Mark MacDonald addresses pastors and ministry leaders about navigating AI wisely. He opens by noting that every pastor is already making a decision about AI — whether using it, avoiding it, or quietly using it. The talk frames AI not as hype or threat, but as something requiring wisdom and clear leadership. He promotes his book on church clarity, encourages pastors not to lead alone, and argues that in an AI-saturated world, churches win by being clear about what they stand for. He closes by urging churches to create an AI policy and emphasizes that Spirit-led pastors — not AI — are the future of the church.
Key Takeaways
Every pastor is already deciding about AI.
Whether you’re using it, avoiding it, or quietly using it, neutrality isn’t an option. The real question is whether you’ll lead that decision wisely.
Clarity beats volume.
In a world where AI can produce endless content instantly, churches won’t win by saying more — they’ll win by being crystal clear about what they’re known for and pointing people to the gospel.
There are no true AI experts.
Everyone is learning in real time. Feeling overwhelmed is normal and appropriate — don’t let self-proclaimed experts intimidate you.
AI should pass through pastoral filters.
Mark frames the four kingdom practices — pray, preach, shepherd, lead — as “leadership filters” for AI decisions. If an AI use weakens any of them, rethink it. Technology can change ministry methods, but it should never change pastoral priorities.
Your church needs an AI policy.
Just like policies for money, safety, and social media, churches need clear guidelines covering what’s acceptable, what’s off limits, what requires disclosure, and what must be verified. Lead AI — don’t let AI lead you.
