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The latest updates to the Church’s General Handbook includes guidance on the use of artificial intelligence.

The handbook reminds us that AI “cannot replace the gift of divine inspiration or the individual work required to receive it.” It also cautions that “interactions with AI cannot substitute for meaningful relationships with God and others.”

The handbook also offers four principles to guide us in the appropriate use of AI in our Church assignments.

In addition to this handbook update, Church leaders have taught the same principles about AI on several occasions over the past two years. Learn more.

Below is the full text of the section of the General Handbook about artificial intelligence:

38.8.47 Appropriate Use of Artificial Intelligence

Artificial Intelligence (AI) presents opportunities and risks, and is continuously changing. AI can enhance learning, facilitate communication, and foster innovation. However, AI cannot substitute for the individual effort or divine inspiration required for personal spiritual growth or genuine relationships with God and others.

AI should be used responsibly. Church members should not use AI to create or disseminate anything that is false, misleading, illegal, or harmful. They should verify AI-generated output for accuracy.

38.8.47.1 Learning and Teaching

AI cannot replace the gift of divine inspiration or the individual work required to receive it. However, AI can be a useful tool to enhance learning and teaching.

Jesus Christ taught with power and authority (see Matthew 7:28–29). He sought divine direction from His Father. He relied on the scriptures (see Matthew 4:3–10) and prayer (see Luke 6:12). He lived and taught only those things He learned from His Father (see John 8:28; 12:49–50).

Church members teach the gospel of Jesus Christ from the scriptures and the words of the living prophets as guided by the Holy Ghost (see Doctrine and Covenants 42:11–17; 52:9). As they seek learning by study, faith, and prayer (see Doctrine and Covenants 84:85; 88:118), they invite the Spirit to inspire their minds and hearts (see Doctrine and Covenants 8:2–3; 11:12–14). Through personal effort and the gift of revelation, they can teach God’s word by the power of the Spirit (see Alma 17:2–3; Doctrine and Covenants 50:17–22).

38.8.47.2 Relationships with God and Others

Interactions with AI cannot substitute for meaningful relationships with God and others.

Jesus Christ had a personal and sacred relationship with His Father (see Matthew 3:17; John 17). He prayed to His Father (see Matthew 6:9–13), learned from Him (see John 8:28), and fulfilled His will (see 3 Nephi 27:13).

Jesus also had meaningful relationships with others (see Luke 2:52). He listened to and talked with them, understood their needs, and ministered to them (see John 4:5–30; Luke 24:13–35).

Church members are encouraged to follow the Savior’s example by developing genuine relationships with God and others. This requires humility, consistent effort, and patience.

38.8.47.3 Callings and Assignments

Leaders and members seek divine inspiration to fulfill their callings and assignments. When used appropriately, AI can be an effective tool to assist them in their duties.

The following principles should guide leaders and members in the appropriate use of AI in their Church responsibilities:

  • If members use AI, they should do so in positive, helpful, and uplifting ways that uphold the integrity, standards, and teachings of the Church.
  • AI cannot replace the individual work and spiritual guidance required to prepare divinely inspired talks, lessons, prayers, or blessings. However, AI can be helpful for research, editing, translation, and similar tasks.
  • Leaders should not rely upon AI to provide advice to members on medical, financial, legal, or other sensitive matters. If members need assistance beyond the spiritual guidance provided by Church leaders, competent professionals may be helpful (see 31.3.6).
  • Sensitive information, such as Church records, personal member data, or confidential communications, should not be entered into AI tools that are not provided or managed by the Church.

For more information, see ChurchofJesusChrist.org/AI.

 

 

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