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Have you ever wished you could show a scene from scripture during your sermon, like Moses parting the Red Sea, but couldn’t find the right image? Or maybe you’ve needed graphics for an upcoming sermon series but didn’t have the staff, time, or budget to create them.
That’s where AI-generated imagery becomes an incredible tool for ministries, and learning to craft the right prompts is the key to unlocking its full potential.
Today’s AI image tools allow you to describe a scene with words and generate a custom image in seconds—no stock photo subscription or design skills required. With these easy-to-use tools, you can bring your vision to life.
The key to creating the perfect image is knowing how to prompt the AI tool correctly. Whether you’re new to AI image generation or are simply having trouble finding the right image online, let’s equip you with AI prompting skills that get results.
A prompt is simply a description you give the AI tool that tells it what kind of image to generate. The AI takes that prompt and turns it into a visual that reflects your words.
Vague prompts like “Jesus” or “The Cross” can lead to random or unhelpful images. Many people have tried AI tools to create images, just to quit when the results don’t match their needs. However, a well-crafted prompt gives you a result that aligns with your unique vision for your sermon.
Here are 4 reasons why learning the art of prompt writing is worthwhile for ministries:
1. Instant access to Biblical imagery
AI tools allow you to quickly generate complex biblical scenes or historical settings that may be otherwise hard to find. For instance, depicting a historical event from the Bible can now be done in seconds.
2. Easy customization for your church’s unique message
Unlike generic stock photos, AI-generated visuals are crafted from the specific wording you provide, meaning they can be tailored to fit the tone, color scheme, and theme of your ministry’s message.
3. Budget-friendly solution for ministries of all sizes
For many churches, hiring a graphic designer or purchasing expensive stock imagery isn’t always in the budget. AI tools offer a cost-effective solution to producing high-quality visuals without breaking the bank.
4. The ability to experiment
Sometimes finding the right image requires testing different ideas. With AI, you can experiment with various styles, compositions, and details at a fraction of the time and cost it would take with traditional design methods.
When you first start using AI tools to create visuals, it can feel a bit like learning a new language. The key is crafting prompts that are both detailed and clear. AI tools learn statistical associations between language and visual patterns, the images are not created based on logic or literal understanding.
Let’s build an effective prompt using 5 key elements that every prompt should include:
The main subject of your prompt is the core of the image. This is the primary focus or central element you want to portray.
Example: “Jesus praying in the Garden of Gethsemane.”
The setting is where the action takes place, and it adds context to the image. Are you envisioning an outdoor scene, a church interior, or a specific city like Jerusalem? Including these details helps the AI generate an environment that complements your subject.
Example: “In a peaceful garden, under the moonlight, surrounded by olive trees.”
The style or medium refers to the visual approach you want for the image. It could be realistic, impressionistic, minimalist, or vintage. Including these descriptors helps the AI tools determine how the image is executed, from photo-realistic renderings to watercolor-like effects or even digital art styles.
Example: “In the style of an oil painting with soft brushstrokes.”
The mood or tone is critical in conveying the emotional context of your image. Are you aiming for a peaceful, somber, or joyful atmosphere? Is the scene bright and uplifting, or dark and reflective?
Example: “A somber, reflective mood with soft lighting, a sense of peace.”
Describing the lighting and color palette of your image adds a layer of specificity to help the AI capture your vision. Do you want bright, natural light, or the dramatic shadows of a stormy sky? The right lighting can drastically affect the tone of the visual.
Example: “Golden hour light filtering through the trees, creating long shadows and a warm, glowing ambiance.”
Now that we understand the different components, let’s combine them into a complete prompt:
Prompt: “Jesus praying in the Garden of Gethsemane, under the moonlight, surrounded by olive trees, in the style of an oil painting with soft brushstrokes. The mood is somber and reflective, with soft lighting and a peaceful, quiet atmosphere. Golden hour light filtering through the trees creates a warm glow, casting long shadows.”
This prompt is clear, descriptive, and specific, which helps the AI create an image that aligns closely with your desired vision. It combines all key elements to guide the AI's creative process effectively.
As with any creative process, the more you practice, the better you’ll get at writing prompts. Here are a few expert tips to level up your AI prompts:
Be descriptive & specific
As described above, the more details you include, the closer the AI will come to capturing your vision. Specify colors, lighting, and even textures where applicable. Vague prompts such as “a cross” will create generic results.
More detail = more control. Think of prompts as painting with words.
Be intentional with the order of your words
AI reads left to right, and weights early terms more heavily. Lead with the main subject, then add modifiers.
If you're referencing a Biblical scene, try to include a few key contextual elements like the time of day, weather, or surrounding environment to make the scene feel more realistic and true to Scripture.
Balance the amount of detail you provide
You can layer prompts like Lego bricks: More words = more control but only up to a point. Too many words can confuse the model.
1–2 sentences or ~75 words max is ideal for most tools.
Think like an artist
Don’t assume AI knows your taste. Think about artistic styles or photography techniques when describing the image. Terms like “oil painting,” “digital art,” or “wide-angle view” will guide the AI to produce more specific styles.
Don’t be afraid to adjust your prompt based on what the AI generates. If the image isn’t quite right, tweak your description and try again.
Have patience
The adage, “Good things come to those who wait,” applies to using AI tools as well. Oftentimes, it may take you several attempts to get just the right image, and that’s okay. Keep in mind that the right image can make all the difference, and taking the time to get it perfect is worth it.
Unsure of what AI software to use? Here is a breakdown of popular AI Image tools by budget:
Free or Low-Cost Options
Mid-Range Paid Tools
Professional/Advanced Tools
In today’s visual world, the message of the Church can be amplified when it’s supported by intentional imagery. AI-generated images, powered by well-written prompts, give you a creative edge—one that doesn’t require a big budget or deep design experience.
AI can be used as a powerful tool to help your ministry communicate clearly and creatively with imagery. And mastering prompts gives you more tools to work with and allows your church’s message to shine through creative imagery.
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