There are too many Christian churches fading into the sunset. Is their day over? Are they truly losing relevance? Perhaps it is possible, but I think it's unlikely. All Christian denominations I am aware of contribute to the progress of humanity. It doesn't get any more basic than that. People of all societies within our entire civilization instinctively desire to improve their lives. If Christian churches are losing relevance - after centuries of leadership - it marks a turning of the tide. A huge change. The ramifications present the largest challenge humanity has ever experienced. Christian churches have established, and continue to teach, our behavior. Christianity helps us determine right from wrong, good from bad. These are the essential necessities enabling humanity to go forward.
In my neighborhood the most families say they are Christian. About half of them are Catholic, there are a few Jews, and there is an increasing number of Muslim and other religious families. Few admit to atheism or agnosticism. Of the total, about 70% do not attend any church. Many who call themselves Christian are apparently trying to be politically correct but actually haven't been to a church service for years. The question is; "Why not?" In some cases it appears to be the result of a fundamental loss of faith. In other cases there are complaints that the pressures of society and modern technological advances have rendered Christian theology difficult (or impossible) to accept. Hmmm. Many serious and scholarly members of the clergy are beginning to appear doubtful. Hard facts continue to trump faith.
In my neighborhood the most families say they are Christian. About half of them are Catholic, there are a few Jews, and there is an increasing number of Muslim and other religious families. Few admit to atheism or agnosticism. Of the total, about 70% do not attend any church. Many who call themselves Christian are apparently trying to be politically correct but actually haven't been to a church service for years. The question is; "Why not?" In some cases it appears to be the result of a fundamental loss of faith. In other cases there are complaints that the pressures of society and modern technological advances have rendered Christian theology difficult (or impossible) to accept. Hmmm. Many serious and scholarly members of the clergy are beginning to appear doubtful. Hard facts continue to trump faith.
(1) Christianity is very complex.
(2) It is difficult to interpret and,
(3) even more difficult to understand.
(3) even more difficult to understand.
(4) There are many unexplainable events.
(4) Many questions without logical answers.
I need to think more about this.
P.S. Why does civilization need over 35,000 Christian denominations?
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