Abundant Life in the AI Era: Rev. Dr. Tony Sundermeier’s Vision for Divine Technology

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Rev. Dr. Tony Sundermeier, Senior Pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Atlanta, joins us to explore how artificial intelligence intersects with faith and ministry. Known for his theologically rich approach to leadership, Dr. Sundermeier shares insights on using AI as a “conversation partner” in sermon preparation, experimenting with AI-generated liturgy, and the ethical implications of tech-driven ministry.

The conversation delves into two biblical perspectives on technology: the Tower of Babel as a caution against human pride, and Jesus’s affirmation that “nothing will be impossible” as a guide for human progress. Together, they explore if AI can serve divine purposes or if it risks fueling mere human ambition.

⭐ Featured Guest: Rev. Dr. Tony Sundermeier: Rev. Dr. Tony Sundermeier is the Senior Pastor of the First Presbyterian Church of Atlanta, a congregation of 2,000 members in Midtown. Recognized for his impactful leadership and congregational renewal efforts, Dr. Sundermeier holds degrees from Eastern University, Princeton Theological Seminary, and Missio Seminary, and has an honorary doctorate from Eastern. He has led various congregations across the U.S. and Germany and serves on multiple boards, including Princeton Theological Seminary and the Midtown Alliance.

Connect with Rev. Dr. Tony Sundermeier: • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tony_sundermeier/ • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tony-sundermeier-2a6540234/

🎙️ Host: Brent Macon Brent Macon is an Atlanta-based entrepreneur, investor, and podcast host. As a dad and spiritual seeker, he explores how technology can enhance our lives. Through Macon Atlanta, Brent engages with guests on big ideas, personal growth, and community building, balancing ambition with well-being and using business for good.

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Chapters: 0:00 - Introduction to Dr. Tony Sundermeier and AI in Ministry  1:23 - Using ChatGPT as a Conversation Partner in Sermons  4:38 - The Rapid Pace of Technological Shifts  6:55 - Eschatology and Eternal Perspectives on AI  9:55 - AI’s Role in Human Flourishing and Abundant Life  13:03 - Dr. Sundermeier’s Personal Faith Journey and Theology  15:35 - Technology as a Tool for Abundant Life  18:18 - Ethical Boundaries in Technological Development  20:30 - The Tower of Babel vs. Jesus’s Promise on Technology  23:18 - Exploring Concepts of Divine Providence in AI  27:05 - The Power of Technology in Christian Fellowship  31:40 - The Role of Suffering in Christian Spirituality  35:20 - Social Media’s Impact on Spirituality and Wellbeing  38:55 - Preparing Future Technologists with Christian Ethics  42:11 - Challenges for the Church in the Age of AI  45:35 - The Church’s Prophetic Role in Engaging Technology  50:05 - Lightning Round and Closing Remarks