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Reality Check: Understanding Outsiders' Perception of Christianity

Dive into how the younger generation views Christianity, why their thoughts matter, and ways for Christians to respond effectively. Explore shared perceptions, influences shaping viewpoints, and the impact on individuals aged 16-29. Uncover the reality of hypocrisy, lifestyle gaps, Christian priorities, and the importance of being objective. Discover practical insights to bridge the gap and engage meaningfully with others.

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Reality Check: Understanding Outsiders' Perception of Christianity

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  1. Reality Check What a new generation really thinks about Christianity … and why it matters Kevin Bowman, kevinb@cordovachurch.com Dave Davis, daved@cordovachurch.com PowerPoint download, http://goo.gl/ic1eJ

  2. unChristian

  3. A quick review • This class will focus on outsiders’ perceptions of Christianity, why they matter, and how Christians can respond to them • “Outsider” population is growing with each new generation; we’ll focus on Busters & Mosaics, ages 16-29 • This generation shares some unique traits which influence their perceptions of Christianity • Relationships; experiences; tolerance; connected • We are obligated; God wants us to care about these “outsiders” because He loves them

  4. Shared perceptions • Six broad themes • Hypocritical • Get saved! • Antihomosexual • Sheltered • Too political • Judgmental

  5. What shapes perceptions? • Firsthand encounters with Christians & Christianity • Good news: we have relationships & influence • Not-so-good news: the message we send • 59% is experience at churches; 50% relationships; 48% other religions; 40% parents • Media has an influence, yes • Can’t be our “out” – the things we do matter more • Painful encounters; bad personal experiences • 60% more likely among 16-29 year olds

  6. Catch-22 • These perceptions are particularly tough on Christians aged 16-29 • They are often embarrassed to be called Christians because of Christians; reluctant of being associated with the “brand” • Young Christians fear that claiming their faith may actually undermine their credibility & ability to connect with people

  7. Reality check & why it matters • Think these perceptions don’t describe you? • Too bad; they do. • Oh, and you should care because • What people think about Christians influences how they respond to us – people’s attitudes drive their actions • What people think about Christians should help us be objective • What people think about Christians can change

  8. Hypocritical • Current perception • Christians say one thing but live something entirely different. • Goal perception • Christians are transparent about their flaws and act first, talk second.

  9. A universal reality • Hypocrisy is often an accepted practice among 16-29 year olds. It’s seen as a means to an end: • Can get ahead while avoiding conflict • A way to craft and maintain an “image” • Perhaps necessary to obtain wealth & fame • Not surprised at Christian hypocrisy • We have an image to protect & maintain too

  10. Issue #1 - the lifestyle gap • Let’s talk – what are some similarities and differences in the way Christians and non-Christians live their lives? • Statistically, the things Christians do in any given month are pretty much the same as the things non-Christians do • Gambling; consuming pornography; getting drunk or high; fighting or abusing someone; lying; seeking revenge; being mean spirited(30% vs. 35%, at least one) • Own a bible, church on Sunday, giving • Christian lives don’t match Christian beliefs • 84% know a Christian; 15% see them living differently

  11. Issue #2 - Christian Priorities • What are some of the top priorities for Christians to pursue in terms of their faith? (Matthew 23:23; Galatians 3:3 & 5:1)

  12. Standard deviation • We’ve set ourselves up for failure, and invited an image of hypocrisy, by prioritizing “being good” as #1 • Christians age 16-29 face a generation of older believers who put a high priority on avoiding sin as a measurement of faith • This priority presents a temptation to give a false pretense of holiness; to make ourselves look like we have tamed our struggle with sin (1 John 1:8)

  13. Masks

  14. Next week • Finishing up hypocrisy • Start talking about salvation tunnel-vision • Feedback & resources • Kevin Bowman, kevinb@cordovachurch.com • Dave Davis, daved@cordovachurch.com • PowerPoint download, http://goo.gl/ic1eJ

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