To Believe or Not to Believe (ePub)

Research has shown there is a great divide between the church and the unaffiliated, to include those who tend toward atheism. This concern inspired the author to step away from full-time ministry to work as a counselor in a state-owned and -operated residential facility to better understand the thought processes of those who are not invested in Christianity. He became aware of an us-versus -them mindset held by some Christians; this attitude has resulted in Christians drawing a tight circle around themselves that has created a barrier for reaching those not affiliated with the church. There are several consequences. First, it has resulted in a deep decline in baptisms and church affiliation for churches; less than 50 percent of Americans surveyed are members of a church. Second, it has resulted in Christians believing there is no hope for those outside the church. Third, the "gospel presentation" utilized by many is to continually make jabs at the unaffiliated, bordering on a scare tactic.

Too many churches have attempted to use revival-era styles of evangelism, contemporary approaches, and/or a social perspective; however, the chasm has widened. This book takes an in-depth look at the philosophical systems that keep people from embracing Christianity. The author also provides a theological model for helping others understand a theological base for the Christian worldview. The greatest contribution of the book is the way it offers hope for reaching the unaffiliated and provides practical ways of connecting with those outside the church.