AI-generated Bible content, produced by a single company, sparks debate over reality and belief systems

In the realm of faith and technology, Pray.com, the world's #1 app for faith and prayer, has taken a bold step by introducing the AI Bible. This innovative project, available on their YouTube channel, uses artificial intelligence tools to depict sections of the Book of Revelation in eight-minute videos.

The AI Bible has garnered a significant following, particularly among the younger demographic, with over two million followers across YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok. According to Ryan Beck, Pray.com's Chief Technology Officer, the majority of viewers are under 30 and skew male.

The videos, which have received millions of views, are not entirely computer-generated. Real actors lend their voices, and original music is composed for each episode. A pastor reads the script, which often closely follows the biblical verses they describe.

However, the reception among theological scholars has been mixed. Some see the AI Bible as a unique and engaging way to bring Biblical stories to life, while others are more critical. Brad East, a professor of theology at Abilene Christian University, criticises the videos for having a "Marvel, sort of videogame, Marvel aesthetic" and reducing the Bible to entertainment.

Jeffrey Bilbro, a professor of English, shares similar sentiments, stating that the videos situate the Bible as entertainment, which he sees as problematic. On the other hand, Rev. Dr. Paul Hoffman, a professor in the Department of Biblical and Religious Studies, is more receptive but questions the decision to animate certain difficult-to-interpret parts of the Bible.

Before the AI Bible's current success, Pray.com had been experimenting with AI-generated images and videos to illustrate Biblical content for a few years. Today, evangelicals in particular are at the forefront of experimenting with technology, according to John Dyer, a professor at Dallas Theological Seminary.

Despite the criticism, the AI Bible has resonated with many. People are writing in to Pray.com, expressing how the videos are transforming their lives and impacting them spiritually and mentally. The AI Bible is a testament to the enduring power of storytelling, even in the digital age, and the ongoing exploration of how technology can be used to spread the word.

As the AI Bible continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how it is received by the faith community and the wider public. For now, it stands as an intriguing example of how technology can be used to bring Biblical stories to life in a unique and engaging way.