AI Shepherds and Electric Sheep: Leading and Teaching in the Age of Artificial Intelligence - Paperback

by Sean O'Callaghan (Author), Paul A. Hoffman (Author), A. Trevor Sutton (Foreword by)

Since ChatGPT burst into the public consciousness in 2022, AI has thoroughly infiltrated everyday life. Machines can now take on work once thought to be solely the domain of human beings--from writing college essays to composing worship music. How should Christians respond to this brave new technology?

In this accessible introduction to AI, Sean O'Callaghan and Paul Hoffman explore its social and ethical impacts for ministry and teaching. The authors shed light on the biblical vision for human flourishing--and on how AI can help or hinder that flourishing. Avoiding both alarmism and uncritical acceptance, O'Callaghan and Hoffman offer resources and practical tools for using AI in our classrooms and congregations.

AI can write a generic three-point sermon, but it cannot replace an authentic encounter between humans and the divine. In a time of cultural confusion, O'Callaghan and Hoffman encourage readers to embrace the clarity found in the gospel. The book includes a foreword by A. Trevor Sutton.

Back Jacket

"Theologically informed, philosophically thoughtful, and yet eminently practical"

This book offers resources and practical tools to help us understand the rapidly evolving and ubiquitous technology of AI. It also helps us think about AI biblically and consider what role it should play in ministry and higher education.

"When it comes to AI, this book deletes the algorithms of both alarmist and utopian thinking. The authors combine deep insights about theology and technology, all with a heart no machine can replicate. Whether the prospect of artificial intelligence exhilarates you or terrifies you, this book will make you think."
--Russell Moore, editor in chief, Christianity Today

"In this significant work O'Callaghan and Hoffman guide Christian leaders biblically, theologically, and practically on this life-altering development called AI. While we do not know what the future holds in this digital world, we do know the One who holds the future. A well-researched and pioneering book that gives us a clear road map to begin understanding and navigating this ever-changing technological age."
--Matthew D. Kim, Truett Theological Seminary, Baylor University; author of Preaching with Cultural Intelligence

"O'Callaghan and Hoffman's meticulous work presents us with a biblical-theological framework for addressing the challenges AI poses to communities, education, church ministry, the meaning of being human, and moral practices. This book cogently explains why AI should not be rejected outright and how it can be critically engaged and received with thanksgiving."
--Ximian Xu, University of Cambridge

"Working through the lens of the biblical story, O'Callaghan and Hoffman sketch a Christian approach to AI that is theologically informed, philosophically thoughtful, and yet eminently practical. A clear, wise, and timely resource, with particular relevance for educators and pastors."
--Derek C. Schuurman, Calvin University

Author Biography

Sean O'Callaghan (PhD, University of Liverpool) is associate professor of religious and theological studies at Salve Regina University, where he also serves as a coordinator of the AI Initiative. He previously served as director of the PhD program in humanities and technology and is currently a faculty member in that program.

Paul A. Hoffman (PhD, University of Manchester) is senior pastor of Evangelical Friends Church of Newport, Rhode Island. He also teaches courses on preaching at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary and is the coauthor of Preaching to a Divided Nation.