When the Son of Man Returns in the Era of AI: Faith, Deception, and Discernment

It took a LONG time for me to get all of this podcast in- I was AMAZED by Wesley Huff and I appreciate the questions and dialogue by Rogan. As the church, we are in a unique time with more opportunity than ever to present the historical evidence for Jesus and the trustworthiness of the gospel accounts...... will we step up? When the Son of Man returns will He find faith on the earth?

In a recent, super intriguing episode of The Joe Rogan Experience, Rogan and Wesley Huff discussed (among MANY things) a profound hypothetical: if Jesus were to return in a world dominated by artificial intelligence (AI) and virtual reality (VR), would humanity be able to recognize Him? 

Rogan speculated, “If Jesus does return, but when he returns, we’re just so confused that we can’t even tell.” In a time where deepfakes, AI-generated images, and virtual realities blur the lines between the real and the simulated, this question forces us to consider the implications of faith and discernment in an era of technological deception.

Rogan's concern is deeply relevant: “Imagine if we really reach a point where virtual reality is indistinguishable from regular reality. How would we know?” This reflects the growing skepticism of modern society, where even empirical evidence can be manipulated. In such a context, the return of Christ—an event anticipated as undeniable and transformative—may be met with unprecedented doubt and confusion.

Biblical Foundations on End-Times Deception

Scripture provides a sobering warning about deception in the last days. Revelation 13:11-18 describes the Beast of the Land, often interpreted as the False Prophet, who performs “signs and wonders to deceive the inhabitants of the earth.” This figure’s ability to create convincing illusions parallels modern concerns about technology’s potential to manipulate reality.

Jesus Himself warned of this in Matthew 24:24: “For false messiahs and false prophets will appear and perform great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect.” The advent of AI and VR could be tools through which such deception manifests, challenging even the faithful.

Yet, Jesus assures believers in John 10:27: “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.” This promise underscores the importance of a personal relationship with Christ, enabling His followers to discern His voice amidst the noise.

Rogan’s reflections touch on a broader theological truth. He remarked, “If you do live like a Christian and you do follow the principles of Christ, you will have a richer, more love-filled life.” The transformative power of faith offers a way to navigate the uncertainties of the modern world, grounding believers in eternal truths rather than transient technological realities. To be clear, faith in Jesus is a step further, we don't believe because it works.... we believe because it is true.... I don't have time or space to delve into the almost but not yet attempts our culture does in applying an ideology, or moralism.... but that is not what Jesus is claiming or demanding...

But I have to appreciate the fact that he IS WRESTLING...(you need to listen to the entire podcast and be ready to ne awestruck by Wes Huff's depth of expertise....

Rogan’s skepticism about Jesus’ identity—“You have to submit to this concept that this guy was the child of God who came down to Earth…and then said, alright, see you when I come back”—highlights the challenge of faith in an empirical age. The very idea of Christ’s return, already difficult for some to grasp, becomes even more contentious when placed in the context of virtual illusions and AI-generated realities.

As technology advances, Christians must cultivate spiritual discernment to recognize truth amidst deception. The Apostle Paul’s admonition in 1 Thessalonians 5:21-22 is more relevant than ever: “Test everything. Hold on to what is good. Reject every kind of evil.”

This discernment requires:

• A Deep Relationship with Christ: Jesus’ assurance in John 10:27 reminds believers that recognizing His voice is rooted in intimacy with Him.

• Engagement with Scripture: Psalm 119:105 declares, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” Immersion in God’s Word provides clarity and guidance in confusing times.

• Community Accountability: Hebrews 10:25 emphasizes the importance of gathering together, especially as “the Day approaches.” A faith community can help discern truth from falsehood.

Could the very nature of Christ’s return address these challenges? Acts 1:11 promises that Jesus will return “in the same way you have seen Him go into heaven”—a visible, unmistakable event. Yet, the possibility of technological interference raises questions about how humanity might interpret such an event.

Some might argue that Christ’s return in an age of AI would amplify the need for faith. Rogan mused, “That would be the ultimate test of faith, right, when it’s impossible to discern.” This paradox—a visible return in a society unable to trust its perceptions—highlights the importance of spiritual readiness.

Ultimately, the era of AI challenges believers to trust in the unchanging Christ rather than their senses. Hebrews 13:8 declares, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.” This truth provides assurance that no matter how reality is manipulated, Christ’s message and mission remain constant.

In a world increasingly shaped by artificial realities, the call to faith becomes both a challenge and an opportunity. For believers, this path is illuminated by the Holy Spirit’s guidance, ensuring that even in an age of deception, they will recognize the voice of the true Shepherd.

For more info feel free to read my posts on Revelation and The Olivet Discourse.