Can AI Be Trusted With Scripture? New Study Reveals Widespread Concern Among Pastors
While it’s no surprise that AI (Artificial Intelligence) is growing in society, what is surprising is how many pastors use it in their churches and with their congregations. According to Barna and Premier Christian News, recent studies have found that nearly all pastors in the United States (87 percent) use technology in some way, shape, or form.
However, while most pastors do implement the ever-growing and expanding technology, that does not mean they have no concerns about AI. In fact, most ministers are concerned when it comes to AI, particularly when it comes to Scripture. The study shows that more than nine in 10 pastors, 94 percent, are concerned about AI misinterpreting Scripture. These numbers are alarming not just because so many people are using AI, but because AI is directly shaping biblical interpretation (and often incorrectly).
While agreement on the probable risks and dangers of Artificial Intelligence is easy, the Billy Graham Association explains that what we should do about AI is not. In Barna’s two surveys, conducted in partnership with Gloo for the State of the Church initiative, participants were asked what AI should do regarding “the areas of theology where interpretations genuinely differ.” Surprisingly, only 60% of pastors said they preferred the technology to reveal “major interpretations and explain where they differ,” but only 26% “of practicing Christians agree with this approach, with a separate 26% stating they do want AI to highlight which interpretation it finds most accurate.”
When Christian Daily interviewed Daniel Copeland, Barna’s vice president of research, Copeland noted that pastors appear to view AI more as a helpful tool than an authority on biblical meaning.
“Their approach points to using AI as a tool to aid their learning, not to tell them what to think,” Copeland said. “Pastors seem to want people to use the tool but let it expand their understanding and push them to think for themselves.”
Many Christians do use AI for learning, research, advice, editing and writing assistance, but they also seek it for interpreting Scripture, gaining spiritual wisdom or asking thoughtful questions. It’s a given that all Christians and churches should use extreme discernment when using this technology, especially in the presence and influence of others.
Photo Credit: ©iStock/Getty Images Plus/Hotaik Sung
Originally published September 16, 2026.
