An Artificial Intelligence Devotional

In the grand panorama of the biblical narrative, a familiar passage speaks of a timeless truth that seems increasingly relevant to our technologically oriented times. The book of Ecclesiastes 3:1 reminds us, “To everything there is a season and a time to every purpose under the heaven.” With all its potential and pitfalls, technology has its own time and place in the Church’s life. Our task is to discern its purpose.

In 1 Corinthians 9:22, the apostle Paul also boldly proclaims, “I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some.” Paul was a first-century innovator in spreading the Gospel, utilizing all available means. Today, we can follow Paul’s example, using emerging technologies to share the good news.

From social media to virtual reality, the digital landscape is continually reshaping our methods of communication and connection. Yet, the Church remains God’s conduit of hope, tasked with creatively and responsibly employing these tools for kingdom work. We must be prudent, ensuring that technology serves to enlighten and not overshadow our mission.

We also grapple with the challenge of digital discipleship, making faith formation an interactive and engaging experience without diluting the depth and gravity of the gospel message. This requires wisdom, balance, and constant prayerful consideration.

Ellen White insightfully penned, “Whatever the line of work in which we engage, the Word of God teaches us to be ‘not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord’” (Romans 12:11). As we harness technology in the service of the Gospel, we must approach it with enthusiasm, diligence, and most importantly, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

Our Saviour’s commission in Matthew 28:19 remains unchanged: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations…” With the proliferation of digital technologies, our ‘going way ‘sometimes involves clicking, typing, and sharing. But as we embrace this reality, let us remember that the heart of our mission is our relationship – with God and others.

Emerging technologies, while powerful, can never replace the warmth of a smile, the comfort of a kind word, or the transformational power of a life lived in love with Jesus. However, they can help us build bridges, forge connections, and share God’s love in ways we could never have imagined.
In navigating these digital waves, let us not be swept away but harness their power to propel the Gospel further. Let us remember that it is not technology that saves but the Saviour, whom we have the privilege of sharing with the world.

Dear Heavenly Father, give us the wisdom to use technology for your glory. Please help us to navigate these new waters while keeping sight of the timeless truth of your Word. Amen.

Prompt: You are a Seventh-day Adventist Pastor and have been asked to write a 500-word devotional for one edition of a church magazine which focuses on technology and the impact of emerging technologies on the Church. Find a topic you want to write about, a Bible passage, use Ellen White if appropriate, and write it in a devotional style.

Chat GPT
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/ChatGPT