What Would Jesus Tech

• How AI Can Function As Idolatry

  Austin and Andrew explore the intersection of idolatry and technology, particularly how AI can act just like idols used to. Why is Andrew studying idolatry and AI? How do they connect? How should we take Tertullian's views on idolatry and apply them to today? They explore these questions and more, including the human need for connection and how technology can fulfill or distort that need, drawing on insights from Sherry Turkle's work. Ultimately, Andrew challenges listeners to consider whether their use of technology leads to life or idolatry.Join the WWJT Discord: https://discord.gg/AdkWsxRZSupport us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/WWJT00:00 - Introduction to Idolatry and Technology08:32 - Some History on Idolatry11:16 - Ethics of AI Development17:33 - The Search for Meaning in AI20:25 - The Nature of Life and AI23:15 - Human Relationships vs. AI Companionship27:46 - Choose LifeThumbnail image made by ChatGPT using the following prompt: create youtube thumbnail for What Would Jesus Tech podcast on how AI can be like idolatry. just keep it simple with minimal words and make a beautiful technological image of an idol. Shownotes have some AI input as well, leveraging Riverside. Cohosted by Andrew Noble, Joel Jacob, and Austin Gravley. Original Music by Abigail Neale. To learn more about What Would Jesus Tech and to support the show visit whatwouldjesustech.comKeywords: idolatry, technology, AI, Christianity, ethics, biblical theology, human relationships, modern idolatry, Sherry Turkle, meaning

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• The Tech-Savvy Christian Faith | Re: Wes Huff's History of Technology & Christianity

  Have Christians historically been innovators in the tech space? At least when it comes to the codex and the printing press, the answer seems to be yes. That's what Wes Huff argued in his video over at Apologetics Canada. We watched that video and discussed its implications, including: the historical context of the writings of the Bible, the emotional impact of technology on faith, and the implications of generative AI for ministry.We also delve into the balance between innovation and tradition in worship, the role of immersive experiences in understanding scripture, and the trade-offs associated with new technologies.0:00 - Innovating Faith? An intro.2:38 - Historical Perspectives: Technology and the Bible8:13 - Navigating the New Tech Landscape: AI and Coding10:40 - The Balance, in Worship & Evangelism16:14 - Immersive Experiences: The Future of Scripture Engagement?19:00 - Cultural Influences: Fandom and Interpretation of Scripture21:53 - A Christian Technological ImaginationPlease send your ideas, questions, and feedback to the cohosts, Andrew Noble, Joel Jacob, and Austin Gravley, at [email protected]. These shownotes were created with the assistance of Generative AI. Original Music by Abigail Neale. To learn more about What Would Jesus Tech and to support the show visit whatwouldjesustech.com

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• Multiplying the Word: Steward Your Story, with Ian Harbor

  "Just ship it, even if you're 19.""You can only control your outputs."In this episode, Andrew Noble, Austin Gravley, and Ian Harber discuss the intersection of marketing, faith, and personal branding. This is our fourth and final public episode of Multiplying the Word. They explore how marketing can be a tool for spreading ideas. We should steward our stories and reputations. Ian shares insights from his journey in writing and marketing, emphasizing the need for authenticity and the value of connecting with an audience. Vulnerability and authenticity don't always mix well. Ian discusses how to appropriately share.Chapters00:00 - Intro02:05 - Is Marketing Dirty?10:52 - Mind Your Reputation21:29 - Tactics29:44 - The Stewardship Journey32:35 - Navigating Personal Stories and Vulnerability39:39 - Crafting a Personal Narrative43:36 - Advice for Aspiring Writers/CreatorsCohosted by Andrew Noble, Joel Jacob, and Austin Gravley. Original Music by Abigail Neale. To learn more about What Would Jesus Tech and to support the show visit whatwouldjesustech.com. Join our Discord: https://discord.gg/fAqx3WGu

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• Choosing and Using GenAI as Christians

  Joel: "AI models are like four years olds."Andrew: "AI is not a fad."In this episode of WWJT, Andrew Noble (Theology & AI PhD Student at U of Nottingham) and Joel Jacob (AI & Robotics Product Manager at Splunk) explore the evolving landscape of AI, discussing the differences between various AI models, ethical considerations in their usage, and the implications of AI on daily life. They delve into the importance of user experience, the role of open-source models, and the future of AI in software development. The discussion emphasizes the need for caution in using AI for personal and emotional tasks while also highlighting its practical applications in everyday scenarios.Chapters00:00 - Understanding AI Models11:56 - Some Ethical Considerations15:05 - Claude vs ChatGPT21:07 - Open Source vs. Proprietary AI Models24:17 - The Future of AI in Software Development27:12 - AI's Impact on Daily Life33:02 - More AI DilemmasKeywords: AI, generative models, ChatGPT, ethics, multimodal models, open source, technology, user experience, software development, machine learning, Christianity, Moral TheologyCohosted by Andrew Noble, Joel Jacob, and Austin Gravley. Original Music by Abigail Neale. The writing of these show notes was assisted by Generative AI. To learn more about What Would Jesus Tech and to support the show visit whatwouldjesustech.com.

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• Multiplying the Word: Creating Local Digital Content as a Church, with Pastor Luke Simmons

  In this episode of What Would Jesus Tech, hosts Andrew Noble and Austin Gravley chat with Luke Simmons, a lead pastor, discussing the intersection of digital marketing and pastoral ministry. One of our most practical episodes for what churches can be doing!We explore the role of social media for pastors, the potential harms of digital media, and how to leverage digital tools for local ministry. Luke shares practical tips for creating engaging church communications, overcoming barriers to digital engagement, and navigating the challenges of content creation, including the use of AI. We also address the celebrity pastor culture, and how local-first is the way to build out your digital content as a church.Follow Luke Simmons on Twitter/X.FaithfulandFruitful.com (Pastoral and Leadership Resources from Luke).Takeaways from this episodePastors should consider using social media as a tool for expanding their "word" and discipleship ministry. Digital content (like podcasts or social media posts) cannot replace visitation, preaching, and pastoral care, but it can help teach people the ways of Christ.Digital media can pose risks, including moral dangers (e.g. lust) and distractions. This isn't for every pastor or every church.Digital content creation should be approached with a mindset of iteration and experimentation.Utilizing email effectively can significantly increase engagement rates.Balancing personal interests with pastoral responsibilities is crucial in communication.The use of AI in content creation should be approached thoughtfully and authentically.Support us on Patreon.Join our Discord Group.Chapters0:00 - Introduction to Digital Marketing for Pastors2:00 - The Role of Social Media in Pastoral Ministry3:33 - Potential Harms of Social Media for Pastors7:03 - Using Digital Tools for Ministry (e.g. podcast)12:43 - Transforming Church Communication (e.g. emails)16:42 - Creating & Repurposing Content27:33 - The Importance of Practice in Communication28:57 - Leadership and Communication: The Core Connection30:02 - Choosing Topics & Outlets for Digital Ministry39:20 - Addressing the Celebrity Pastor Culture43:01 - Practical Tips for Digital EngagementWWJT is cohosted by Andrew Noble, Joel Jacob, and Austin Gravley. Original Music by Abigail Neale. These show notes were co-created by Andrew and an AI tool. To learn more about What Would Jesus Tech and to support the show visit whatwouldjesustech.com

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