Dan Kimball just posted a list of perceptions about the church he has heard from mainly 20-somethings who either dropped out of the church, or grew up outside of the church and want nothing to do with church. Read these, and then leave Dan some feedback.
One thing that I think is important is that as I read the list, I keep saying to myself, “Why in the world would they think that?” Then I realize that today, that is how Christianity is portrayed in the pop culture media. The perceptions have been cultivated over time and there will always be “examples” to hang their hats on. The only way to reach these people is to develope personal, intentional relationships with them. The old addage stands true – “They won’t care how much you know, until they know how much you care”.
Dan,
I was fortunate enough to sit in “They Like Jesus but Not the Church” session and sat in for both Emergent worship services for Breakforth in Edmonton, AB.
The course outline spoke to me and I walked out of that class with more insight than I’ve gotten out of many of my sunday services. I was not raised in a Christian home, I found Jesus when I was 13 after there was a death in the family and I was sent to bible camp. The counsellor changed my life. Now, with that said.. I was not living for Jesus for the next 7 to 8 years. But the very reason I resisted the church and was that I had a problem with “organized religion” and to be honest I still do. Now, don’t get me wrong, I love my christian community but I am never going to end the relationships with my non christian friends and hopefully I can be a light for them.
I am just blown away with how real you are. I can’t think of a better word, as someone who has had to face constant ridicule for still going out to the bars (not drinking) and even being forced out of any leadership roles b/c of it you give me hope for the leadership of today’s church. My church does not allow women to be pastors or elders, something I hope to change. But I am only 23 and I have hard time being taken seriously. I don’t know why I am where I am except for that God has put me in these situations for a reason. I just want to let you know that you are doing the most amazing thing for my generation by making it very clear what is detering so many people. THANK YOU, you have no idea the impact you’ve made in my vision and my ministry, which is radio and drama. Thank you again.
Jenny