The Dangers of Studying the Bible with AI: Why Older, Trusted Sources Matter
Brandon Cannon
- 3 min read

The Dangers of Studying the Bible with AI: Why Older, Trusted Sources Matter

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Introduction

Question: Why do I need to study the Bible? I can just ask AI.

Answer: AI is a great tool to gather data, but it is still only a tool. Also, it does not differentiate between what is reliable and what is not. It just gathers data. Older, trusted tools are still the best. Let’s get into it.

In today’s digital world, artificial intelligence (AI) is everywhere—including in Bible study. With tools like ChatGPT, Bible apps, and AI-driven commentaries, it has never been easier to access vast amounts of biblical information instantly. But faster does not always mean better—or accurate.

As helpful as AI can be for gathering information, there are significant risks when we rely on AI as the primary source for understanding Scripture. God’s Word is eternal and unchanging, but AI learns from data that is temporary, biased, and often incomplete. As believers, we must be discerning and guard ourselves from unintentionally replacing biblical study with machine-generated summaries.

1. AI Isn’t Always Theologically Accurate

AI systems are trained on massive amounts of data pulled from the internet—articles, blogs, books, and opinions from all perspectives. While this gives AI access to an incredible amount of information, it cannot distinguish between biblical truth and human error unless programmed carefully.

Example:

  • AI might confidently give an explanation of a verse based on an unbiblical commentary.
  • It may include interpretations from false teachers, cults, or skeptics without labeling them as such.
  • Some AI tools are designed to be religiously “neutral”, which means they won’t affirm biblical authority.

If your spiritual growth is rooted in AI-fed misunderstandings, you risk building theology on shaky foundations.

2. AI Can Reflect Cultural Bias

AI learns from the data it’s fed—and much of that data comes from modern, secular, and sometimes anti-biblical sources. This means:

  • Cultural opinions may outweigh historical, orthodox interpretations.
  • Truth may be distorted to fit modern values rather than Scripture.
  • AI may subtly undermine biblical authority by suggesting that “truth evolves.”

Scripture warns us to be cautious about sources of teaching:

“See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces of this world rather than on Christ.” (Colossians 2:8)

AI reflects the philosophies of its creators and the culture it’s trained on—not necessarily the timeless truth of God’s Word.

3. AI Replaces Dependence on the Holy Spirit

Studying the Bible isn’t just about collecting facts—it’s about transformation. The Holy Spirit illuminates Scripture so we can understand God’s truth and apply it to our lives. AI cannot do this. While it may provide helpful summaries or explanations, spiritual discernment requires divine guidance, not machine learning.

“But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth.” (John 16:13)

If we rely too heavily on AI, we risk short-circuiting the process of prayerful study, meditation, and dependence on God.

4. Why Older, Trusted Sources Are Better

Before AI, Christians relied on proven, time-tested resources that have been carefully studied and reviewed by scholars who believe in the authority of Scripture. These sources are grounded in centuries of faithful interpretation and theological integrity.

Examples of trusted resources:

  • Matthew Henry’s Commentary
  • Strong’s Concordance
  • Baker’s Evangelical Dictionary of Biblical Theology
  • Systematic Theologies from reputable scholars
  • BlueLetterBible.com
  • GotQuestions.org

These sources have stood the test of time, whereas AI tools are constantly evolving and can present changing interpretations.

Action Steps: How to Study the Bible Wisely in an AI World

1. Use AI as a Tool, Not a Teacher

  • Treat AI-generated insights as a starting point, not the final word.
  • Always verify anything AI gives you against Scripture and trusted commentaries.

2. Prioritize Time-Tested Resources

  • Invest in reliable study Bibles, concordances, and commentaries from scholars who hold a high view of Scripture.
  • When possible, go to the original languages using tools like Strong’s Concordance or Logos Bible Software.

3. Rely on the Holy Spirit First

  • Begin Bible study with prayer, asking God for wisdom and discernment.
  • Allow Scripture to interpret Scripture before turning to outside sources.

4. Compare Multiple Sources

  • Cross-check insights from AI with reputable theologians, pastors, and historical resources.
  • Seek counsel from trusted leaders in your church when faced with interpretive challenges.

5. Build a “Safe Library”

  • Create a collection of trusted books, commentaries, and digital tools you can turn to repeatedly.
  • Examples:
    • The MacArthur Study Bible
    • NIV Biblical Theology Study Bible
    • The Moody Handbook of Theology
    • ESV Study Bible
    • NLT Life Application Study Bible

Bottom Line

AI is a powerful tool, but it cannot replace faithful, Spirit-led Bible study. While technology can assist us, God’s Word calls us to be discerning students of Scripture who test everything against the unchanging truth of the Bible.

“Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.” (2 Timothy 2:15)

In a world of instant information, don’t trade accuracy for convenience. Build your understanding of God’s Word on the firm foundation of trusted sources, prayerful study, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit.