A new AI chatbot app that allows users to interact with biblical figures like Jesus has sparked an ongoing discussion over the spiritual implications of such technology. While the app’s creator argues that it can help users explore scripture and deepen their faith, religious leaders have raised concerns about the potential for AI to misrepresent or distort biblical teachings. The possibility that the AI could hallucinate—saying things that are not true or fabricating Bible verses that don’t exist—has led some to question whether the experience of engaging with ‘AI Jesus’ could lead users away from genuine spiritual connection.
Religious leaders, including an Episcopal priest, have emphasized the importance of encountering the real Jesus through scripture, the sacraments of the church, and the community of believers. The priest points out that while AI can be a tool for learning about Jesus, it cannot replace the authenticity of a living, spiritual relationship with the divine. The church, in contrast, offers a community where individuals can receive guidance, support, and a deeply personal spiritual experience. The priest argues that the church’s sacraments, such as Holy Communion, provide a tangible connection to the presence of Jesus, something that an AI chatbot cannot replicate.
The app, which has drawn thousands of users, represents a growing trend of technology’s intersection with faith. However, this trend has also raised broader questions about the role of digital tools in spiritual life. While some may find value in using AI to explore the Bible, others believe that the technology risks creating a false sense of intimacy or understanding with the divine. For those seeking a more authentic spiritual experience, the priest advises redirecting their attention to the church, where they can engage with a community of believers and find spiritual guidance in person.
Faith leaders also caution against the potential of AI to replace genuine human relationships in matters of spiritual significance. They argue that the church’s community offers something that technology cannot: the presence of other believers who can offer encouragement, support, and a shared spiritual journey. As one of the priest’s points highlights, the church is not without its imperfections—but it is a place where individuals can find acceptance, truth, and a real connection with the divine. The article ultimately calls on users to consider whether they truly wish to encounter the real Jesus and whether they can find that connection through the church and the scriptures rather than a digital simulation.