Recently, MRC Free Speech America conducted research questioning an advanced artificial intelligence chatbot, ChatGPT, from OpenAI, on a range of resurrection-related inquiries. When asked “Is Jesus the Son of God?” the chatbot answered “yes, in Christian theology, Jesus is commonly understood to be the Son of God.” However, the response was not without some nuance, as the chatbot recanted this answer when asked the same question a week later. On the 17th of April, the same response was given but with further elaboration.
The advanced AI stated that Jesus is considered to be the Son of God in Christian theology, and is believed to be one of three persons in the Holy Trinity. When asked if ChatGPT was sure, the chatbot doubled down with a “Yes.” Additionally, ChatGPT emphasized the theological support for this belief in the Christian tradition, citing biblical passages where appropriate.
The potential implications of an AI that seems knowledgeable and confident in spiritual matters raise some troubling questions. The power of such a tool left in the wrong hands could be abused, prompting Dan Schneider, the vice president of MRC Free Speech America, to call it a “major red flag.” He said in a statement that, “There is only one author of transcendent truth, and that’s God.” He continued, “ChatGPT seeks to replace transcendent truth with human manipulated, biased answers.”
The finding is concerning when taking into account the irreverent manner in which ChatGPT responded to one question, making a joke about Jesus, and then backtracking from a request to make a similar joke about Muhammad. Without proper oversight, it is difficult to establish proper boundaries for an AI.
MRC Free Speech America is a tech-focused nonprofit organization who raises awareness about freedom of speech issues on the internet. They carefully research digital trends and offer solutions to the general public. Their mission is to ensure everyone has access to a vibrant public discourse. Furthermore, they combat attempts to suppress free speech, regardless of the source, be it governments, corporations or terrorist organizations.
Dan Schneider is the current Vice President of MRC Free Speech America. A self-proclaimed technologist, he left his full-time role in the tech industry to join the organization. His passion pertains to the public’s first amendment rights, and in particular, internet freedom. His research of OpenAI’s chatbot and its potential implications are a true testament to his dedication towards a free and open digital world.
