Faith in the Age of AI - Pastor Dan Scott

The speaker begins by setting the stage for a discussion on faith, particularly in the context of technological advancements and AI. They introduce the topic with a reading from the Book of Jeremiah, chapter 29, which contains a letter from the prophet to the Jewish exiles in Babylon. The letter encourages the exiles to build lives in their new home, seek the peace of the city, and integrate into their new society while maintaining their faith. The speaker emphasizes the relevance of this ancient scripture to modern times, drawing parallels between the exilic experience and the cultural dislocation felt by immigrants, including their own personal experiences.

The speaker delves into their personal experiences with culture shock, detailing the emotional journey from initial excitement to feelings of loss and depression. They recount adapting to new languages and customs in Ecuador and later in Montreal, highlighting the transformative nature of these experiences. The process of becoming bilingual and bicultural is described as initially disorienting but ultimately enriching. The concept of culture shock is explored as a universal phenomenon for those living abroad, leading to a reconstructed sense of identity that feels at home everywhere but fully at home nowhere.

Drawing from the contents of Jeremiah's letter, the speaker discusses how the Jewish people have historically survived and thrived amidst cultural upheavals. The letter's advice to pray for the well-being of their captors and to contribute positively to the societies they lived in is highlighted as a key to their endurance. The speaker suggests that Christians can learn from the Jewish experience and apply similar principles to navigate the rapid cultural changes brought about by advancements in technology and AI.

The speaker introduces the concept of 'Future Shock,' a term coined by Alvin Toffler to describe the rapid pace of change leading to a sense of dislocation and rage among people. They discuss the impact of global migration, technological advances, and scientific discoveries on societal structures. The speaker then connects this to the current era, characterized by AI and the internet, which are reshaping personal and social life. The challenges of adapting to these changes are underscored, along with the need for Christians to prepare for this new era.

The speaker explains the transition from the modern to the postmodern era, focusing on how society's understanding of reality has evolved. They attribute this shift to four major scientific discoveries: the theory of relativity, quantum mechanics, information theory, and the Human Genome Project. These discoveries have challenged the materialistic view of reality, suggesting that patterns and information are more fundamental than matter itself. The implications of this shift are explored, particularly the existential vertigo it has caused in Western culture.

The speaker calls for Christians to engage with science and technology, challenging the modern tendency to avoid these fields due to fear of losing faith. They argue that Christians have a rich intellectual heritage that can help navigate the challenges of the age of AI. The importance of loving God with the mind and the Apostle Paul's teachings on the transformation of the mind are emphasized. The speaker encourages Christians to serve their communities through intercessory prayer, hospitality, and offering scriptural insight into contemporary issues.

The speaker discusses the Christian understanding of reality, which is rooted in the belief that the universe and all its phenomena are created by God's word. They highlight the Christian belief that the universe, including human consciousness, cannot be reduced to mere matter. The speaker also addresses the concept of AI, suggesting that it represents powers and principalities that require discernment. They emphasize the importance of sharing the Christian narrative and understanding of reality in the face of unprecedented opportunities and challenges.

In the final paragraph, the speaker reflects on the Christian hope of eternity and the belief that history is directed by God toward a specific end. They describe a future where God's will is done on earth as it is in heaven, and all creation will be transformed. The speaker encourages believers to view their current era not as a curse but as an adventure, learning to glorify God and enjoy Him forever. They conclude with a hymn that emphasizes building hopes on eternal things and holding to God's unchanging hand.