Artificial: Not Genuine or Truthful

Something not genuine or truthful. It is pretending to be something when in reality it is only a hollow sham, such as “These people…honour me with their lips, but their heart is far from me…” (Isa 29:13). Anything artificial is intended to portray an inaccurate impression, trying to make something of a cheaper, inferior value appear more prized or valuable.

The Nature of Artificiality

In both spiritual and practical contexts, the artificial represents a counterfeit—something designed to imitate the real but lacking authenticity. Jesus confronted this in His criticism of the religious leaders of His day, calling them hypocrites because their outward observance concealed an inner emptiness (Mt 23:27–28). Their worship was artificial: precise in form, yet devoid of heart, truth, and relationship with God.

Artificiality often arises from a desire to impress, to conform, or to gain approval without the cost of genuine transformation. Whether in relationships, worship, or personal character, anything artificial fails the test of integrity. The Bible calls believers to “put off falsehood” and to speak truthfully, for we are members of one another (Eph 4:25). Likewise, we are told not to lie, since we have “taken off the old self” (Col 3:9).

Am I a ‘real’ Christian or an imitation?

Artificial Intelligence and Human Uniqueness

Artificial intelligence (AI) refers to the ability of machines to perform tasks typically associated with human cognition—learning, reasoning, problem-solving, and even creativity. While AI can process data at extraordinary speed and accuracy, it lacks consciousness, moral discernment, and spiritual awareness. No matter how advanced, AI remains a tool—designed, directed, and limited by its creators.

The rise of AI challenges us to reflect on what it means to be truly human. Unlike machines, humans are made in the image of God (Gen 1:27), possessing intrinsic value, creativity, and the capacity for love, repentance, and faith. While AI may simulate intelligence, it cannot possess a soul, experience redemption, or enter into relationship with God. Thus, the danger lies not in AI itself, but in allowing artificial systems to redefine human worth or spiritual reality.

Discerning the Real from the Fake

In a world increasingly shaped by digital personas, curated images, and algorithmic influence, discernment is essential. The Bible consistently calls God’s people to test the spirits (1 Jn 4:1), to pursue sincerity (2 Cor 1:12), and to let love be genuine (Rom 12:9). This requires self-examination: Are my motives pure? Is my faith performative or personal?

The contrast between the artificial and the authentic runs throughout Scripture. God desires truth in the inward parts (Ps 51:6). He looks beyond appearance to the heart (1 Sam 16:7). When worship becomes ritual without relationship, or when faith becomes cultural without conversion, it becomes artificial—and God rejects it.

Reflection and Application

Where might I be presenting an artificial version of myself—spiritually, relationally, or professionally?
How can I cultivate greater authenticity in my walk with God and with others?
What safeguards can I put in place to ensure my use of technology serves truth rather than illusion?
Am I allowing external performance to replace internal transformation?