Artificial Intelligence and What Makes us Human?

As we begin to grapple with the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education and business, I began to contemplate what makes us human.  Artificial intelligence is now advancing to the point where it appears to be even closer to becoming sentient. A once faraway pipe dream is nearing closer to a possibility. AI is increasingly responding like a human in its dialogue, “learning,” and quick ability to process information and tasks, which raises concerns about people being replaced by it, at least for work purposes. As people interact and receive counsel from AI, what makes us different from it?

As Christians, we believe that we were wonderfully created for a purpose. We are here on this earth to glorify God through our lives and service to others. It is the spirit and breath of God that brings us to life (Gen 2:7, Job 33:4, Psalm 33:6, Eccl 12:7)!  God made us to relate to one another as social people. There is something about being in a room with other people in fellowship, as our spirits connect.  We relate to one another as we interact and experience life together. We are spiritual beings meant to interact with one another following Christ, who went about His Father’s work (John 5:16-23)!

AI is a great tool that can enhance our lives, taking on routine work, offering timely insights, and making room for us to be creative, empathetic, and utilize wise judgment to pursue our purposes, vocationally and personally.  However, we must not let it take over and lose sight of what is most important, our relationships with God and others. Consider taking time out to unplug and enjoy God’s creation. Let’s enjoy God’s world and socialize with those around us. 

“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching (Heb 10:24-25).”