The New Babel?

Ray Kurzweil, known as the father of singularity, recently had an interview with a well-known personality about the benefits of singularity. The term is used to describe the hypothetical point at which technology -- in particular artificial intelligence (AI) powered by machine learning algorithms -- reaches a superhuman level of intelligence and capability. He said that at that time life expectancy would reach the point where man would theoretically never have to die by disease if he would accept the upgrades available.

Ray Kurzweil's concept of the singularity, where artificial intelligence reaches a superhuman level, raises interesting and complex questions, especially when considered from a biblical perspective.

In the Bible, human life and its natural course, including birth, life, death, and the afterlife, are seen as part of God's sovereign plan. The idea of indefinitely extending life through technology can be viewed as conflicting with the biblical understanding of human existence and its finite nature. For example, Hebrews 9:27 states, "And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment." This verse suggests that death is an inevitable part of life and serves a purpose within God's plan.

Furthermore, the Bible emphasizes the importance of spiritual well-being over physical immortality. In John 11:25-26, Jesus says, "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die." This passage points to a belief in eternal life through faith in Jesus Christ, rather than through technological advancements.

While the Bible doesn't specifically address the concept of technological singularity, it does caution against placing one's hope in the things of this world or human achievement. In Psalm 146:3, it's written, "Do not put your trust in princes, in human beings, who cannot save." This can be interpreted as a warning against relying solely on human ingenuity for salvation or eternal life.

The concept of accepting "upgrades" to extend life indefinitely could also be seen as challenging the biblical view of human identity and the value of our natural, God-given form. The Bible teaches that humans are created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27) and that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). Altering the fundamental nature of human life could be seen as undermining these biblical truths.

Ultimately, while technology can bring many benefits and is not inherently contrary to the Christian faith, the pursuit of immortality through technological means raises significant theological and ethical questions from a biblical standpoint. The focus of Christian hope, according to the Bible, remains on spiritual redemption and eternal life through faith in Jesus Christ, rather than on the indefinite extension of physical life.

More recently Yuval Noah Harari, one of the great minds behind the Globalists' agenda, claims humans will soon gain divine creative abilities and solve death through technology. Some see the drivers of AI and trans-humanism are people who want to attain Godlike powers to create life and transcend human limitations.

The views of Yuval Noah Harari and others who advocate for the potential of humans to gain "divine creative abilities" and solve death through technology, particularly in the context of AI and trans-humanism, are indeed thought-provoking. Analyzing these views from a biblical perspective offers a distinct contrast.

Firstly, the Bible asserts that divine attributes, including the power to create life and to overcome death, belong exclusively to God. In Genesis, the creation narrative clearly attributes the origin of life to God's creative act ("In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth." - Genesis 1:1). The power over life and death is consistently ascribed to God throughout scripture (Deuteronomy 32:39: "See now that I, even I, am he, and there is no god with me: I kill, and I make alive; I wound, and I heal: neither is there any that can deliver out of my hand.").

In the context of overcoming death, Christian doctrine emphasizes that this is achieved not through human efforts or technology but through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. In 1 Corinthians 15:55-57, the apostle Paul celebrates the victory over death through Christ: "Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?... But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ."

The pursuit of godlike powers in humans, as suggested in trans-humanism, poses significant ethical and theological concerns from a biblical viewpoint. It suggests a human effort to usurp roles and abilities that the Bible reserves for God. The story of the Tower of Babel in Genesis 11:1-9 is often cited as a cautionary tale about human pride and the attempt to equal God, which led to confusion and dispersion.

Furthermore, the biblical concept of human identity and purpose involves living in a relationship with God, recognizing human limitations, and depending on God's grace. The aspiration to transcend human limitations through technology can be seen as a manifestation of the human desire for autonomy and independence from God, which contrasts with biblical teachings on humility and reliance on God (Proverbs 3:5-6: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.").

In conclusion, while technological advancements, including AI and trans-humanism, raise intriguing possibilities, they also present challenges when viewed through a biblical lens. The Bible teaches that divine attributes are the sole province of God and that human attempts to attain these attributes can lead to ethical and spiritual dilemmas. The Christian perspective emphasizes reliance on God's grace and the hope of eternal life through faith in Jesus Christ, rather than seeking immortality and godlike powers through human means.

I'm glad you brought up the tower of Babel because that is what came to mind while researching these technology and AI experts. Several things come to mind while discussing these issues. One is, of course, why many believe end times are near. The mark of the beast comes to mind. Another is that while Christians will make valiant efforts to abstain from 'body upgrades,' it is going to be very difficult to compete in schools, job markets, athletics, etc. against these super-human models.

The comparison of contemporary technological advancements and AI to the Tower of Babel story is indeed a thought-provoking one. The Tower of Babel (Genesis 11:1-9) symbolizes humanity's pride and attempt to attain greatness independently of God, leading to confusion and disunity. This narrative can be paralleled with modern efforts to transcend human limitations through technology, raising concerns from a biblical standpoint.

The "end times" and the "mark of the beast," are topics deeply embedded in Christian eschatology, particularly in the interpretation of the Book of Revelation. The "mark of the beast" (Revelation 13:16-17) is often interpreted as a symbol of allegiance to anti-Christian power and a rejection of God. Some Christians view the rapid advancement in technology, including AI, as potentially fulfilling these prophetic scriptures, particularly if such technologies are used to control or manipulate individuals in opposition to Christian values and teachings.

The challenge for Christians in a world where 'body upgrades' or enhanced abilities through technology become the norm is significant. This issue touches on the biblical values of integrity, identity, and faithfulness to God's design. Christians may find themselves grappling with ethical dilemmas in areas like education, employment, and sports, where enhanced capabilities could create disparities and unfair advantages.

In such a context, biblical teachings would encourage believers to focus on spiritual virtues and godly wisdom rather than worldly success or physical enhancement. The Bible emphasizes values like contentment (Philippians 4:11-13), integrity (Proverbs 10:9), and the pursuit of spiritual rather than worldly gain (Matthew 6:19-21). Christians are called to live in the world but not be of the world (John 17:14-16), maintaining their faith and principles even in challenging circumstances.

Christians facing these dilemmas would likely be encouraged to find strength in their faith, community, and the wisdom of Scripture. The Bible teaches the importance of discernment (Hebrews 5:14) and looking to God for guidance (James 1:5). While it may be difficult to compete in a world that increasingly values and depends on technological enhancements, the Christian perspective would advocate for maintaining one's integrity and trust in God's plan, even in the face of societal pressures and challenges.

In summary, the rapid advancement in technology and AI does resonate with certain biblical themes and prophecies, and it presents complex challenges for Christians seeking to live out their faith in an increasingly technologically driven world. The response to these challenges is rooted in biblical values, reliance on God's wisdom, and the hope and assurance found in the Christian faith.

In the discussion mentioned at the beginning of this discourse, Glenn Beck, I believe, asked Kurzweil what if he chose not to take the upgrades. Kurzweil responded, why in the world would you not. Beck thought that he shouldn't. Kurzweil responded he supposed that Beck, then could become Amish.

The exchange you've described between Glenn Beck and Ray Kurzweil is quite revealing in terms of contrasting worldviews. Kurzweil's response, suggesting that choosing not to adopt technological upgrades might align one with an Amish-like lifestyle, highlights a significant cultural and philosophical divide.

The Amish are known for their deliberate avoidance of certain modern technologies, which they believe can disrupt community life and detract from their religious values. In this context, choosing a simpler, less technologically integrated life is seen as a way to preserve certain values and a way of life that is seen as more in harmony with their interpretation of Christian principles.

From a Christian biblical perspective, this conversation touches on several core themes:

1. Free Will and Choice: Christianity teaches the importance of free will and the responsibility that comes with it. The decision to accept or reject technological advances can be seen as a matter of personal conscience and discernment. Romans 14:5 says, "Each one should be fully convinced in his own mind," indicating the importance of personal conviction in matters not explicitly outlined in Scripture.

2. Stewardship and Wisdom: Christians are called to be stewards of God's creation and to use wisdom in how they interact with the world. This includes discerning the use of technology. While technology is not inherently bad and can be used for good, Christians are encouraged to consider the ethical and moral implications of its use (James 3:17).

3. Identity and Worldly Influence: The Bible emphasizes the importance of not being conformed to the pattern of this world (Romans 12:2). This can extend to resisting societal pressures to conform, especially when they conflict with Christian beliefs and values.

4. Community and Simplicity: The Christian life is often associated with principles of community, simplicity, and focusing on spiritual rather than material wealth. The lifestyle chosen by groups like the Amish represents an extreme interpretation of these principles, but it resonates with the broader Christian call to a life that prioritizes spiritual over material values (Matthew 6:19-21).

In conclusion, the decision to embrace or reject technological advancements, such as those proposed by Kurzweil, involves complex considerations for Christians. It's about balancing the benefits of technology with a commitment to biblical values, ethical discernment, and the maintenance of a Christ-centered identity. The conversation between Beck and Kurzweil underscores the broader dialogue between faith and technology in contemporary society, where individuals must navigate their choices in light of their beliefs and values.