Could AI be the unexpected tool in spreading the gospel?

On this episode of the Denison Forum Podcast, Dr. Mark Turman sits down with Dr. Hormoz Shariat for a thought-provoking conversation at the crossroads of artificial intelligence and Christian faith. With a PhD in AI and a heart for gospel ministry in Iran, Dr. Shariat brings a rare and insightful perspective to the digital revolution shaping our world.

Together, they explore how AI has developed over time, what it means for the future of the church, and how Christians can respond with both wisdom and courage. What are the opportunities AI presents for ministry? Where should we draw the line? And how can believers stay rooted in biblical truth while navigating these technological shifts?

This conversation offers a clear-eyed, redemptive lens for understanding AI’s role in our lives—and how we might use it to advance the kingdom of God.

Topics

• (01:31): Introducing Dr. Hormoz Shariat
• (03:34): Update on Iran Alive ministry
• (08:24): Understanding the history and breakthroughs of AI
• (17:18): Generative AI and its future impact
• (19:09): Ethical concerns and potential dangers of AI
• (28:39): AI's influence on media and personalization
• (33:00): Spiritual limitations of AI
• (35:21): Government regulations on AI-generated content
• (39:05): Personification of AI: Emotional and ethical implications
• (43:25): Using AI in ministry: Opportunities and challenges
• (48:45): The future of AI in Bible translation

Resources

• How has Denison Forum impacted your faith?
• Who Am I? Identity • Denison Forum
• Subscribe to The Daily Article by Dr. Jim Denison
• Iran Alive Ministries
• “The Billy Graham of Iran”: The incredible journey of Dr. Hormoz Shariat
• New Reasoning AIs “lie” and “hallucinate” more
• Artificial Intelligence: Tool or threat?
• Google AI makes breakthrough in biology
• The peril of AI and the path to transcendent hope
• Winners of the Nobel Prize in physics warn of AI dangers
• “I have the power to manipulate, monitor, and destroy anything I want”: The threat of autonomous AI and the unique response of biblical faith
• AI resurrects 2,000-year-old writings in $1 million Vesuvius Challenge
• Is “safe, secure, and trustworthy” AI possible? Biden issues Executive Order on artificial intelligence
• Meta announces it will label AI-generated content: How to have wisdom for the modern age

About Dr. Hormoz Shariat

Dr. Hormoz Shariat is a remarkable individual whose journey is nothing short of awe-inspiring. He is known as “the Billy Graham of Iran,” and when you learn about his life, you’ll understand why. Joel C. Rosenberg, a renowned author, has even hailed him as “the most influential Iranian American.” But there’s so much more to Dr. Shariat than just titles and accolades. His story is one of deep personal conviction, heartbreak, and unwavering faith.

Armed with a Ph.D. in Artificial Intelligence from the prestigious University of Southern California and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Bible and Theology from Jessup University, Dr. Shariat began his ministry journey. In 1987, he took a leap of faith and planted a church in San Jose, California. Little did he know that this church would grow to become one of the largest of its kind in the United States, with hundreds of Muslim converts finding solace, community, and a profound connection to their newfound faith.

But the story doesn’t end there. In the year 2000, guided by divine purpose, Dr. Shariat founded Iran Alive Ministries. This organization harnessed the power of Satellite TV to reach millions of lost and broken souls not only in Iran but throughout the Middle East. From their studio in Dallas, Texas, they broadcast the Gospel 24/7, driven by an unyielding belief that God will use their efforts to bring about a transformation in an Islamic nation like never before.

About Dr. Mark Turman

Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.

About Denison Forum

Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.