What Christians Believe?

What do Christians really believe? Do we really believe what we say we believe, or do our actions show otherwise? For instance, consider the orthodox Christian belief that Christianity is the only way to heaven (e.g. Jesus saying He is THE way, The truth, and THE life). According to Christian researcher George Barna, 26% of born-again believers believe that all religions are essentially the same and 50% believe that a life of good works will enable a person to get to heaven! More than one in three (35%) born-again Christians do not believe that Jesus physically rose from the dead. [Mr. Barna defines "born-again Christians" as those who report having made a personal commitment to Christ and expect to get to heaven because they accepted Jesus.]

According to an editorial by Gene Edward Veith in World Magazine, these beliefs are strong evidence of how American Christianity is conforming to the dominant secular culture. We can believe what we want provided we don't impose our views on others. If we do that, we run the risk of being labeled as an "intolerant menace to society."

Mr. Veith goes on to say, "Preachers sometimes exhort people to 'invite Jesus into your heart' without proclaiming who Jesus is and what He has done for sinners. This is evangelism that forgets to preach the gospel. The result will be 'nonevangelical born-agains.' New Christians, like babies, need to be fed, taught, and cared for; otherwise, they will die in their cribs. They need intensive nourishment from the Word of God."

The conformation of our church to the culture and the lack of adherence to biblical beliefs by a large percentage of those defined as "born-again Christians" is frightening. We must buck those trends in our own lives and in the lives of our churches. Disciple those new Christians around you and promote a lifestyle in agreement with Biblical beliefs.