I thought it would be interesting to see how an AI would answer this question. This is an answer provided by ChatGPT:
That’s a thoughtful and timely question. While there’s no single official answer from the CRCNA (as of my last update), I can offer a response that reflects current thinking around faith, discernment, and the responsible use of technology in ministry settings.
Is it appropriate or advisable for members of the CRCNA to use AI in ministry settings?
Yes, it can be appropriate and advisable—but with thoughtful discernment, accountability, and a clear understanding of both the strengths and limitations of AI.
AI, when used wisely, can support ministry in very practical ways:
Drafting worship service elements (like calls to worship, prayers, or litanies)
Generating ideas for Sunday School or youth group resources
Streamlining administrative tasks such as meeting minutes, proposals, or policy documents
Providing accessibility tools (e.g., generating summaries, translating documents, or enhancing communication for people with disabilities)
These uses can free up time for relational, pastoral, and creative work that’s better done by people—not machines.
However, your caution is also wise. Here are some important considerations:
1. Discernment and Discipleship
AI should never replace Spirit-led discernment, biblical study, or the communal wisdom of the church. Tools like ChatGPT can support creativity and structure, but the theological and pastoral responsibility always rests with human leaders guided by the Holy Spirit.
2. Transparency and Accountability
If AI is used in shaping sermons, prayers, or policies, leaders should be transparent about it with councils and congregants. It’s also wise to fact-check and theologically vet AI-generated content to ensure it aligns with Scripture and Reformed theology.
3. Ethical Use
There are ongoing questions about how AI models are trained, including issues around copyright, bias, and labor practices. Churches may want to reflect on whether their use of AI supports justice and stewardship. Using AI tools responsibly can itself be a form of witness.
4. Formation, Not Substitution
Ministry is about forming disciples, not just getting tasks done. If AI becomes a shortcut that prevents church members from engaging deeply with Scripture, prayer, or one another, it may undermine the very work it intends to support.
In Summary:
AI is not inherently unfaithful or inappropriate. In fact, it can be a helpful gift when used in ways that align with the values of the Kingdom of God—truth, love, justice, humility, and service. For members of the CRCNA and other churches, the key is not whether AI is used, but how and why it’s used.
As with any tool, prayerful discernment, wise leadership, and communal conversation are essential.
If you're part of a church leadership team, this could be a great topic for a council discussion or adult education session. Technology is not going away—but how we use it can reflect our deepest beliefs.
Thank you for this article, Syd. Your example of the mother and her daughter are so similar to a friend of mine and her struggle with her own sexuality, but instead of psychiatric hospitals it was extreme weight gain and a slide into depression with a continuing commitment to live as "post-gay."
Posted in: How Should CRCNA Members Use AI in Ministry Settings?
I thought it would be interesting to see how an AI would answer this question. This is an answer provided by ChatGPT:
That’s a thoughtful and timely question. While there’s no single official answer from the CRCNA (as of my last update), I can offer a response that reflects current thinking around faith, discernment, and the responsible use of technology in ministry settings.
Is it appropriate or advisable for members of the CRCNA to use AI in ministry settings?
Yes, it can be appropriate and advisable—but with thoughtful discernment, accountability, and a clear understanding of both the strengths and limitations of AI.
AI, when used wisely, can support ministry in very practical ways:
These uses can free up time for relational, pastoral, and creative work that’s better done by people—not machines.
However, your caution is also wise. Here are some important considerations:
1. Discernment and Discipleship
AI should never replace Spirit-led discernment, biblical study, or the communal wisdom of the church. Tools like ChatGPT can support creativity and structure, but the theological and pastoral responsibility always rests with human leaders guided by the Holy Spirit.
2. Transparency and Accountability
If AI is used in shaping sermons, prayers, or policies, leaders should be transparent about it with councils and congregants. It’s also wise to fact-check and theologically vet AI-generated content to ensure it aligns with Scripture and Reformed theology.
3. Ethical Use
There are ongoing questions about how AI models are trained, including issues around copyright, bias, and labor practices. Churches may want to reflect on whether their use of AI supports justice and stewardship. Using AI tools responsibly can itself be a form of witness.
4. Formation, Not Substitution
Ministry is about forming disciples, not just getting tasks done. If AI becomes a shortcut that prevents church members from engaging deeply with Scripture, prayer, or one another, it may undermine the very work it intends to support.
In Summary:
AI is not inherently unfaithful or inappropriate. In fact, it can be a helpful gift when used in ways that align with the values of the Kingdom of God—truth, love, justice, humility, and service. For members of the CRCNA and other churches, the key is not whether AI is used, but how and why it’s used.
As with any tool, prayerful discernment, wise leadership, and communal conversation are essential.
If you're part of a church leadership team, this could be a great topic for a council discussion or adult education session. Technology is not going away—but how we use it can reflect our deepest beliefs.
Posted in: Homosexuality and Holy Uncertainty
Thank you for this article, Syd. Your example of the mother and her daughter are so similar to a friend of mine and her struggle with her own sexuality, but instead of psychiatric hospitals it was extreme weight gain and a slide into depression with a continuing commitment to live as "post-gay."