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Education Ministry

Posted on November 18, 2005 ...

So, you call yourself an Evangelical Christian. What is that? You won?¢‚Ǩ‚Ñ¢t get a straight answer from watching the news or reading the paper. Evangelicals are often portrayed as narrow-minded, backward thinking, Bible thumpers with a political agenda to take over the world. They are known primarily for what they are against (homosexuality, abortion, and evolution) and the issues that get them fired up (prayer in school, the pledge of allegiance, and the Ten Commandments). But what is an Evangelical Christian, really?

Generally speaking, Evangelical Christians consider themselves to be ?¢‚Ǩ?ìborn again?¢‚Ǩ¬ù believers in Jesus Christ. They hold a high view of Scripture, emphasize God?¢‚Ǩ‚Ñ¢s sovereignty and perfection, and see God as transcendent, yet intimately involved in the affairs of the world. Evangelicals describe the human condition as fallen and unable to save itself. They believe Satan is real, as are heaven and hell. They believe the only hope for humanity came in the sinless life, death, and resurrection of God?¢‚Ǩ‚Ñ¢s Son. They believe salvation is the free gift of God which is received by grace alone through faith in Jesus Christ. Evangelicals view their faith as very important and believe they have a personal responsibility to share their faith with others.

Based upon this information (not the stereotype), I would consider myself and most of the people I know to be Evangelical Christians. It represents what I am convinced is the truth. At the same time, I am very much aware that not everyone shares this conviction. You may be surprised to learn that evangelicals make up only 7% of the population of the United States. This does not mean that the other faith segments do not share some of our beliefs, but it does mean that we have less in common with our fellow Americans on a number of important issues. The reality is, when it comes to the things we hold most sacred we are in the minority, even among the 85% of Americans who identify themselves as Christians.

For me, this awareness makes my faith all the more urgent. Not that I think everyone should believe exactly as I do about everything, but there are some things I do believe are essential. I believe it is absolutely necessary to know and love the one true God, accept His Word as truth, and obey it. I hope this challenges you to consider your beliefs and actions. Are they consistent with your words? I also hope it will encourage you to consider your relationships with people who do not yet know the Lord. You may be their first glimpse of the truth.

?¢‚Ǩ‚Äú Michael

For some interesting stats, go to www.barna.org and click on the link Barna By Topic.