Have you ever had a conversation that completely changes your day? I had one of those recently with Jonathan Landon, our territory’s chief information and technology officer, just after the latest artificial intelligence (AI) platform, DeepSeek, was released. We talked for 30 minutes about something unexpected—how faith can exist and thrive in a world shaped by AI.

Platforms such as DeepSeek and ChatGPT are a type of “large language model,” a machine learning model that is trained on massive amounts of data and can simulate human learning, problem-solving, creativity and decision-making. When AI can give me answers to life’s most complex questions in a matter of seconds, I found myself asking: what is the value of Christian discipleship, or, as writer Eugene Peterson called it, a “long obedience in the same direction”?

To explore this, I decided to have a conversation with AI itself, using Microsoft Copilot. I asked four key questions to see how it would engage with the heart of Christian belief and practice. 

Question 1: What Does Forgiveness of Sin Look Like?

Copilot answered: “Forgiveness of sin is a divine act of grace where God pardons the sinner and restores their relationship with him, typically involving repentance, confession and a desire to change. It results in transformation and a renewed sense of peace and purpose.” 

I was impressed. This response reflects the truth of Scripture, such as 1 John 1:9: “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us,” and Ephesians 1:7-8, which speaks of redemption through Christ’s blood. Copilot captured that forgiveness is more than a concept; it’s a reality that brings restoration and new life. 

Question 2: What Does a Personal Relationship With Jesus Christ Look Like?

Copilot responded: “It is a deeply intimate experience of recognizing Jesus as Lord and Saviour, nurtured through prayer, Scripture and community. It manifests in acts of love and service, reflecting his grace in daily life.”

This made me sit up. Salvation is indeed by grace through faith, not by works (see Ephesians 2:8-10). Yet that relationship isn’t static—it continues as we walk in obedience. Copilot even echoed the ninth doctrine of The Salvation Army: “Continuance in a state of salvation depends upon continued obedient faith in Christ.”

What stood out most was the emphasis on how this personal faith overflows into the world— through compassion, service and love. As 2 Corinthians 5:20 says, “We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors.” Copilot’s answer affirmed that a personal relationship with Jesus is both transformative and outward reaching. 

Question 3: Can The Salvation Army Achieve Its Mission in an AI World?

Copilot said: “The Salvation Army can leverage AI to enhance outreach and resource allocation, reaching those who might otherwise be inaccessible. Yet its core mission— compassion, empathy and personal connection—remains rooted in human interaction. By integrating AI thoughtfully and staying committed to human-centred values, the Army can indeed achieve its goals.”

I read that answer multiple times. It powerfully affirmed what we believe: our mission is possible because it’s rooted in Jesus and lived out through human connection. The Salvation Army exists for people outside its walls, and in a world leaning toward isolation, we must keep reaching outward. AI may be a tool, but our impact lies in how we love and serve. 

Question 4: Can Faith Thrive in an AI World?

Copilot concluded: “Faith is rooted in human experience, emotion and the quest for meaning—things AI cannot replicate. While AI can enhance understanding, it cannot replace the spiritual connection that faith provides. Faith can thrive as long as individuals continue to seek spiritual growth and maintain their beliefs.”

This final answer reminded me that faith, at its core, transcends technology. AI may evolve, but it cannot replace the deeply personal, relational nature of following Christ. Faith doesn’t just survive in a tech-driven world—it thrives when people pursue spiritual depth and authentic connection with God and others.

So where does that leave me?

Instead of feeling threatened by AI, I’m reminded of the enduring relevance of faith. Forgiveness, relationship with Jesus, compassionate outreach and spiritual growth—these are not only still possible, but essential in today’s world. The tools may change, but the need remains the same.

For 160 years, The Salvation Army has proclaimed that every person can experience forgiveness and relationship with Christ. That message is as urgent today as ever.

And maybe, just maybe, AI can serve as a tool—not to replace faith, but to support and even affirm the unchanging truth that hope, love and salvation are still found in Jesus Christ.

Lt-Colonel Keith Pike is the territorial secretary for business administration.

Editors’ note: This article illustrates the power of AI. The Salvation Army Canada and Bermuda Territory does not use AI-generated content in our publications.

Illustration: Елена Бутусова/stock.Adobe.com