This morning a study was released that shows the number of Americans who say they're "religious" or have anything to do with a religious institution is declining. The study was taken from February to November 2008.
These findings in my estimation aren't surprisiing at all. I think they continue a trend that has been going on for quite some time with the rise of New Age religions and a greater awareness of other world religions. The interesting thing is that the more "relevant" the Church has tried to be by preaching the gospel less, the more irrelevant they have become. In other words, preaching messages on the "felt needs" of the consumer has actually just done more to drive people away from the Church.
Now these survey results are from last year; I wonder if there will be an increase in "religious" adherents in 2009 with the financial crisis deepening? My suspicion is that many Churches will see a number of people who have just realized the god of money is deaf, dumb and powerless enter into their services. When we meet them, we dare not preach a message about money management to them from the pulpit! They've heard plenty of advice about that lately that hasn't panned out so well. They need to hear about the God over money, houses, cars and everything else: Jesus Christ.
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Its depressing but I think those of us who are paying attention see it.
According to some other studies we have discussed, less than 0.5% of people in America between the ages of 18-23 hold a biblical world view. This includes those that consider themselves Christians. What will "Christianity" look like in the future.
(p.s. I read the "Wake-up Call" post.)
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