AI-DRIVEN ESCHATOLOGY: UNDERSTANDING THE RETURN OF JESUS CHRIST

The Christian Eschatology focuses on the return of Christ in the end of time. From the earliest days of Christianity, various sects and leaders have given predictions on the return of Christ. Various events have led men to believe that Christ will return in such a season, for instance, the World Wars led many to believe that they were witnessing the breaking of the four biblical seals. In the U.S., the 19th and 20th centuries saw a period of multiple predictions which accumulated in the “Great Disappointment’. To this day, the predictions have not ceased and there have been numerous failed predictions.

Although Artificial intelligence (AI) is an old concept that has been around for a long time, its rising influence and impact in the world today indicates we are entering the AI Age, allowing for more predictions about Christ’s return.

AI, which involves the simulation of human intelligence in machines programmed to think like humans and mimic their actions has immensely affected the different sectors of the world. Amidst the various developments that are AI-powered, theories and perspectives surrounding the concept of AI have emerged. There is an optimistic view in support that AI will solve complex problems affecting humans. Conversely, there is the pessimistic view which posits that AI will exacerbate existing risks, leading to human extinction and there is the neutral view which posits that AI will amplify human capabilities without altering our fate as humans.

AI-driven eschatology, therefore, refers to the exploration of the role of AI in shaping human existence, particularly in eschatological concepts. It involves exploring the relation of technology, theology and eschatology. There are numerous questions concerning the continued use of AI, which is increasingly taking a dominant role among individuals worldwide. Amid growing fears about AI, many wonder whether humanity’s attempts to create a better world will eventually lead to its destruction.

Much to our bewilderment, AI has entered into the spiritual space in a bid to provide a better understanding of the physical aspects that connect to the spiritual. While the study of eschatology can be a very complex and multi-faceted field, AI may be harnessed to enhance understanding of Christ’s return. There are various ways AI can be used to trace historical facts relating to futuristic events. For instance, there are AI Bible projects which analyse bible texts to uncover hidden patterns.

AI can be used to model various end-time scenarios to facilitate theological discussions and accurate conclusions. AI can compare the various eschatological scenarios with the biblical text to give a proper understanding of Christ’s return. Virtual Reality (VR) and AI-enhanced simulations, for instance, could offer immersive representations of eschatological visions found in scriptures like Ezekiel’s visions or John’s Revelation. AI can also be used to provide tools that can dissect Biblical prophecies which on the surface may seem complex.

This immense benefit which AI possesses has fueled more questions about whether AI could be the underlying force that will eventually speed up the return of Christ. It is plausible that we may one day create entities that surpass human intelligence in every domain, the ‘superintelligent’ AI akin to the ‘beast’ or false prophets in Revelation 13. AI can be manipulated to spread misinformation, deepfakes, and manipulate realities which can be compared to the beast’s deceptive powers in the Book of Revelation.

The fear also arises AI would one day overpower and control humanity. The question then arises as to whether AI can play a role in deepening our understanding of the prophecy related to the end time, or whether it might speed up apocalyptic concerns.

While AI can be a useful tool in understanding Christ’s return, it also possesses inherent limitations that believers must be mindful of. An essential bible interpretation is that it must be read in context; it must be read with its historical, cultural, literary and theological context. AI lacks the understanding of the context of every verse and chapter, leading to potential misinterpretations.

AI can reflect the biases of its creator and the data it is trained on. It will be surprising to know that AI can sound racist and sexist. As it picks up data related to such concepts, AI can begin to reflect the characteristics of the creator. This can prevent AI from giving the correct information as required whereas members who do not support the coming of Christ would intentionally influence the outcome of AI to give wrong information of end times. Seeing as the devil is passionate about ensuring that men grasp wrong information about the end time, he can influence men to manipulate AI in ways that promote bias and inaccurate answers.

Also Read: THE LOGIC & ETHICS OF AI DEVELOPMENT: A CHRISTIAN RESPONSE

Eschatology involves complex, nuanced concept that involves the lifetime study of scholars, preachers, teachers and Christians who desire to understand the concept. It is also a product of scholars of the bible like Daniel, Isaiah, and Apostle John’s deep study, spiritual insight and revelation from God.

Therefore, over-dependence on technology can prevent believers from acting like the Berean Christians in Act 17:11 where they neglect study and teaching on the deep insight from the word. Christians are called to study the word and test everything against the scripture, not depend on quick answers from AI.

The spirit of God is the revealer of all secrets. The Bible and everything that comes from it is not only inspired by the spirit, it is also initiated by the spirit. This is a reality AI will never be able to possess, having the Holy Spirit guide it through every line of the scripture. However, this is a reality believers possess and we must be very careful not to leave our work to AI, as it could make us lazy in pursuing the deep study sanctioned by the holy spirit and waiting for answers that can only be birthed from the spirit.

AI could serve as both a tool for greater understanding of the end times and an accelerator of end-time fears, depending on how it is developed and applied. AI is not the enemy if believers can utilize AI responsibly while remaining watchful of its possibility for deception and abuse.