Journal: Bibliotheca Sacra
Volume: BSAC 180:717 (Jan 2023)
Article: The Table Briefing: AI And Transhumanism: Opportunities For The Church?
Author: Darrell L. Bock

BSac 180:717 (January-March 2023) p. 81

The Table Briefing: AI And Transhumanism: Opportunities For The Church?

Darrell L. Bock

and

Mikel Del Rosario

Darrell L. Bock is Senior Research Professor in New Testament Studies and Executive Director for Cultural Engagement at Dallas Theological Seminary in Dallas, Texas.

Kymberli M. Cook is Assistant Director of the Hendricks Center and a PhD student in Theological Studies at Dallas Theological Seminary.

In 1436, Johannes Gutenberg shattered information barriers by producing materials that would never again be limited to a select few. His printing press became an integral tool in both the Enlightenment and the Protestant Reformation, with access to information providing a new opportunity to question and investigate assumptions and beliefs historically handed down. The implications of this new technology disturbed many at the time, but on this side of the advance, the Christian church can appreciate both the dangers and the clear blessings of God’s provision through that development. We likely find ourselves on the cusp of another such barrier-breaking, world-changing technology with the advent of artificial intelligence and transhuman exploration.

For a few years now, the Hendricks Center has been reflecting on this new age with voices in both the scientific and theological communities. We have given a platform to clear (and necessary) voices raising alarm concerning the practical and theological dangers standing before us. We have also noted underlying themes of goodness in God’s creation, his providential care, and the opportunities these developments could offer the Christian worldview. Without silencing important reflections on just how poorly AI and human modification could go, we would like to briefly pause and highlight some positive dimensions.

BSac 180:717 (January-March 2023) p. 82

An Opportunity To Develop A Robust Theology Of Technology

Technology has always been around. Among other things, it includes the historic development of tools, language, medicine, and transportation. Many of these areas of advancement necessitated biblical and theological conversations to process their presence and potential utilization. By placing us in this time, the Lord has given this generation in the church the opportunity to establish a theological framework to guide believers regarding technology and the human person. Rather than being overcome by fear or doubting the governance of the Lord, this is an opportunity to grasp. It is a chance to stand on the shoulders of those who have come before and serve brothers and sisters who will come after us. In the fallen world in which we live, there will certainly be...