Can AI Replace the Holy Spirit in Preaching? A Theological Discernment from the FJKM Church

The integration of generative artificial intelligence (AI) into homiletic practices raises urgent theological questions about the nature of preaching, the role of the Holy Spirit, and the identity of the preacher. This study investigates whether AI can serve as a legitimate tool for sermon preparation or whether its use constitutes an ontological threat to the incarnate and pneumatological character of Christian proclamation. The research combines a systematic theological analysis (drawing on Antiqua et Nova, Barthian theology, and Francophone practical theology) with an empirical survey conducted within the FJKM Church (Fiangonan’i Jesoa Kristy eto Madagasikara) among 67 pastors and lay leaders in April 2026. Quantitative data were analyzed using a one‑way ANOVA to test the null hypothesis of no difference between clergy and laity regarding AI as a substitute for the Holy Spirit. The survey reveals that 81% of respondents see AI as potentially useful, but 91% reject any replacement of the Holy Spirit in sermon preparation. Strong majorities support a dedicated digital commission (87%), seminary training on AI (84%), and a theologically grounded FJKM‑specific AI model (82%). The ANOVA shows no statistically significant difference between pastors and laity (p = 0.412), indicating a shared ecclesial consensus. The study concludes that AI may be used as a functional research assistant under strict conditions (post‑writing, supervised research) but never as a substitute for the preacher’s spiritual struggle, prayer, or the Holy Spirit’s anointing. Six principles for theological discernment are proposed, including the primacy of lectio divina, closed‑loop sourcing, human supervision, incarnate presence, community transparency, and the algorithmic unavailability of the internal forum.