Please Help Us Keep These Thousands of Blog Posts Growing and Free for All

$5.00

This is me, the author of this article, before AI (artificial intelligence) came about in November 2022. EDWARD D. ANDREWS (AS in Criminal Justice, BS in Religion, MA in Biblical Studies, and MDiv in Theology) is CEO and President of Christian Publishing House. He has authored over 220+ books. In addition, Andrews is the Chief Translator of the Updated American Standard Version (UASV).

I have worked 12–14 hours every day, seven days a week, from 2005-2024. It took me 16 years to translate the entire Bible. I have tendonitis in my fingers, wrists, and elbows from so much typing over the years, not to mention the back pain. So, I have started to use AI to help with my research. I need to dispel some myths.

The popular perception that artificial intelligence (AI) can effortlessly write a 500-page book in minutes is a misrepresentation of the technology’s capabilities. In reality, AI serves as a highly efficient research assistant, providing outputs of around 500-700 words at a time.

The notion that using AI equates to cheating stems from a misunderstanding of the human involvement required in the process. To effectively use AI, a working knowledge of the subject matter is necessary. The user must craft detailed commands and prompts, typically totaling up to 1500 words, to direct the AI towards producing the desired content. This requirement of upfront input from the user ensures that the AI is a tool supplementing the user’s work rather than replacing it.

Moreover, users must be vigilant for potential errors or biases in the AI’s output, which can arise from the data it was trained on. This further necessitates a deep understanding of the subject matter, as users must be equipped to identify and correct any inaccuracies or biases.

In essence, AI functions as a research assistant. Just as a research assistant carries out tasks under the guidance of a supervisor, AI produces content based on the directives of its human user. This analogy extends to the economic benefits of AI; while a human research assistant might command a salary of $2,000-$3,000 per month, an AI subscription can cost as little as $4.95 per month.

Therefore, the use of AI in research or content creation should not be viewed as cheating. Rather, it represents an innovative approach to harnessing technology to augment human capability, increasing efficiency and productivity.

As AI technology continues to evolve, it will undeniably become an integral part of various professional fields. However, it is crucial to understand and communicate that AI is a tool that aids human effort rather than replacing it. As we move forward, users must continue to engage critically with AI, leveraging its strengths while remaining aware of its limitations.

The Double-Edged Sword of Technological Progress: Implications for Knowledge Expansion and Job Displacement

The evolution of technology has always been a tale of two outcomes. On the one hand, it has expanded humanity’s knowledge and accelerated progress, empowering us in ways that were unthinkable in previous eras. On the other hand, each technological leap has also led to job displacement and socio-economic disruption. Here, we explore this dichotomy by examining key technologies, from the printing press to artificial intelligence.

The Printing Press (1455)

The printing press, invented by Johannes Gutenberg, revolutionized the dissemination of information. It made books affordable and accessible, leading to an explosion of knowledge. However, this technological marvel also led to the displacement of scribes and copyists, who found their hand-copying services obsolete.

The Typewriter

The typewriter, commercially introduced in the 1870s, increased the speed of writing and made documents more legible. This was a boon for businesses and authors, but it also disrupted jobs, such as those of professional penmen, who made a living from their exquisite handwriting skills.

The Computer

The emergence of computers in the mid-20th century radically transformed numerous sectors, from business and science to education and entertainment. Computers increased efficiency and accuracy in data processing, but they also rendered many clerical jobs redundant, as tasks previously done manually could now be automated.

Word Processing Software

Word processing software, like Microsoft Word, introduced in the 1980s, revolutionized writing. It offered tools for editing, formatting, and spell-checking, making it easier for anyone to create professional-looking documents. However, it also displaced jobs in the typesetting and proofreading industries.

The Internet (websites and blogs)

The advent of the internet in the late 20th century democratized information dissemination, making it possible for anyone to publish content and share knowledge. Websites and blogs became platforms for free expression and learning. However, this led to a decline in traditional print media jobs.

Search Engines

Search engines like Google, launched in 1998, made the internet’s vast troves of information navigable and accessible. They greatly enhanced our ability to find and access knowledge but had a disruptive effect on roles such as librarians and information analysts.

Logos Bible Software

Logos Bible Software, first released in 1992, revolutionized religious studies. It allows scholars and enthusiasts to search thousands of theological texts in seconds. While it has been a boon for researchers, it has also reduced the demand for traditional theological reference librarians. Think about it; I can literally look through eight thousand books in 30 seconds to get what I want. Before, I would have had to walk over to the bookshelf 30 times and search through thousands of books on the shelf. Once I found a possibility, I would have had to look through the book, hoping to find what I wanted by the index. It could take an hour to get what I want. Should the man who still does it the old way feel as though I am somehow cheating? I was that man, and I did not feel like others were cheating. I did not buy my first computer until 2005 because I thought, how much could it really help?

Grammarly Software

Grammarly, launched in 2009, is a digital writing assistant that corrects spelling, grammar, and syntax errors. It can also suggest improvements to make your writing more coherent and impactful. While it’s a valuable tool for writers, it has potentially impacted jobs in editing and proofreading.

AI (Artificial Intelligence)

Artificial intelligence, like OpenAI’s ChatGPT, represents the latest technological leap. AI can perform complex tasks, from language translation to content creation, with speed and accuracy surpassing human capabilities. This has raised concerns about job displacement in various sectors, from customer service to journalism.

The story of technological progress is a complex interplay of gains and losses. While each innovation has expanded our knowledge and efficiency, they have also disrupted traditional jobs. As we move forward, it is crucial to strike a balance, harnessing technology’s benefits while mitigating its socio-economic impacts.

Examples of AI to Dispel Your Fears and Misperceptions

My Work On Proverbs 13:1

Discipline and Training

Proverbs 13:1 Updated American Standard Version (UASV)
13 A wise son hears his father’s discipline,
but a scoffer does not listen to rebuke.

A wise son hears his father’s discipline: There is no verb in the first line of 13:1, so it literally reads, “A wise son, a father’s discipline.” If we come across a wise young man, the discipline of the father is the reason the situation exists. While son (ben) and father (ab) in the Hebrew are masculine singulars, the principle need not be restricted to sons and fathers only. Thus, in these last days, many households are missing the father and the mother has to assume that role and does so biblically; therefore, it is her discipline (Heb. musar) that produces the wise son. The discipline from the father can range from mild to severe. It can begin as training. However, if that is rejected, it will then move into the form of punishment. A son will become wise only if he accepts the discipline of his father.

But a scoffer does not listen to rebuke: The scoffer (Heb. lets), who has mocked his father’s discipline and treated him with contempt has rejected the discipline (instruction) of his father, so he has foolishly chosen correction in the form of punishment over mild instructive training. This son does not listen (Heb. shama), pay attention to, or accept the rebuke (Heb. gearah) of his father, as he cannot stand to hear the corrective counsel from his father. A rebuke can come in the form of the father scolding (speaking loudly and persistently), reprimanding (straight talk), or using punishment, moving beyond words if needed, to correct the son’s thinking (mindset) and behavior.

The wise son will listen to his father’s discipline (instruction), but the son who thinks he knows better will not pay attention, for he has nothing but dislike and disdain for his father’s instruction. Therefore, this son’s arrogance will need to be corrected with some firm straight talk that is direct advice, which is straight to the point. When a son is young (2-10 years of age), he needs a lot of love from his father, which comes in the form of discipline (instruction) he requires and does not even realize he unknowingly craves. This means the father must give wisely of himself, his life experience, and judgment especially the wisdom found in God’s Word. Therefore, the loving father does not hold back discipline from the wise son who wants such or the corrective punishment to the son who thinks he does not need to follow any of his father’s instructions. A good pat on the back for the wise son. A firm pat a little lower to get the attention of the son that mocks instruction, followed by direct, straightforward advice.

AI Rewriting My Work On Proverbs 13:1, Making It Better

The Dual Paths of Wisdom and Disdain: An Exploration of Proverbs 13:1

Proverbs 13:1 in the Updated American Standard Version (UASV) provides a compelling contrast between two types of individuals – the wise and the mockers. It reads, “A wise son hears his father’s discipline, but a scoffer does not listen to rebuke.”

When we encounter a wise young man, his wisdom is often the result of his father’s discipline. The Hebrew words for “son” (ben) and “father” (ab) are masculine singulars, but the principle extends beyond just fathers and sons. In many contemporary households, mothers have had to assume the role of disciplinarian, and their biblically-guided discipline can also produce wise sons. Discipline from a parent can vary in intensity, starting as guidance and, if rejected, escalating to punishment. The son who accepts this discipline becomes wise.

Conversely, a scoffer, or “lets” in Hebrew, treats his father’s discipline with contempt, rejecting the instruction and choosing punishment over guidance. This individual disregards, or “shama” in Hebrew, the corrective counsel or “gearah” from his father. The rebuke can take the form of a scolding, a reprimand, or even punishment. The corrective action seeks to adjust the son’s mindset and behavior.

The wise son values his father’s discipline, while the disdainful son dismisses it due to his arrogance. The latter may require direct, firm advice to correct his thinking. During their formative years (ages 2-10), children need an abundance of love from their parents, often manifested through discipline. Parents, drawing from their life experiences, judgment, and the wisdom of God’s Word, must impart this love wisely. A loving parent does not withhold discipline from a child who seeks wisdom nor corrective punishment from a child who mocks instruction.

The dichotomy presented in Proverbs 13:1 serves as a reminder of the dual paths of wisdom and disdain, a pat on the back for the wise son, and a firm corrective action for the disdainful son who disrespects instruction.

AI GENERATED BELOW

Navigating the Intersection of Faith and Technology: AI in Christian Literature

The interface of faith and technology often stirs up debate, especially when it concerns the use of AI in creating or interpreting Christian literature. However, it’s critical to understand that AI serves only as a tool, assisting in research, enhancing comprehension, and expediting the writing process. It doesn’t replace human discernment nor divine inspiration. Let’s explore some examples of how AI can contribute to Christian scholarship and pastoral work.

Theological Word Definitions:

Eschatology: The branch of theology that is concerned with the end times and the ultimate destiny of humanity. This concept is closely related to the biblical teachings about the Second Coming of Christ, Judgment Day, and the final resurrection.

Hermeneutics: The methodology of interpretation, particularly of scriptural text. It includes principles and methods used to understand the meaning of the Bible.

Soteriology: The study of the doctrine of salvation. It explores how Christ’s death on the cross provides salvation and how believers receive this salvation.

Christology: The branch of theology that studies the nature, role, and person of Jesus Christ. It covers topics such as the Incarnation, the Resurrection, and the relationship between the divine and human natures within Christ.

Pneumatology: The study of the person and works of the Holy Spirit. This branch of theology investigates the role of the Holy Spirit in an individual’s life and in the Church.

Exegesis of a Complex New Testament Verse:

1 Corinthians 15:29: “Otherwise, what will those do who are baptized for the dead? If the dead are not raised at all, why then are they baptized for them?”

This verse has been a subject of debate among biblical scholars. The phrase “baptized for the dead” is unique in the Bible and its exact meaning is unclear. One interpretation posits that Paul is referring to a vicarious baptism, a practice not endorsed elsewhere in the New Testament. Another interpretation suggests that ‘for the dead’ could mean ‘in view of death,’ referring to one’s own mortality. Paul’s chief aim in this chapter is to emphasize the certainty and importance of the resurrection.

Christian Living Verse:

Philippians 4:8: “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.”

This verse encourages believers to focus their minds on virtuous and praiseworthy things. As a conservative Christian pastor, I would stress that this verse guides us in shaping our thoughts, attitudes, and actions. It acts as a moral filter, urging us to dwell on what aligns with God’s righteousness and to live out these virtues in our daily lives. This fosters a positive, Christ-centered mindset that influences our behavior and interactions with others, reflecting our faith in practical, tangible ways.

AI in Christian Scholarship: A Collaborative Endeavor

As we navigate the intersection of faith and technology, it’s essential to remember that artificial intelligence, like any tool, is not independent. Its utility in Christian literature and scholarship hinges on the human user who guides its operation. AI is a research assistant that operates based on the directives and commands given by the user. Understanding the subject matter is crucial for the user to identify any potential errors or oversights made by the AI, ensuring that the final output aligns with the intended objective.

Just as Bible software, Internet search engines, and Grammarly software have been harnessed to aid in Christian scholarship, AI is another tool in the arsenal. Each of these tools, including AI, is designed to facilitate our tasks, enhance our understanding, and expedite our work process. They do not replace human discernment, wisdom, or spiritual guidance but serve to augment them.

In conclusion, AI’s contribution to Christian literature and scholarship should be viewed as an advantage, not a threat. It’s a testament to human innovation and our God-given ability to create tools that assist us in our pursuit of knowledge and understanding. As we continue to explore this exciting frontier, let’s do so with wisdom, discernment, and an appreciation for the collaborative nature of the process.

Those who have a truly erroneous misconception about AI can be likened to the farmer who wants to stick to using the ox and the plow, saying to the man with the John Deer tractor that he has an unfair advantage. The man has an advantage for sure because he can plow 2,000 acres while the farmer with the ox can plow 200 acres. However, it is not unfair because the man with the ox made his choice.