Christianity's falling reputation

Researcher David Kinnaman has surveyed how young people (16-29) view the church. He did most of his work with the "unchurched." This group is now 40% of young people. A decade ago this age group had a generally positive view of the church. No longer. They have lost respect. Thanks, Jerry Falwell. Christianity is judgmental (said by 87%), too involved in politics (75%), hypocritical (85%), out of touch (72%), and anti-homosexual (91%). Even 80% of those young people still in the church agree with the last bit. The "gay issue" -- objections to the "lifestyle", irrational fear, and unmerited scorn -- has reached critical mass. It is the one issue that will define Christianity's reputation.

Alas, Kinnaman isn't there to guide the church into changing it's position on gays, damaging as it is. His book is to guide the church in making its horrible stance more palatable, more compassionate, a "kinder, gentler" kick in the butt. So instead of declaring gays are busting up marriage and will lead to the downfall of Western Civilization he merely says gays should remain celibate. Thanks, dude. Big improvement. But Kinnaman remains silent about all the rebuttals the gay community offers. How is the love of one gay man from another different than a man for a woman? Why is a child better in an orphanage than with a gay couple? Kinnaman's solution will help Christianity's falling reputation?