AI for the Glory of God? (w/ Dr. Drew Dickens)
On this episode of the Christian Business Leader Podcast, we’re joined by Dr. Drew Dickens, theological anthropologist and pioneer at the intersection of AI and spirituality.
Dr. Dickens holds a doctorate from Southern Methodist University and a master’s from Dallas Theological Seminary. With a deep commitment to exploring how emerging technology shapes spiritual life, Dr. Dickens shares insights from his groundbreaking research into the role of generative AI in spiritual direction and divine inquiry.
Together with host Darren Shearer, they explore how Christian leaders can navigate the digital age with spiritual integrity – highlighting stories from Dr. Dickens’ thriving 300,000+ member community built through his Encountering Peace app and podcast. They also unpack themes from his new book, Whispers of the Spirit, which equips believers to discern the Spirit’s voice amid the noise of an AI-driven world.
Dr. Dickens invites business leaders to see the tools of technology not as distractions, but as opportunities for sacred connection, formation, and mission in today’s marketplace.
Key Takeaways 💡
- Faith-Fueled Curiosity: Dr. Drew Dickens traces his passion for exploring AI and spirituality back to seminary, where he began writing about the intersection of theology and technology. His journey has always been grounded in a deep desire to help believers discern how digital tools can assist in divine inquiry and spiritual growth.
- Ancient Roots, Modern Tools: Drawing from Scripture, Drew highlights how biblical figures used objects – like lots, fleece, and the Urim and Thummim – to seek God’s guidance. He sees generative AI as a contemporary continuation of this long-standing tradition of engaging the divine through mediated means.
- Optimism with Discernment: Far from dystopian, Dr. Dickens takes a “bullish” stance on AI, believing it holds redemptive potential. Yet he urges caution – warning of AI’s ability to entrench echo chambers, encourage doctrinal drift, and challenge the integrity of human relationships if misused.
- Community-Driven Design: He envisions a God-honoring application of AI that enhances, not replaces, community. True to the Trinitarian foundation of fellowship, Drew believes AI should be used to deepen our communion with others and with God, rather than contribute to spiritual isolation.
- Redemptive Innovation in the Workplace: Drew champions practical, Spirit-led uses of AI in business – like tailoring employee feedback based on personality profiles or customizing client presentations aligned with company values. These applications, he argues, embody grace, empathy, and wisdom.
- The Ethics of Attribution: In a world increasingly tempted by efficiency, Dr. Dickens calls for integrity. Whether writing condolence messages, grading papers, or submitting work, he warns against passing AI-generated content off as one’s own. Trust, he insists, is the foundation of all relationships – especially in the marketplace.
- Hard Things Are Still Worth Doing: Above all, Drew reminds listeners that some of life’s most meaningful actions – like having a difficult conversation or offering a heartfelt message – are supposed to be hard. AI can assist, but it should never replace human presence, empathy, and accountability
Christian Business Leader is the show for marketplace Christians seeking to explore and apply God’s will for business. If you want to learn more about how to do business for the glory of God and shape culture through discipling the business world, this show is for you.
BIG THANKS to this episode’s sponsor: High Bridge Books
High Bridge Books helps Christ-centered authors build a legacy by crafting and publishing messages and stories that glorify God in all spheres of culture.
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