Pastors and Christians Raise Concerns Over AI’s Handling of Scripture

UNITED STATES — The growing use of artificial intelligence among Christians has prompted concerns about how the technology handles biblical Scripture and provides answers on matters of faith. A recent study by Barna, conducted in partnership with Gloo as part of its State of the Church initiative, found that a large majority of U.S. Protestant pastors are concerned that artificial intelligence could provide misleading interpretations of the Bible. According to the research, 94% of Protestant pastors expressed concern about AI misinterpreting Scripture. The figure was 83% among practising Christians and 74% among U.S. adults overall. The findings were based on two online surveys. One surveyed 1,514 U.S. adults in November 2025, while another included 442 U.S. Protestant pastors in December 2025. The research also identified differences between pastors and practising Christians regarding how AI should handle disagreements over the meaning of biblical passages. About six in ten pastors said AI should present the major interpretations of a disputed passage and explain how they differ without deciding which interpretation is correct. By comparison, only 26% of practising Christians supported this approach. At the same time, 26% of practising Christians said AI should identify the “right” interpretation, while only about one in ten pastors agreed. The study also found that practising Christians were more likely than pastors to believe AI should resolve disagreements by presenting the interpretation with the widest level of agreement. Some practising Christians, however, said AI should not interpret disputed biblical passages at all. Daniel Copeland, Barna's vice president of research, said the findings point to the importance of using AI as a tool that supports learning rather than replacing independent thinking about faith. Earlier Barna research indicated that practising Christians are increasingly using AI for work and personal activities. Nearly half of practising Christians surveyed said they would trust AI as part of their spiritual growth. Other research published by Barna earlier in 2026 found that around one-third of practising U.S. Christians believe spiritual advice from AI can be as good as advice from a pastor. Despite the increasing use of AI, the research indicates that most Christians currently use the technology mainly for learning, receiving advice and improving their writing rather than specifically asking AI to interpret Scripture or provide spiritual guidance. The findings highlight an ongoing discussion within Christian communities about how artificial intelligence should be used in faith-related settings while maintaining careful biblical study, pastoral guidance and independent thinking.