AI in the Pulpit: Should Pastors Use AI for Sermon Preparation?
In today’s world, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is doing many things, like writing, designing, coding, and even composing music. But one big question has been stirring up conversations among Christians: Should pastors use AI to prepare sermons?
Some say, “Why not? AI is just a tool like a Bible concordance or a study guide.” Others warn, “Be careful! Preaching is a spiritual assignment, not a mechanical one.” So, where do we stand?
1. Is AI Helping or Taking Over?
Back in the day, a pastor would spend hours, maybe even days, praying and studying the Word before crafting a sermon. But now, with a few clicks, AI can generate a full sermon outline in seconds.
Sounds great, right? But here’s the concern: Is AI helping pastors, or is it replacing the deep personal study and prayer that should go into sermon preparation?
Think about it: If a pastor depends too much on AI, will they still take time to seek God for fresh revelation? Or will they just copy and paste AI-generated messages without waiting on the Holy Spirit?
The Gospel Coalition Africa raises a valid point: relying heavily on AI might lead pastors to skip the essential process of personal study and meditation on God’s word, which is crucial for genuine spiritual leadership.
2. Can AI Understand the Holy Spirit?
One thing AI cannot do is catch the fire of the Holy Spirit. Preaching is not just about arranging words — it’s about carrying divine power. AI may know Bible verses, but it doesn’t know God.
A sermon is not just information; it’s revelation. There are times when a pastor is preparing a message, and the Holy Spirit suddenly drops a word, an example, or a new understanding of scripture. AI can’t do that. It can analyze text, but it can’t discern the move of the Spirit.
The United Methodist Church’s Discipleship Ministries emphasizes that AI lacks personal experiences, emotions, and spiritual intuition, which are vital in understanding a congregation’s specific needs and the nuanced dynamics of a church community.
3. Where Do We Draw the Line?
Should pastors completely avoid AI? Not necessarily. AI can be useful for research, organization, and even structuring sermon points. But at the end of the day, the real power of preaching comes from a pastor who has spent time with God, not just with a chatbot.
A simple way to balance it:
✔️ Use AI as a study assistant, not a spiritual substitute.
✔️ Pray before and after using AI — let God confirm what is useful.
✔️ Never replace personal Bible study and prayer with AI-generated content.
Exponential.org points out that the use of AI in sermon preparation raises ethical questions about authorship and originality, as congregants expect messages resulting from personal study and reflection.
4. Final Thoughts: AI Cannot Replace the Anointing
In Nigeria, we know the difference between “talking” and “talking with power.” A pastor may craft a well-structured sermon with AI, but if the anointing is not there, it remains just words. AI can suggest points, but only the Holy Spirit can touch hearts.
So, the real question is not “Can AI help pastors?” but “Will pastors stay dependent on God even in a digital age?”
As highlighted by The Gospel Coalition Africa, while AI can assist with sermon preparation, it’s essential to consider what might be lost by leaning on it too heavily.
Why this Article is important?
This exploration underscores the importance of maintaining the sanctity and authenticity of sermon delivery in the face of advancing technologies. By thoughtfully integrating AI as a supportive tool, pastors can enrich their messages while preserving the spiritual depth that resonates with their congregations.
In both our bustling cities and quiet villages, the heart of preaching remains the same: a message from God delivered through a vessel prepared in His presence.