In this week’s edition of Newsweek, much is made of recent data that indicates a decline of Christian influence in America. You can read the article HERE.
I will discuss some points about the survey in coming days…but one thing that stands out, which is consistent with some commentary I heard this morning on a cable news channel (FOX News)…is that the decline in professing Christians seems to come from the “middle of the road” folks. Those who are committed Conservatives or die-hard atheists/agnostics are not the ones changing their positions. In fact, some data supports a rise in those identifying themselves as ”conservative” or “evangelical,” as well as those identifying themselves as “atheists.” The point being…if a person has a strong view on God (either for or against), they are likely not the ones being “changed” over the last 20 years. The battle is for the hearts and minds of the “middle,” those who are still in need of making up their minds on what they will do with “Jesus.”
God alone is the one who draws people to Himself. We, as His people, are called to simply speak the truth of His love for ALL of humanity and His desire for ALL of humanity to be reconciled to a Holy God who ALONE provides Salvation…available by His grace through our faithful and true response to Him. We are to do so in a way that promotes an understanding of God, is faithful in His revelation of Himself, and sensitive to the cultural context in which we live.
Grace,
