Religious Switching - A Wake-Up Call For The Church

Have you ever heard of "religious switching"? The Pew Research Center describes it as a growing "phenomenon" where individuals shift their religious identities from childhood to adulthood. This doesn't refer to changes within the same faith, but rather to those who either adopt a new religion or disaffiliate religious practice altogether.

Pew's latest report highlights a surge in this trend in recent years. Drawing from data on approximately 80,000 individuals across 36 countries, the study revealed that "a fifth or more of all adults have left the religious group in which they were raised," with Christianity and Buddhism taking the hardest hits.

The countries seeing these "religious switching" trends most commonly are East Asia, Western Europe, North America, and South America. And perhaps the real surprise is that the spotlight really isn't on religious "switching" so much as a complete abandonment of religion altogether.

"In other words," Pew wrote, "most of the switching is disaffiliation -- people leaving the religion of their childhood and no longer identifying with any religion." It turns out that "many of these people were raised as Christians," with "29% of adults in Sweden alone that say they were raised Christian but now describe themselves religiously as atheists, agnostics or 'nothing in particular.'" Pew further emphasized, "In most of the countries surveyed, Christianity has the highest ratios of people leaving to people joining -- the largest net losses."

According to David Closson, director of Family Research Council's Center for Biblical Worldview, "This is a major study." On Friday's "Washington Watch," he explained that it's no small matter to survey as many people as Pew did in as many countries as they did, "and it shows that Christians in those 36 countries are one of the top religions that lose the next generation." As Christians, he explained, "we should be aware of this trend, and this should cause us ... to redouble our efforts of discipleship."

Closson elaborated with The Washington Stand: "The Pew study is significant for a number of reasons," he said. "First, it shows that, worldwide, churches and Christian parents are having a difficult time retaining their children when it comes to passing down the faith."

But this study also reflects what FRC's research has found in a 2021 survey, which "showed only 6% of Americans have what you could call a biblical worldview." Naturally, Closson added, this raises the question: "What do the other 94% of Americans believe when it comes to their worldview?"

The answer, Closson explained, is syncretism -- a worldview that blends "various beliefs and convictions, even if those beliefs are internally contradictory." About 88% of Americans subscribe to this mindset, which he said "helps explain why the vast majority of young adults in this country, even those who grew up in the church, have not retained a consistent biblical worldview."

This raises another pressing question, he noted: Have Christians, "parents, and church leaders even attempted to pass down a consistent Christian worldview?" Closson found the results unsurprising, especially given FRC's corroborative research since launching its Center for Biblical Worldview in May 2021. Still, he stressed that it underscores the urgent need for Christians to reassess their approach to evangelism and discipleship.

As Christians, we understand that when it comes to sharing the Good News and planting seeds, God is ultimately in control of the increase. And yet, if you flip through the pages of Scripture, you'll see a command repeated time and again: "Go." What you won't see in Scripture is a command to be complacent or stagnant.

We're called to proclaim the gospel, to make disciples of all nations, tongues, and tribes. We're urged to be "doers" of the Word, not just hearers, letting its truth shape our hearts and lives. A survey showing Christianity with the highest rates of disaffiliation among religions shouldn't weigh us down with despair. Instead, it should act as 1) a wake-up call and 2) a reminder.

It's a wake-up call to the fact that our call is not to "go share the gospel as long as people are responding well to it." No, our call is, come rain or come shine, to share the gospel. Period. We share it despite opposition, hostility, and persecution, because we know it is the only truth that saves. No one is beyond redemption; no one lacks the need for it. Recognizing this, we press forward.

Thus, studies like Pew's serve as a reminder that, even when the outlook seems bleak or efforts feel futile, we serve a sovereign God. Jesus declared in Matthew 16:18, "I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it." We don't bow to surveys signaling Christianity's decline or warnings that it's "going out of style." We heed God's promise that nothing can derail His plan, no force can snatch His children from His hand, and no power can thwart His Almighty decrees. He will build His Kingdom, and it will endure forever.

Closson is right. Christians should be aware of research that reveals the state of the church and Christianity. Not so we can be discouraged from its seemingly gloomy results, but so we can be encouraged to continue marching forth, just as He has called us to do. So, parents: preach the gospel to your children. Teachers: shine as witnesses to your students. Politicians: uphold Scripture in the public square. Doctors: point to Christ as the ultimate source of life and healing.

Christian: share the truth, be a light, and stand firm -- no matter the circumstances, no matter the cost.

Religious Switching - A Wake-Up Call For The Church

Have you ever heard of

www.prophecynewswatch.com

 

[1LoverofGod]

This has been going on for some time. Not too long ago I read about it as being termed "Deconstruction of faith "

Here's an article explaining why this is happening:


What is deconstruction? What does it mean when people say they are deconstructing their faith?
“Deconstruction” is the heading most recently applied to the process of questioning, doubting, and ultimately rejecting aspects of Christian faith. This is an application of deconstructionism, an approach that claims to disassemble beliefs or ideas while assuming their meanings are inherently subjective. Both the trend and its title reflect backlash against the unfortunate habit within some religious circles to downplay deep questions and ignore those who hold them. To openly investigate the nuances of belief, even changing one’s convictions, is a biblical concept. In practice, though, “deconstruction” almost always acts as a polite cover for “demolition.” Modern “deconstruction” usually means replacing uncomfortable tenets with culturally or personally popular ideas.

A fundamental belief in biblical Christianity is that of man’s limited understanding compared to God’s unlimited understanding. Scripture often draws this contrast explicitly (Isaiah 55:8–9; Job 38:1–4; John 6:45–46). Scripture also teaches this truth indirectly, noting how sincere Christians often come to different conclusions (Romans 14:1–5; 1 Corinthians 10:28–32). The Bible says we can be stubborn and interpret His will wrongly (John 5:39–40). This does not mean everything is subject to opinion (1 Corinthians 3:10–14; 15:3–8); rather, it means everything should be open to sincere questions (Matthew 7:7–8). Deconstruction claims to explore such issues, though its ultimate motivation is often not to understand, but to undermine.

Scripture commands each person to scrutinize his or her faith. This includes fact-checking (Acts 17:11), thoughtful preparation (1 Peter 3:15), reasonable skepticism (1 John 4:1), cooperation with others (Proverbs 27:17), multiple perspectives (Proverbs 15:22), and an appreciation for all God has shown in His creation (Romans 1:18–20; Psalm 19:1). Scripture often depicts people crying out with doubtful complaints and frustrations (Psalm 73:2–3; Habakkuk 1:2–4). Those who examine what they believe and why they believe it, assessing those views for truth, are following a biblical mandate (2 Corinthians 13:5). Yet this is not what the modern deconstruction movement does.


Too often, churches and church members act like social clubs, while failing to wrestle with difficult questions about faith. Believing we have established every answer beyond all doubt reflects a natural desire for control. That impulse is not biblical. In fact, it’s what led groups like the Pharisees to claim they could define “honoring the Sabbath” down to how many steps a man could take. Refusal to accept some level of trust in the face of uncertainty is more than a form of legalism (Mark 7:8–9); it’s antithetical to the very concept of faith (Mark 9:24; Hebrews 12:1).

Rather than allowing room for sincere doubt and questions, some Christian communities reject anything more than superficial curiosity. That may extend to carelessly labelling those with doubts as unbelievers or troublemakers. This lends weight to those who falsely claim that valid answers are only found outside the church. Faith communities may obsess over teachings that are secondary or even superficial. They may cement cultural and political preferences into their view of Christianity. Those errors also feed the false narrative driving much of the modern deconstruction movement.

Some deconstruct in response to deeply personal pain. Those who have been neglected, rejected, or even abused within a church context struggle to separate unbiblical traumas from legitimate teachings of Scripture. Failures and betrayals from Christian leaders create heartache and embarrassment. Pain felt by those we love becomes pain in our own lives. Some respond to these struggles by jettisoning doctrines or beliefs; this is partly an attempt to distance themselves from the stigma of another person’s actions.

Such failures of the modern church can and should be corrected. However, what is now called “deconstruction” reflects long-established and innate principles. There will always be those whose connection to faith is superficial (Matthew 7:21). Others have understanding fragile enough to fail under strain (Hebrews 3:12). Jesus’ parable of the sower includes two groups who demonstrate a response to truth, only to be overcome by worldly pressure or persecution (Matthew 13:20–22). Paul knew people often succumb to attractive lies (2 Timothy 4:3–4). Paul witnessed close friends yielding to popular trends (2 Timothy 4:10). Even Christ saw people walk away because they did not want to accept His message (John 6:65–66).

To say, “Deconstruction means choosing easier beliefs” is an oversimplification. And yet deconstruction almost always means adopting views palatable to the unbelieving world. All too conveniently, it means moving away from positions on sexuality, gender, salvation, sin, hell, and other issues not embraced by popular culture. The vast majority who claim to be deconstructing move with the flow of their surrounding culture, not against it. This movement demands “safe space” to ask difficult questions. Yet, ironically, modern deconstruction often settles for easy, comfortable answers. Or it simply chooses which aspects of faith to retain based on personal preference.

While deconstruction implies openness in theory, it most often manifests as an “escape clause” when it comes time to justify one’s new or “progressing” views. Ironically, those who reject Christian culture for not engaging questions can themselves be deeply evasive when asked to do that very thing. It’s easy to ask hard questions. Complex mysteries can be posed in just a few words. Answering those questions, however, takes time and effort. Simply listing complications or nitpicking is not the same as sincerely assessing ideas. Identifying oneself as “in deconstruction” can become an easy excuse for never taking a position but merely rejecting something one dislikes.

There’s a natural tendency to feel “smart” or superior when pointing out the flaws in someone else’s views. When one forgets that the questioning process is meant to go both ways, it can feel like an attack. When challenged to explain their views, deconstructors often complain they are “not being allowed a safe space” to pose questions. As noted, there absolutely are circumstances where Christian communities unreasonably slam the door on doubters. Yet merely being asked, “Why do you think that’s true?” or “What makes that a better option?” is a part of any sincere line of questioning.

Three counterexamples provide guidelines on how Christians can respond to sharp questions or doubts about faith. These are Nicodemus, Thomas, and the early church. Nicodemus came to ask Jesus about faith (John 3:1–2), and Jesus gave Him answers. These answers were honest, even if not entirely what Nicodemus might have wanted to hear (John 3:3–15). They were certainly not the answers Nicodemus’ culture would have preferred. Jesus’ responses often challenged the assumptions of those who sought Him out (John 4:22–24; Luke 18:22–23).

When Thomas doubted Jesus’ resurrection, Jesus took the gracious step of providing more attention, time, and evidence than anyone reasonably needed (John 20:24–28). Believers should sympathize with those struggling under doubts and be ready to go that extra mile when they can (Matthew 5:41–42). Jesus didn’t merely applaud Thomas for being skeptical; He graciously dealt with the skepticism.

While being respectful of doubters, the church needs to hold its ground on principles that are truly clear or fundamental to faith. That means insisting on truths even if they are controversial to the world at large. The book of Acts records the early church making reasonable concessions to Jewish believers. The church did not compromise cornerstone teachings in the face of intense pressure to do just that (Acts 15). While accepting the need to consider culture when communicating (1 Corinthians 9:20–23), those early believers also refused to accept false teaching for the sake of popularity (Acts 5:29).

Christians need to lovingly engage questions from seekers and doubters. That might mean simply admitting “I don’t know” and offering to look for an answer together. Not all challenges to faith come from a point of antagonism. Some come in the form of curiosity. Some come in the form of skepticism. Some come with intense personal pain and complicated histories. For those reasons, believers should provide “safe space” for others to express concerns and doubts (Romans 12:18; 14:13). Those who “fall away,” even when lovingly treated, don’t reflect a weakness in the truth of Christianity (1 John 2:19). No one should replace sincere seeking with the attitudes connected to the modern deconstruction movement.

What is deconstruction? What does it mean when people say they are deconstructing their faith? | GotQuestions.org

What is deconstruction? What does it mean when people say they are deconstructing their faith? What is spiritual deconstruction?

www.gotquestions.org

 

[LightOfMyLife]

We know there are cults out there a false Jesus is being taught. A lot of people have left the Catholic Church which I am glad to hear. The pope is not the Holy Father, and priests can not absolve you of your sins. There is one mediator between God and man=Jesus. I know Tom Hughes was brought up in The Catholic Church. Scripture tells us some shall depart from the faith giving heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of demons. We are in a spiritual battle between good and evil. They are calling evil good, and good evil. I many will become born again believers. I was talking to a person about God, and the person said I am not a believer. The person did go to church at one time, but something happened that he found out wasn't true. I asked him what denomination it was, and it was the Church Of Christ. I tried talking to him, but he didn't want to hear it. Also, told me it wouldn't do any good to for him.When people get disappointed in other people, they need to remember that Jesus is the one to believe in, and not say I am not a believer. We are to put our faith in Jesus not people.

 

[Tall Timbers]

I left the religion of my childhood sometime after I found Christ. Now I'm a non-religious Believer in Jesus Christ.

 

[Tall Timbers]

There's no need to worry ourselves over pew research. Just do our best to walk with Christ in this fallen world. The Lord's will be done.

 

[LightOfMyLife]

I left the religion of my childhood sometime after I found Christ. Now I'm a non-religious Believer in Jesus Christ.

It is not about religion, but a relationship with Jesus. John 14:6.

 

[Tall Timbers]

It is not about religion, but a relationship with Jesus. John 14:6.

Absolutely. There are some Believers who like the pomp and circumstance involved in a certain religion, and that's okay if that's what toots their horn, but I'm not one of those.

 

[LightOfMyLife]

Absolutely. There are some Believers who like the pomp and circumstance involved in a certain religion, and that's okay if that's what toots their horn, but I'm not one of those.

The last time I heard the music of Pomp and Circumstance was at my graduation which was a long time ago. That song brings back memories getting my diploma on the football field. There were 800 in my class. I was 798th. Yes, I was a Z.

 

[1LoverofGod]

I think what the concern is about is how the falling away from the church is growing, and this should cause us to be more mindful of our children and youth who are not sticking with their upbringing in the faith, and it's important for parents to be actively teaching their children biblical truth, and not only leave the responsibility to the church to teach their children.
Also the growing Apostasy is drawing more people to the false churches because of itching ears.
As believers grounded in the Gospel Truth, it's up to us to be more active in sharing the gospel because those who have been misled and deceived by false teachers won't get the truth from anyone else but believers who have the Truth.
This is what the "Wake up Call" to the church is about.

 

[LightOfMyLife]

I think what the concern is about is how the falling away from the church is growing, and this should cause us to be more mindful of our children and youth who are not sticking with their upbringing in the faith, and it's important for parents to be actively teaching their children biblical truth, and not only leave the responsibility to the church to teach their children.
Also the growing Apostasy is drawing more people to the false churches because of itching ears.
As believers grounded in the Gospel Truth, it's up to us to be more active in sharing the gospel because those who have been misled and deceived by false teachers won't get the truth from anyone else but believers who have the Truth.
This is what the "Wake up Call" to the church is about.

Scripture tells us to train a child up in the way they should go and when they grow old they will not depart from it. Jesus warns us about deception.

 

[Everlasting Life]

I recently heard the encouragement from a pastor's sermon about praying to the Lord for Him to open doors of conversations and opportunities to share the Gospel.

I loved that idea. I'm not shy in reaching out to people but boy, it's really great when God just busts the door wide open! Which He's done.

 

[Ghoti Ichthus]

We play at Sunday School and Confirmation.

In "regular school," whether home-schooled, private school, or public school, there are tests, pop quizzes, projects, papers, research papers, and homework. WITH GRADES. AND CONSEQUENCES FOR FAILURE. AND CONSEQUENCES FOR POOR ATTENDANCE. And teachers, who know the subject material and can effectively teach it, answer questions, and lead discussion (or at least they used to).

When was the last time anyone had to do any of this in Sunday School or Confirmation?

If children don't know what's in the Bible, why they believe what they've been taught, and can't/won't/don't know how to defend it, they become easy pickings for satan and his minions.


We play at Bible Study, too.

If young adults going away to college, vo-tech, marriage, military service, employment, and/or volunteer work, don't know what's in the Bible, why they believe what they they've been taught, and can't/won't defend it, they become easy pickings for satan and his minions, and likely won't be salt and light, engage in The Great Commission, and/or consider Christian vocation. Especially in the absence of faith support from a good campus ministry and/or local church.

If adults at any stage don't know what's in the Bible, why they believe what they've been taught, and can't/wont/don't know how to defend it, they become easy pickings for satan and his minions, likely won't be salt and light, and cannot/will not effectively engage in The Great Commission, even to their own children. Especially in the absence of faith support from a good ministry and/or church.