Is Religion Dying in America? The Truth Every Pastor Should Know
Manage episode 478571830 series 3487429
Religious affiliation in America is undergoing a seismic shift, with the "nones" (religiously unaffiliated) now representing 28% of Americans—surpassing evangelical Christians as the largest religious category. This isn't the death of religion but rather an evolution and an opportunity for churches willing to focus on authentic relationships, meaningful discipleship, and community impact.
• Nearly 28% of Americans now identify as religiously unaffiliated, while white evangelical Protestants have declined to 23%
• Gen Z and millennials are the least religious generations on record
• People aren't rejecting spirituality but institutional religion
• Political entanglement, perceived judgmentalism, and irrelevance are driving people away
• Churches that are relational, community-based, and authentic are still growing
• Double down on relationships and discipleship—people need shepherds, not shows
• Reclaim a prophetic voice that speaks truth with grace
• Rethink metrics to focus on spiritual transformation, not just attendance
• This is a moment of opportunity for church leaders willing to go deeper
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Chapters
1. Religion's Decline and the Nones (00:00:00)
2. Why People Are Leaving Churches (00:02:36)
3. Finding Opportunity in the Crisis (00:04:03)
4. Three Practical Steps for Church Leaders (00:05:06)
5. Your Moment to Lead Change (00:08:00)
413 episodes