Nipping Church (ab)use of AI in the bud with theological training in Zimbabwe

Abstract

Although the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) in Zimbabwe has been generally slow, because of manifold factors, its use is gradually increasing in all sectors, including religion. Multiple studies have explored the problems and solutions of AI in science, education and other areas but there is a gap regarding the use and abuse of AI in churches in Zimbabwe. Because the Church ought to be the salt and light of the world (Mathew 5: 13–16), influencing and transforming the world in everything, Christians are expected to exemplify integrity and to use AI responsibly, while observing Christian and professional ethics. Through a qualitative literature review and the theory of acceptance and use of technology, this paper explores the (ab)use of AI in the church, and how theological colleges can mitigate the situation before it becomes unmanageable. The study found that the misuse of AI is increasing in churches and betraying the Church’s ecclesiastic position of being the conscience of society. Because theological institutions are entrusted to equip church leaders for ministry, they can troubleshoot (ab)use of AI by incorporating AI and relevant technology-related skills in their theology curricula, to empower trainees with Godly conviction and academic integrity, and offer refresher training to accommodate those who are already serving the Church and society, even if they have limited skills or knowledge regarding AI.