Street-Level Theology: What Americans Really Believe.
Several years ago I read “The Second Coming of the Church” by George Barna. It opened my eyes to a lot of things in ministry and has served as confirmation to the call God has given me about New Passion Church. I find the 17 statistics below alarming and as such should be a wake up call not only to American Christians, but to the church. These statistics range from 1994 to 1997, a good 12-15 years ago. It would be interesting to see similar results for the identical questions today. If anyone knows of a poll that is similar that is more up to date, leave a comment and let me know:
American View: The Bible Teaches that God helps those who help themselves. (81%)
Bible View: We are helpless; we must rely completely on God. (Ps. 37:39-38:30)
American View: It doesn’t matter what religious faith you follow because they all teach the same lessons (38%)
Bible View: Jesus, alone is the Savior of mankind. (Rev. 1:8; 15:4)
American View: All people will expereince the same outcome after death, regardless of their religious beliefs (44%)
Bible View: Only those who believe in Christ will be saved (Rom. 3:21-26)
American View: The Bible teaches that money is the root of all evil (49%)
Bible View: Love of money is the root of many evil pursuits (1 Tim. 6:10)
American View: The most important task in life is taking care of family (56%)
Bible View: The most important task is to love God with all our heart, soul, mind and strength (Matt. 22:37)
American View: The primary purpose of life is enjoyment and fulfillment (58%)
Bible View: Primary purpose in life is to love God completely. (Deut. 6:5)
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You should check out Ed Stetzer’s stuff. He’s a Lifeway research guy. He does all kinds of research. http://blogs.lifeway.com/blog/edstetzer/
You may be able to find some stuff in there that is intriguing.
Get it done in the Kingdom bro!
~ Joey
Good to see your writing so much Nick. We’d love for you to submit another article to Small Group Exchange if you have time. Keep it up!
Great post man. Its amazing how “christian” our country still is. I think that maybe America is just waiting for us to start living what we believe so they know who to follow, and where.
.-= @b_rewster´s last blog ..Thank You. =-.
Well said nick, America needs to WAKE UP. Turn back to God before he takes is HOLY HANDS of this country. And lets the emeny attack. God hear are passionate( let us be aware of your presence-your children)prayers. God forgive us of are unrightousness.