Original Research

Pentecostal doctrine in Apostles’ Creed and the 4IR: CFC and the River Church as case studies

Buti D. Mulutsi

Received: 06 Mar. 2025; Accepted: 13 June 2025; Published: 30 July 2025

Copyright: © 2025. The Author(s). Licensee: AOSIS.
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.

Abstract

Background: The 325 Nicene Apostles’ Creed was formulated to assist the church in knowing and practicing the correct belief as taught by the Apostles. The third article of Apostles’ Creed, I believe in the Holy Spirit, is significant to Pentecostal doctrine. The information as contained in the creeds dictates beliefs and practices to future generations. Transmission of that information is what led to movements such as Reformation and Pentecostalism. Because religion does not exist in isolation but is affected by geopolitical social statuses, Pentecostalism, similarly, benefited from geopolitical social statuses where it existed. Pentecostal movement benefited from industrial revolutions such as the use of steam, electricity and machinery. Cyberphysical technology is currently shaping the fourth industrial revolution (4IR).

Objectives: The aim of this study is to assist Pentecostals in embracing the advantages of the 4IR while avoiding its dangers.

Method: This study uses both descriptive and analytical methods in the framework of Pentecostalism. It uses Christian Family Church (CFC) and the River Church as case studies.

Results: The study shows that it is possible to use the benefits of artificial intelligence (AI) in the preaching and practices of the church.

Conclusion: The Pentecostal church can embrace the benefits of AI while remaining rooted in its spiritual practices.

Contribution: This article will assist in balancing between doing Holy Spirit-led ministry and using AI by gleaning at practices of CFC in Johannesburg, South Africa and the River Church in Tampa, United States.

Keywords: Pentecostalism; apostles’ creed; fourth industrial revolution; artificial intelligence; Holy Spirit.

Introduction

People from various Christian denominations are commemorating 1700 years of the Apostles’ Creed in 2025. It is believed that the creed grew out of Peter’s confession as recorded in Matthew 16:16. The creed was established to combat heresies and standardise Christian beliefs as taught by the apostles (Hanson 2021; Lamberts 2020:86). The creed has been reviewed to highlight specific strand of Christian faith. The three main creeds that are commonly talked about in the Christian faith are Apostles’ creed, Nicene creed, and Athanasius’s creed (Baron 1885:3). The Apostles’ creed was made for instruction in the faith. Nicene’s creed was made for explanation of the faith. Athanasius’s creed was for the defence of the faith:

In his Institutes of the Christian Religion, John Calvin averred that the Creed ‘furnishes us with a full and every way complete summary of faith, containing nothing but what has been derived from the infallible word of God’. (Hanson 2021:1)

According to Pfeiffer (2016), a creed, as suggested by its name – _credo_, meaning ‘I believe’ – is a declaration of the confessor’s heartfelt belief regarding the path to salvation. It is a fundamental statement of faith. Its purpose is to differentiate a believer from an unbeliever. It serves as a clear distinction between those who identify as believers and those who do not. All the revisions of the creed have kept and maintained the third statement of belief, ‘I believe in the Holy Spirit’. The preservation of this statement indicates the belief of the presence and the activity of the Holy Spirit that believers have acknowledged throughout generations. This has become an important component of the creed for Pentecostals. This section of the creed recognises the reality and presence of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer. It is this third article that has maintained the belief in the Holy Spirit through generations.

Anderson (2004) describes Pentecostals as, ‘all global churches and movements that emphasise the workings of the Spirit, both on phenomenological and on theological grounds’. Pentecostalism places significant emphasis on the baptism and gifts of the Holy Spirit. The comprehensive understanding of the presence and activity of the Holy Spirit was significantly advanced by the emergence of the Pentecostal movement at the beginning of the 20th century. Since that time, the doctrine of the Holy Spirit has continued largely unchallenged by subsequent industrial revolutions.

However, the fourth industrial revolution (4IR), characterised by advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), presents a potential challenge to this doctrine by offering alternatives to the guidance traditionally attributed to the Holy Spirit. Artificial intelligence generates solutions limited to algorithms that are based on the data that was given when it was set up (Seo 2024:97). Thus, AI solutions can be biased. Moreover, AI does not have self-awareness like human beings. The Holy Spirit’s role of inspiration should not be neglected. This article seeks to address the threat that AI poses to the Pentecostals’ belief and practice of the leading of the Holy Spirit. This does not negate the fact that humanity can use AI because it is God who provides creative capacity and inspiration (Afunugo & Molukwu 2024:87).

Research methods and design

This study employs both descriptive and analytical methods within the context of Pentecostalism. It examines Christian Family Church (CFC) in Johannesburg and the River Church in Tampa as case studies. Interviews of senior staff of CFC were conducted. Much of the information on the River Church was obtained from the live broadcast of their services. Both churches were chosen because of their strong belief in the baptism of the Holy Spirit and the operation of gifts of the Holy Spirit.

The author is a member of CFC and has benefited spiritually from the River Church. This connection provides the author with a unique perspective on the spiritual practices and technological adaptations embraced by both churches. By drawing from personal experiences and observations, the insights gained contribute richly to understanding how Pentecostal communities navigate the challenges and opportunities of the 4IR.

This article asserts that while AI represents a groundbreaking tool that can support numerous aspects of ministry, it must function as a complement to, rather than a replacement for, the Holy Spirit’s guidance (Afunugo & Molokwu 2024:86). The delicate balance between technological innovation and spiritual tradition is critical for Pentecostalism, as technology can empower ministries to extend their influence globally, foster meaningful engagement, and enhance operational capabilities. However, these advancements should never undermine the sacred role of the Holy Spirit, which remains central to the personal and doctrinal aspects of faith. The integration of AI should serve to magnify the work inspired by the Spirit, ensuring that churches remain true to their spiritual foundations while embracing the opportunities presented by the 4IR.

Fourth industrial revolution

The 4IR, also known as Industry 4.0 (Nzama et al. 2024:2), is marked by a fusion of technologies that blur the lines between the physical, digital, and biological spheres. This revolution is driven by advancements in AI, robotics, the Internet of Things (IoT), autonomous vehicles, 3D printing, nanotechnology, biotechnology, materials science, energy storage, and quantum computing. Its inception is believed to be in 1956, when the Dartmouth Conference sat to clarify and develop ideas about thinking machines (Afunugo & Molokwu 2024:89; Nalubega & Uwizeyimana 2024:2). In their deliberations, delegates coined the term ‘artificial intelligence’. Unlike previous industrial revolutions, which were powered by steam, electricity, and electronics, the 4IR is characterised by the widespread use of connected devices and smart systems that can analyse data, make decisions, and perform tasks autonomously.

For Pentecostalism, the 4IR presents both opportunities and challenges. This article agrees with the statement by La Cruz and Mora that the effect of AI depends on the belief and tradition of any religious organisation (La Cruz & Mora 2024:1). The extent to which AI can influence Pentecostal practice depends on the possibility of how far AI can change Pentecostal core beliefs. The integration of advanced technologies can facilitate the dissemination of Pentecostal teachings and enhance the reach of ministries across the globe. Both CFC and the River church broadcast their services online to reach the majority of audience. This was more prevalent during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic when churches were not allowed to hold physical meetings (Seo 2024:88). This exemplifies how the church can extract benefits from AI. By harnessing technologies such as AI, the IoT, and advanced data analytics, churches can enhance their outreach, engagement, and operational efficiency (Chabata 2024:7). The River church harnessed the benefit of online audience by coupling with dedicated team to respond to the prayer requests that came in online. Some of these requests and comments would be brought to the pulpit to be responded to publicly. This became an instant personal interaction with people far and wide.

The 4IR, however, also raises important questions about the potential impact on doctrinal beliefs and the role of spiritual guidance in an increasingly automated world. The use of automated responses to calls, as seen in banks and some companies, should only be employed in the church to address administrative queries but never to address spiritual guidance. The use of automated responses can give misleading answers in matters of spirituality. Automated responses to calls should be limited to administrative field such as scheduling a meeting, giving direction to church building and leaving a message. Providing doctrinal and spiritual advice should still be done personally.

While the 4IR presents challenges, it also offers numerous benefits for churches, particularly Pentecostal ones. Benefits of AI should be sought without compromising the core beliefs and tenets of the church (Isetti, De Rachewiltz & Pechlaner 2025:1). Hereunder following are some of the benefits that 4IR can provide.

Enhanced outreach and engagement

Advanced technologies enable churches to reach a much wider audience than traditional methods. By leveraging social media platforms, live-streaming services, and mobile applications, churches broadcast their sermons and teachings globally, ensuring that the message of the gospel reaches individuals who might not be able to attend in person (Hirome 2024:56). Afunugo and Molokwu (2024:92) add that through AI technology, churches doing mission work, can map out people who are susceptible to the gospel message in order to reach them first. Moreover, AI-driven chatbots and virtual assistants provide 24/7 support to congregants, answering their queries, offering spiritual guidance, and even facilitating online donations.

Customised spiritual guidance

With the help of data analytics, churches gain insights into the needs and preferences of their congregants (Seo 2024:90). This information is used to tailor sermons, Bible study programmes, and community services to better address the spiritual and practical needs of the congregation. Personalised content delivery can make spiritual guidance more relevant and impactful, fostering deeper connections within the church community. It is important to observe that AI should be used as extension of humankind instead of replacement of humankind (Hirome 2024:57).

Operational efficiency

Artificial intelligence-powered systems significantly enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of services (Nalubega & Uwizeyimana 2024:5). The integration of IoT and smart systems has the potential of streamlining church operations, from facility management to event planning. Automated systems can manage lighting, temperature control, and security, ensuring a comfortable and safe environment for worship. Cloud-based solutions can simplify administrative tasks, such as scheduling, communication, and record-keeping, allowing church staff to focus more on ministry and less on logistics.

Innovative worship experiences

The 4IR also opens up possibilities for innovative worship experiences. Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) can create immersive worship environments, where congregants can experience biblical stories and events in a new and engaging way. These technologies can also facilitate remote participation in church events, ensuring inclusivity for those who are unable to attend physically.

However, it is crucial that churches balance the benefits of technology with the need for spiritual authenticity and personal connection. While technology can enhance the reach and efficiency of the church, it should not replace the essential human elements of faith and community. This article agrees with Saragih that:

[I]ndividuality as espoused in AI starts from a substance into personal and, finally, interpersonal. However, humanity as a created being is interpersonal from the beginning, both in essence and existence. (Hirome 2024:56)

Artificial intelligence should not replace personal connection in worship.

By thoughtfully integrating the advancements of the 4IR, churches can continue to thrive and fulfil their mission in an increasingly digital world.

It is important to notice that although AI technology is beneficial to churches, there are dangers that AI poses (Seo 2024:92). Relying solely on AI for spiritual matters such as sermon preparation and spiritual direction can lead to several dangers, which are discussed next.

Dangers of relying solely on artificial intelligence

• Lack of spiritual guidance: The Holy Spirit’s guidance is essential for sermon preparation. Relying solely on AI may lead to a lack of spiritual insight, revelation, and anointing.
• Limited perspective: AI systems, no matter how advanced, lack the divine perspective and understanding that the Holy Spirit provides.
• Depersonalisation of the message: AI-generated content may lack the personal touch, passion, and conviction that a Spirit-led preacher brings to the pulpit.
• Risk of error: AI systems can perpetuate errors, biases, and inaccuracies, which can be detrimental to the congregation’s spiritual growth.
• Loss of authenticity: Over-reliance on AI may lead to a loss of authenticity in the preaching ministry, as the message may come across as manufactured or artificial.
• Neglect of the pastor’s role: Relying solely on AI may diminish the pastor’s role as a shepherd, teacher, and spiritual guide.
• Unbalanced emphasis: AI may prioritise certain topics or themes over others, leading to an unbalanced emphasis in the preaching ministry.
• Dependence on technology: Over-reliance on AI may create a dependence on technology, rather than the Holy Spirit, for sermon preparation and direction.

The role of artificial intelligence in sermon preparation

Sermon preparation is the most spiritually engaging activity in the church (Simmerlein 2024:130). Artificial intelligence can be a valuable tool in sermon preparation, but it should augment and support the pastor’s role, rather than replace it. Artificial intelligence can help with:

• research and data analysis;
• organisation and outlining;
• suggesting relevant scriptures and themes;
• providing linguistic and grammatical assistance.

However, the final product should always be reviewed, edited, and infused with the pastor’s spiritual insight, passion, and conviction.

Significance of artificial intelligence beyond Christian Family Church and the River church

Christian Family Church uses AI responsibly to enhance their services, not to replace the Holy Spirit. Artificial intelligence helps them in practical ways, such as:

• writing church news script (announcements);
• creating captions for social media posts;
• creating voice overs on advertisements and video content;
• registering attendees to all services and capturing their attendance frequency;
• delivering sermons, through technology, to the congregation from a distant location;
• live-streaming services to people who are not physically present;
• receiving donations through technology;
• availing services through social media.

These applications of AI are designed to make services more accessible. However, it is crucial to emphasise that while AI offers a variety of practical benefits (Cheong & Liu 2025:13), spiritual matters must always derive from the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. Technology, no matter how advanced, lacks the divine connection and wisdom that come through prayer, meditation, and seeking God’s guidance. The church must remain vigilant to ensure that the use of AI aligns with its mission to elevate faith and nurture the spiritual growth of its congregation. By viewing AI as a supplemental tool rather than a source of spiritual direction, the church safeguards the sacred foundation upon which its teachings and practices are built.

With regard to sermon preparation, the core message of the sermon always comes from prayer, meditation, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Preachers can ask AI for clarity on specific topics or trends and to find relevant scriptures and historical contexts.

Both CFC and the River Church refrain from utilising AI in any capacity to replace the Holy Spirit. They ride a thin line of balancing technology and faith. They understand that technology can augment spiritual practices without replacing the divine inspiration that guides believers. They further acknowledge that AI is a tool designed to assist and not dominate lives. It can provide insights, analyse trends, and offer convenience in various aspects of daily activities.

Both churches warn of dangers that AI poses if used without discernment. Artificial intelligence can make minds lazy, leading to rely solely on it for answers instead of seeking divine revelation. By relying excessively on AI, one risk losing touch with the essential practices of prayer and meditation. The inspiration that comes from God cannot be replicated by any machine. Artificial intelligence’s answers can vary over time, highlighting its lack of self-awareness and the potential for conditioning our thoughts and behaviours.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the church can embrace the benefits of AI while remaining rooted in its spiritual practices. While implementing AI technology, the church should be careful of the negative effects of AI (Seo 2024:90). It can use AI to enhance efforts, but always seek clarity and inspiration from God. The church should remain prayerful, discerning, and open to the guidance of the Holy Spirit in all aspects of lives. As the church integrates AI into daily operations, it must balance its use with faith. The primary source of inspiration comes from God. Artificial intelligence is a tool to augment understanding and efficiency, but it must never replace the divine wisdom that leads us.

Because sermon preparation plays a critical spiritual role and while AI can be a helpful tool in sermon preparation, it is essential to maintain a balanced approach that prioritises the Holy Spirit’s guidance and the pastor’s role as a spiritual leader. By acknowledging the limitations and dangers of relying solely on AI, the pastor can ensure that the sermons remain spirit-led, authentic, and effective in nourishing the congregation’s spiritual growth.

May the church progress in faith and wisdom, utilising all available resources to honour God and serve its community effectively.

Acknowledgements

The author declares that there are no financial or personal relationships that may have inappropriately influenced the writing of this article.

B.D.M. is the sole author of this research article.

Ethical waiver to conduct this study was obtained from the God’s Tabernacle Christian Family Church dated 06 March 2025.

This research received no specific grant from any funding agency in the public, commercial, or non-profit sectors.

The data that support the findings of this study are available from the corresponding author, B.D.M. upon reasonable request.

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and are the product of professional research. It does not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any affiliated institution, funder, agency, or that of the publisher. The author is responsible for this article’s results, findings, and content.

References