A new survey of Christian beliefs and practices opens with what many in the church world would consider very good news: nearly three-quarters of Americans claim to be Christian.
Meanwhile, a fifth claim no religious belief or affiliation at all, Barna reported in “The State of the Church 2016,” which it released Sept. 15.
“Not only do most Americans identify as Christian, but a similar percentage (73%) also agree that religious faith is very important in their life,” according to the report.
But the report also presents a lot to be concerned about.
Barna found that there is a huge chasm between identification with, and the practice of, faith.
As little as 31 percent of believers can be classified as “practicing Christians,” which Barna defines as attending a religious service at least once a month.
“When a variable like church attendance is added to the mix, a majority becomes the minority,” the report stated.
Minority status is underscored by including the “post-Christian” measurement, Barna said. That metric considers disbelief in God or identifying as atheist or agnostic. Lack of participation in activities like Bible study, prayer and worship attendance also are included.
Barna found that 48 percent of Americans can be labeled as post-Christian. Another 41 percent are non-practicing Christians. Among Christians, 55 percent can be considered “churched,” meaning they have attended a church service with varying frequency within the past six months.
The study covered several other aspects of faith, including generosity and giving, the influence of evangelicals and various views about evangelism, politics and other issues.
“Barna researchers argue this represents a more accurate picture of Christian faith in America, one that reflects the reality of a secularizing nation,” the report said.