The Second Principle of Faith+ Technology: Technology is a Tool, Not a Master
Throughout history, God has allowed humanity to shape tools that can bless and advance His purposes when used with wisdom. From the printing press that placed Scripture in the hands of everyday people to the internet that now connects billions, technology has always been powerful. Today, AI is the newest tool on that list. It is full of potential, but also full of risk if treated as ultimate.
AI, automation, and digital platforms can accelerate work, scale communication, and help address complex problems. They can assist doctors in detecting cancer earlier, help engineers optimize renewable energy systems, and expand access to education in underserved communities. When used wisely, AI can add real value. But when we mistake technology for ultimate truth, or outsource our thinking and ethics to machines, we lose sight of who we are and what God has called us to.
When Tools Become Masters
(The following examples use fictional characters to illustrate real challenges.)
James, a retail executive, rolled out AI-driven scheduling software to cut costs. The system optimized shifts for efficiency, but it ignored employees’ family needs and created unfair workloads. Morale dropped, turnover spiked, and the company’s reputation suffered. The tool had become the master, not a tool properly managed.
Another leader used the same software but set guardrails. No overnight double-shifts, respect for family schedules, and human review for fairness. The result? Costs still dropped, but employees trusted leadership more. By using the tool wisely, he didn’t just save money, he built trust and strengthened the culture.
Pastor Daniel faced a similar challenge. To save time, he began using AI to manage pastoral care requests. The system auto-replied to prayer needs with pre-written encouragements. At first it looked efficient, but people quickly realized they weren’t being heard. A tool meant to help had become a substitute for presence.
Another pastor took a different approach. He used AI to sort and organize requests but made sure every message was followed by a personal call or visit. The technology lifted the administrative burden, but the ministry stayed relational. The tool didn’t just make him more efficient, it allowed him to deepen care.
Technology Enhances, It Doesn’t Determine Truth
AI is impressive. It can analyze vast data, recognize patterns, and generate outputs that sound convincing. In doing so, it can sometimes surface insights we might not see on our own, whether in medicine, energy, or education.
But insight is not the same as truth. AI does not understand, and it cannot reveal meaning. Human creativity is different because it flows from being made in the image of God. Machines enhance what we do, but only people, made in God’s image, can discern truth, wisdom, and meaning.
The Imago Dei is more than creativity. It includes our capacity for relationship, moral discernment, and worship. These uniquely human qualities cannot be coded, computed, or automated.
Every tool not only extends our capacity, it also shapes how we live and lead. What is technology shaping in you today?
If AI can only surface patterns, where do we look for ultimate truth? Scripture points us to Christ, the Logos, the true Word through whom all things were made (John 1:1–3).
If technology can add value but not define truth, the real danger is how pride tempts us to misuse it.
Pride Distorts, but Wisdom Builds
Genesis 11 describes humanity building the Tower of Babel to “make a name for ourselves.” Innovation itself wasn’t the problem. It was pride. They turned technology into a monument to self-sufficiency. That same temptation exists today.
But Scripture also gives us positive examples. In Exodus 31, Bezalel and Oholiab were filled with the Spirit of God to craft the tabernacle with skill and wisdom. Their creativity honored God because it reflected His beauty and served His people. Paul’s use of Roman roads allowed the gospel to spread across the empire. Tools are not inherently evil. They become dangerous only when pride distorts their use.
If pride turns technology into an idol, humility keeps it in its place. And Jesus Himself shows us the better way.
We Have Been Redeemed to Serve Christ and Others, Not Technology
Jesus redefined greatness: “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant” (Mark 10:43). That same principle guides how we use technology.
Technology is not ultimate. It is not where we place our hope. It is a tool, nothing more, nothing less. Our call as leaders is not to serve technology, but to serve Christ and people. Used with wisdom, AI can free us from repetitive work and expand human capacity for service. But if we treat it as an ultimate source of truth, wisdom, or identity, we drift into idolatry.
Living It Out
So how do leaders keep technology in its place?
Guardrails: Before adopting a tool, ask not only “what can this do?” but “what should this do?” For example, a company might limit automated scheduling so managers can still account for family needs.
Check Motivation: Is this decision about serving people, or about making a name for ourselves? Before rolling out a new AI tool, pause to ask what’s really driving the choice.
Stay Anchored: Remember, AI can enhance work, but only God defines truth. A leader might use AI to analyze trends, but Scripture remains the ultimate guide for wisdom.
Lead with Integrity: Use technology to elevate people and protect dignity, not to replace wisdom or responsibility. For example, an HR team can use AI for efficiency, but final hiring decisions should still reflect human discernment.
Pay Attention: Tools don’t just shape what we do. They shape how we live, think, and relate. Who are you becoming as you use them?
A Simple Reminder for Leaders
Every generation faces the same question: will we treat technology as a savior, or as a tool?
Technology is a tool. Not a master.
Not our hope. Not ultimate.
Our Hope is in Christ alone.
Call to Action
This is Principle 2 of 7 in the Faith + Technology Framework, guiding leaders to stay anchored in Christ while shaping the future with wisdom, courage, and hope.
➡️ Follow along for the rest of the series, or revisit Principle 1: God Alone Creates Life.
Anchored in Christ. Shaping the Future. Elevating People.
