Should Christians Use AI for Writing and Sermons?

Should Christians Avoid Writing with AI?

Q: I’m concerned that if I use artificial intelligence to write, I’ll miss out on growth that comes from doing the work myself. Is this alone a legitimate reason for Christians to avoid AI in creative processes? Also, what about more explicitly spiritual or theological work? Should preachers disclose when their sermon is generated by AI? What if it’s just AI-polished or AI-copyedited? —Curious in California

Your question touches on two key areas: the craft of writing and the ethics involved.

First, writing is a craft that demands personal growth and skill development. AI can be a helpful tool, much like spell checkers or grammar editors, but it cannot replace the knowledge and insight that come from practicing the craft yourself. To use AI effectively, you need enough expertise to judge whether its output is accurate and valuable.

Second, ethics require transparency. Whenever you use someone else’s work or ideas, you should acknowledge it. Not citing sources — including AI — is a form of plagiarism, which unfortunately happens even within Christian communities. Giving credit to your sources shows respect for their work and brings clarity to your audience about where your ideas come from.

Consider whether you would be willing to name AI as a source. If not, why? Also, AI often generates content based on copyrighted materials without permission, which raises concerns about unknowingly using someone else’s intellectual property.

These points connect to your purpose in writing. If your goal is compiling existing information, do so with proper citations. But if you aim to create original work or deepen your own understanding, relying on AI may hinder your growth.

Q: I’m a solo pastor and would love to keep pastoring, but my wife needs a break from ministry life for health reasons. However, I don’t have an alternative line of work to fall back on, and we need income. I wonder whether churches with vacant pulpits are willing to hire a pastor in a situation like mine, where the spouse won’t be involved. Do you have advice for ministry families like ours? —Muddled in Missouri

Prioritize your family’s well-being. Pastors often sacrifice family needs for ministry, but maintaining healthy boundaries is essential. A thriving family supports effective ministry.

Churches have the unique opportunity to consider family while hiring pastors, especially given biblical qualifications that emphasize character and family management (see 1 Timothy 3:1–7).

Before stepping away, talk openly with your wife and church leaders. Explore if your pastoral duties can be adjusted to fit your current family needs. If the church cannot accommodate this, seeking other work to support your household is wise. Managing your family well now will prepare you better for future ministry roles.

Q: I have a few friends who know and follow Jesus—and live with their boyfriends. This is so normal in today’s culture that it’s become “normal” in many Christian communities too. But as their friend, what should I do? I’m afraid to call them out for fear of being too prudish or worrying too much about the speck in my sister’s eye. —Iffy in Indiana

It’s difficult to watch friends compromise spiritual standards, but standing firm in your convictions is important. God values obedience and a life set apart (1 Corinthians 16:13–14).

Your lifestyle can be a silent witness to God’s design for relationships. Pray regularly for your friends, trusting that prayer can effect real change (James 5:16).

Deciding whether to address the issue depends on your relationship closeness and history. If you’ve had honest, open talks before, your friends may be open to discussion. Approach any conversation with humility, asking questions rather than judging. Remember, transformation comes from the Holy Spirit, not from confrontation alone (John 14:26).