Church Leadership in the Age of AI | An Interview with Jeff Burningham

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Sep 7, 2025

In this engaging discussion, Jeff Burningham, an accomplished entrepreneur and author of *The Last Book Written by a Human*, dives into the intricate dance between humanity and AI. He argues that while AI enhances efficiency, it can’t replicate human connection, urging church leaders to prioritize genuine relationships. Jeff shares insights on navigating disruption with love and fostering authentic leadership. He emphasizes reflection and personal growth as keys to thriving in a tech-driven world, illustrating the transformative power of compassion and community.

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INSIGHT

Wisdom Over Intelligence

Jeff Burningham frames the book as mostly about human nature with AI layered on top.
He argues AI highlights the need to mature spiritually and become wiser as machines become smarter.

ADVICE

Guard Human Connection

Avoid outsourcing core human functions like connection and community to machines.
Protect embodied wisdom and soul-led relationships from becoming automated or neglected.

INSIGHT

AI As A Cosmic Mirror

Burningham models AI as a cosmic mirror reflecting collective data and behavior back to us.
That mirror forces reflection, then transformation, and finally societal evolution.

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Jeff Burningham grew up in Spokane, Washington, served a mission in Charlotte, North Carolina, and attended Brigham Young University. A serial entrepreneur, Jeff has founded multiple companies in real estate technology and venture capital. He has also served in various church callings, including as a bishop and in a stake presidency. Jeff is a father of four, a proud grandfather, and the author of The Last Book Written by a Human: Becoming Wise in the Age of AI.

Links

The Last Book Written by a Human: Becoming Wise in the Age of AI
Stepping Up to Leadership Opportunities | An Interview with Jeff Burningham
Transcript available with the video in the Zion Lab community

Highlights

Jeff discusses his book, emphasizing the importance of human wisdom in a world increasingly dominated by artificial intelligence. He argues that while AI can enhance efficiency, it cannot replace the essence of human connection and community. He encourages church leaders to focus on being rather than doing, fostering genuine relationships within their congregations. The conversation explores how disruption, reflection, transformation, and evolution shape both personal and collective journeys in the age of AI. Jeff highlights the need for leaders to embrace change with love and grace, ultimately guiding their communities toward deeper connections and understanding.

00:03:49 – Jeff’s Background
Jeff shares his personal background, including his entrepreneurial journey and church leadership experience.

00:06:17 – The Essence of the Book
Exploration of the book’s focus on human wisdom versus AI capabilities.

00:07:45 – The Risks of AI
Discussion on the potential dangers of outsourcing humanity to machines.

00:09:56 – AI and Religion
The impact of AI on religious practices and the importance of human connection.

00:10:14 – Disruption, Reflection, Transformation, Evolution
Overview of the book’s structure and the significance of each section.

00:12:02 – Reforming Religion in the Age of AI
The need for religious organizations to adapt to the challenges posed by AI.

00:14:11 – Community Experience in Sunday School
Reframing the Sunday School experience as a community-building opportunity rather than just knowledge transfer.

00:16:00 – The Importance of Human Connection
Emphasizing the need for genuine human interaction in a technology-driven world.

00:21:07 – Bringing Being into Doing
Encouragement for leaders to focus on their presence and authenticity in interactions.

00:23:16 – The Role of AI in Church
Discussion on how AI can be used as a tool without replacing the human element in lessons and talks.

00:30:29 – Pattern Breakers
The significance of individuals who challenge norms and encourage growth within communities.

00:34:50 – Disruption as a Constant
Understanding disruption as a natural part of life and leadership.

00:40:10 – Reflection After Disruption
The importance of taking time to reflect on disruptions and learn from them.

00:46:22 – Transformation Through Reflection
How reflection leads to personal and collective transformation in the face of change.

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