AI Shepherds and Electric Sheep
Leading and Teaching in the Age of Artificial Intelligence
About
Since ChatGPT burst into the public consciousness in 2022, AI has thoroughly infiltrated everyday life. Machines can now take on work once thought to be solely the domain of human beings--from writing college essays to composing worship music. How should Christians respond to this brave new technology?
In this accessible introduction to AI, Sean O'Callaghan and Paul Hoffman explore its social and ethical impacts for ministry and teaching. The authors shed light on the biblical vision for human flourishing--and on how AI can help or hinder that flourishing. Avoiding both alarmism and uncritical acceptance, O'Callaghan and Hoffman offer resources and practical tools for using AI in our classrooms and congregations.
AI can write a generic three-point sermon, but it cannot replace an authentic encounter between humans and the divine. In a time of cultural confusion, O'Callaghan and Hoffman encourage readers to embrace the clarity found in the gospel. The book includes a foreword by A. Trevor Sutton.
Foreword by A. Trevor Sutton
Introduction
1. What Is Artificial Intelligence?
2. What Are the Current and Potential Implications of AI?
3. What Does It Mean to Be Human from a Biblical Perspective?
4. What Does It Mean to Be Human in the Technological Age?
5. How Should Educators Interact with AI?
6. How Should Christians Be Formed and Discipled in the Age of AI?
7. How Should Ministry Leaders Approach AI?
Conclusion
Appendix: Six Views on Technology
Recommended Resources
Index
Endorsements
"When it comes to AI, this book deletes the algorithms of both alarmist and utopian thinking. The authors combine deep insights about theology and technology, all with a heart no machine can replicate. Whether the prospect of artificial intelligence exhilarates you or terrifies you, this book will make you think."
Russell Moore, editor in chief, Christianity Today
"Artificial intelligence is something I never envisioned would be a universal topic in the church or in theological education. Thankfully, in this significant work O'Callaghan and Hoffman guide Christian leaders biblically, theologically, and practically on this life-altering development called AI. While we do not know what the future holds in this digital world, we do know the One who holds the future. AI Shepherds and Electric Sheep is a well-researched and pioneering book that gives us a clear road map to begin understanding and navigating this ever-changing technological age."
Matthew D. Kim, professor of preaching and pastoral leadership, George W. Truett Endowed Chair of Preaching and Evangelism, Truett Theological Seminary, Baylor University; author of Preaching with Cultural Intelligence
"The hype surrounding AI, fueled by science fiction and film, has spread through social media and shaped our understanding of this emerging technology. While all this attention reflects the enthusiasm many people hold for AI, it has sparked fears and concerns as well. How can Christians respond to both the hype and the fear? O'Callaghan and Hoffman's meticulous work presents us with a biblical-theological framework for addressing the challenges AI poses to communities, education, church ministry, the meaning of being human, and moral practices. This book cogently explains why AI should not be rejected outright and how it can be critically engaged and received with thanksgiving."
Ximian Xu, Duncan Forrester Fellow, University of Edinburgh
"Working through the lens of the biblical story, O'Callaghan and Hoffman sketch a Christian approach to AI that is theologically informed, philosophically thoughtful, and yet eminently practical. A clear, wise, and timely resource, with particular relevance for educators and pastors."
Derek C. Schuurman, professor of computer science, Calvin University
The Authors
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Sean O'Callaghan
Sean O'Callaghan (PhD, University of Liverpool) is associate professor of religious and theological studies at Salve Regina University, where he also serves as a coordinator of the AI Initiative. He previously served as director of the PhD program in...
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Marie Guagliardo Photography Paul A. Hoffman
Paul A. Hoffman (PhD, University of Manchester) is senior pastor of Evangelical Friends Church of Newport, Rhode Island. He also teaches courses on preaching at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary and is the coauthor of Preaching to a Divided Nation,...
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