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Foreword: AI for Christian Leaders and Parents

Why We Wrote This Book​

My name is Gary Sheng. I'm an AI engineer, movement builder, and follower of Christ. I started my career as a software engineer at Google Cloud, and I've spent years in innovation-focused communities—like AI, crypto, and biotech—thinking deeply about technology and its implications for society. Over the past hundred years—and especially in the last 25—we've seen tremendous technological change. If we're being honest, it's hard to make the case right now that the major adoption of technology has been a net positive for humanity when viewed through a Christian lens. And in many ways, America and the West feel more fallen than before.

But here's what I believe: the best is still yet to come.

As much as I await the return of our Lord and Savior, I see the blessing in this period where Christ is yet to return and the rise in technologies that are making discipleship and evangelism more accessible than ever before. I want to start with optimism. As Scripture reminds us, "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose" (Romans 8:28).

While it's not obvious how individuals, congregations, and households should be using technology, I believe that circumspect, thoughtful, discerning use of technology can be an absolute boon for your spiritual life, your discipleship, and for unlocking God's kingdom on earth.

A Word of Caution​

If you're looking for a book that just validates your preconceived notions about technology—whether that's uncritical promotion or neo-Luddite rejection—this book isn't for you. You'll find plenty of groups of Christians gathering (ironically, mostly online) to discuss why technology is evil and should be avoided. This is not one of those books.

We're charting a thoughtful path between unthinking promotion of technology and reflexive rejection that doesn't recognize that, in many ways, God wants us to use technology to advance His kingdom.

Why This Collaboration Matters​

I'm writing this book alongside Timothy Joo and Brenda Gentry—two remarkable kingdom workers who share a passion for using all the tools at our disposal to grow God's kingdom. We've seen countless resources about AI and technology written for technologists, but very little for Christians who want to dive deeper with wisdom and discernment. We're filling that gap.

I get asked by governments and faith institutions—from DC to Rome—to advise on AI strategy, and I'm known for being very honest about both the opportunities and the risks. Brenda has created educational courses on cryptocurrency for everyday people, helping them navigate complex technology with practical wisdom. Tim brings strategic thinking and educational expertise from his time in AI edtech, helping us translate technical concepts into actionable frameworks for ministry and family life.

We're all excited to serve God however we can, and our shared desire to create educational communities and resources for people made co-authoring this book feel like a natural fit.

What You'll Find Here​

This book is more of a philosophical primer for Christian leaders and parents who want to know how to use AI thoughtfully. These are powerful tools, and you don't have to succumb to the fear that many people have around them. As Paul writes, "Test everything; hold fast what is good" (1 Thessalonians 5:21). We know you're going to use your judgment and apply the mind of Christ to how you use these technologies anyway—this is just our nudge for you to be curious about these technologies, because they can absolutely be part of what God wants you to do to level up your ministry.

You'll find:

  • Case studies of ministries we endorse that use technology in profound ways without diminishing their integrity
  • Profiles of families that embrace technology wisely
  • Biblical frameworks for talking about and leveraging AI tools for managing your household, church, and life

We don't want to just get you excited about possibilities without giving you next steps. We want to equip you as a parent, minister, or kingdom worker with solid foundations you can build on—frameworks you're welcome to fork, take as your own, and modify for your context.

The Trust Factor​

Part of why this needed to be written is because not much has been written about AI from a genuinely Christian perspective by people who actually understand the technology. Most guidance comes from either secular technologists who don't share our values, or well-meaning Christians who lack the technical depth to provide reliable counsel.

From advising churches, CEOs and world leaders on technology and AI, we've seen firsthand how critical it is to have voices that understand both the technology and the kingdom implications.

The rapid pace of AI development means we can't wait for perfect understanding or consensus. Today is the slowest rate of change we'll ever see. Christian communities need authoritative, practical guidance now—while these technologies are still developing and norms are still forming.

Our Heart for You​

We believe God has given us this moment to help shape how AI is understood and used within Christian communities. Our prayer is that these powerful tools will serve rather than supplant the church's mission to make disciples and the family's calling to raise children in wisdom and faith.

Whether you're an entrepreneur wondering about how AI can be used for kingdom businesses, a parent trying to guide your children's technology use, or a ministry leader exploring new tools for kingdom work, this book is for you. We've written it with love, technical accuracy, and deep respect for the sacred work you're doing.

As Jesus said, "Be wise as serpents and innocent as doves" (Matthew 10:16)—may this book help you navigate AI with both wisdom and integrity.

Let's dive in together.