In an article by the Barna Institute from 1999, George Barna writes that "the data show a continuation of the pattern that first emerged more than a decade ago, in which Americans feel tremendous freedom to construct their own religious perspectives and practices, regardless of traditions and time-honored teachings. It is amazing that we live in a period during which people are more interested in spirituality than at any time in the past half century, yet they are seeking the answers to their spiritual questions and needs from sources other than Christian churches. ”
What happened?
It’s all about the definition and the connotation of the two words in question.
Typically, “religious” can mean a range of ideas. The most negative views would say “religious” means strict adherence, a conservative, church attendance, bigot, intolerant, Christian.
“Spirituality” connotes more appeasing words: open, tolerant, flowing, in touch, depth, soul-full.
It's good to be spiritual, but not religious.
Why this difference?
I suggest this derives from a larger cultural context (but doesn’t everything?). The shift is an effect of the “pagan” culture in which we live.
Now let me define “pagan” as I use it here. Our “pagan” (American) society is one that is saturated with “religious” and “spiritual” beliefs. By “pagan,” I mean a society that has many varied perspectives on religion, even within Christianity itself. In a book I am currently reading about second century heretics, the authors state, “The sheer abundance of competing religious systems of the second century bears a marked resemblance to the plurality of modern and postmodern views (The Earliest Christian Heretics, Hultgren and Haagmark). Many postmodern Christian thinkers and writers would agree with the statement. We live in an age with more churches, more sects, more religions, and more perspectives than have ever existed.
A Christian Postmodern’s mind takes into account that our current society is both “pagan” and “spiritual.” We would seem to be like Paul in the Areopagus (Acts 17:23), pointing at the “Unknown God” and saying “I know who it is you are looking for. I know the name of the One you seek.” Instead of fearing what others believe and defending the beliefs we think we hold so dear, listen to what others believe. They may believe the exact same way you do, only with a different focus. It is and always has been our job to point them in the right direction. God can do the rest of the work.
Go To Page: 1 2
| Here's the follow-up discussion on this article: | View all related messages |
For a complete listing of article comments, questions, and other discussions related to Blake Atwood's Christianity & Culture topic, please visit the Discussions page.