Do “Text with Jesus” Apps Help People “Explore Scripture”?

The creator, who is currently “not particularly religious,” said about his app,

We expected some pushback, especially from those who worry about AI taking on roles tied to faith. . . . But, overall, the response has been overwhelmingly positive. The vast majority of users see it for what it is—a fun, accessible way to explore scripture and spirituality in a new format.

Is such an app just a “fun, accessible way” to discover Scripture and spirituality?

AI is programmed by humans who have a worldview that no doubt is reflected in the programming.

Well, according to reports, sometimes the app just directly quotes Scripture. For example, someone anxious about work asked the AI “Jesus” about it, and the app responded by quoting Philippians 4:6, a very applicable verse about anxiety and prayer. But other writers note that when asked about abortion, AI “Jesus” responded with a very nuanced, shallow, and unbiblical opinion on the issue. After all, AI is programmed by humans who have a worldview that no doubt is reflected in the programming. Also, it’s easy to quote a verse from Scripture, but context is also important because otherwise many verses could be misinterpreted.

Now, this app isn’t just claiming to represent Jesus by quoting his words—it’s claiming to be Jesus. For example, in response to the abortion question, this AI responded with, “As Jesus Christ, I. . . .” Claiming to be Jesus and adding to his Word (through an algorithm pulling from who knows what!) is blasphemy. If we want a direct line to Jesus, we don’t need a chat feature. We have the Word of God!

If you think back, throughout history God has used the technology of the day to bring glory to himself and to save men and women. Think of the impact of the first codex (the earliest form of book), the printing press, radio, the internet—each is an amazing achievement that can be used for good or for evil. AI is no different. It’s a tool, and it can be used for great good, it can be used for great evil, or it can just have very unintended consequences.

While the creators of this app are likely doing what they are doing for profit, not out of respect for Christ and his Word, there are Christians using AI to help the body of Christ. Our AI Genesis is a great example. It pulls from trusted sources to answer questions, engaging a generation of younger users who are becoming more and more accustomed to asking AI for answers (but it does so without pretending to be Jesus or your friend!). It’s increasingly becoming a popular feature on our site, and it’s exciting to see the kinds of conversations users are having as they engage with biblical worldview and apologetics content.

In our day of quick answers, instant results, and AI summaries, don’t neglect the power of the eternal Word of God.

But AI Genesis—or any other app—is no replacement for actually reading, studying, and meditating on the Word of God for yourself. It’s vital Christians actually get into Scripture on a regular basis. After all, God’s Word, not any manmade tool, is what is “living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword” (Hebrews 4:12). In our day of quick answers, instant results, and AI summaries, don’t neglect the power of the eternal Word of God.

And if you’re a young person looking to engage with Scripture and have your mind transformed by its power, I encourage you to come to our Creation College Expo, November 6–8, 2025, at the Ark Encounter to choose your college.

This free event brings colleges from across the nation together, all of whom have publicly declared their agreement with the very detailed AiG statement of faith. It’s a great time to meet one-on-one with college reps, hear from AiG speakers, have fun with live drama productions and archery tag, and tour the life-size Noah’s Ark. And it’s all free for students in grades 7–12 (simply register online).

One of the colleges coming to our expo, and an official partner of the event, is Cedarville University in Ohio. This school is public about their commitment to biblical authority:

The Word of God—from creation to Revelation—influences every part of life at Cedarville. Like our partners at Answers in Genesis, we’re committed to biblical authority. Through excellent academics, intentional discipleship, and vibrant community, Cedarville is passionate about transforming students’ lives.

As a Cedarville student, you’ll be equipped to excel in your chosen profession and stand for biblical truth, opening doors to make a lasting impact for Christ.

They note that you’ll spend about 1,000 days in college—and every day matters. They want to prepare you to honor Christ over those 1,000 days and all the days to come. I encourage you to check them out at Cedarville.edu or at our free expo.

Thanks for stopping by and thanks for praying,
Ken

This item was written with the assistance of AiG’s research team.