ChatGPT and other “chatbots” are large language models which means they are designed to generate, translate, and summarize content. They are trained on datasets that may be biased and a preponderance of data leaning one way or another will likely influence the output. The algorithm is only as good as what is fed into it, but there is more to it when it comes to Christian guidance.
We should be also reminded that the use of large language models in the general public is in its infancy and that there are holes in the algorithm. For a long time, if you asked ChatGPT how many Rs there are in “strawberry”, it would answer “2” because the last two of the 3 Rs would be combined into one. That has since been fixed, but other issues remain because of logic issues in the code, bad information from the training sources, or the way you ask the model to answer your question or fulfill your task request.
The author asked ChatGPT for its opinion on itself regarding a Christian’s usage of it. The response below is from ChatGPT when it was asked to write an article for a teen Christian quarterly about the limitations of ChatGPT. The author’s comments are inline where it is necessary to correct a thought or to make a point and all ChatGPT content is in bold italics. The specific question asked is ““What are the limitations of ChatGPT from a Christian perspective?”
[ChatGPT] Technology has transformed the way we learn, communicate, and engage with the world. One of the most talked-about innovations is artificial intelligence, including tools like ChatGPT. While AI can be useful in many ways, it has its limitations—especially when viewed through a Christian lens. Understanding these limitations can help us use technology wisely while keeping our faith and values at the center of our lives.
[Author comments] True. Understanding limitations and doing fact checking from God’s word is key to using a tool such as ChatGPT.
[ChatGPT] AI Lacks True Wisdom
ChatGPT can provide facts, summarize information, and even mimic human conversation, but it does not possess true wisdom. Proverbs 2:6 says, “For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding (ESV).” AI may process information quickly, but it cannot offer godly insight or discernment. As Christians, we should turn to God’s Word and prayer for wisdom rather than relying solely on technology.
[Author comments] Also true. Proverbs 2 is a great, biblical primer on wisdom, its source, and its power.
[ChatGPT] AI Cannot Provide Spiritual Guidance
AI can answer Bible trivia and explain theological concepts, but it cannot provide true spiritual guidance. The Holy Spirit is our guide (John 16:13), leading us into truth and convicting us of what is right. No machine can replace the personal relationship we have with Jesus Christ or the role of the Holy Spirit in our lives.
[Author comments] AI cannot provide spiritual guidance is the point! The referenced verse, John 16:13, reads “When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come.” That is true but Jesus was specifically speaking to the apostles though the Spirit does “speak” to us today through God’s word given to the writers of the bible (1 Peter 1:21). The fact to get from this paragraph is that the chatbot is a machine and NOT deity. It has no salvational power and should not be regarded as having such.
[ChatGPT] AI Lacks Morality and Accountability
While ChatGPT can generate responses based on patterns and data, it does not have a moral compass. It does not know right from wrong in the way humans do. God has given us a conscience and the ability to make ethical decisions (Romans 2:15). Unlike AI, we are accountable to God for our actions, and we must be careful not to let technology influence us in ways that go against our values.
[Author comments] Further, not only do chatbots lack in morality and accountability, they lack scriptural authority. It is one thing to pull up a verse like Romans 2:15 to try to fit it to the topic but it is another to do true “exegesis” (critical explanation and interpretation of scripture). Chat bots will likely not make an effort to consider context or use scripture to interpret other scripture. It ignores the fact the bible is a writing that is without contradiction and is in harmony with itself. We will see that in the next paragraph.
[ChatGPT] AI Is Limited by Human Knowledge
AI is only as good as the data it has been trained on. This means it can be biased, incomplete, or even incorrect. 1 Corinthians 13:9 reminds us, “For we know in part and we prophesy in part.” No human or machine has complete knowledge—only God does. We should always verify information and seek truth from reliable sources, especially the Bible.
[Author comments] Again, a true statement but ChatGPT is using a verse out of context. 1 Corinthians 13:9 in context is speaking about the state of spiritual gifts at the time of writing and the fact when the New Testament writing was complete, the need of such gifts will go away. It is true, however, that no human or machine has complete knowledge. A better verse probably is Romans 3:33-36: “Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments and how inscrutable his ways! “For who has known the mind of the Lord, or who has been his counselor? Or who has given a gift to him that he might be repaid?” For from him and through him and to him are all things.”
[ChatGPT] AI Should Be a Tool, Not a Replacement for Critical Thinking
It’s tempting to use AI to do our thinking for us, but God designed us to develop our minds (Romans 12:2). We are called to renew our minds, seek understanding, and make wise decisions. ChatGPT can help with learning, but it should never replace our responsibility to think critically and seek God’s wisdom in all things.
[Author comments] God has given HUMANS the ability to think critically and chatbots try to mimic that ability through statistics and modeling. We created AI to be a tool like a drill is a tool to help build things. The idea of the things to be built came from man not the other way around. We, unlike a bunch of computer code, have been fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14) in the image and likeness of God to have dominion over the earth (Genesis 1:26-27). We should not cede those God-given gifts and responsibilities to a machine.
[ChatGPT] Conclusion: Using AI Wisely
AI is a powerful tool, but it is not perfect. As Christians, we must approach it with discernment, using it to enhance our learning while remembering its limitations. Our ultimate source of wisdom and truth is God, not technology. Let us use AI responsibly, keeping our faith at the center of our decisions and always seeking God’s guidance in all we do.
[Author comments] It’s a little comical to hear a chatbot consider itself a Christian. It’s merely a tool that can be used to generate thoughts on a topic and definitely not the last word. That is the job of God’s Holy Word! (Psalm 119:105)
