In a world captivated by artificial intelligence, Elder Gerrit W. Gong of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles offered a timely and sobering perspective:

“Those who seek to deify AI may unwittingly discover a modern Tower of Babel. Human efforts to create utopia or to reach heaven always fall short.”

With these words, Elder Gong reminded us of a crucial gospel truth—human technology can never replace divine connection. The biblical story of the Tower of Babel (Genesis 11) is more than an account of ancient architecture; it is a cautionary tale about prideful ambition, false unity, and efforts to reach heaven without God. And today, AI may be becoming our newest tower.

When AI Becomes a Substitute for God

We live in an era where AI is no longer just a tool—it’s being elevated, even worshipped:

• Anthony Levandowski, a Silicon Valley engineer, started a literal religion to worship a future AI “god.”
• Chatbots like “AI Jesus” or “GPT God” are giving spiritual advice to millions—some users take their words more seriously than scripture.
• Ray Kurzweil and others promote the idea that humans will achieve immortality through AI, merging our minds with machines to transcend death.

These examples echo Babel’s ancient sin: trying to reach heaven through our own power.

Moral Confusion and the Illusion of Objectivity

Many now look to AI as a moral authority. Algorithms decide what’s “right” or “misinformation,” with little transparency or accountability. But who decides what the AI should value? And what happens when divine law is replaced by digital consensus?

Even some governments and institutions are using AI to standardize ethics, social behavior, and even spirituality—not unlike the builders of Babel trying to unite the world under a single language and vision, without God.

Elder Gong added:

“For children of God, platforms and technologies cannot substitute for authentic Divine connection and relationship.”

Yet in some parts of the world, robot priests now offer funeral rites. Emotional chatbots like Replika AI have become confidants, “soulmates,” even spiritual counselors for lonely users. The danger isn’t just technological—it’s deeply spiritual.

A Modern Tower of Babel

Just like Babel, today’s AI revolution reveals a dangerous belief: that humanity can engineer its own salvation. But the Lord’s pattern has never changed. Real peace, purpose, and unity only come through Jesus Christ, not through artificial intelligence, political systems, or human inventions.

Latter-day Saints—and all believers—are called to engage with technology wisely and faithfully, never confusing the gifts of man with the power of God.

The Path Forward

AI can be a powerful servant, but it must never become our master. As the world races to create godlike machines, we are reminded to:

• Anchor our morality in divine truth, not data.
• Seek personal revelation, not artificial inspiration.
• Pursue humility over hubris, remembering that only through Christ can we “ascend.”

In the End…

Babel fell. Every manmade tower eventually does. But Zion—built on covenant, humility, and love—will stand.

Let us choose which we’re building.