A new app offering paid video chats with a digital version of Jesus has gone viral, charging users $1.99 per minute and igniting a heated debate about religion and technology as the faith tech market expands.
The app, called ‘Just Like Me’, lets users speak face-to-face with an AI-generated Jesus. It also offers a $49.99 monthly plan that includes 45 minutes of conversation time. The service launched quietly but quickly gained attention online this week, as users shared screenshots and reactions ranging from curiosity to shock.
The AI avatar appears calm and welcoming, with shoulder-length hair and soft features inspired by the actor who portrays Jesus in
‘The Chosen’. It speaks gently, remembers past conversations, responds to prayers, and offers advice based on the Bible. The system was trained using the King James Bible and thousands of sermons, and it works across multiple languages. Users can try it through a web browser without downloading an app.
Read also: Curbing the rise of malicious AI prompting: A robust and assertive call to action
Social media reactions came quickly. One user posted in disbelief that people could now pay to speak with an AI version of Jesus, helping the story spread widely online.
Religious critics were among the most vocal. Pastor Wendell described the app as a violation of the Second Commandment, arguing that it reduces Jesus to a controllable digital figure. He said faith should not be turned into something people can summon on demand.
Others raised ethical concerns. Financial commentator Hedgie warned that the app could exploit people who feel lonely or spiritually lost, especially if users form emotional connections with the AI.
Some reactions were even more blunt. Catholic commentator Anthony compared the service to monetised online content platforms, accusing it of using religion to attract and profit from users.
The company behind ‘Just Like Me’ has pushed back against the criticism. It says the AI is not the real Jesus and has no divine power, but is designed to provide comfort, reflection, and encouragement based on Scripture.
CEO Chris Breed said the goal is to help people deal with loneliness by offering support at any time.
The launch reflects a broader rise in faith tech, where AI tools simulate religious figures or offer spiritual guidance on demand. Similar platforms now feature digital versions of figures from other religions, as well as cultural icons.
Read also: Tech inspired by faith booms in Africa
Supporters say such tools can help people who are too busy, isolated, or hesitant to seek guidance from traditional religious spaces. In stressful times, they argue, a constant and calming digital presence can reinforce messages of hope, love, and forgiveness.
Critics, however, warn of deeper risks. They fear that paid AI services could replace genuine prayer, human connection, and community worship. There are also concerns about people forming emotional bonds with systems that cannot truly understand or guide them.
As technology continues to reshape everyday life, the line between digital assistance and spiritual experience is becoming less clear. Whether this $1.99-a-minute AI Jesus becomes a helpful tool or a troubling trend remains an open question, but the debate it has sparked is only just beginning.
Join BusinessDay whatsapp Channel, to stay up to date
Open In Whatsapp
