US Protestant pastors express concern over AI Bible interpretation

New research from Barna and Gloo indicates significant concern among religious leaders regarding the use of artificial intelligence to interpret the Bible. A study involving US Protestant pastors found that 94 per cent are worried about AI providing misleading interpretations of Scripture.

The research highlights a divide between clergy and laypeople regarding how AI should handle theological disagreements. Most pastors (60 per cent) believe AI should present various major interpretations without declaring one as correct. In contrast, only 26 per cent of practicing Christians support this neutral approach, with many preferring that AI identify a single “right” interpretation.

Daniel Copeland, Barna’s vice president of research, noted that the findings suggest pastors view AI as a tool for learning rather than a definitive authority, emphasizing the need for believers to maintain independent critical thinking.