Pastors Are Asking The Wrong Question About AI with Kenny Jahng

The Church Tech Today Podcast with Kenny Jahng | AI for Church Leaders | Church Online

Episode Summary: (produced with new custom CastMagic prompt inside the tool)

In this episode, Kenny Jahng, editor in chief of Church Tech Today explores a thought-provoking question circulating in ministry circles: Should artificial intelligence take on roles that were traditionally seen as the work of the Holy Spirit? Kenny revisits historical shifts in church technology—from microphones to Bible translation and radio—addressing modern fears and discernments around AI in the church. Tune in to hear how ministry leaders can ask better questions, engage new tools faithfully, and create more space for spiritual fruit, rather than just fearing innovation. This discussion provides practical reflection points to help pastors and church staff lead their communities into the digital age with wisdom and boldness.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

• How to assess if your use of AI is complementing or competing with the Holy Spirit’s work
• Historical examples of technology in the church—from microphones to Roman roads—that parallel today’s AI debates
• Why initial fears about new tech aren’t necessarily wrong, but shouldn’t be the final word
• How AI is currently being used in Bible translation and gospel outreach around the world
• The importance of reframing the question from “Is AI replacing the Spirit?” to “Does this help me cooperate more closely with the Spirit?”
• Practical criteria to ensure technology serves ministry without compromising gospel values
• Steps for church leaders to become facilitators of responsible AI conversations in their own communities

Key Quotes:

“It isn’t that first immediate reaction of hesitation to AI is wrong. I do think it reminds us that not everything new is necessarily good.” — Kenny Jahng

“The upside is that technology and AI can create conditions where the fruit [of the Spirit] can actually flourish more fully. And that’s good news.” — Kenny Jahng

“God's spirit is not threatened by AI tools. Because, the mission isn't confined by the methods of the past.” — Kenny Jahng

“Your call today is not to become an AI expert. Your call today is to become the conversation facilitator about AI in whatever environment and community that you live in.” — Kenny Jahng

Links & Resources Mentioned:

• Missional.AI (conference/community, referenced) - https://missional.ai/
• Wycliffe.org (Bible translation ministry) - https://wycliffe.org/
• SeedCompany.com (Bible translation ministry) - https://seedcompany.com/
• AI for Church Leaders & Pastors Facebook Group (community for pastors and staff)

About the Church Tech Today Podcast

The Church Tech Today Podcast helps pastors, church staff, and ministry leaders navigate the intersection of faith and technology with confidence. Hosted by Kenny Jahng and brought to you by www.FrontDoor.church.