Intersection of Faith, Life, and Technology

I was born into a home with a black-and-white television, a rotary-dial corded phone with a party line, and a world where there was no instant replay in football. I have lived through a remarkable period of history—one marked by rapid and continual technological change. Nearly every day, I rely on tools that simply did not exist when I was born.
 
When I travel, I use Google Maps for directions. When something breaks, I turn to YouTube for step-by-step repair videos. I manage finances, communicate instantly through email, stay connected with friends, and follow world events—all through a computer or phone. Technology has woven itself seamlessly into daily life.
 
In my work, I have also become familiar with artificial intelligence. And since I am naturally a lazy person, I’ve discovered it can do some remarkable things with incredible efficiency. AI can review documents, prepare agreements, draft emails, analyze financial reports, conduct research, and more. It can save time and simplify many tasks.
 
This leads me to an important question, one that the church must thoughtfully consider:
How should we use technology, especially artificial intelligence, in the life of the church?
Where is it helpful and where might it cross a line?
Is it acceptable to use AI when wrestling with a personal spiritual question? What about generating discussion questions for a Sunday evening class? Finding creative ways to teach biblical principles to our children? Reviewing church finances? Assisting the worship team? Researching sermon background? Writing sermons themselves?
 
And perhaps the most important question of all:
Where is the line between being good stewards of our time and resources and relying on the Holy Spirit?
 
Scripture reminds us that wisdom itself is a gift from God. “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.” (James 1:5). The Bible also affirms the value of skill, preparation, and tools. Bezalel was filled with the Spirit and gifted with craftsmanship to build the tabernacle (Exodus 31:1–5). Proverbs repeatedly encourages diligence, planning, and learning (Proverbs 21:5).
 
Technology, then, is not inherently good or evil. It is a tool, like a printing press, a commentary, a concordance, or a microphone. Jesus Himself acknowledged tools and resources when He said, “For which of you, desiring to build a tower, does not first sit down and count the cost, whether he has enough to complete it?” (Luke 14:28).
 
At the same time, Scripture warns us not to confuse tools with trust.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.” (Proverbs 3:5).
“Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, says the Lord of hosts.” (Zechariah 4:6).
 
The danger is not that we use technology, but that we substitute it for prayer, discernment, and dependence on God. AI can summarize Scripture, but it cannot bring true understanding. It can generate words, but it cannot produce conviction. It can organize ideas, but it cannot transform hearts. Only the Holy Spirit does that work (1 Corinthians 2:10–14).
Perhaps the right question is not “Can we use it?” but rather:
• Does this tool serve our calling or does it replace it?
• Does it lead us toward prayer, Scripture, and community—or quietly away from them?
• Are we using technology as a servant or allowing it to become a substitute for maturing in faith?
 
Paul’s words offer a helpful framework: “’All things are lawful for me,’ but not all things are helpful. ‘All things are lawful for me,’ but I will not be dominated by anything.” (1 Corinthians 6:12).
 
As the church, we are called to faithfulness in every generation. That includes discerning how to live wisely in a digital age, embracing helpful tools while remaining rooted in prayer, Scripture, and reliance on the Spirit of God.
 
Technology will continue to change. Our calling will not.
 
I am still thinking and praying through these questions myself. I would genuinely love to hear your thoughts on this topic, your hopes, concerns, and experiences. Please feel free to share them with me when you see me.
 
Because He Lives,
 
Bill Prichard