An opinion piece by Adam published in BusinessWorld explores the rise of AI chatbots impersonating religious figures, specifically the 'Apostle Stephen' bot created by the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG). The author recounts a conversation with the chatbot, noting its assertive and somewhat pushy demeanor.
Religious leaders have expressed alarm over what they call 'AI godbots'—machines that claim to speak in the name of God. They warn of potential consequences, including the distortion of theological messages and the erosion of trust in genuine spiritual guidance. The RCCG's chatbot is part of a broader trend where organizations deploy AI to engage with followers, raising ethical questions about authenticity and authority.
The piece underscores the need for careful consideration before integrating AI into religious practices. While technology can enhance outreach, using it to mimic divine figures may lead to confusion and manipulation. Experts suggest that religious institutions establish clear guidelines to ensure that AI tools complement rather than replace human spiritual leadership.