You might find the thought of a self-driving vehicle abundantly exciting and delightfully exhilarating, but it’s possible that you’re more like me, with about a thousand concerns when it comes to letting go of the wheel. Maybe I’m a control freak, but whirring sensors on my car, in constant search mode for real-time data, cause nothing but a lump in my throat, as I meticulously ponder both road safety and repair costs. I’m just not ready for that.
But this is the world in which we now live, where emotional intelligence is no longer the latest game in town. Artificial intelligence, or AI, is all the rage. We have computer systems cleverly designed to mimic human thought, language, and behavior. The experts tell us that there are general forms of AI, as well as specific forms of AI. The “specific” varieties have been designed to execute specific human tasks, like texting or writing. By the way, I’m writing my own blog, in case you’re wondering.
This new age of AI brings its share of buzz and opportunity. That I will readily admit. With the progess, however, comes the uncertainty. Can we handle all of this new information? Can we benefit from lifelike images without forgetting the supreme uniqueness of the image of God? Can we utilize a modern tool without creating a lethal weapon? As humankind keeps searching for utopia, dystopian speculation abounds.
One thing is clear: in the ultimate sense, humans are not replaceable. AI can help with a medical diagnosis, but it can’t create a divine image-bearer. The common grace which we enjoy as a human family allows for a number of material blessings, from weather radar to cell phones to air conditioning, but the soul of a human being can’t be created, duplicated, or replicated by computer science. That’s because what makes us human is our connection to Almighty God. He created us (Psalm 139:13-14), so we reflect His character and nature (Genesis 1:27).
Thankfully, you and I are are not just six-foot-tall computers or the sum of our biological parts and physiological systems. No way! Each of us has a soul that is known by God, and precious to Him. Always displaying His image, even on our worst days, we are “crowned with glory and honor” (Hebrews 2:6-8).
So, Beloved, do not be dismayed. When it comes to the depth and breadth and wealth of human capacity, the world’s greatest software has severe limitations. Keep pursuing the matchless wisdom, light, and beauty of our risen and reigning Lord Jesus Christ, as no machine can or ever will do. That unique privilege has been granted to you.
It’s a strange new world, but not to God. It’s all His. There is no random molecule. And He is very much in control.
And He loves us, here and now.
Pastor Charles
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