The Church has always been a bit of a tech influencer.

Sure, we’re not designing iPhones or coding the next big app, but when it comes to figuring out how to use tech for the Gospel, we’ve been crushing it for centuries. From the printing press to the internet, believers have learned to embrace new tools (sometimes awkwardly at first) to spread the Good News.

Now, as artificial intelligence (AI) takes the spotlight, we’ve got another chance to make history. But before we dive into the robots and algorithms, let’s take a look at how the Church has handled technology in the past—and what it can teach us about navigating this new frontier.

The Printing Press: The OG of Gospel Tech

Way back in the 15th century, Johannes Gutenberg gave the world the printing press, and the Church was like, “Yes, please!” Before this, Bibles were copied by hand, which meant they were super rare, super expensive, and mostly for monks and the elite.

But with the printing press? BAM! Suddenly, everyone could get their hands on scripture. This didn’t just revolutionize the Church—it sparked the Reformation. Martin Luther was basically the first viral content creator, using the printing press to share his 95 Theses and other writings with the masses.

The Takeaway: AI is today’s printing press. Just like the printing press made the Bible accessible, AI can make tools like Bible study apps, sermon transcriptions, and personalized devotionals available to everyone. The challenge? Using it to point people to God, not just to endless rabbit holes of distraction.

Radio and TV: When Preaching Got a Microphone

Fast forward to the 20th century, and along came radio and television. Suddenly, preachers like Billy Graham could reach millions without anyone having to leave their couch. Churches started broadcasting services, and Sunday mornings got a tech upgrade.

Of course, not everyone was thrilled. Some worried that faith would turn into a spectator sport or get too focused on entertainment. But the Church found a balance and used these tools to share the Gospel far and wide.

The Takeaway: AI, like TV and radio, can help us reach more people than ever. But let’s not forget—faith isn’t about flashy tools; it’s about transformation. Keep the focus on Jesus, not the tech.

The Internet: Where Faith Went Global

Enter the internet, stage left. Suddenly, you could Google Bible verses, stream sermons, and join online prayer groups. The global Church was now, well, global. Small-town believers could connect with Christians on the other side of the planet.

But the internet also came with its fair share of issues. (Hello, misinformation and doomscrolling!) The Church had to figure out how to leverage the good while dealing with the bad.

The Takeaway: AI is like the internet’s cooler, smarter cousin. It can help believers connect, learn, and grow—but only if we use it intentionally. Don’t let AI become just another way to procrastinate on TikTok.

Social Media: #JesusSaves

Social media took things to the next level. Now, anyone could share their testimony, post Bible verses, or invite friends to church with a single click. Movements like #FaithFriday brought the Gospel to new audiences.

Of course, social media also brought challenges: comparison, performative faith, and the dreaded “like” addiction. The Church has had to remind people that following Jesus is about more than Instagram aesthetics.

The Takeaway: AI can personalize your quiet time, suggest prayers, or help you write devotionals—but it’s not a replacement for authentic connection with God and others. Use it wisely, and don’t let it turn your faith into a “look how holy I am” competition.

AI: The Next Chapter

So, here we are in the age of AI. ChatGPT can help you draft a sermon, generate Bible study questions, or even write worship songs (though maybe skip the robot harmonies). It’s powerful, it’s exciting, and, let’s be honest, it’s a little intimidating.

But history shows us that the Church can handle this. We’ve been adapting to tech for centuries, and every time, we’ve found ways to use it for God’s glory.

The Big Question: Will we use AI to grow closer to God and share the Gospel—or will we let it distract us?

Where Do We Go from Here?

The Church’s history with technology reminds us of two things:

1. Tech is a tool, not a replacement for the Holy Spirit.

2. When used wisely, it can transform lives and build God’s Kingdom.

AI is no different. It’s here, it’s powerful, and it’s up to us to decide how we use it. Let’s follow the example of the printing press pioneers and use this tool to make Jesus known—one algorithm at a time.

So, what’s your next move? Whether it’s using AI for Bible study, creating devotionals, or brainstorming ways to share your faith, let’s make history together.