Generative AI is unlike any previous eras of AI technology because it is for general purposes. That means it can be used to model and generate anything with repeating motifs and patterns. This includes text, images, video content, audio, software code, or even DNA!

Generative AI is unlike any previous eras of AI technology...

AI technology is advancing rapidly since the introduction of ChatGPT. Technology providers are pivoting billions of dollars in capital investments to accelerate AI innovation. These providers are building massive data centers with specialized computing technology specifically for AI model development.

Because Generative AI can be applied in so many ways, it is showing up in many applications quickly. Therefore, it is important that ministry organizations are aware of benefits and risks in adopting technology in this wave. Things are just getting started!

Benefits of Generative AI

Generative AI technology offers immediate benefits that can be applied to ministries to make them better and more efficient.

In terms of immediate applications of Generative AI, it is quite good at summarizing text. That means it can save reviewing time by summarizing most documents as an alternative to a deep read. It does a great job with meeting summaries for Zoom or Microsoft Teams calls. This helps with meeting productivity and follow-ups.

Generative AI can be used somewhat today to co-author knowledge worker content as well. As such, it can draft a decent executive summary for a complex document. It can also suggest rewording sections of a document to help with readability.

Digital Safety, Security, & Privacy

It is important that ministries provide guidance and policies on AI for their employees. This will allow them to use AI safely,  respecting digital safety, security, and privacy.

It is important that ministries provide guidance and policies on AI for their employees.

When using Generative AI for ministry related content, organizations should confine their use of Generative AI to solutions from a commercial provider who is trustworthy with respect to digital safety, security, and privacy.

Microsoft Copilot for instance uses built-in guardrails and content filters to help keep users safe. In addition, there are solutions available from other commercial providers who make similar commitments to their customers.

Developing needed policies and guidance can be a collaborative effort. It can involve both the wisdom and experience of older generations and the fresh perspectives of younger generations. This will ensure that the organization embraces technological advancements responsibly and effectively.

Intellectual Property

It is important that copyright and all facets of intellectual property laws be respected. Because Generative AI models are typically trained on large Input Datasets from the Internet, and AI tools generate derived text from potentially copyrighted materials, there can be risk in including AI generated content in ministry related publications. Ministries should consult with their AI technology providers to understand implications related to Intellectual Property rights. Some commercial offerings even include indemnification. It is important to make sure that these risks are managed appropriately in partnership with technology providers.

Doctrinal Concerns

Commercial AI models are essentially trained by all content on the Internet. These models can be guided to author content in a particular tone or style. However, ministry partners cannot necessarily rely on AI-generated content to be aligned with specific doctrinal policy.

Experienced leaders can provide valuable insights and guidance on navigating the ethical and doctrinal considerations surrounding AI implementation. This will ensure its alignment with the organization's values and mission.

Additionally, 100% of AI models and tools are biased by their provider’s choices around input data sets, filters, etc. This is a growing concern. To protect users, tech providers are doing their best to put in safeguards which prevent AI from generating media which is misleading or dangerous.

While intentions are good, such safeguards are inevitably designed based on the values of corporations and people involved. They do not necessarily reflect the values of a ministry organization.

Special consideration should be applied for any AI generated or modified content which needs to conform to the doctrinal values of a ministry organization.

Further, machines cannot generate inspired work. For content that is inspired, it should be created at least in its original form by a human being.

Conclusion

Responsible AI usage can be paralleled with the concept of stewardship. Just as ministry organizations are entrusted with resources and responsibilities to further God's kingdom, each generation has a responsibility to steward knowledge and resources for the next. By collaborating and sharing expertise, different generations can ensure the effective and ethical use of AI for ministry purposes. This contributes to a sustainable and impactful legacy for future generations.

Ministry organizations should embrace these technologies cautiously while taking advantage of immediate productivity benefits. "Artificial Intelligence Acceptable Use Policies" should be created and shared with employees. These should be adapted regularly in response to the rapidly evolving AI landscape.

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Tad Brockway is the Chief Technology Officer for Bible Study Fellowship (BSF). BSF’s mission is global, in-depth Bible studies producing passionate commitment to Christ, his Word and his church. BSF’s vision is to magnify God and mature his people. Tad joined BSF in 2024 after retiring from Microsoft Corporation where he was a Corporate Vice President in Microsoft Azure. You can find Tad on LinkedIn at this location if you would like to connect to him directly.

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