Small Group Study: “Artificial Intelligence, the Internet, and the Return of Jesus”

Objective

This Small Group Study should be used in conjunction with the post, “The Internet, AI, and Jesus return.” Equip participants to understand how rapid advances in AI and the Internet relate to biblical prophecy, identify opportunities and pitfalls for sharing the Gospel in a digital age, and commit to wise, Spirit-led use of technology as we await Christ’s return.

Materials

• Bibles or Bible apps
• Printed summary of the blog post “Artificial Intelligence, the Internet, and the Return of Jesus: A Biblical Perspective”
• Note-taking supplies

Opening (10 minutes)

1. ​Welcome and quick fellowship
2. ​Opening Prayer “Father, thank You for the tools You’ve given us—AI and the Internet. Grant us wisdom to use them for Your glory as we watch and pray for Jesus’ return. In Jesus’ name, amen.”

Read and Reflect (10 minutes)

1. ​Read Daniel 12:4 (KJV): “But thou, O Daniel, shut up the words, and seal the book… many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased.”
2. ​Briefly review the blog post’s key points:
   • AI and the Internet accelerate travel, communication, and information—fulfilling Daniel’s prophecy.
   • These tools offer unprecedented avenues for global evangelism and discipleship.
   • They also bring risks: misinformation, ethical gray areas, and spiritual distraction.
   • Believers are called to discern truth, steward technology wisely, and leverage it for the Great Commission.

Discussion Questions (30 minutes)

1. Prophetic Fulfillment

• In what ways have you seen “many shall run to and fro, and knowledge… increased” in the last decade?
• How does recognizing prophecy in our era impact your worldview as a believer?

2. Opportunities for the Gospel

• Share an example where you or someone you know used social media, AI chatbots, or online platforms to point others to Jesus.
• What advantages do AI-driven tools (translation apps, chatbots, content-creation software) offer for Bible teaching and evangelism?

3. Challenges and Ethical Considerations

• What are some dangers of AI-generated content or online algorithms when it comes to truth and discernment?
• How can we guard against deception and information overload in our personal and church life?

4. Grounding Ourselves in Wisdom

• Read Philippians 4:8. How can this verse guide your online activity and your evaluation of digital content?
• What spiritual disciplines (Scripture intake, prayer, community accountability) help you maintain clarity amid the digital noise?

5. The Great Commission in a Digital Age

• Read Matthew 28:18–20. How does Jesus’ command shape the way we leverage technology?
• Brainstorm concrete steps your group or church could take to integrate AI or Internet tools into local and global outreach.

Application & Commitment (10 minutes)

1. Choose one practical action this week:
   • Test an AI translation or transcription tool by sharing Scripture in a new language group.
   • Start a weekly blog post, podcast clip, or social-media story about a Scripture passage.
   • Form an “online prayer chain” using group chat or video calls.
2. Accountability: Pair up and agree to pray for each other’s digital witness and to report back at the next meeting.

Closing Prayer (5 minutes)

“Lord, thank You for the surge of information and connection You’ve allowed in this generation. Help us use these gifts to point others to Jesus, not to ourselves. Give us boldness to share and wisdom to discern. Keep our eyes fixed on Your return. In Jesus’ name, amen.”