AI Goes to Church

Thinking Theologically About Artificial Intelligence

AI Goes to Church unpacks one of the most significant technological advancements of our time—artificial intelligence—and what it means for the ministry. More than just another tech fad, AI presents both profound challenges and extraordinary opportunities for the church. This book equips pastors, ministry leaders, and thoughtful laypeople to engage with AI through a biblical and theological lens, fostering human flourishing while remaining grounded in Christ's teachings.

Writing in an accessible, nontechnical style, pastor and missiologist Todd Korpi seamlessly integrates theological reflection with practical application. Whether you're grappling with ethical concerns, curious about leveraging AI for mission, or simply seeking clarity in this rapidly changing landscape, this book provides the guidance you need to steward AI wisely in service of God's kingdom.

With its emphasis on thoughtful, lasting principles over fleeting technical hacks, AI Goes to Church serves as your road map to faithfully navigating the complexities of faith, technology, and human flourishing.

In AI Goes to Church, you'll find:



- A Theological Foundation: Gain a deep understanding of how AI intersects with Christian theology, exploring implications for human identity, the image of God, and the church's mission.

- Ethical Discernment: Learn to critically evaluate AI's potential to enhance human flourishing while remaining vigilant to its risks, such as harm to vulnerable populations.

- Practical Integration: Explore actionable insights for leveraging AI in areas like discipleship and mission, while staying true to the gospel.

- A Missional Vision: Understand how to see digital spaces as mission fields and use AI creatively to engage those who might not be reached otherwise.

- Hopeful Engagement: Approach the technological age with confidence, holding on to biblical principles while discerning how to innovate with integrity.AI represents a profound challenge—but also extraordinary opportunities—for today's church. Whether you're a pastor, ministry leader, or thoughtful believer—discover how faith and technology can intersect in meaningful ways. Get your copy of AI Goes to Church today and navigate this new era with a gospel-centered vision.



Ed Stetzer, PhD, is the dean of Talbot School of Theology at Biola University and scholar in residence and teaching pastor at Mariners Church. He has planted, revitalized, and pastored churches; trained pastors and church planters on six continents; earned two master's degrees and two doctorates; and he has written hundreds of articles and a dozen books. He is regional director for Lausanne North America, is the editor-in-chief of Outreach Magazine, and regularly writes for news outlets such as USA Today and CNN.



Todd Korpi (DMiss, Fuller Theological Seminary) is a pastor, missiologist, and church consultant. He is dean of digital ministry programs at Ascent College, assistant professor of Christian leadership at Fuller Theological Seminary, and works in several capacities at OneHope. He also serves as the lead researcher of the Digital Mission Consortia, a collaborative research initiative exploring the frontier of digital ministry. Todd is the author of Your Daughters Shall Prophesy and The Life-Giving Spirit. He and his wife, Tara, live in Chicagoland with their three daughters.

1. A Brave New World


2. Understanding Artificial Intelligence


3. Scripture and the Challenge of Modern Technology


4. AI and the Image of God


5. AI Theology and Ethics


6. AI and the Mission of the Church


7. AI and Social Justice


8. AI and the Future of Work


9. Pastoral Care and Artificial Clergy


10. AI and Christian Education


11. Principles and Practices of Ministry AI


Epilogue


Acknowledgements


About the Author


Works Cited

"AI Goes to Church will benefit anyone seeking to navigate the digital frontier with faithfulness and integrity. We stand on the cusp of unprecedented technological change. This book challenges us to consider how we can leverage AI for kingdom purposes, ensuring that our commitment to the gospel remains unwavering as technology advances. I'm confident that AI Goes to Church will inspire you to engage with the digital age thoughtfully, embracing the opportunities it presents while steadfastly upholding the timeless truths of our faith."



"The advancement of AI and web development is happening at an accelerated pace. Author Todd Korpi helps us to be proactive and to think critically and ethically on how AI can help the church remain missionally effective."



"As Christians, we must engage with technology wisely, trusting that God is sovereign over all advancements, including AI. In AI Goes to Church, Todd Korpi offers a thoughtful perspective on integrating AI into ministry while upholding theological and ethical integrity. At Jesus.net, we see AI as a tool to enhance evangelism and discipleship, not replace human connection. This book challenges the church to approach AI with faith, wisdom, and responsibility. I highly recommend it to leaders seeking to navigate AI's role in spreading the gospel."



"In this unprecedented era, where technology is transforming every aspect of life, the church can't afford to lag behind with a dial-up connection to a high-speed world. Our God certainly isn't standing still. In AI Goes to Church, Todd Korpi offers a bold and necessary vision for how Christian leaders can embrace AI, not as a threat, but as a powerful tool for ministry, discipleship, and social impact."



"Here is an informed, wise, and pastoral resource, knowledgeable about the opportunities and challenges of AI, discerning about its potentialities and pitfalls, and attentive to the divine invitation to flourishing extended to frail human creatures. Todd Korpi is a sure guide for those seeking to understand and engage AI in the mid-2020s."



"Todd Korpi's book highlights a critical reality: churches and ministries need to proactively engage AI, balancing opportunities with concerns. Measuring impact and using data to inform church programs is essential, and AI is becoming a vital tool for gathering and analyzing data to improve decision-making. Years ago in a talk, I shared, 'The world is changing fast! And today is the slowest rate of change we will ever see,' emphasizing the urgency for ministries to adapt to the needs around them; AI can make this easier, and Korpi helps leaders get comfortable with AI."



"As artificial intelligence infiltrates more areas of life, questions arise about how to approach these creations while remaining focused on God. AI Goes to Church explores AI not from a consumer perspective but a compassionate one. Todd Korpi encourages us to consider how these tools can glorify God and help others. This enthralling, timely book is full of biblical wisdom and compassionate insight. Anyone interested in the intersection of technology and faith should read AI Goes to Church."



"Given the scale and pace at which AI technologies are advancing, it's impossible to know precisely what our techno-future holds. In AI Goes to Church, Todd Korpi wisely resists the urge to predict the future and instead focuses our attention on what people of faith can do in the present to leverage AI technologies for the sake of God's mission in the world. It's a faithful and generative approach that will be helpful for Christians of all stripes, regardless of how much or how little they know about the possibilities and pitfalls of AI. I highly recommend it."



"AI isn't coming—it's already here, reshaping the way we live, work, and even minister. AI Goes to Church is the guide we need to navigate this new reality with both wisdom and conviction. Todd Korpi doesn't just explore AI's potential; he thoughtfully wrestles with its ethical and theological implications, never losing sight of the Great Commission. He bridges the gap between abstract philosophy and real-world ministry, helping the church engage AI with both faithfulness and practicality."



"AI Goes to Church is the book the church didn't know it desperately needed. With clarity, humility, and pastoral wisdom, Todd Korpi offers a compelling framework for engaging artificial intelligence with theological depth and missional courage. This is not just a book about technology—it's about discipleship, mission, and the future of the faithful presence of the body of Christ in a digitally hybrid world. I'm grateful for Todd's voice and wisdom. I highly recommend this book to pastors, educators, and anyone wondering what it means to be effective ministers in a digital age." weniger anzeigen expand_less