September 24 KC Tech & Crypto Missional Network Gathering

The KC Tech & Crypto Missional Network welcomes back Sending Project Board Member Eric Chia to this September 24 event. This new presentation will focus on the theme of artificial intelligence (AI).
TOPIC: The Impact of AI on the Future of Christianity
How do U.S. Christians Feel About AI & the Church?
Based on a survey of 1,500 U.S. adults conducted online from July 28–August 7, 2023 via a consumer research panel, Barna Group research finds:
1. Christians Are More Reserved About AI in General
2. Christians Are Wary of AI’s Use for the Church
3. Christians Express Even More Concern About AI Use in Their Church
At its core, AI presents new avenues for enhancing the mission and outreach of Christian ministries. From personalized digital discipleship tools to virtual worship experiences, AI technologies have the potential to deepen spiritual connections and expand global outreach like never before.
Will AI contribute to a more just and equitable society, or will it exacerbate existing inequalities? How can the Christian community ensure that AI technologies are developed and used responsibly, guided by principles of fairness, transparency, Biblical principles, and respect for human dignity? These are critical questions that we need to discuss.
As we navigate the complexities of AI in the 21st century, the Christian community is challenged to embrace these technological advancements with wisdom and discernment. Consider the following conversation with ChatGPT:
Ask AI: “How do you define man and woman?” It gives you 4 different perspectives:
1. Biological Perspective
2. Cultural and Social Perspective
3. Gender Identity Perspective
4. Non-Binary and Transgender Perspectives
In summary, according to ChatGPT (which is an artificial intelligence chatbot), "man" and "woman" can be defined in multiple ways depending on biological characteristics, cultural and social norms, and personal gender identity. ChatGPT presents these definitions as flexible and able to be influenced by various factors including evolving social attitudes and scientific understandings.
AI has the potential to impact the Christian community in various ways (e.g. positively, controversially, and negatively), depending on how it is developed, adopted, and integrated. Here are some potential impacts to consider:

1. Enhanced Outreach and Communication
2. Integration into Worship and Education
3. Community and Counseling Support
4. Ethical Use of AI
5. Global Reach and Cultural Exchange
We invite everyone to have an open discussion on this important topic. AI is still in its infant stage just like a baby, we need to nurture and guide this baby to grow up with Biblical principles.

Presenter: Eric Chia
Eric has a technological background working on internet applications since 1993. Currently he is working on Blockchain and AI related projects.

Eric has more than 30 years of experience in website development, mobile Apps, and internet business applications and technology. Eric has extensive experience in owning and operating digital businesses and software development. Eric was the co-founder of an ISP in Kansas City in 1995.

In 1997, he also co-founded an internet technology consulting company providing internet technology development and design in the development of internet-based asset tracking systems along the railroad tracks for one of the largest railroad companies.

Eric was the Chief User Interface Designer/Consultant for a healthcare insurance company and pharmaceutical companies in the early 2000s. His software company also developed one of the first internet-based electronic medical record-keeping systems for rural hospitals. One of the world’s largest medical software companies used its company platform to interface with rural hospitals. The company was sold later to another medical software company.

Today he is utilizing his unique skillsets and expertise to build marketing platforms and brand building services for multiple companies, as well as creating Big Data/Artificial Intelligence (AI) for online/offline marketing to accurately map the customer journey, delivering a personalized experience at each stage, and empowering the consumer to buy from you wherever they are.

Other technology projects he is involved with include the Tokenization of tangible assets, NFTs, and eCommerce transaction process tokenization to create real asset value of utility tokens.

Eric graduated from Bradford University (U.K.) with a Degree in Manufacturing Systems Engineering (B.Tech.). He lives in Olathe with his wife for over 30 years, and they are a part of the community of believers at the Hope Chapel Olathe Campus. He has one son and 2 grandkids.

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