AI and Ethical Decision-Making: Lessons from Biblical Wisdom

This entry is part 10 of 10 in the series September 2025 - Applying Skills and Exploring Faith in Tech

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is shaping the way we work, live, and make decisions. From healthcare diagnostics to financial predictions, AI systems are increasingly entrusted with choices that affect people’s lives. Yet while AI can process vast amounts of data, it cannot provide wisdom. That is where human responsibility—and for Christians, biblical guidance—remains essential.

The Limits of AI in Decision-Making

AI excels at spotting patterns, predicting outcomes, and automating tasks. But it lacks context, morality, and compassion. A machine can recommend the most profitable decision, but it cannot ask whether that decision is just or kind. This is why ethical oversight is crucial: without it, AI can reinforce biases, amplify inequalities, or prioritize efficiency over humanity.

Biblical Wisdom for a Digital Age

Scripture reminds us that wisdom begins with God: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge” (Proverbs 1:7). Unlike AI, which operates on algorithms, human decision-making must consider justice, mercy, and love. When working with AI, we must ask:

  • Does this system uphold fairness and dignity?
  • Could its use harm the vulnerable?
  • Are we prioritizing people over profit?

Human Responsibility in AI Governance

Christians in tech have an opportunity to shape how AI is designed and deployed. This includes:

  • Advocating for transparency in algorithms.
  • Addressing bias in training data.
  • Ensuring AI tools serve people rather than exploit them.
  • Bringing a voice of caution when efficiency is valued more than ethics.

Living as Salt and Light in AI Development

Jesus calls His followers to be “the light of the world” (Matthew 5:14). In the context of AI, this means shining light on practices that may be hidden—such as unethical data collection, or exploitative labor behind automation. It also means modeling integrity in how we build, use, and critique AI systems.

A Call to Wisdom and Stewardship

AI is powerful, but it is not wise. It can guide choices, but it cannot discern right from wrong. Christians are called to bring wisdom, discernment, and compassion into spaces where technology alone falls short. By grounding decisions in biblical values, we can ensure that AI is used to serve people, not replace or devalue them.

Takeaway:

AI is a tool, not a guide. True wisdom comes from God, and as AI takes a larger role in decision-making, Christians have a unique opportunity to ensure that technology serves humanity with justice, fairness, and compassion.

Series Navigation<< Faith and Finance: Biblical Stewardship in the Modern World