David Kinnaman, in his book Unchristian, lays out survey results he conducted over the course of several years. The goal is to explore what a new generation really thinks about Christianity. He observes that an increasing number of young adults view Christianity negatively. These negative impressions of Christianity include: hypocritical, judgmental, old-fashioned, boring, and out of touch with reality. At the end of the book he offers some suggestions to help change this perception.

     Certainly, we don't water down or change tough biblical teachings to appease popular opinion. However, we can, and should, work harder to improve the false perceptions that those around us may have of Christianity.

     The first suggestion Kinnaman offers, is to respond with the right perspective. Like Jesus we have to learn to respond to criticism appropriately and with the proper motivation. Negative criticism should not debilitate us; nor should we shy away from hard decisions or unpopular positions. Rather, we should consider whether our response to cynics and opponents is motivated to defend God's honor or our own image.

     Next, we must work to authentically connect with people. People shouldn't get the impression that we're interested in them only to get another number up on the attendance board. Instead we must be faithful and honest in our everyday relationships and truly manifest personal love and concern for one another. Remember, Jesus said, "by this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another" (John 13:35).

     Also, we can change negative perceptions that outsiders have of the church when we selflessly serve people and live a lifestyle of compassion. Let's not just claim to be a loving servant, but actually be one.

     Interestingly, all the things that are suggested to try to turn around this negative trend are pretty basic. So, if we actually live the mandates of the Christian faith, that's the key to displaying the proper image of Christianity to the world around us. So many people get the wrong impression about Christianity because they see it modeled so badly by professing believers. As the church of Christ we should know what true Christianity looks like and we should live it, mindful that many non-Christians are watching our conduct and measuring the credibility of Christianity based upon what we are or are not doing.

-Paul N. Merideth