In this captivating episode, Mike sits down with Pastor Adam Mesa for a thought-provoking discussion on the intersection of church innovation, artificial intelligence (AI), and discipleship. As they talk about Pastor Adam's journey and his church's bold transition to a new name, a clear vision emerges: harnessing the power of technology to become better disciple makers.

Through their engaging conversation, Pastor Adam and Mike explore the exciting possibilities that AI brings to the church. They envision AI as a powerful supplement, enhancing preaching and content creation while maintaining the importance of authenticity and personal study. Pastor Adam shares valuable insights from his colleagues in ministry, revealing a positive sentiment towards AI, especially among millennial pastors and younger generations who are eager to embrace this transformative tool.

As the discussion unfolds, the key to successfully implementing AI in churches becomes clear: transparency. Pastor Adam emphasizes the significance of pastors openly sharing anecdotes and explanations with their congregations, fostering trust and understanding. Remarkably, the use of AI in churches is not a divisive issue among millennials, who are open-minded and ready to explore its potential.

Innovation takes center stage as Pastor Adam and Mike examine the dynamics of multi-generational churches. They highlight the driving force behind progress: a deep-seated passion for the next generation and an unwavering commitment to leveraging technological advancements while keeping the gospel at the heart of their mission.

The impact of long-form podcasts, such as Beyond the Letter and Beyond I Do, is a testament to the power of innovative outreach. These podcasts have not only reached and discipled the congregation but have also sparked viral clips that draw people to the church, igniting life-changing conversations.

Takeaways:
1. Technology, including AI, can be a powerful supplement to enhance preaching and content creation in the church while maintaining authenticity and personal study.

2. There is a growing positive sentiment towards AI among Pastor Adam's colleagues in ministry, with millennial pastors and younger generations embracing it as a tool for reaching and discipling the next generation.

3. Transparency is crucial when implementing AI in churches, with pastors openly sharing anecdotes and explanations to foster trust and understanding among their congregations.

4. The use of AI in churches is not a divisive issue among millennials, who are open to exploring its potential.

5. Innovation in multi-generational churches is driven by a passion for the next generation and a commitment to leveraging technological advancements while keeping the gospel at the center.

6. Long-form podcasts, like Beyond the Letter and Beyond I Do, have demonstrated their impact in reaching and discipling the congregation, with viral clips drawing people to the church and sparking life-changing conversations.

Chapters
00:00 - Introduction and Background
03:22 - Transition to a New Church Name
06:07 - Focus on Helping People with Physical and Spiritual Needs
09:46 - Early Adoption of Technology, including AI
12:26 - Theological and Philosophical Frameworks about AI
14:21 - Using Technology as a Supplement in Preaching & Content Creation
17:24 - The Positive Sentiment Towards AI in the Church
18:57 - Embracing AI: Reaching and Discipling the Next Generation
25:38 - Transparency and Honest Anecdotes: Implementing AI in Churches
31:01 - Innovation in Multi-Generational Churches
35:40 - Long-Form Podcasts: Impactful Tools for Reaching and Discipling