The Sacred Tech Stack : Lessons from Jesus for the Digital Age
From Roman Roads to AI: Redeeming Technology with Purpose - Geof Morin - Missional AI 2025
In a world increasingly defined by algorithms and artificial intelligence, Geof Morin's keynote at the Missional AI 2025 conference in Dallas offered a compelling exploration of how ancient wisdom can inform our engagement with modern technology. Morin delved into the ways Jesus utilized the tools of His time—not to dominate, but to connect, reframe, and transform.
Technology as a Bridge for Connection
Morin began by highlighting the Roman roads of Jesus' era—an extensive network spanning over 250,000 miles. These roads were more than mere infrastructure; they were conduits for connection. Jesus leveraged them not just for travel but as metaphors in His teachings. For instance, He spoke of the "narrow gate" and the "wide road," using the physical realities of His time to illustrate spiritual truths.
"It wasn't just about transferring what was an administration and conquest tool for the Roman Empire. It was now a tool of access and engagement for Jesus."
This perspective invites us to consider how today's digital highways—social media, messaging apps, and online platforms—can be repurposed to foster genuine human connection.
Reframing Tools for Greater Purpose
Morin recounted the story of Peter, a fisherman who, after a fruitless night, was instructed by Jesus to cast his net once more. This act wasn't merely about catching fish; it was about reimagining the purpose of one's tools and labor.
"Jesus said, 'I want you to rethink it. I want you to reframe that tech. I want you not just to think about how can I be more successful with it, but how might it change the world?'"
In our context, this challenges us to look beyond the conventional uses of technology. Can a data analytics tool be used to identify communities in need? Can a social media platform become a space for meaningful dialogue?
Lightening Life's Burdens Through Innovation
Addressing a nuanced dilemma, Morin spoke of the temple tax and the problematic currency bearing the image of the god Baal. Jesus' solution—to find a coin in a fish's mouth—was both miraculous and symbolic. It served to diffuse tension and bring the levites to a potentially divisive situation.
"Let's just laugh a little bit please. Let's just not let this be a distraction. Let's allow for our hearts and our lives just to be relaxed a bit."
This anecdote underscores the potential of technology to alleviate stress and bring joy. In a world often burdened by the complexities of digital life, perhaps there's room for solutions that simplify and uplift.
Transforming Symbols of Oppression into Emblems of Hope
Perhaps the most profound example Morin presented was the Roman cross—a tool of execution and oppression. Jesus transformed it into a symbol of hope and redemption.
The message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved, it is the power of God. 1 Corinthians 1.18
This transformation prompts reflection on how we might reclaim and repurpose the tools and symbols of our time. Can we turn platforms often associated with division into spaces of unity? Can we transform technologies that isolate into ones that connect?
Embracing Technology with Purpose and Hope
Morin concluded with a call to action: to view technology not as an end but as a means—a tool to be wielded with intention and compassion.
"How do we see this tech—AI—be leveraged to transform a world to see the love of a God and savior who's come for us?"
While rooted in Christian theology, this question resonates universally. It challenges us all, regardless of belief, to consider how we might use the tools at our disposal to foster understanding, compassion, and positive transformation in our communities.