The Bishop Speaks: Embracing Technology While Remaining Spirit-Led in Ministry

• A THREE PART TEACHING

My Brother's and Sister's,

In this fast-paced world, filled with the endless distractions of modern life, I urge you to take a moment, pause, and reflect on the importance of preparing messages that are rooted in wisdom, prayer, and divine revelation. As leaders, teachers, and ministers, our responsibility is great—we are tasked with delivering truth, clarity, and hope to those who seek God.

Many years ago, my study habits involved hours of flipping through pages of well-worn Bibles, commentaries like Matthew Henry’s, and various research books. I found deep comfort in the physical presence of these texts—their pages carried history, wisdom, and insight that shaped my understanding. Even now, I cherish those moments of turning pages, marking notes, and allowing the Spirit of the Lord to illuminate my study.

But today, we also have the great gift of technology. We no longer have to search tirelessly through books for a single verse that escapes our memory; now, with a few keystrokes, we can find scripture, cross-references, and commentary that strengthen our understanding. This convenience, however, must be embraced with discernment. A search engine can assist us in shaping a message, but it must never replace divine inspiration.

Proverbs 4:7 reminds us: "Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding." True wisdom comes not just from study but from seeking God’s guidance. Before you write, teach, or speak, I encourage you to dedicate uninterrupted time in His presence. Let Him guide your thoughts, open your understanding, and refine your message so that what you share is Spirit-led, not technology-driven.

As we advance in our ministries, let us also be mindful of what we leave behind. Proverbs 13:22 says, "A good man leaveth an inheritance to his children's children..." Your words, whether spoken or written, have the power to outlive you. They can serve as arrows pointing future generations toward the Kingdom of God. So, write with purpose. Speak with conviction. Prepare messages that will stand the test of time.

Above all, remember this: Use technology, but never let technology use you. Let God write the message, and let the tools of this world help you shape it into something excellent.

Be strong, be wise, and go forth in His power.

With faith and encouragement,

Bishop Charlene M. Jamison

Jurisdictional Prelate of NCD

The House of God Church, Inc.

The Lesson: Embracing Technology While Remaining Spirit-Led in Ministry

As ministers, teachers, and leaders, our greatest responsibility is to convey the truth of God's Word with clarity, wisdom, and spiritual depth. We must be diligent in study, prayer, and preparation, ensuring that our messages are not only well-researched but God-approved. While traditional methods, such as poring over physical books and commentaries, still hold great value, we must also acknowledge the tools that modern technology has provided, using them wisely to enhance rather than replace our spiritual discernment.

1. The Necessity of Spiritual Preparation Before anything else, we must seek the Lord. Proverbs 4:7 reminds us, "Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding." No amount of books, manuals, or search engines can substitute for the divine revelation that comes from time spent in prayer and study. The written Word is powerful, but it must first be illuminated by the Spirit of God in order to be rightly applied.

Assignment:

Set aside dedicated time to seek God before writing, teaching, or ministering.

Ask the Holy Spirit to guide your thoughts and open your understanding.

Study diligently, allowing the Scriptures to speak before referencing outside sources.

2. The Value of Traditional Study Methods There is something profound about opening the physical pages of the Bible, flipping through commentaries, and engaging with literature that has shaped theological thought for decades. Many seasoned ministers have personal libraries filled with books spanning generations—resources that have helped refine their vocabulary, presentation, and interactions.

Ecclesiastes 12:12 warns, "Of making many books there is no end; and much study is a weariness of the flesh." This reminds us that while study is crucial, it must not overshadow divine inspiration.

Assignment:

Utilize trusted theological texts, commentaries, and study guides for deeper understanding.

Balance traditional study with personal revelation from the Holy Spirit.

Consider writing and preserving insights for future generations.

3. Technology as a Tool, Not a Substitute In today's digital age, we have the ability to search scripture references instantly, cross-check translations, and gather various interpretations at the touch of a button. While this convenience is a blessing, it must be approached with discernment.

Romans 12:2 advises, "Be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind..." We must use technology wisely, ensuring that it enhances rather than dictates our message. A computer can assist in shaping our writing, but the Spirit of God must be the true author of the message.

Assignment:

Use technology as a resource, but do not allow it to replace divine guidance.

Research effectively while maintaining integrity in interpretation.

Seek the Lord’s wisdom above automated suggestions.

4. Leaving a Legacy Through Writing A leader’s responsibility extends beyond the present moment; it involves preparing for future generations. Proverbs 13:22 declares, "A good man leaveth an inheritance to his children's children..." Our written works—whether blogs, books, or teachings—serve as lasting arrows pointing others toward the Kingdom of God.

The words we write today may be the very messages that sustain believers long after our voices have quieted. Leaders should dedicate themselves to producing work that will stand as a testament to God’s truth.

Assignment:

Write with the intention of imparting lasting wisdom.

Preserve lessons, testimonies, and teachings for future generations.

Ensure that all written materials remain rooted in biblical truth.

Conclusion: In ministry, leadership, and teaching, we must uphold the integrity of God’s Word while embracing the advantages that modern advancements provide. Let us never allow technology to replace our dependence on the Spirit, but rather use it to refine, strengthen, and expand the reach of God’s truth.

Let this be a challenge to every leader:

Spend uninterrupted time with God.

Listen before writing, write before researching, and research before refining.

Present messages that are Spirit-led, well-prepared, and divinely inspired.

May we all use the tools God has given us, but never allow the tools of this world to shape the voice of our message. For the message must always come from Him!

Bishop Charlene M. Jamison

Jurisdictional Prelate of NCD

The House of God Church, Inc.

Special thanks to my technology contributor for this topic: Dr. D. Devon Griffin

5 things to run to and run away from when writing a Spirit-Led sermon in a world filled with AI

In today’s world, technology has given us unprecedented access to information, tools, and resources. While these advancements can assist in sermon preparation, they must never replace the divine process of seeking God’s wisdom, hearing His voice, and delivering messages that are Spirit-led. As ministers of the Gospel, we must ensure that AI does not dilute the authenticity of our preaching.

5 Things to Avoid When Writing a Sermon in an AI-Driven World

Avoid Relying Solely on AI for Your Message

Scripture: Proverbs 3:5-6 – "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths."

Example: Instead of simply inputting sermon topics into AI and using generated content, first seek God in prayer, study His Word, and allow the Holy Spirit to reveal the direction of your message. AI should be a tool, not the source of revelation.

Avoid Using AI to Interpret Scripture Without Spiritual Discernment

Scripture: 2 Timothy 2:15 – "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth."

Example: AI may provide historical context or cross-references, but it cannot rightly divide the Word of Truth. When studying a passage, seek guidance from God, trusted commentaries, and revelation through prayer before accepting AI-generated interpretations.

Avoid Overcomplicating Sermons with AI-Generated Jargon

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 2:4 – "And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man’s wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power."

Example: AI often suggests complex terminology or philosophical ideas that may sound impressive but lack the simplicity and power of Spirit-led preaching. Keep your message clear, relatable, and driven by the power of God, not artificial complexity.

Avoid Losing the Personal Touch in Your Sermon

Scripture: Acts 2:37 – "Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart..."

Example: AI-generated sermons may lack emotion and conviction. The power of a sermon comes from the preacher’s testimony, personal experiences, and heartfelt delivery. Let your message be an extension of your walk with God, not just a collection of AI-suggested points.

Avoid Replacing Prayer and Meditation with AI Research

Scripture: Jeremiah 33:3 – "Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and show thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not."

Example: Before seeking research and AI assistance, spend time in prayer. Let God reveal hidden truths that no algorithm can supply. When your sermon originates from divine revelation, AI can assist in formatting, but it should never replace communion with God.

5 Things to Use When Writing a Sermon in an AI-Driven World

Use AI to Enhance Research, Not Replace Bible Study

Scripture: Psalm 119:11 – "Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee."

Example: AI can quickly provide references and word studies, but it should supplement your knowledge of Scripture, not replace it. Let God’s Word be hidden in your heart, and use technology wisely as a research tool.

Use AI for Grammar and Structure Assistance

Scripture: Colossians 3:23 – "And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men."

Example: While AI should never write the sermon, it can help refine sentence structure, correct grammar, and enhance clarity—ensuring that your message is delivered effectively.

Use AI to Find Scriptural Cross-References

Scripture: Romans 15:4 – "For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning..."

Example: If you recall part of a verse but can’t remember its location, AI can assist in quickly pulling up scripture references and related passages to enrich your sermon.

Use AI as a Time-Saving Tool, Not a Shortcut for Preparation

Scripture: Ecclesiastes 9:10 – "Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might..."

Example: AI can help streamline formatting, citations, and references, but do not let it replace the time you should spend in study, prayer, and preparation. A rushed sermon lacks the depth and anointing necessary to transform lives.

Use AI for Organization, But Let God Lead the Message

Scripture: James 1:5 – "If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God..."

Example: AI can help outline points, organize thoughts, and structure a message, but the true wisdom comes from God. Before finalizing your sermon, pray over it, refine it under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, and ensure it aligns with the biblical truth.

My Final Charge:

Beloved, we live in an era where technology offers convenience and efficiency. While these advancements can assist our ministry, they must never replace the anointing, wisdom, and preparation required to deliver the Word of God. As you write, preach, and teach, let AI be your servant, not your master. Let prayer be your foundation, study be your discipline, and the Spirit of the Lord be your guide.

Use what God has allowed, but never allow the world’s technology to shape your voice. Let your sermons be filled with His wisdom, power, and truth.

Bishop Charlene M. Jamison

Jurisdictional Prelate of NCD

The House of God Church, Inc.

Special thanks to my technology contributor for this topic: Dr. D. Devon Griffin