or bear the imago Dei. - The article stresses: AI can assist; it must never replace human ministry. - **Imago Dei and Human Dignity (Genesis 1)** - Humans created in God’s image and likeness, in community (divine council or Trinity). - Image-bearing entails: - Dignity for all people (male and female). - Rational, relational, and spiritual capacities. - Capacity for loving relationships mirroring God’s own relational nature. - Ministry and mission depend on these God-given capacities, not mere information transfer. - **Ministry of Presence (Matthew 10)** - Jesus directs disciples specifically to “the lost sheep of the house of Israel.” - Ministry is focused, embodied presence with particular people. - Pandemic-era online worship noted as necessary but inadequate as a long-term replacement for embodied gathering. - Church = ekklesia: “assembly,” “called-out ones” who gather physically. - Jesus commands face-to-face proclamation and healing, not distant, disembodied ministry. - **Incarnation and the Word Made Flesh (John 1)** - Logos: God’s reason/plan becomes flesh in Jesus. - Jesus brings “grace and truth,” surpassing the law given through Moses. - God’s Word is not just words; it is a Person living among us, tabernacling in our midst. - The lesson asks: - What is unique about the Word becoming flesh vs. AI-generated words? - What happens when messages of grace and truth detach from Jesus himself? - **The Body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12)** - The church is a Spirit-baptized body with many members and diverse gifts. - God gives special honor to “inferior” members to prevent dissension. - Shared suffering and shared rejoicing define body life. - The key question: AI can present beliefs, but why can’t it be a true member of Christ’s body? - **Discernment and “Testing the Spirits”** - Appropriate uses: - Business-like tasks (scheduling, info, some research). - Possibly as a conversation starter or curiosity spark. - Inappropriate uses: - Replacing embodied community, pastoral care, or sacramental presence. - Allowing AI voices to function as unexamined spiritual authorities. - Discernment involves: - Knowing Scripture and tradition. - Evaluating whether a tool confesses Jesus’ full humanity and divinity (1 John 4:2). - Being alert to answers shaped to “itching ears” rather than to the Law and Prophets. --- ### 🧐 Theological Framework Analysis - **Tradition & Orientation** - Tone suggests a broadly Protestant, mainline-leaning evangelical catechetical resource: - Strong emphasis on Scripture. - Trinitarian, Christocentric, incarnational theology. - High view of the local church as the Spirit-indwelt body of Christ. - No explicit charismatic language (e.g., “Spirit-filled” as a label, five-fold offices) and no signs of prosp - Summary: Since pastors and churches are increasingly turning to artificial intelligence (AI) to assist them with ministry and mission, this installment of The Wired Word will focus on appropriate uses of technology, how we see and hear God's Word, and the church's identity as the body of Christ. Dear Class Members, Since pastors and churches are increasingly turning to artificial intelligence (AI) to assist them with ministry and mission, this installment of *The Wired Word* will focus on appropriate uses of technology, how we see and hear God's Word, and the church's identity as the body of Christ. We will also explore the ways in which human beings are superior to AI, and should never be replaced. We have touched on this topic in recent classes. Let's take a deeper look at spiritual engagement through technology. ![](https://www.thewiredword.com/_img/tww_logo_email.jpg) **Pastors and Churches Are Using Artificial Intelligence** ***The Wired Word*** **for the Week of November 30, 2025** **In the News** Across the country, artificial intelligence (AI) is being used by pastors and churches to reach worshipers, write sermons, and facilitate prayer. AI is helping them to face the challenges of "shrinking staff, empty pews and growing online audiences," reports *Axios*. "But the practice raises new questions about who, or what, is guiding the flock." Some AI-powered apps claim to help people to "text with Jesus" or "talk to the Bible." Other apps offer to create personalized prayers, assist people in confessing their sins, or provide religious advice to people struggling with decisions. "A new wave of apps is attempting to create a hotline to heaven," writes Chrissy Callahan in *Today,* "for users who are interested in strengthening their religious faith." Pastors and churches are turning to these AI tools as many congregations struggle to survive. A record number of Americans -- 29% -- now say they are religiously unaffiliated, and approximately 15,000 churches across the country will probably close this year. In recent months, churches have been using chatbots to answer questions such as service times and event details. Some even use these online tools to share Scripture. "Every church or house of worship is a business," says the Rev. Chris Hope, founder of Boston-based Hope Group. "There are absolutely opportunities to generate AI bots to evangelize." Hope Group is a consulting firm that helps churches use AI for scheduling, coordination of preaching engagements, and mission work. A chatbot called "EpiscoBot," developed for the Episcopal Church, draws on church resources to respond to spiritual questions. Other AI apps analyze congregational data to customize church outreach and communication. And a growing number of pastors are using AI to assist them in creating sermons. The Rev. Louis Attles, an AME pastor in Pennsylvania, has created a chatbot named "Faith" that helps him to conduct research for his sermons. Concerns are being raised, however, about AI that creates the impression that users are talking to a divine power or to clergy. The "Text with Jesus" app claims to help people with their spiritual journeys and "engage in enlightening conversations with Jesus Christ." The app also gives users the options to engage with other biblical characters, including Mary, Joseph, Judas Iscariot and Satan. Critics point out that no pastors were consulted during the development of the app. When NBC's Anne Thompson used the app, she asked "Jesus" why bad things happen to good people. The response she received, according to *Today*: "Anne, my heart aches with yours when you see pain -- suffering entered the world because of brokenness and free will, not because God delights in harm." Catholic apps such as "One Day Confess" claim that they can help users with confession and spiritual reflection, providing AI-guided responses based on the Bible. From the evangelical side, megachurch pastor Ron Carpenter of San Jose, California, has created an AI app promising "personalized interactions" with a bot version of himself. The cost: $49 per month. Mark Graves, research director for a nonprofit called "AI and Faith," tells *Axios* that the apps are in their early phases. "I think the incentives are to get it out quickly and just see what happens," says Graves. "The risks are very high." "Artificial intelligence (AI) has come a long way, but one thing it will never be able to do is replace the core functions of the church, which unites individual Christians together into the body of Christ," says Joshua Arnold, a senior writer at *The Washington Stand*. "Although it can be a useful tool in certain situations, AI lacks the one critical ingredient necessary for Christian growth and discipleship: a human soul that reflects the image of God." Religious researcher Robert P. Jones has doubts about the "Text with Jesus" technology. "The challenge, of course, is that we have no idea what's under the hood there," he said to *Today*, "what's really creating the reality that then they present." Pope Leo XIV is also concerned about the increasing use of AI in society. "It must not be forgotten that artificial intelligence functions as a tool for the good of human beings, not to diminish them, not to replace them," he recently said. Rabbi Daniel Bogard finds AI to be useful as a challenge to his thinking, but he has concerns. "I think the danger is always that we are losing sight of humanity and human connection." The CEO of the company that developed "Text with Jesus" acknowledged the pushback, but said his goal is not to supplant real ministry. "AI can't replace lived faith, community or the human touch of ministry," he told *FOX Business*. "But it can help lower barriers and spark deeper curiosity." More on this story can be found at these links: [Meet Chatbot Jesus: How Churches Use AI to Save Souls -- And Time.](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPCEz5gWtnjlMcbibx665XYEKBUsTTvFoWmh5onhp7RYJKH3rNgI3jirnADyks1yNNOUgb0Jq6eSnruq7kxxOHFbnOJgIAknfb1pB-2BNa1pIZj5RNJ_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmV-2Fcy7DGoEk-2FGdcZaOMHiLhCeHJim9Ypr000WICiUHNk9EG-2FlkNJIJzgG0hLELUnFz3XwY0W-2BK4DzMiAXIPjjYaSQYjd7qx7TPePhdvxYHWTDw1vI45IdIO8ftV5J065cHhHTz94cZrm696VNTO0-2BjuroUxQJhJGjOLD44cCodMniow2fhDrDVoaF-2FQCQqUvb7LmFYWCIIyh8VV3AXMXy3VKjBCj3NWsTsQUMcSwUQXAAYRyRnobmZMu9S-2B0eNbObw-3D-3D) [*Axios*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPCEz5gWtnjlMcbibx665XYEKBUsTTvFoWmh5onhp7RYJKH3rNgI3jirnADyks1yNNOUgb0Jq6eSnruq7kxxOHFbnOJgIAknfb1pB-2BNa1pIZjffDT_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmV-2Fcy7DGoEk-2FGdcZaOMHiLhCeHJim9Ypr000WICiUHNkYfTGQx0cPJzJY-2B-2BVZ8lkhweC77lguBe1BQEE8zu3vio-2FvfW9xPIEMAucvhlAv0rPxqOanNYzXRJDgk7JdDJS0lk6-2FNbcFjYb1DEwf2tv8YgF8FBdpM-2FCMYMpfITjqMJ5ktWw-2B15hmEjaVnA-2BBDfQsdEGQ6eL7w4S-2FQ1wtuqwsF3XDkqouGUlRNHWkdQFStxBZUHXC-2F6DYbgwNsAIpegHUw-3D-3D) [People Can Text With Jesus on a Controversial New App. How Does It Work?](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPKMUHPUpFWZ13WaL8dO-2FVG3lxo7dYkEFPC6DfcSku36TpExnLEQvQSyysEQ3kkanGvtTiQnA6S3rw8NdTOwnKDc-3DcajF_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmV-2Fcy7DGoEk-2FGdcZaOMHiLhCeHJim9Ypr000WICiUHNkESPiEzLPIJGmz1yDDI8MZPEzzhUFd5jzIqhxI0vwmZe1dzktKsz8vyL6aiNoBK5FMv7yTojuvqTrwCrsy7kYg4XrKiFlUBhb3dG9jpWdLQ6k0Qt0W-2Bdy-2BZ7D1wDvwGU1VFnO7L-2Bc-2BBncwLTfs3aW1jHOS1ZOOmD7KEMixaw0zgTmXRMmPAvGhFS7sLh71RTXF9aVaL4JMeEtQiYTHyMxGg-3D-3D) [*Today*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPKMUHPUpFWZ13WaL8dO-2FVG3lxo7dYkEFPC6DfcSku36TpExnLEQvQSyysEQ3kkanGvtTiQnA6S3rw8NdTOwnKDc-3DrR_D_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmV-2Fcy7DGoEk-2FGdcZaOMHiLhCeHJim9Ypr000WICiUHNkZeAclxVJm6dfTK5PzSX30wfw-2B9DPdpkw2E5pVEQQV8G1fr78966hxkCaEUBigaiUezVSNN-2BE3RmBKoz8FTff7yfwfGqh4Gawci9wWEubw2hqybUzfF21M1qIuvdThXlgUaMZpNWVk4SD20HwT8UpXpVEIru8oJ7GAcgs6VKLuHc69aqVN8Cr1-2Fp8Fl5fPD9a4ZIY19xQzDVrSQg0ZKlEkg-3D-3D) [AI Cannot Replace the Church.](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPJhJpzYCUVOaMJY71XTF-2BKNNGObW3qhwCGEV11hGF2LoNcewMmKcwuN7Al85yphAX-2BF-2F8XN-2BWgQ7iiKlpQxdDzM-3D2xsC_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmV-2Fcy7DGoEk-2FGdcZaOMHiLhCeHJim9Ypr000WICiUHNkUSSFpYaaElC7MM1oiQJWDkM1dEf3x11i-2BMKnWcaBsUkVDCyi2bDeI181pmvTzBjP-2FVxSe6jJGVl4kE7UwPgCjHWMuaXpEr57OM6G6JLY9lCdbjTxNlS8JurcagO-2F5yip21puYMJVuFsDFGRtD9USzMYurejAOWBvurleLRHQ7N5cUZ95MCgmqqPDVV8bNd5eX-2FQOHLa9fcfDAmYgeUpOHw-3D-3D) [*The Washington Stand*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPJhJpzYCUVOaMJY71XTF-2BKNNGObW3qhwCGEV11hGF2LoNcewMmKcwuN7Al85yphAX-2BF-2F8XN-2BWgQ7iiKlpQxdDzM-3D5YIZ_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmV-2Fcy7DGoEk-2FGdcZaOMHiLhCeHJim9Ypr000WICiUHNkZcNCoF1KU6cXeKqhY9E-2BuPwZ3PW60OxSjFyIuNFBZPc66J9PmzjqiqAWq9iou8-2FrwJpzWg62AYGoY9FElzvermPhzQuRvCR02i4nD35-2BiOItgqFLELvNvuhrABts3GRW44Bk-2BEJMfCKxlA7g4QAK5AsKbKe6QnQPF1Z1MSXijjiX0ZKtEtnsfTf-2BzQxEYkXwuVxz2upVHHHs6Xuk3HgwmA-3D-3D) [Text With Jesus App Draws Thousands as Creator Says AI Can Help People Explore Scripture.](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPCW2KU5i6JNTO3Jfb8DpDVZP2glwvhNPPfvjfUmk7t-2FJpJsq8vMnvAjzfzgrrYOkSiHX-2FI26sP-2FI1V-2B6fNsSCxFZ34vzkk6jqhmwkLXMsH-2Bt4U-2Bgoi-2FZZhURbBPqXe2p7rocUWUqehLrbRDjJyeJkbWOGTrmlO2neE-2BbgegnXjaJCNh7_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmV-2Fcy7DGoEk-2FGdcZaOMHiLhCeHJim9Ypr000WICiUHNkaX72btBXlbvXkjCRABCCVp5AP4mJ-2BmfKXJpUkU1kJOfTycwLf-2Bos86nzggJiXoggBhZYat2eNW-2Bcta5AflG-2B-2FHjgJ8Xy2Z5SMhdyYGpm76xHS9NEvay5vMeVUrKOEQZe4CkSh5ma9NJ9uBmOth3utGWffr77-2B9Oe00XNddIUtbtrCFqP1dRlodGuQXZP0fXE3D-2F9dnovAdeE9aVoaTYxPQ-3D-3D) [*Fox Business*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPCW2KU5i6JNTO3Jfb8DpDVZP2glwvhNPPfvjfUmk7t-2FJpJsq8vMnvAjzfzgrrYOkSiHX-2FI26sP-2FI1V-2B6fNsSCxFZ34vzkk6jqhmwkLXMsH-2Bt4U-2Bgoi-2FZZhURbBPqXe2p7rocUWUqehLrbRDjJyeJkbWOGTrmlO2neE-2BbgegnXjaJpGs3_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmV-2Fcy7DGoEk-2FGdcZaOMHiLhCeHJim9Ypr000WICiUHNksenHHFE8-2Beta3nRElQ9cJv0QfMqdAwmPnErdxLboVlfY1p6lsPrFYj2XXDHMdndzeIqAwX9W3eKmwBYqIk-2BRAmGzW0isFBFhw8qx1DZruWB03EvJ0ZRrTQU28p3EOn7Pgj5lSNRNbDqfgcV6TtliVRBt6nr55m-2BTPqVPiaxmFUGqHTvJUKlQBOFn1f8FIoFUzf0YFlH51diCIpZf-2BMf5fQ-3D-3D) **Applying the News Story** Discuss appropriate uses of technology in the life of your church, and how AI tools can (or cannot) share God's Word. Reflect on your Christian community's identity as the body of Christ, and how your members represent Jesus in the world. In addition, look at the ways in which human beings are superior to AI. Isabella Loaiza, a researcher at MIT, has found that there are many things that humans do very well, even better than machines. She grades these abilities by giving them an EPOCH score. "It's an acronym," [reports](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPHqYzlFhngTMk0G9-2F-2BQ1rl96qMKZnW2kc-2FGe8h0j42-2F2SY9Ve0kpvaPv-2Fr7Juz63JVd-2FFdNkTy78R0XxI9HJBUfcsvHntqYdiVnjtz-2FCsCEaiKV-2BPgVsZhB2kuYhrClYrT93z4JlrWghCjK5lDQEhGebmWJ7oOyR4RNytmn3I9WC0A98_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmV-2Fcy7DGoEk-2FGdcZaOMHiLhCeHJim9Ypr000WICiUHNkt7w1gDe3rs6sUvByyYaHbnRvrTvsY7u4Ln5F3ujSxAVJJAEdNSnbMaTRqY5yGJHQ1k89ZBv8JUgz-2BXkQHPQZJRzXuwf3XPy5mNRZmXEsr91UEGIUdptrfQbpA9oj2xRKH2U18r0keTRgKS8KL3oANRBUrduLOqab-2BH0G5NKNMgovPSHBIQp4PWYAPgEmsoHydIwIQN3IOUSM3N29e3kQsA-3D-3D) [*NPR*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPHqYzlFhngTMk0G9-2F-2BQ1rl96qMKZnW2kc-2FGe8h0j42-2F2SY9Ve0kpvaPv-2Fr7Juz63JVd-2FFdNkTy78R0XxI9HJBUfcsvHntqYdiVnjtz-2FCsCEaiKV-2BPgVsZhB2kuYhrClYrT93z4JlrWghCjK5lDQEhGebmWJ7oOyR4RNytmn3I9WClrIN_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmV-2Fcy7DGoEk-2FGdcZaOMHiLhCeHJim9Ypr000WICiUHNkZeUpmQRIV5cGm6ujYYSqyqL-2BFJBlTyYAr8iWGzvspvj6yx0SH2VreCGm5TZgSNcBI5u1wvduM0pO6CvKDM7ZXCVlLhgK5CRBSd4BlL0hqktlmRDpfizKLZrAIPpUIpCjHW5w-2FYuJvK7d09AcJqB0M6NnD4PMJbyZSvROf-2Fyc6l6xy2C0d0sQT8AHYFS5Lmnnc-2BeQ0t14v-2F-2FjosIixy3JQQ-3D-3D), one that is spelled E-P-O-C-H. "Covers empathy, presence, opinion" -- also known as ethical judgment -- "creativity, and a silent H, hope, the ability to plan and execute a vision." In a world in which people fear that AI will replace them in their jobs, Loaiza's belief is this: "High EPOCH jobs, ones that require more human skills, might be more resilient to AI." Being a disciple of Jesus is a high EPOCH job, and these qualities are essential to ministry and mission. Jesus gave his disciples the ability to survive, and even thrive, in the face of all kinds of difficulties. The same is true today. **The Big Questions** 1. When do you use AI in your work or personal life, if at all? How accurate and trustworthy do you find it to be? When, if ever, has it failed you? 2. How does your church use technology? Where do you see advantages to AI in ministry and mission, and what concerns do you have? 3. Would you trust an AI tool to help you see and hear God's Word? Why or why not? How could the Holy Spirit work through AI, if ever? 4. Where do you find significance in the church being the body of Christ? Who needs to be present in the body, and why? How does your church present Jesus to the world? 5. Where do you see empathy, presence, ethical judgment, creativity and hope in the life of your church? Be specific. **Confronting the News With Scripture and Hope**Here are some Bible verses to guide your discussion: **Genesis 1:27***So God created humans in his image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.* (For context, read [Genesis 1:1-31](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxdxvwvUIbrGNsYJ-2B9LkHJNTwxkf4ze4JltbdtGWUNKh1zA1eWb9LeaM9vZgzUz8Eg5KZI_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmV-2Fcy7DGoEk-2FGdcZaOMHiLhCeHJim9Ypr000WICiUHNkYfTGQx0cPJzJY-2B-2BVZ8lkh6egHI1LGa3lLiOj0mJ6WJK7ynvIbX88GvI2uowUf-2FKvEKxa0i8uAS8iY5DlbEVZqwgT1OD2vzlFtezdcBOdqGeE7VfklAbFXhCOzHtYcGt-2FaMVW0fDLCd4eeeeb1ueJofB2xGoEYTK59CYFcqtRypiq8npZVHQ2oANVuKbu4Q8hbx3mbxTpSLzLQvh5ubU1-2BQ-3D-3D).) In the first chapter of Genesis, God creates the heavens and the earth, plants and animals, and finally human beings. God says, "Let us make humans in our image, according to our likeness" (v. 26). The plural subject -- "Let us" -- could indicate that God is speaking to a divine council, which was a common understanding in the ancient world, or is speaking to fellow persons of the Trinity: Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Christians have long believed that God is one God in three persons, a divine and eternal community of love and creative power. God created "humans in his image," traditionally referred to as the *imago Dei*, "image of God." To be made in the image of God means that all human beings are worthy of dignity and respect. All people, male and female, possess gifts of reason, intellect and cognitive ability. They can also relate to God and other people because they share God's ability to be in loving relationships. > **Questions:** Where do you see the image of God in yourself and in the people around you? How is God's ability to be in loving relationships reflected in your family, your circle of friends and your church? Why is the image of God essential to Christian ministry and mission? **Matthew 10:5-6***Do not take a road leading to gentiles, and do not enter a Samaritan town, but go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel* (For context, read [Matthew 10:1-15](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxEE9arX6m0yHZZAbtNhYaDVSjaUTQqNHkFk3DBApB3whfCAhfbNAXLKL3NWzWWrv0yDS__-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmV-2Fcy7DGoEk-2FGdcZaOMHiLhCeHJim9Ypr000WICiUHNkYfTGQx0cPJzJY-2B-2BVZ8lkhxwCS-2F-2FONj-2BDtPY7APwv9xh22fx8NRBKfX-2FN9fgP8XNMFkuU4rIrd3b79v2ZAh-2FSNFahxfpCMAUyWM23E9Js7qBT-2FOiJ7d5LgLrYhb28GuDY-2FY6cFbtyZWTvA1ZzavMZ3gHqtUUXnfVlc6wTJ2VMj-2BAiyIJeQy7-2FhRFkIS6l4dyPm23GkBy406Ir5xeG6qvvAA-3D-3D).) Jesus summoned twelve disciples and told them to go "to the lost sheep of the house of Israel" (10:6). An important aspect of ministry is *presence*, and Jesus was clear that he wanted his followers to be present with a particular group of people -- not with the Gentiles and not with the Samaritans, but with "the house of Israel." He knew that the disciples had to focus on particular groups and particular individuals, if they were going to have an impact. The Gentiles and the Samaritans would receive ministry eventually, but not at this point. To be present is to be up close and personal. To deliver care face to face, not from a distance. One of the great tragedies of the pandemic was that we were prevented from gathering in person, in some cases for over a year. Many churches turned to online worship and Zoom Bible studies, a move that was necessary for the short term but was not a good long-term strategy for reaching most people. We Christians need to be part of a ministry of presence, up close and personal, if we are going to grow in faith and do the work of Christ in the world. The word church is defined as "assembly" or "gathering," which reminds us that we need to gather in order to be effective. In the New Testament, the Greek for church is *ekklesia,* which literally means "the called-out ones" -- a group of people who have been called out to a meeting. When you say you are going to church, you are really saying that you are going to an assembly, a gathering, a meeting. Jesus commanded the disciples to perform a ministry of presence when he said, "As you go, proclaim the good news, 'The kingdom of heaven has come near.' Cure the sick; raise the dead; cleanse those with a skin disease; cast out demons" (vv. 7-8). Good news and healing were delivered face to face, not from a distance. The disciples all performed a ministry of *presence*, as can we. > **Questions:** What role does physical presence play in ministry? When have you benefited from such ministry? How have you offered it to others? What difference does a ministry of presence make? **John 1:14***And the Word became flesh and lived among us, and we have seen his glory, the glory as of a father’s only son, full of grace and truth.* (For context, read [John 1:1-18.](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxyyJ0A-2BEDvrQGKorIXaiDBpvge15r31oRxuebxxDnno4i-2F0yQ8lFcIhra5J5t96wA7onj_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmV-2Fcy7DGoEk-2FGdcZaOMHiLhCeHJim9Ypr000WICiUHNkYfTGQx0cPJzJY-2B-2BVZ8lkhyvJHuOb-2BeKw29Oqz2rac2DICs9b-2F41WJGFuFtHt3-2BrGBQrbhcW0fzTB8FIJqGR6TQfOjIQUzs4pZsoKQ0vn6yrFH21KxMKNqJVcUotsdl0Rjat0jM0vMXxqqsrEU1JBe7HcyCwHqX6IQr-2F4Wl3sAbsQVLtrhIYvGqjdo5YQEq3ZQEIV8-2BpTl8ZYYjS7Tdl6Bg-3D-3D)) The gospel of John begins by saying, "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God" (1:1), echoing both the creation story in Genesis 1 and the passage about Divine Wisdom in Proverbs 8. John's account of the life of Jesus stands apart from the preceding gospels, and his first chapter says that "the Word became flesh and lived among us" -- in this verse, "lived" could literally be translated "lived in a tent or tabernacle," reminding us of God's presence with Israel in the tabernacle during the journey toward the Promised Land. This Word is *logos* in the Greek of the New Testament, and here it means God's reason or plan, becoming "flesh" in Jesus Christ. John goes on to say, "From his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace. The law indeed was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ" (vv. 16-17). Jesus helps us to hear God's Word, he shows us God's face, and he reveals God's reason, order, meaning and plan for the universe. Jesus the Son is "close to the Father's heart" (v. 18), in an intimate and affectionate relationship. > **Questions:** Although words can be generated by AI, what is distinctive about the Word of God becoming flesh and living among us? How does Jesus, God's Word in human form, deliver grace and truth to you? What happens when messages of grace and truth become detached from Jesus? **1 Corinthians 12:27***Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it.* (For context, read [1 Corinthians 12:12-31](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxOdlwvpIcp6dpBWksJaxTxB-2FqvIxzkzH59Qn3kwUWVH54I5FtVzTMzRYiHlnqao8wj2wD7IFFVGH4Vb08GnfFEw-3D-3DxJng_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmV-2Fcy7DGoEk-2FGdcZaOMHiLhCeHJim9Ypr000WICiUHNkYfTGQx0cPJzJY-2B-2BVZ8lkh0yAHPYNQfVkxKMC9g0zYwRZa30M88qQIOGUixP8OuZ866xKqD207G7YwZdYKVYgOGZoN-2FOMka0ChPYXaNlZ60psn-2FpYT6ncWik8S-2FgfGyt-2BVBS-2BAPKPGTB14Ak3os60TIWQ7W7TJuxfbIbefKXkq8N1YGBkldt6kgfNok5-2FT6l6yaaEjLRTR6bKjv8UksCZNg-3D-3D).) Paul's first letter to the Corinthians was written to followers of Jesus in the Greek city of Corinth, in response to a report that there were divisions in the church. "For it has been made clear to me," wrote Paul, "that there are quarrels among you" (1:11). Paul reminded the Corinthians of the importance of the sacrifice of Christ (2:2), and he encouraged the stronger members of the community to serve the weaker members. Then, using the image of the church as a body, the body of Christ, he said, "in the one Spirit we were all baptized into one body" (12:13). He talked about the different members of the body and told them that "God has so arranged the body, giving the greater honor to the inferior member, that there may be no dissension within the body, but the members may have the same care for one another" (vv. 24-25). He stressed the importance of suffering together and also rejoicing together. As followers of Jesus, "you are the body of Christ and individually members of it." > **Questions:** What does it mean to you to be a part of the body of Christ? As a member of the body, what is your distinctive role? How does the Spirit unite the body? Although AI can present Christian beliefs, where does it fall short as a member of the body of the Christ? **For Further Discussion** 1. AI can safely be used by churches to assist with some business functions, such as answering questions about worship times and event details. "But the church is not a business," writes Joshua Arnold in [*The Washington Stand*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPJhJpzYCUVOaMJY71XTF-2BKNNGObW3qhwCGEV11hGF2LoNcewMmKcwuN7Al85yphAX-2BF-2F8XN-2BWgQ7iiKlpQxdDzM-3Dg_-D_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmV-2Fcy7DGoEk-2FGdcZaOMHiLhCeHJim9Ypr000WICiUHNkYfTGQx0cPJzJY-2B-2BVZ8lkh7aY6Qjl-2B10-2Fl9Bp5tqRWgh9DOgdW94WgaEwa0os2V-2Bmh-2BW2ZiUU6UfTBtuhjIVpgIbybnlsUYZ04GVAgFv7yTmTWKBiOvmW23lP0ZUtQzSqk7-2BgPyhGAP1wCyRjWrPPy3O-2F0i6C1bQ3S-2F9iRDbEDOJnw10Hmz-2B212ustqFz1ToSMzHaEBzDCXly20Kru3R2mQ-3D-3D). "It is a holy community of believers indwelt with the Spirit of God (1 Corinthians 3:16). The Holy Spirit works supernatural change in their lives, so that they present a compelling witness to the world by the way they love, serve, encourage, counsel, bear with, and sacrifice for one another." How is the church a business and how is it not a business? Where do you draw the line, and why? 2. TWW Team Member Mark Rouleau wonders if AI "confesses that Jesus Christ (*Yeshua ha* *mashiach*) came in the FLESH" ([1 John 4:2](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxgb98dt-2BAwcnX5I0t2fHJjOr-2Fu8mW6POu6TIUzZUl1bIW5yaPqWgy-2FyjKkbQudc9XnTU9_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmV-2Fcy7DGoEk-2FGdcZaOMHiLhCeHJim9Ypr000WICiUHNkYfTGQx0cPJzJY-2B-2BVZ8lkh1g5m0qoDouZ-2BKQDLbmnmFRtuRHrBsAMusoDC1wrss9pj5PITQKgX8-2BHyWdFhm60nwit04sWG3As97jT7BXPbL0pwlU5NoYpxFBB4WHeWlt-2Bo5mpVdqqT-2FXcnxXmxv2jzWrbJ4BVZm2LG89Mzc-2BVPtcTCMSaklFQLJbqWUhU63N8oSyEwhG6oYvdIVj2CDxzTg-3D-3D)). What is the significance of Jesus being incarnate as a flesh-and-blood human being? Where do you see danger in religion being practiced in the disembodied online world? 3. Moody Center President James Spencer wrote in [*The Christian Post*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPF2XpsLcqjymgYw0oGxRtXpPEMJLorE8LU-2FFrRYU7Xp8P2e1U5yZd-2FXohKesQYel7x4CozUImQhJFiVfd5kDG0lLf0Rnbkq2sO0dTd4oscJ0xqW-2BDFak-2BMjT1Lu-2F3ma8wQ-3D-3Di3j__-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmV-2Fcy7DGoEk-2FGdcZaOMHiLhCeHJim9Ypr000WICiUHNkYfTGQx0cPJzJY-2B-2BVZ8lkh0wraGYrKBj5s8c7g0ZVzRS0i47V7B7XdRrHQqQkQrz-2FqSnjDysBKQaHcsODChpGmZiUnKZlD1xUr6QQUaSO1fMp9gfXznEC9xw88nmK-2BTUWiVoyk1LWQAl7S4Wur-2FcK4j35-2F-2Fr0LTdrfN-2BJMnVRdfU7cphDY0gUwSKFmCCiWp0tKYediKGJ8ZunIyx1Z57zcQ-3D-3D) that the AI "Jesus" seemed "less concerned with fulfilling the Law and the Prophets than providing answers palatable to the itching ears of 21st century users." What questions would you want to ask AI "Jesus"? How would you determine if this technology was being faithful to the ministry and mission of Jesus the Christ? 4. While TWW Team Member Mary Sells accepts that AI programs can serve as shortcuts to information amassed from the internet, she warns, "A discerning process is always needed when using AI for any purpose, that is, knowing enough to sniff out when the answers provided are not truthful." What is the discernment process that you use as you grow in faith and understanding? How do you "test the spirits to see whether they are from God" ([1 John 4:1](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxgb98dt-2BAwcnX5I0t2fHJjHOViYKx6XwTFq2j0tZLWtq6Eid1ufKv4Mece6ekCqT5lf6L_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmV-2Fcy7DGoEk-2FGdcZaOMHiLhCeHJim9Ypr000WICiUHNkYfTGQx0cPJzJY-2B-2BVZ8lkh3mT6RPwch2HOLKSxa3NPtrtatiT1rLhevcUq9UabZn-2B9Gb4-2BMV23inNGk8dgApE2w-2B20iuh2u4sXffg2D0PiMko5J6oE3ZKLZ8aieJbRr825nMAuum0TWmZGDfM-2FRex0egffCGeT7gqQpf32xnxiuH-2BVGcM3pfPF1OVDrwSEz-2BZmkldMrd060NAyxFByjjEYQ-3D-3D))? **Responding to the News** Take a careful look at the technology being employed by your church, and raise concerns when you see it being used in ways that are not faithful to the mission and ministry of Jesus, God's Word made flesh. Focus your own efforts on being an EPOCH disciple of Christ, one who shows empathy, presence, opinion (also known as ethical judgment), creativity and hope. Such qualities will never be replaced by AI. **Prayer** God of all creation, we thank you for making us in your image and likeness, and giving us gifts of reason and intellect. We are grateful for the technologies that make our lives easier and more efficient. Keep us focused on your Son Jesus and filled with your Holy Spirit, so that we can serve as the living body of Christ in the world today, one that shares the grace and truth of your Son. Amen. ****Copyright 2025 Communication Resources**** [Unsubscribe From This List](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/asm/unsubscribe/?user_id=14323725&data=unkUGL8rKVIQzbExhyEvXj8naeRuWygjISCBTMYM7RtoMDAwdTAwMIeBtjCJY_z-gAUzKPqJaVRsmQE3HSUGxiqSvBoF_49C_YsMzfN-O9FoWyvTCg6u5O5-PrgeAb1vmLxjNrW4_RSOM93yLR_yvUi2OwsXWYBSsj8bnabfafD61-Tk5fkI9Ck-u3wSEI2Il3FivdZnx8LMfdpYwWqL_D46C5O8DuzQXMLLKahifsV9YhvXZjNgWtBqcGfTgRNJwyVNvMv8Oy11-3Qot19yEhsgEPEN2W7NjYzgkvS9gzoFPzzo56KHrQtiEuUYQ_2OsMA8cfEOMd39HJ1KHNA3yrCJYHZRVHfi2XxY6YV2M1WPNo03ajuvNHbm1_fZFu-KOMgj6joFH82PmHCGH5r14gUXPqCI2tP7Gob4hqUCXBUlNnVaA6IdpmUQMfcy-O8ga4JDzSlj1gonvYxCC23kQB2XwUDBWbLuv6QOVq8w7STToOyCp2PO-AsYc4W4tQbAuu78cvVcVOZ9BgggjfhI5E_rlf4AJURKuVSzgJVfN_q-V0PE0n87tUiv0N6dL6toeNR8UjltQKGNHpB0Zh3QggQlDev40QC7p9Ko-KF4OMJgZCr6stb9rZ4CvBLXPuskcGJzwB0g0mM=) <div>Dear Class Members, Since pastors and churches are increasingly turning to artificial intelligence (AI) to assist them with ministry and mission, this installment of The Wired Word will focus on appropriate uses of technology, how we see and hear God's Word, and the church's identity as the body of Christ. We will also explore the ways in which human beings are superior to AI, and should never be replaced. We have touched on this topic in recent classes. Let's take a deeper look at spiritual engagement through technology. <center><img src="https://www.thewiredword.com/\_img/tww\_logo\_email.jpg"/></center> Pastors and Churches Are Using Artificial Intelligence The Wired Word for the Week of November 30, 2025 In the News <div style="mso-element: para-border-div; border: none #333335 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none #333335 0in; padding: 0in 0in 0in 0in; background: white;"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; border: none; mso-border-alt: none #333335 0in; padding: 0in; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 0in 0in; mso-border-between: 0in none #333335; mso-padding-between: 0in; padding-bottom: 0in; mso-padding-bottom-alt: 0in; border-bottom: 0in none #333335; mso-border-bottom-alt: 0in none #333335; margin: 0in 0in 10.0pt 0in;">Across the country, artificial intelligence (AI) is being used by pastors and churches to reach worshipers, write sermons, and facilitate prayer. AI is helping them to face the challenges of "shrinking staff, empty pews and growing online audiences," reports Axios. "But the practice raises new questions about who, or what, is guiding the flock." <p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; border: none; mso-border-alt: none #333335 0in; padding: 0in; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 0in 0in; mso-border-between: 0in none #333335; mso-padding-between: 0in; padding-top: 0in; mso-padding-top-alt: 0in; padding-bottom: 0in; mso-padding-bottom-alt: 0in; border-bottom: 0in none #333335; mso-border-bottom-alt: 0in none #333335; margin: 0in 0in 10.0pt 0in;">Some AI-powered apps claim to help people to "text with Jesus" or "talk to the Bible." Other apps offer to create personalized prayers, assist people in confessing their sins, or provide religious advice to people struggling with decisions. "A new wave of apps is attempting to create a hotline to heaven," writes Chrissy Callahan in Today, "for users who are interested in strengthening their religious faith." <p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; border: none; mso-border-alt: none #333335 0in; padding: 0in; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 0in 0in; mso-border-between: 0in none #333335; mso-padding-between: 0in; padding-top: 0in; mso-padding-top-alt: 0in; padding-bottom: 0in; mso-padding-bottom-alt: 0in; border-bottom: 0in none #333335; mso-border-bottom-alt: 0in none #333335; margin: 0in 0in 10.0pt 0in;">Pastors and churches are turning to these AI tools as many congregations struggle to survive. A record number of Americans -- 29% -- now say they are religiously unaffiliated, and approximately 15,000 churches across the country will probably close this year. In recent months, churches have been using chatbots to answer questions such as service times and event details. Some even use these online tools to share Scripture. <p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; border: none; mso-border-alt: none #333335 0in; padding: 0in; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 0in 0in; mso-border-between: 0in none #333335; mso-padding-between: 0in; padding-top: 0in; mso-padding-top-alt: 0in; padding-bottom: 0in; mso-padding-bottom-alt: 0in; border-bottom: 0in none #333335; mso-border-bottom-alt: 0in none #333335; margin: 0in 0in 10.0pt 0in;">"Every church or house of worship is a business," says the Rev. Chris Hope, founder of Boston-based Hope Group. "There are absolutely opportunities to generate AI bots to evangelize." Hope Group is a consulting firm that helps churches use AI for scheduling, coordination of preaching engagements, and mission work. <p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; border: none; mso-border-alt: none #333335 0in; padding: 0in; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 0in 0in; mso-border-between: 0in none #333335; mso-padding-between: 0in; padding-top: 0in; mso-padding-top-alt: 0in; padding-bottom: 0in; mso-padding-bottom-alt: 0in; border-bottom: 0in none #333335; mso-border-bottom-alt: 0in none #333335; margin: 0in 0in 10.0pt 0in;">A chatbot called "EpiscoBot," developed for the Episcopal Church, draws on church resources to respond to spiritual questions. Other AI apps analyze congregational data to customize church outreach and communication. And a growing number of pastors are using AI to assist them in creating sermons. The Rev. Louis Attles, an AME pastor in Pennsylvania, has created a chatbot named "Faith" that helps him to conduct research for his sermons. <p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; border: none; mso-border-alt: none #333335 0in; padding: 0in; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 0in 0in; mso-border-between: 0in none #333335; mso-padding-between: 0in; padding-top: 0in; mso-padding-top-alt: 0in; padding-bottom: 0in; mso-padding-bottom-alt: 0in; border-bottom: 0in none #333335; mso-border-bottom-alt: 0in none #333335; margin: 0in 0in 10.0pt 0in;">Concerns are being raised, however, about AI that creates the impression that users are talking to a divine power or to clergy. The "Text with Jesus" app claims to help people with their spiritual journeys and "engage in enlightening conversations with Jesus Christ." The app also gives users the options to engage with other biblical characters, including Mary, Joseph, Judas Iscariot and Satan. Critics point out that no pastors were consulted during the development of the app. <p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; border: none; mso-border-alt: none #333335 0in; padding: 0in; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 0in 0in; mso-border-between: 0in none #333335; mso-padding-between: 0in; padding-top: 0in; mso-padding-top-alt: 0in; padding-bottom: 0in; mso-padding-bottom-alt: 0in; border-bottom: 0in none #333335; mso-border-bottom-alt: 0in none #333335; margin: 0in 0in 10.0pt 0in;">When NBC's Anne Thompson used the app, she asked "Jesus" why bad things happen to good people. The response she received, according to Today: "Anne, my heart aches with yours when you see pain -- suffering entered the world because of brokenness and free will, not because God delights in harm." <p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; border: none; mso-border-alt: none #333335 0in; padding: 0in; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 0in 0in; mso-border-between: 0in none #333335; mso-padding-between: 0in; padding-top: 0in; mso-padding-top-alt: 0in; padding-bottom: 0in; mso-padding-bottom-alt: 0in; border-bottom: 0in none #333335; mso-border-bottom-alt: 0in none #333335; margin: 0in 0in 10.0pt 0in;">Catholic apps such as "One Day Confess" claim that they can help users with confession and spiritual reflection, providing AI-guided responses based on the Bible. From the evangelical side, megachurch pastor Ron Carpenter of San Jose, California, has created an AI app promising "personalized interactions" with a bot version of himself. The cost: $49 per month. <p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; border: none; mso-border-alt: none #333335 0in; padding: 0in; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 0in 0in; mso-border-between: 0in none #333335; mso-padding-between: 0in; padding-top: 0in; mso-padding-top-alt: 0in; padding-bottom: 0in; mso-padding-bottom-alt: 0in; border-bottom: 0in none #333335; mso-border-bottom-alt: 0in none #333335; margin: 0in 0in 10.0pt 0in;">Mark Graves, research director for a nonprofit called "AI and Faith," tells Axios that the apps are in their early phases. "I think the incentives are to get it out quickly and just see what happens," says Graves. "The risks are very high." <p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; border: none; mso-border-alt: none #333335 0in; padding: 0in; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 0in 0in; mso-border-between: 0in none #333335; mso-padding-between: 0in; padding-top: 0in; mso-padding-top-alt: 0in; padding-bottom: 0in; mso-padding-bottom-alt: 0in; border-bottom: 0in none #333335; mso-border-bottom-alt: 0in none #333335; margin: 0in 0in 10.0pt 0in;">"Artificial intelligence (AI) has come a long way, but one thing it will never be able to do is replace the core functions of the church, which unites individual Christians together into the body of Christ," says Joshua Arnold, a senior writer at The Washington Stand. "Although it can be a useful tool in certain situations, AI lacks the one critical ingredient necessary for Christian growth and discipleship: a human soul that reflects the image of God." <p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; border: none; mso-border-alt: none #333335 0in; padding: 0in; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 0in 0in; mso-border-between: 0in none #333335; mso-padding-between: 0in; padding-top: 0in; mso-padding-top-alt: 0in; padding-bottom: 0in; mso-padding-bottom-alt: 0in; border-bottom: 0in none #333335; mso-border-bottom-alt: 0in none #333335; margin: 0in 0in 10.0pt 0in;">Religious researcher Robert P. Jones has doubts about the "Text with Jesus" technology. "The challenge, of course, is that we have no idea what's under the hood there," he said to Today, "what's really creating the reality that then they present." <p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; border: none; mso-border-alt: none #333335 0in; padding: 0in; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 0in 0in; mso-border-between: 0in none #333335; mso-padding-between: 0in; padding-top: 0in; mso-padding-top-alt: 0in; padding-bottom: 0in; mso-padding-bottom-alt: 0in; border-bottom: 0in none #333335; mso-border-bottom-alt: 0in none #333335; margin: 0in 0in 10.0pt 0in;">Pope Leo XIV is also concerned about the increasing use of AI in society. "It must not be forgotten that artificial intelligence functions as a tool for the good of human beings, not to diminish them, not to replace them," he recently said. Rabbi Daniel Bogard finds AI to be useful as a challenge to his thinking, but he has concerns. "I think the danger is always that we are losing sight of humanity and human connection." <p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; border: none; mso-border-alt: none #333335 0in; padding: 0in; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 0in 0in; mso-border-between: 0in none #333335; mso-padding-between: 0in; padding-top: 0in; mso-padding-top-alt: 0in; margin: 0in 0in 10.0pt 0in;">The CEO of the company that developed "Text with Jesus" acknowledged the pushback, but said his goal is not to supplant real ministry. "AI can't replace lived faith, community or the human touch of ministry," he told FOX Business. "But it can help lower barriers and spark deeper curiosity." </div> <div style="mso-element: para-border-div; border: none #333335 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none #333335 0in; padding: 0in 2.0pt 0in 2.0pt; background: white;"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; border: none; mso-border-alt: none #333335 0in; padding: 0in; mso-padding-alt: 0in 2.0pt 0in 2.0pt; mso-border-between: 0in none #333335; mso-padding-between: 0in; margin: 0in 0in 10.0pt 0in;">More on this story can be found at these links: </div> <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPCEz5gWtnjlMcbibx665XYEKBUsTTvFoWmh5onhp7RYJKH3rNgI3jirnADyks1yNNOUgb0Jq6eSnruq7kxxOHFbnOJgIAknfb1pB-2BNa1pIZj5RNJ\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmV-2Fcy7DGoEk-2FGdcZaOMHiLhCeHJim9Ypr000WICiUHNk9EG-2FlkNJIJzgG0hLELUnFz3XwY0W-2BK4DzMiAXIPjjYaSQYjd7qx7TPePhdvxYHWTDw1vI45IdIO8ftV5J065cHhHTz94cZrm696VNTO0-2BjuroUxQJhJGjOLD44cCodMniow2fhDrDVoaF-2FQCQqUvb7LmFYWCIIyh8VV3AXMXy3VKjBCj3NWsTsQUMcSwUQXAAYRyRnobmZMu9S-2B0eNbObw-3D-3D">Meet Chatbot Jesus: How Churches Use AI to Save Souls -- And Time. </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPCEz5gWtnjlMcbibx665XYEKBUsTTvFoWmh5onhp7RYJKH3rNgI3jirnADyks1yNNOUgb0Jq6eSnruq7kxxOHFbnOJgIAknfb1pB-2BNa1pIZjffDT\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmV-2Fcy7DGoEk-2FGdcZaOMHiLhCeHJim9Ypr000WICiUHNkYfTGQx0cPJzJY-2B-2BVZ8lkhweC77lguBe1BQEE8zu3vio-2FvfW9xPIEMAucvhlAv0rPxqOanNYzXRJDgk7JdDJS0lk6-2FNbcFjYb1DEwf2tv8YgF8FBdpM-2FCMYMpfITjqMJ5ktWw-2B15hmEjaVnA-2BBDfQsdEGQ6eL7w4S-2FQ1wtuqwsF3XDkqouGUlRNHWkdQFStxBZUHXC-2F6DYbgwNsAIpegHUw-3D-3D">Axios</a> <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPKMUHPUpFWZ13WaL8dO-2FVG3lxo7dYkEFPC6DfcSku36TpExnLEQvQSyysEQ3kkanGvtTiQnA6S3rw8NdTOwnKDc-3DcajF\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmV-2Fcy7DGoEk-2FGdcZaOMHiLhCeHJim9Ypr000WICiUHNkESPiEzLPIJGmz1yDDI8MZPEzzhUFd5jzIqhxI0vwmZe1dzktKsz8vyL6aiNoBK5FMv7yTojuvqTrwCrsy7kYg4XrKiFlUBhb3dG9jpWdLQ6k0Qt0W-2Bdy-2BZ7D1wDvwGU1VFnO7L-2Bc-2BBncwLTfs3aW1jHOS1ZOOmD7KEMixaw0zgTmXRMmPAvGhFS7sLh71RTXF9aVaL4JMeEtQiYTHyMxGg-3D-3D">People Can Text With Jesus on a Controversial New App. How Does It Work? </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPKMUHPUpFWZ13WaL8dO-2FVG3lxo7dYkEFPC6DfcSku36TpExnLEQvQSyysEQ3kkanGvtTiQnA6S3rw8NdTOwnKDc-3DrR\_D\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmV-2Fcy7DGoEk-2FGdcZaOMHiLhCeHJim9Ypr000WICiUHNkZeAclxVJm6dfTK5PzSX30wfw-2B9DPdpkw2E5pVEQQV8G1fr78966hxkCaEUBigaiUezVSNN-2BE3RmBKoz8FTff7yfwfGqh4Gawci9wWEubw2hqybUzfF21M1qIuvdThXlgUaMZpNWVk4SD20HwT8UpXpVEIru8oJ7GAcgs6VKLuHc69aqVN8Cr1-2Fp8Fl5fPD9a4ZIY19xQzDVrSQg0ZKlEkg-3D-3D">Today</a> <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPJhJpzYCUVOaMJY71XTF-2BKNNGObW3qhwCGEV11hGF2LoNcewMmKcwuN7Al85yphAX-2BF-2F8XN-2BWgQ7iiKlpQxdDzM-3D2xsC\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmV-2Fcy7DGoEk-2FGdcZaOMHiLhCeHJim9Ypr000WICiUHNkUSSFpYaaElC7MM1oiQJWDkM1dEf3x11i-2BMKnWcaBsUkVDCyi2bDeI181pmvTzBjP-2FVxSe6jJGVl4kE7UwPgCjHWMuaXpEr57OM6G6JLY9lCdbjTxNlS8JurcagO-2F5yip21puYMJVuFsDFGRtD9USzMYurejAOWBvurleLRHQ7N5cUZ95MCgmqqPDVV8bNd5eX-2FQOHLa9fcfDAmYgeUpOHw-3D-3D">AI Cannot Replace the Church. </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPJhJpzYCUVOaMJY71XTF-2BKNNGObW3qhwCGEV11hGF2LoNcewMmKcwuN7Al85yphAX-2BF-2F8XN-2BWgQ7iiKlpQxdDzM-3D5YIZ\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmV-2Fcy7DGoEk-2FGdcZaOMHiLhCeHJim9Ypr000WICiUHNkZcNCoF1KU6cXeKqhY9E-2BuPwZ3PW60OxSjFyIuNFBZPc66J9PmzjqiqAWq9iou8-2FrwJpzWg62AYGoY9FElzvermPhzQuRvCR02i4nD35-2BiOItgqFLELvNvuhrABts3GRW44Bk-2BEJMfCKxlA7g4QAK5AsKbKe6QnQPF1Z1MSXijjiX0ZKtEtnsfTf-2BzQxEYkXwuVxz2upVHHHs6Xuk3HgwmA-3D-3D">The Washington Stand</a> <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPCW2KU5i6JNTO3Jfb8DpDVZP2glwvhNPPfvjfUmk7t-2FJpJsq8vMnvAjzfzgrrYOkSiHX-2FI26sP-2FI1V-2B6fNsSCxFZ34vzkk6jqhmwkLXMsH-2Bt4U-2Bgoi-2FZZhURbBPqXe2p7rocUWUqehLrbRDjJyeJkbWOGTrmlO2neE-2BbgegnXjaJCNh7\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmV-2Fcy7DGoEk-2FGdcZaOMHiLhCeHJim9Ypr000WICiUHNkaX72btBXlbvXkjCRABCCVp5AP4mJ-2BmfKXJpUkU1kJOfTycwLf-2Bos86nzggJiXoggBhZYat2eNW-2Bcta5AflG-2B-2FHjgJ8Xy2Z5SMhdyYGpm76xHS9NEvay5vMeVUrKOEQZe4CkSh5ma9NJ9uBmOth3utGWffr77-2B9Oe00XNddIUtbtrCFqP1dRlodGuQXZP0fXE3D-2F9dnovAdeE9aVoaTYxPQ-3D-3D">Text With Jesus App Draws Thousands as Creator Says AI Can Help People Explore Scripture. </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPCW2KU5i6JNTO3Jfb8DpDVZP2glwvhNPPfvjfUmk7t-2FJpJsq8vMnvAjzfzgrrYOkSiHX-2FI26sP-2FI1V-2B6fNsSCxFZ34vzkk6jqhmwkLXMsH-2Bt4U-2Bgoi-2FZZhURbBPqXe2p7rocUWUqehLrbRDjJyeJkbWOGTrmlO2neE-2BbgegnXjaJpGs3\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmV-2Fcy7DGoEk-2FGdcZaOMHiLhCeHJim9Ypr000WICiUHNksenHHFE8-2Beta3nRElQ9cJv0QfMqdAwmPnErdxLboVlfY1p6lsPrFYj2XXDHMdndzeIqAwX9W3eKmwBYqIk-2BRAmGzW0isFBFhw8qx1DZruWB03EvJ0ZRrTQU28p3EOn7Pgj5lSNRNbDqfgcV6TtliVRBt6nr55m-2BTPqVPiaxmFUGqHTvJUKlQBOFn1f8FIoFUzf0YFlH51diCIpZf-2BMf5fQ-3D-3D">Fox Business</a> Applying the News Story Discuss appropriate uses of technology in the life of your church, and how AI tools can (or cannot) share God's Word. Reflect on your Christian community's identity as the body of Christ, and how your members represent Jesus in the world. In addition, look at the ways in which human beings are superior to AI. Isabella Loaiza, a researcher at MIT, has found that there are many things that humans do very well, even better than machines. She grades these abilities by giving them an EPOCH score. "It's an acronym," <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPHqYzlFhngTMk0G9-2F-2BQ1rl96qMKZnW2kc-2FGe8h0j42-2F2SY9Ve0kpvaPv-2Fr7Juz63JVd-2FFdNkTy78R0XxI9HJBUfcsvHntqYdiVnjtz-2FCsCEaiKV-2BPgVsZhB2kuYhrClYrT93z4JlrWghCjK5lDQEhGebmWJ7oOyR4RNytmn3I9WC0A98\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmV-2Fcy7DGoEk-2FGdcZaOMHiLhCeHJim9Ypr000WICiUHNkt7w1gDe3rs6sUvByyYaHbnRvrTvsY7u4Ln5F3ujSxAVJJAEdNSnbMaTRqY5yGJHQ1k89ZBv8JUgz-2BXkQHPQZJRzXuwf3XPy5mNRZmXEsr91UEGIUdptrfQbpA9oj2xRKH2U18r0keTRgKS8KL3oANRBUrduLOqab-2BH0G5NKNMgovPSHBIQp4PWYAPgEmsoHydIwIQN3IOUSM3N29e3kQsA-3D-3D">reports </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPHqYzlFhngTMk0G9-2F-2BQ1rl96qMKZnW2kc-2FGe8h0j42-2F2SY9Ve0kpvaPv-2Fr7Juz63JVd-2FFdNkTy78R0XxI9HJBUfcsvHntqYdiVnjtz-2FCsCEaiKV-2BPgVsZhB2kuYhrClYrT93z4JlrWghCjK5lDQEhGebmWJ7oOyR4RNytmn3I9WClrIN\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmV-2Fcy7DGoEk-2FGdcZaOMHiLhCeHJim9Ypr000WICiUHNkZeUpmQRIV5cGm6ujYYSqyqL-2BFJBlTyYAr8iWGzvspvj6yx0SH2VreCGm5TZgSNcBI5u1wvduM0pO6CvKDM7ZXCVlLhgK5CRBSd4BlL0hqktlmRDpfizKLZrAIPpUIpCjHW5w-2FYuJvK7d09AcJqB0M6NnD4PMJbyZSvROf-2Fyc6l6xy2C0d0sQT8AHYFS5Lmnnc-2BeQ0t14v-2F-2FjosIixy3JQQ-3D-3D">NPR</a>, one that is spelled E-P-O-C-H. "Covers empathy, presence, opinion" -- also known as ethical judgment -- "creativity, and a silent H, hope, the ability to plan and execute a vision." In a world in which people fear that AI will replace them in their jobs, Loaiza's belief is this: "High EPOCH jobs, ones that require more human skills, might be more resilient to AI." Being a disciple of Jesus is a high EPOCH job, and these qualities are essential to ministry and mission. Jesus gave his disciples the ability to survive, and even thrive, in the face of all kinds of difficulties. The same is true today. The Big Questions 1. When do you use AI in your work or personal life, if at all? How accurate and trustworthy do you find it to be? When, if ever, has it failed you? 2. How does your church use technology? Where do you see advantages to AI in ministry and mission, and what concerns do you have? 3. Would you trust an AI tool to help you see and hear God's Word? Why or why not? How could the Holy Spirit work through AI, if ever? 4. Where do you find significance in the church being the body of Christ? Who needs to be present in the body, and why? How does your church present Jesus to the world? 5. Where do you see empathy, presence, ethical judgment, creativity and hope in the life of your church? Be specific. Confronting the News With Scripture and Hope Here are some Bible verses to guide your discussion: Genesis 1:27 So God created humans in his image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. (For context, read <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxdxvwvUIbrGNsYJ-2B9LkHJNTwxkf4ze4JltbdtGWUNKh1zA1eWb9LeaM9vZgzUz8Eg5KZI\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmV-2Fcy7DGoEk-2FGdcZaOMHiLhCeHJim9Ypr000WICiUHNkYfTGQx0cPJzJY-2B-2BVZ8lkh6egHI1LGa3lLiOj0mJ6WJK7ynvIbX88GvI2uowUf-2FKvEKxa0i8uAS8iY5DlbEVZqwgT1OD2vzlFtezdcBOdqGeE7VfklAbFXhCOzHtYcGt-2FaMVW0fDLCd4eeeeb1ueJofB2xGoEYTK59CYFcqtRypiq8npZVHQ2oANVuKbu4Q8hbx3mbxTpSLzLQvh5ubU1-2BQ-3D-3D">Genesis 1:1-31</a>.) In the first chapter of Genesis, God creates the heavens and the earth, plants and animals, and finally human beings. God says, "Let us make humans in our image, according to our likeness" (v. 26). The plural subject -- "Let us" -- could indicate that God is speaking to a divine council, which was a common understanding in the ancient world, or is speaking to fellow persons of the Trinity: Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Christians have long believed that God is one God in three persons, a divine and eternal community of love and creative power. God created "humans in his image," traditionally referred to as the imago Dei, "image of God." To be made in the image of God means that all human beings are worthy of dignity and respect. All people, male and female, possess gifts of reason, intellect and cognitive ability. They can also relate to God and other people because they share God's ability to be in loving relationships. <blockquote> Questions: Where do you see the image of God in yourself and in the people around you? How is God's ability to be in loving relationships reflected in your family, your circle of friends and your church? Why is the image of God essential to Christian ministry and mission? </blockquote> Matthew 10:5-6 Do not take a road leading to gentiles, and do not enter a Samaritan town, but go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel (For context, read <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxEE9arX6m0yHZZAbtNhYaDVSjaUTQqNHkFk3DBApB3whfCAhfbNAXLKL3NWzWWrv0yDS\_\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmV-2Fcy7DGoEk-2FGdcZaOMHiLhCeHJim9Ypr000WICiUHNkYfTGQx0cPJzJY-2B-2BVZ8lkhxwCS-2F-2FONj-2BDtPY7APwv9xh22fx8NRBKfX-2FN9fgP8XNMFkuU4rIrd3b79v2ZAh-2FSNFahxfpCMAUyWM23E9Js7qBT-2FOiJ7d5LgLrYhb28GuDY-2FY6cFbtyZWTvA1ZzavMZ3gHqtUUXnfVlc6wTJ2VMj-2BAiyIJeQy7-2FhRFkIS6l4dyPm23GkBy406Ir5xeG6qvvAA-3D-3D">Matthew 10:1-15</a>.) Jesus summoned twelve disciples and told them to go "to the lost sheep of the house of Israel" (10:6). An important aspect of ministry is presence, and Jesus was clear that he wanted his followers to be present with a particular group of people -- not with the Gentiles and not with the Samaritans, but with "the house of Israel." He knew that the disciples had to focus on particular groups and particular individuals, if they were going to have an impact. The Gentiles and the Samaritans would receive ministry eventually, but not at this point. To be present is to be up close and personal. To deliver care face to face, not from a distance. One of the great tragedies of the pandemic was that we were prevented from gathering in person, in some cases for over a year. Many churches turned to online worship and Zoom Bible studies, a move that was necessary for the short term but was not a good long-term strategy for reaching most people. We Christians need to be part of a ministry of presence, up close and personal, if we are going to grow in faith and do the work of Christ in the world. The word church is defined as "assembly" or "gathering," which reminds us that we need to gather in order to be effective. In the New Testament, the Greek for church is ekklesia, which literally means "the called-out ones" -- a group of people who have been called out to a meeting. When you say you are going to church, you are really saying that you are going to an assembly, a gathering, a meeting. Jesus commanded the disciples to perform a ministry of presence when he said, "As you go, proclaim the good news, 'The kingdom of heaven has come near.' Cure the sick; raise the dead; cleanse those with a skin disease; cast out demons" (vv. 7-8). Good news and healing were delivered face to face, not from a distance. The disciples all performed a ministry of presence, as can we. <blockquote> Questions: What role does physical presence play in ministry? When have you benefited from such ministry? How have you offered it to others? What difference does a ministry of presence make? </blockquote> John 1:14 And the Word became flesh and lived among us, and we have seen his glory, the glory as of a father’s only son, full of grace and truth. (For context, read <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxyyJ0A-2BEDvrQGKorIXaiDBpvge15r31oRxuebxxDnno4i-2F0yQ8lFcIhra5J5t96wA7onj\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmV-2Fcy7DGoEk-2FGdcZaOMHiLhCeHJim9Ypr000WICiUHNkYfTGQx0cPJzJY-2B-2BVZ8lkhyvJHuOb-2BeKw29Oqz2rac2DICs9b-2F41WJGFuFtHt3-2BrGBQrbhcW0fzTB8FIJqGR6TQfOjIQUzs4pZsoKQ0vn6yrFH21KxMKNqJVcUotsdl0Rjat0jM0vMXxqqsrEU1JBe7HcyCwHqX6IQr-2F4Wl3sAbsQVLtrhIYvGqjdo5YQEq3ZQEIV8-2BpTl8ZYYjS7Tdl6Bg-3D-3D">John 1:1-18.</a>) The gospel of John begins by saying, "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God" (1:1), echoing both the creation story in Genesis 1 and the passage about Divine Wisdom in Proverbs 8. John's account of the life of Jesus stands apart from the preceding gospels, and his first chapter says that "the Word became flesh and lived among us" -- in this verse, "lived" could literally be translated "lived in a tent or tabernacle," reminding us of God's presence with Israel in the tabernacle during the journey toward the Promised Land. This Word is logos in the Greek of the New Testament, and here it means God's reason or plan, becoming "flesh" in Jesus Christ. John goes on to say, "From his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace. The law indeed was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ" (vv. 16-17). Jesus helps us to hear God's Word, he shows us God's face, and he reveals God's reason, order, meaning and plan for the universe. Jesus the Son is "close to the Father's heart" (v. 18), in an intimate and affectionate relationship. <blockquote> Questions: Although words can be generated by AI, what is distinctive about the Word of God becoming flesh and living among us? How does Jesus, God's Word in human form, deliver grace and truth to you? What happens when messages of grace and truth become detached from Jesus? </blockquote> 1 Corinthians 12:27 Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it. (For context, read <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxOdlwvpIcp6dpBWksJaxTxB-2FqvIxzkzH59Qn3kwUWVH54I5FtVzTMzRYiHlnqao8wj2wD7IFFVGH4Vb08GnfFEw-3D-3DxJng\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmV-2Fcy7DGoEk-2FGdcZaOMHiLhCeHJim9Ypr000WICiUHNkYfTGQx0cPJzJY-2B-2BVZ8lkh0yAHPYNQfVkxKMC9g0zYwRZa30M88qQIOGUixP8OuZ866xKqD207G7YwZdYKVYgOGZoN-2FOMka0ChPYXaNlZ60psn-2FpYT6ncWik8S-2FgfGyt-2BVBS-2BAPKPGTB14Ak3os60TIWQ7W7TJuxfbIbefKXkq8N1YGBkldt6kgfNok5-2FT6l6yaaEjLRTR6bKjv8UksCZNg-3D-3D">1 Corinthians 12:12-31</a>.) Paul's first letter to the Corinthians was written to followers of Jesus in the Greek city of Corinth, in response to a report that there were divisions in the church. "For it has been made clear to me," wrote Paul, "that there are quarrels among you" (1:11). Paul reminded the Corinthians of the importance of the sacrifice of Christ (2:2), and he encouraged the stronger members of the community to serve the weaker members. Then, using the image of the church as a body, the body of Christ, he said, "in the one Spirit we were all baptized into one body" (12:13). He talked about the different members of the body and told them that "God has so arranged the body, giving the greater honor to the inferior member, that there may be no dissension within the body, but the members may have the same care for one another" (vv. 24-25). He stressed the importance of suffering together and also rejoicing together. As followers of Jesus, "you are the body of Christ and individually members of it." <blockquote> Questions: What does it mean to you to be a part of the body of Christ? As a member of the body, what is your distinctive role? How does the Spirit unite the body? Although AI can present Christian beliefs, where does it fall short as a member of the body of the Christ? </blockquote> For Further Discussion 1. AI can safely be used by churches to assist with some business functions, such as answering questions about worship times and event details. "But the church is not a business," writes Joshua Arnold in <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPJhJpzYCUVOaMJY71XTF-2BKNNGObW3qhwCGEV11hGF2LoNcewMmKcwuN7Al85yphAX-2BF-2F8XN-2BWgQ7iiKlpQxdDzM-3Dg\_-D\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmV-2Fcy7DGoEk-2FGdcZaOMHiLhCeHJim9Ypr000WICiUHNkYfTGQx0cPJzJY-2B-2BVZ8lkh7aY6Qjl-2B10-2Fl9Bp5tqRWgh9DOgdW94WgaEwa0os2V-2Bmh-2BW2ZiUU6UfTBtuhjIVpgIbybnlsUYZ04GVAgFv7yTmTWKBiOvmW23lP0ZUtQzSqk7-2BgPyhGAP1wCyRjWrPPy3O-2F0i6C1bQ3S-2F9iRDbEDOJnw10Hmz-2B212ustqFz1ToSMzHaEBzDCXly20Kru3R2mQ-3D-3D">The Washington Stand</a>. "It is a holy community of believers indwelt with the Spirit of God (1 Corinthians 3:16). The Holy Spirit works supernatural change in their lives, so that they present a compelling witness to the world by the way they love, serve, encourage, counsel, bear with, and sacrifice for one another." How is the church a business and how is it not a business? Where do you draw the line, and why? 2. TWW Team Member Mark Rouleau wonders if AI "confesses that Jesus Christ (Yeshua ha mashiach) came in the FLESH" (<a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxgb98dt-2BAwcnX5I0t2fHJjOr-2Fu8mW6POu6TIUzZUl1bIW5yaPqWgy-2FyjKkbQudc9XnTU9\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmV-2Fcy7DGoEk-2FGdcZaOMHiLhCeHJim9Ypr000WICiUHNkYfTGQx0cPJzJY-2B-2BVZ8lkh1g5m0qoDouZ-2BKQDLbmnmFRtuRHrBsAMusoDC1wrss9pj5PITQKgX8-2BHyWdFhm60nwit04sWG3As97jT7BXPbL0pwlU5NoYpxFBB4WHeWlt-2Bo5mpVdqqT-2FXcnxXmxv2jzWrbJ4BVZm2LG89Mzc-2BVPtcTCMSaklFQLJbqWUhU63N8oSyEwhG6oYvdIVj2CDxzTg-3D-3D">1 John 4:2</a>). What is the significance of Jesus being incarnate as a flesh-and-blood human being? Where do you see danger in religion being practiced in the disembodied online world? 3. Moody Center President James Spencer wrote in <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPF2XpsLcqjymgYw0oGxRtXpPEMJLorE8LU-2FFrRYU7Xp8P2e1U5yZd-2FXohKesQYel7x4CozUImQhJFiVfd5kDG0lLf0Rnbkq2sO0dTd4oscJ0xqW-2BDFak-2BMjT1Lu-2F3ma8wQ-3D-3Di3j\_\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmV-2Fcy7DGoEk-2FGdcZaOMHiLhCeHJim9Ypr000WICiUHNkYfTGQx0cPJzJY-2B-2BVZ8lkh0wraGYrKBj5s8c7g0ZVzRS0i47V7B7XdRrHQqQkQrz-2FqSnjDysBKQaHcsODChpGmZiUnKZlD1xUr6QQUaSO1fMp9gfXznEC9xw88nmK-2BTUWiVoyk1LWQAl7S4Wur-2FcK4j35-2F-2Fr0LTdrfN-2BJMnVRdfU7cphDY0gUwSKFmCCiWp0tKYediKGJ8ZunIyx1Z57zcQ-3D-3D">The Christian Post</a> that the AI "Jesus" seemed "less concerned with fulfilling the Law and the Prophets than providing answers palatable to the itching ears of 21st century users." What questions would you want to ask AI "Jesus"? How would you determine if this technology was being faithful to the ministry and mission of Jesus the Christ? 4. While TWW Team Member Mary Sells accepts that AI programs can serve as shortcuts to information amassed from the internet, she warns, "A discerning process is always needed when using AI for any purpose, that is, knowing enough to sniff out when the answers provided are not truthful." What is the discernment process that you use as you grow in faith and understanding? How do you "test the spirits to see whether they are from God" (<a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxgb98dt-2BAwcnX5I0t2fHJjHOViYKx6XwTFq2j0tZLWtq6Eid1ufKv4Mece6ekCqT5lf6L\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmV-2Fcy7DGoEk-2FGdcZaOMHiLhCeHJim9Ypr000WICiUHNkYfTGQx0cPJzJY-2B-2BVZ8lkh3mT6RPwch2HOLKSxa3NPtrtatiT1rLhevcUq9UabZn-2B9Gb4-2BMV23inNGk8dgApE2w-2B20iuh2u4sXffg2D0PiMko5J6oE3ZKLZ8aieJbRr825nMAuum0TWmZGDfM-2FRex0egffCGeT7gqQpf32xnxiuH-2BVGcM3pfPF1OVDrwSEz-2BZmkldMrd060NAyxFByjjEYQ-3D-3D">1 John 4:1</a>)? Responding to the News Take a careful look at the technology being employed by your church, and raise concerns when you see it being used in ways that are not faithful to the mission and ministry of Jesus, God's Word made flesh. Focus your own efforts on being an EPOCH disciple of Christ, one who shows empathy, presence, opinion (also known as ethical judgment), creativity and hope. Such qualities will never be replaced by AI. Prayer God of all creation, we thank you for making us in your image and likeness, and giving us gifts of reason and intellect. We are grateful for the technologies that make our lives easier and more efficient. Keep us focused on your Son Jesus and filled with your Holy Spirit, so that we can serve as the living body of Christ in the world today, one that shares the grace and truth of your Son. Amen. 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