July 22, 2026

Recently, I decided to learn more about Artificial Intelligence (AI). Most of what I had known about AI came from various forms of media; little snippets and soundbites here and there. I felt the need to dig a little deeper. I just finished reading Robert Wright’s new book on AI titled The God Test: Artificial Intelligence and Our Coming Cosmic Reckoning.

Needless to say, as a theologian, I found his title particularly intriguing. As to the “coming cosmic reckoning,” I am not sure whether to be wholly terrified or to jump up and down with joyful abandon. Like many, Wright posits a time when the “singularity” will happen; that time when AI becomes sentient enough to “take over.” What that “takeover” looks like, though, depends upon many things. Some predict doomsday. Others see the possibility for a utopia.

Wright sees the possibility of both. The outcome depends upon whether humans can get our act together as a species. He writes, “We can change the course of AI evolution by changing ourselves and our societies, and we can change that course for the better to the extent that we become better.” This has certainly been one purpose of religion in human affairs.

I tend to agree with Wright. Every great human technological advancement throughout history has brought both great promise and hope, and also the possibility of great horror. Historical outcomes rely upon the morals of the human beings using the technology. Will AI achieve enough sentiency to mirror human behavior and bring the same possible outcomes? Probably. There will be good, and there will be bad.

Where do we fit in with AI as followers of Jesus Christ? We are called to continue sharing the Good News with voices that do not need to “artificially” change our proclamation of God’s love for humanity.

Rev. Eric

(This column was generated WITHOUT the assistance of AI.)