The AI Sermon Research Assistant

powered by Google Gemini

1. Sign in to Google.

A free Google (Gmail or YouTube) account is required to access the tool.

2. Pin the Message Research Assistant

Under Gems in Gemini’s side menu for future access.

3. Enter a summary of your sermon

Idea, theme, or passage, and answer the prompts.

Get a 1-to-1 training session on how to get the most out of the message research assistant tool.


Using the AI Message Research Assistant for Sermon Preparation

1. Introduction to the Tool 0:01

  • This is an AI tool called the Message Research Assistant designed for pastors.

  • Its purpose is to aid in message research, not to replace personal study or pastoral discipline.

 

2. Ethical Use Agreement 1:42

  • Users must agree to use the tool ethically.

  • The tool is not intended for ghostwriting sermons.

 

3. Understanding AI Limitations 1:50

  • Be aware of AI ‘hallucination’ where it may generate incorrect information.

  • Always verify and validate the content provided by the tool.

 

4. Technical Requirements 3:11

  • The tool is powered by Google Gemini, which may not align with all theological beliefs.

  • Users must be logged into their Google account to use the tool effectively.

  • It works best in the Chrome browser.

 

5. Starting Your Research 4:44

  • After agreeing to ethical use, input the sermon passage (e.g., Genesis 6).

  • Select preferred Bible translations (e.g., New King James, ESV).

 

6. Defining Message Structure 5:15

  • Provide a rough draft of the main divisions for your message.

  • The tool may suggest possible divisions, but users should come prepared with their own.

 

7. Central Theme Development 7:06

  • Input a central theme for the message (e.g., ‘Just as Noah found grace, you can find it too’).

  • Take time to develop a thoughtful theme.

 

8. Generating Research Notes 7:39

  • The tool generates supporting content, title ideas, and outlines to inspire creativity.

  • Use these suggestions as a starting point, not as final content.

 

9. Exploring Supporting Content 8:43

  • The tool provides etymology, personal illustration prompts, historical illustrations, and cultural references.

  • Verify the reliability of any links or sources provided.

 

10. Conclusion and Reflection Options 12:02

  • The conclusion section offers prompts for reflection and calls to action.

  • Use these ideas to enhance the message, but do not copy them verbatim.

 

11. Exporting Your Work 12:49

  • Use the ‘Share and Export’ feature to save your research to a Google Doc for further editing.

 

12. Final Thoughts and Feedback 13:28

  • The tool aims to save time in research, allowing more focus on spiritual preparation.

  • Users are encouraged to provide feedback and report any issues.