Artificial intelligence (AI) is advancing at a remarkable pace, reshaping how we live, work and connect with one another. This rapid development is causing many Christians to pause and ask: How should we faithfully engage with this powerful technology? 

Scripture gives us a starting point. Genesis 1:26–27 reminds us that every human being is made in the image of God. Because of this, we believe AI — in its development, deployment and regulation — must uphold the God-given dignity of every person. While AI continues to evolve, one of the most critical ways to honor this mandate will be through wise and ethical policies at both state and federal levels, ensuring protections for the most vulnerable.  

The decisions Congress makes — or fails to make — will shape how AI develops and influences our communities, churches and children for years to come. As lawmakers on both sides wrestle with how to respond, the National Association of Evangelicals is engaging on behalf of our constituency in several ways:  

1. Protecting State-Level Regulations

Earlier this summer, Congress considered a proposal that would block state and local governments from adopting any AI regulation for 10 years. The NAE advocacy team urged congressional leadership to oppose this moratorium, emphasizing the importance of allowing states to craft responsive and innovative AI policies. We are grateful that the Senate voted overwhelmingly against the measure (99-1). However, recent reports suggest that the House may look to include a similar provision in the annual defense spending bill. We will continue encouraging lawmakers to protect the rights of states to create responsive AI policy. 

2. Addressing AI-Generated Explicit Material

The NAE is monitoring legislation aimed at addressing AI-generated sexually explicit content, including celebrating the TAKE IT DOWN Act — signed into law by President Trump on May 19 — which requires online platforms to remove nonconsensual sexually explicit material upon notification. We are also following the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA), which would strengthen protections for minors under 17. 

3. Urging Guardrails for AI Chatbots

Ahead of a hearing in the House of Representatives on the risks and benefits of AI chatbots, the NAE joined a coalition of faith-based organizations calling on lawmakers to ensure that algorithms do not reinforce “self-harm, addictive or exploitative patterns” but rather redirect individuals to opportunities for connection and hope. 

If you’d like to explore this topic more broadly, the NAE has produced several resources to help believers think wisely and engage faithfully with AI: 

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