UnChristian

I am currently reading a book entitled, UnChristian. It is a book put out by the Barna Institute about why a vast majority of those between the ages of 18 and 35 see Christianity in such a negative light and how can we as Christians connect with them.

It would appear from this research that Christians have become known for what they oppose rather than what they stand for. We are seen as being anti-homosexual, judgmental and hypocritical. Christians are seen as being arrogant and filled with self-importance. Christians are seen as really being uncaring about the individual. At the best they feel like they are only seen as a possible convert. The majority of this generation see Christianity as being old fashioned, too involved in politics, out of touch with reality, insensitive toward others, boring and confusing. (From the book UnChristian) These feelings toward Christians come from what this age group has encountered in their contacts with Christians.

How do we engage this culture? We must learn to see everyone as an individual with individual needs, struggles and desires. We need to learn to listen. We listen to their story without being quick with answers or judgmental. We must learn to dialogue with them and respect their opinions and feelings. We need to become involved in their lives. We GO into the world and not just SIT in our pews. We live out the grace that our Lord has given us. We do not water down nor candy coat the truths of Jesus, yet we discern how, when and where the Spirit wants us to share those truths.

I think this is an important area that we need to consider. There are 24 million individuals between the ages of 18 and 35. These are people who Jesus loves and cares about. Yet, only about 1 million of them are involved in a personal walk with Jesus. What is He calling us to do and be?