Vast majority of people skeptical of AI Bible study tools

More than 80% of Americans said they never use artificial intelligence tools to gain Biblical insights, according to new survey data out Thursday from the American Bible Society. Nearly half of Americans reported that AI can’t assist in understanding the Bible, the organization said in its 16th annual State of the Bible report. Despite the widespread skepticism, one in five AI users reported turning to the tech tool for Biblical comprehension.

Attitudes towards AI and its use as a spiritual tool have shifted in the last few years, said John Farquhar Plake, the chief innovation officer at American Bible Society. While he said there was an upward shift in attitudes toward AI, most people remain wary of using the tool for Bible study. This caution can be wise, Plake said. But he also suggested that AI tools have the potential to deepen a person’s engagement with the Bible.

What else did the data find?

• More than 30% individuals who regularly engage with Scripture said they use AI at least monthly to gain Biblical insights.

• Gen Z individuals were the most likely to disapprove of using AI to craft a sermon.

• Generation X reported the highest amounts of optimism toward AI. Additionally, they were the most likely among all generations to use the tool daily or weekly.

The State of the Bible report compiled data from a survey of 2,600 U.S. adults from all 50 states. 

Dig deeper: Read Keely Mills’ report on how Christians have used AI as a supplement to church activities.