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Navigating the World of Writing with ChatGPT: A Pastor's Perspective



In the ever-evolving landscape of technology, the emergence of AI tools like ChatGPT has sparked a variety of reactions, especially within the realms of creativity and authorship. As a pastor and an aspiring author, I've found myself at the intersection of these discussions, leading me to clarify how I am utilizing ChatGPT in my journey of writing a book.


Firstly, let's address the elephant in the room: the notion that using ChatGPT might be considered 'cheating'. The ethics of AI in creative processes is a complex and nuanced topic. For some, the idea of leaning on an AI for any part of the creative process might seem like a shortcut. But here's how I view it: every tool has its place and purpose, and it's all about how we use it.


In the crafting of my book, the core of the writing - the heart, soul, and message - comes entirely from me. These are messages that I have personally written and delivered in the past. The challenge, however, lies in the transformation of these spoken messages into written chapters suitable for a book. This transition requires significant rewriting, especially at the beginning and the end of each piece, to adapt the content from an auditory medium to a literary one.


After I complete the initial rewrite of my messages, I turn to ChatGPT as a digital assistant for proofreading, focusing on grammar and spelling - areas where I openly admit to needing some support. Following this, I seek what I call 'brutal feedback' from ChatGPT. I ask for honest, constructive criticism on the strengths and weaknesses of each chapter. This feedback is invaluable, offering me a fresh perspective and sometimes prompting further revisions.


I view ChatGPT as an editorial tool, a digital counterpart to the traditional human editor. It's a learning process for me as well, enhancing my understanding of what constitutes effective writing. There was an instance where, purely as an experiment, I asked ChatGPT to convert one of my messages into a book chapter. The result was awful. That exercise reaffirmed my belief that the essence of my writing - the unique voice and message - can only come from me.


In conclusion, my use of ChatGPT is circumscribed and specific: it serves as a proofreader and a source of feedback. It's a tool that assists in the refinement process but never replaces the personal touch and authenticity of my own writing. In this journey of authorship, my commitment to maintaining the integrity and authenticity of my message remains unwavering. As I continue to learn and grow in my writing skills, I embrace the support that technology offers, while firmly holding onto the essence of what makes my writing uniquely mine.

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