In a globally broadcasted devotional aimed at young adults, delivered from Brigham Young University–Idaho, Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles addressed the significant topic of artificial intelligence (AI) and its implications on moral agency and spiritual well-being. This event took place on Sunday, 3rd November 2024, gathering a worldwide audience eager to understand the intersection of faith and technology from the perspective of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Elder Bednar began his address by highlighting the concept of moral agency, a pivotal aspect of the Church's teachings. He described moral agency as “the ability and privilege God gives us to choose and act for ourselves,” emphasising that it encompasses both responsibility and accountability, a principle deeply rooted in the Church's doctrine.
In exploring the landscape of rapidly advancing AI, Elder Bednar acknowledged both the promising benefits and potential threats that such technology brings. He remarked on the opportunities AI presents for enhancing various sectors including healthcare, education, and communication, noting its capacity to advance knowledge and improve quality of life. However, he was careful to underline the irreplaceable nature of spiritual growth, which technology cannot replicate.
A central theme of Elder Bednar's discourse was the influence of technology on personal relationships and spiritual health. He advised young adults to critically evaluate how they engage with digital tools, ensuring their use aligns with the Church's eternal values and goals. “AI also has the potential to obscure our true identity as sons and daughters of a loving Heavenly Father,” he cautioned, pointing out the risks of pride, distraction, and diminished human interaction that could result from excessive reliance on technology.
Elder Bednar's message reinforced the critical distinction between technological convenience and the spiritual benefits derived from traditional practices such as prayer and scripture study. He expressed concern that the efficiency and ease afforded by modern technologies might tempt individuals to bypass the more arduous, but spiritually enriching, practices endorsed by the gospel.
Additionally, Elder Bednar touched upon the broader challenge of maintaining spiritual focus in a world inundated with information and distractions. He reassured his audience of the gospel's role as an anchor amidst these challenges. “You have the ability to overcome the many distractions and temptations of the adversary,” he noted, underscoring the gospel's timeless principles that guide the righteous use of technology.
In his closing thoughts, Elder Bednar reiterated the importance of individual choices guided by an understanding of one's divine identity. He encouraged the young adults to pray for discernment in their decisions, a notion aimed at fostering a deep and sustained spiritual commitment even in technology-laden environments.
This worldwide devotional reflects the Church's ongoing engagement with contemporary issues affecting its members. As the influence of AI and similar technologies continues to grow, Church leaders like Elder Bednar are focusing on equipping members with the principles necessary to navigate this evolving digital age responsibly and spiritually.
Source: Noah Wire Services