Hey, it’s Brady,

Here’s the good news: Churches are among the most insulated institutions in an AI-saturated society.

However, the world in 2040 will look dramatically different than it does today.

And there are 4 changes I think every church should make before 2030 (the sooner the better).

AI can generate stories. It cannot declare orthodoxy.

In 2040: Content is infinite and disposable.

Canon is scarce and authoritative. In a world where AI can generate virtually perfect sermons, devotionals, and illustrations, AI cannot declare orthodoxy, bind generations together, and say this is the faith once delivered.

Information changes what you know. Formation changes who you are.

In 2040: AI excels at novelty, dominates information, and is trusted more than humans for speed and accuracy. In a world where information is immediate, cognitive, and private, formation is embodied, slow, and public.

Hyper-personalization isolates. Shared standards unite.

In 2040: AI hyper-personalizes everything.

The future church must re-standardize life on purpose. This sounds backward, but that's the point. Shared vows, rhythms, and disciplines bring belonging.

Hyper-personalization ends in isolation.

In a world where everything is easy, places that require effort become more meaningful, not less.

In 2040: AI optimizes for ease, comfort, and removal of friction. The future church must justify inconvenience and make faith cost something.

Church planters copy established churches and waste a story they'll never have again.

Today, we'll unpack your questions on church plant social, handouts, generative AI, announcements, and apps vs. a central hub.

Dive in here.

Thanks as always for your time, attention, and trust. Talk to you next Thursday. - Brady Shearer