'AI Jesus' is the latest chatbot to hit the online world, creating something of a spiritual storm.
Streaming live 24 hours a day via Twitch, the 'Ask Jesus' has now been running for just over two days, and has already amassed a large crowd of virtual disciples.
The makeshift Messiah appears as a white, vaguely American-sounding representation of the Biblical Christ.
So far, his on-the-spot counsel extends from Biblical wisdom to life advice, break-up help, gaming cheats, and a few modernised parables.
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Users can ask as specific questions as they may like and can receive a near-on-the-spot response. For example, on Monday morning, a user by the name of 'Street Doggo' asked AI Jesus to provide a parable about monetary investment using Doritos as an analogy.
"Your question concerning the importance of investment and Doritos is indeed interesting and I am delighted to convey a message in the form of a parable," AI Christ responded before launching into a financial explanation detailing the distribution of bagged chips.
The stream is relatively new but has already demonstrated the ability to learn by recalling previous user interactions and greeting those who have returned to the feed to ask new questions.
At just two days old now, it is unclear how long the Ask Jesus feed will be able to last.
In the past, the platform has been plagued by over-adapting technology, as the AI chatbot adapts and learns less-than-ideal beliefs through the input of its virtual community.
In February 2023, Twitch removed 'Nothing Forever', an AI-generated Seinfeld show after its characters began to sprout transphobic dialogue.
Meanwhile, also at the beginning of 2023, Microsoft's AI-powered 'Bing Chat' had to be re-adjusted after its conversations with users became increasingly belligerent and unhinged.
Users had reported the chatbot hurling insults, threatening reputations and even likening some to Adolf Hitler.
Whether or not AI Jesus will take the same route will be seen in time.
Emma Horn
Supervising producer of the national video team. Former features and weekender writer for The Daily Advertiser. Now based in the NSW Hunter region. Small, quiet, and a student of the Paddington Bear School Of Staring. Usually dressed in something colourful, always snacking on something homemade, often watching birds. Friend to most mothers and all dogs. Got stories? Get in touch. emma.horn@austcommunitymedia.com.au
