Concerns concerning the theological influence of AI-powered Bible chatbots were raised at a conference held earlier this month and hosted by the University of Cambridge’s Faculty of Divinity.
The conference followed the publication of recent research by Bible Society into how artificial intelligence interprets Scripture.
The findings, presented on the conference bringing together theologians, church leaders and AI specialists, suggests that popular Bible chatbots ceaselessly promote a narrow theological outlook, mostly reflecting US evangelical approaches, somewhat than the variety of Christian traditions.
Experts warned that this bias is usually presented without qualification, leaving users unaware that alternative interpretations exist.
The research, titled AI, Bible Apps and Theological Bias, examined responses from five widely used Bible chatbots: ChatGPT, Bible GPT, Cross Talk, Biblia Chat and Bible Chat.
Bible Society tested the apps using a set of common theological and biblical questions in collaboration with a bunch of theologians.
While many answers were described as clear, accessible and pastoral in tone, researchers found that they recurrently framed one interpretive approach as definitive, with little reference to historical, sacramental or tradition-based readings of Scripture.
Speaking on the conference, contributors noted that the speed and confidence with which AI delivers answers could discourage deeper engagement with the biblical text.
Simplified responses, they said, risk replacing the slower and more reflective processes of study and interpretation which have traditionally shaped Christian theology.
Theology and technology researcher Dr Jonas Kurlberg, who was involved within the study, said the rapid uptake of AI tools for Bible reading makes scrutiny essential.
With hundreds of thousands of users already turning to chatbots for spiritual guidance, he warned that AI is influencing not only how people access Scripture, but how they understand its authority and meaning.
According to the research, AI-generated responses are likely to prioritise evangelical modes of interpretation, with little acknowledgement of symbolic, spiritual or tradition-based perspectives.
Dr Kurlberg said this imbalance is especially significant because AI answers are sometimes assumed to be neutral or factual, reducing the likelihood that users will critically engage with them.
Despite the concerns, researchers also identified positive features within the chatbot responses.
Many adopted a pastoral voice, emphasising compassion, grace and God’s love. In some cases, chatbots offered reassurance and emotional support, prompting discussion about whether such tools are starting to tackle roles traditionally related to pastoral care.
Biblical theologian Dr Zoltán Schwáb cautioned that the convenience of AI access may undermine the formative struggle of interpreting Scripture.
While traditional scholarship requires time, context and sustained effort, he said, AI offers easy answers that will limit deeper understanding.
He suggested that the Church support people in using AI properly: “I feel it is vital to show people learn how to use it, or not to make use of it, to develop certain habits and disciplines. All of this is expounded to perhaps a more theoretical query: What is the aim of reading or studying the Bible? I’m wondering if wrestling with the biblical text is usually more vital than receiving the reply to your query?”
Dr Schwáb argued that future AI tools should help users encounter a broader range of interpretations while also supporting deeper engagement inside their very own traditions.
He warned that as chatbots begin to operate like teachers or mentors, they carry increased responsibility – and potential risk in the event that they lack theological balance.
Bible Society’s Director of Content and Digital Strategy, Toby Beresford, said the findings highlight each challenges and opportunities for churches in an increasingly digital landscape.
Describing the web world as a “digital continent”, he said spiritual formation is already happening at scale in these spaces.
“We are on a mission in these digital nations,” he stated. “At stake is the theological shaping of billions of souls.”
Bible Society is now developing its own AI-based Bible tool, including a pilot project geared toward Chinese-speaking users, with the goal of encouraging deeper engagement with Scripture somewhat than offering quick or simplified answers.
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