AI Can Further, Not Replace, Human Relationships, Elder Gong Teaches in New Vid

In a new video from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Elder Geritt W. Gong of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles explores “how to hear God’s voice clearly in an age of artificial intelligence (AI), and why that distinction matters more now than ever.”

The video “Faith, Dignity and Human Flourishing: Hearing God’s Voice in an Age of Artificial Intelligence” provides audiences an opportunity to be thoroughly taught by a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.

“Can artificial intelligence replace God?” Elder Gong asks in the hour-long, gospel workshop video now available on various Church channels. “That question may sound provocative, but in an age when we turn to algorithms for answers, guidance and even comfort, it matters deeply.”

Elder Gong explains that tools like AI and chatbots may help further, but can never replace, individuals’ relationships with Deity, their community, the natural world and themselves.

“Artificial intelligence can answer questions, but it cannot answer prayers,” he explains. “It can organize information, but it cannot offer revelation, covenant connection or divine truth.”

However, as with all technology, Latter-day Saints can wisely use AI as a tool to further four core relationships as disciples of Jesus Christ. “Please let wise use of AI deepen, not diminish, your relationship with God (Thou), self (I), each other (They), and natural environment (It),” he teaches.

“In our personal lives, please use AI for logistics and drafts, but not as a substitute for trusted relationships,” Elder Gong says. “Set boundaries. If you feel tempted to confide more in a chatbot than in a parent, leader or friend, may I invite you to reach out — today, now — to a real person who knows and loves you.” Acknowledging that some seek AI advice on matters of human judgment, interest and even things of the heart, “please begin by knowing God’s plan for you,” he urges. “You are not a random data point in an unfeeling algorithm.” Elder Gong provides three “gospel-centered guideposts” for using AI:

“Technology can inform us, but it cannot transform us without the Spirit,” he says. “Let us use every tool wisely to point us toward experiences that deepen faith, strengthen families, and renew our wonder in God’s world.”

The full video is available now on YouTube in English, and will soon appear in Gospel Library and Gospel Media in English, French, Portuguese and Spanish.

Church social media channels, including Elder Gong’s YouTube channel, will feature shorter segments of the video in the coming days and weeks, and “Come, Follow Me” will link to them as teaching resources.