Christian-Secular Engagement - PowerPoint Presentation

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Christian-Secular Engagement

Rise of Secularism andChristian Engagement

Christ

Us

World

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Christian Foundation

Worldview

Christian Foundation

Worldview

Secular Worldview

Bridging

The Gap

Enlightenment

17

th

-18

th Century

Other Spiritual Worldview

Western Worldview Development

Renaissance14th Century

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Christian Worldview

Secular Worldview

Bridging

The Gap

Christian Secular Worldview Divide

Christian-Secular Engagement

Science/Reason

Wealth Accumulation

Popular Media

Knowledge Sector

Christian

Perspective

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Christendom and the U.S.1st Amendment HistoryThe US Supreme Court since the mid 20th century has interpreted the First Amendment as if it requires this "wall of separation" between church and state. Meaning, it not only prohibits the government from adopting a particular denomination or religion as official, but, in violation of the free expression clause, has regularly ruled to limit religious expression in the public sphere from prayers to passive displays of the 10 commandments which had been allowed the first 150 plus years of the nation.

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Christendom and the U.S.1st Amendment HistoryIn the landmark 1947 case, Everson v. Board of Education, the Supreme Court applied the "establishment clause" of the First Amendment to the states. Taxpayer in New Jersey brought a lawsuit against the state to stop travel reimbursement to parents sending their kids to religious schools by the state of New Jersey. He claimed it violated both the State’s and U.S. constitutions supporting one religion.

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Christendom and the U.S.1st Amendment HistoryIn the landmark 1947 case, Everson v. Board of Education, the Supreme Court applied the "establishment clause" of the First Amendment to the states. The interpretation put forward overturned 150 years legal interpretation that allowed public expression of religion even in government supported entity such as holding church services in the capitol building.

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Christendom and the U.S.1st Amendment &1947 Everson v. Board of Education"The 'establishment of religion' clause of the First Amendment means at least this: Neither a state nor the Federal Government can set up a church. Neither can pass laws which aid one religion, aid all religions or prefer one religion over another. Neither can force nor influence a person to go to or to remain away from church against his will or force him to profess a belief or disbelief in any religion. No person can be punished for entertaining or professing religious beliefs or disbeliefs, for church attendance or non-attendance. No tax in any amount, large or small, can be levied to support any religious activities or institutions, whatever they may be called, or whatever form they may adopt to teach or practice religion. Neither a state nor the Federal Government can, openly or secretly, participate in the affairs of any religious organizations or groups and vice versa. In the words of Jefferson, the clause against establishment of religion by law was intended to erect 'a wall of separation between Church and State.'" 330 U.S. 1, 15-16.

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Christendom and the U.S.Before 1947 Everson v. Board of Education1800 – Congress decided to use the capital as a church buildingJohn Quincy Adams – “Religious service is usually performed on Sundays at the Treasury Office and the capitol.”

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Christendom and the U.S.Before 1947 Everson v. Board of Education1853 – a group petitioned congress to separate Christian principles from government, asking chaplains to be turned out of congress and military and Christianity from the public sphere.Judiciary Committee Report in response Mar. 27, 1854 – “Had the people [the Founding Fathers] during the Revolution, a suspicion of attempt to war against Christianity, the Revolution would have been strangled in its cradle. . . At the time of the adoption of the constitution and its amendments the universal sentiment was that Christianity should be encouraged, but not any one sect.”

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Christendom and the U.S.Before 1947 Everson v. Board of Education1892 – Church of the Holy Trinity v United StatesImmigrant worker contracted as Rector and Pastor for the church U.S. claimed this was illegal under lawNot the intent of the legislators to prevent churches from doing this.Listed 80 precedents – many looking at the religious foundations of the nation through rulings and state s’ legal documents. http://supreme.justia.com/cases/federal/us/143/457/case.html Ruled unanimously that Christianity was the bases of U.S. law and institutions

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Christendom and the U.S.1892 – Church of the Holy Trinity v United StatesIf we examine the constitutions of the various states, we find in them a constant recognition of religious obligations. Every Constitution of every one of the forty-four states contains language which, either directly or by clear implication, recognizes a profound reverence for religion, and an assumption that its influence in all human affairs is essential to the wellbeing of the community. This recognition may be in the preamble, such as is found in the Constitution of Illinois, 1870:"We, the people of the State of Illinois, grateful to Almighty God for the civil, political, and religious liberty which He hath so long permitted us to enjoy, and looking to Him for a blessing upon our endeavors to secure and transmit the same unimpaired to succeeding generations,"

Christian-Secular Engagement

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1892 – Church of the Holy Trinity v United StatesIf we pass beyond these matters to a view of American life, as expressed by its laws, its business, its customs, and its society, we find every where a clear recognition of the same truth. Among other matters, note the following: the form of oath universally prevailing, concluding with an appeal to the Almighty; the custom of opening sessions of all deliberative bodies and most conventions with prayer; the prefatory words of all wills, "In the name of God, amen;" the laws respecting the observance of the Sabbath, with the general cessation of all secular business, and the closing of courts, legislatures, and other similar public assemblies on that day; the churches and church organizations which abound in every city, town, and hamlet; the multitude of charitable organizations existing every where under Christian auspices; the gigantic missionary associations, with general support, and aiming to establish Christian missions in every quarter of the globe. These, and many other matters which might be noticed, add a volume of unofficial declarations to the mass of organic utterances that this is a Christian nation. In the face of all these, shall it be believed that a Congress of the United States intended to make it a misdemeanor for a church of this country to contract for the services of a Christian minister residing in another nation? Page 143 U. S. 472

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Christendom and the U.S.1st Amendment HistorySupreme Court ruling in 20th century began legal changeEngles v. Vitale (1962) – ruling about state sponsored prayer. New York Board of Regents wanted to have a non-denominational prayer to recite in school.”Almighty God, we acknowledge our dependence on Thee, and we beg Thy blessings upon us, our parents, our teachers and our country.”Students were not compelled or encourage to participate.11 of 13 judges who considered the case felt the ruling “would be historically wrong and itself constitutionally objectionable.” – No precedents cited in this case.

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Christendom and the U.S.1st Amendment HistorySupreme Court ruling in 20th century began legal changeChief Judge of the New York court of Appeals said regard the Engel v. Vitale case:“Not only is the prayer not a violation of the First Amendment . . . But holding that it is such a violation would be in defiance of all American history, and such a holding would destroy a part of the essential foundation of the American governmental structure.”

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Christendom and the U.S.Engel v. Vitale case:Term Church redefined to mean a religious activity performed in public instead of religious institutionNow meant government must not allow a public religious activity

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Christendom and the U.S.1st Amendment HistorySupreme Court ruling in 20th century began legal changeWallace v. Jaffree (1985) – from a case originating in Alabama ruled that public schools may not set aside a period of silence at the beginning of the school day if there is the mere suggestion that students might use the time for prayer.See Justice White’s and other justices dissenting opinions where he show the precedents for not ruling against a period of silence. http://supreme.justia.com/cases/federal/us/472/38/case.html#F26

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Developing Split of Spiritual and SecularThree forces developing from the Enlightenment periodSecular Humanistic Philosophy (Knowledge sector & Reason)Evolutionary Theory and Materialism (Science & Reason)Modernization (Wealth accumulation & Media)

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Developing Split of Spiritual and SecularEnlightenment period strengthened humanistic thinking (18th century)Has its roots in some aspects of Greek philosophical thinkingHumanismPositively - it refers to the dignity of human beings and improving the human condition.Negatively – it refers to a belief system in which humans beings replace God as central source knowledge and ethical decisions.

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Developing Split of Spiritual and SecularHumanism defined:A system of thought that rejects religious beliefs and centers on humans and their values, capacities, and worth.A cultural and intellectual movement of the Renaissance and Enlightenment that emphasized secular concerns as a result of the rediscovery and study of the literature, art, and civilization of ancient Greece and Rome.

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Developing Split of Spiritual and SecularHumanism defined:Christian Humanism is defined by Webster's Third New International Dictionary as "a philosophy advocating the self-fulfillment of man within the framework of Christian principles.“Secular Humanism or Modern, Naturalistic Humanism, Scientific Humanism, Ethical Humanism, and Democratic Humanism, is defined by Corliss Lamont, as "a naturalistic philosophy that rejects all supernaturalism and relies primarily upon reason and science, democracy and human compassion."

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Developing Split of Spiritual and SecularRenaissance (14th and 15th centuries)Scientific Revolution (16th and 17th centuries)Enlightenment period (18th century)Industrialization and Modern period (19th and 20th centuries)Friedrich Nietzsche (1844-1900) – proclaimed God as dead indicating that enlightenment thinking had killed him in the sense Western culture had excluded him from public life.

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Developing Split of Spiritual and SecularGenesis in the EnlightenmentAge of Reason – Thomas Paine (1794)Darwinism – Evolutionary Theory & MaterialismBefore Darwin (1700’s) there was an idea of the world moving from primitive to the more complexDarwin (1809-1882) gave it a scientific settingOrigin of Species (1859)There is a philosophical commitment to the idea of progress of humanity

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Developing Split of Spiritual and SecularSociety for Ethical Culture – Secular Humanism PhilosophyFounded in 1876 by rabbi Dr. Felix AdlerOther societies were formed and later merged into American Ethical Union founded also by Adler in 1889.Became the center for what would become “secular humanism” which teaches that God does not exist, and that man is perfectible, self-sufficient and the measure of all things.

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Developing Split of Spiritual and SecularFirst Humanist SocietyFounded in 1929 by Charles Potter1930 wrote Humanism: A New Religion“Education is thus a most powerful ally of Humanism, and every American public school is a school of Humanism. What can the theistic Sunday-schools, meeting for an hour once a week, and teaching only a fraction of the children, do to stem the tide of a five-day program of humanistic teaching?”Horace Mann would widely promote Humanism in the public schools

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Developing Split of Spiritual and SecularHumanist Manifesto I (1933)Signed by 34 prominent national figures including the educator John DeweyRejects traditional Christian beliefsSupports naturalism, materialism, rationalism, and socialismThe importance of the document is that more than thirty men have come to general agreement on matters of final concern and that these men are undoubtedly representative of a large number who are forging a new philosophy out of the materials of the modern world. -- Raymond B. Bragg (1933) http://www.americanhumanist.org/who_we_are/about_humanism/Humanist_Manifesto_I

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Developing Split of Spiritual and SecularTorcaso v. Watkins (1961)Secular humanism recognized as a religion.“Among religions in this country which do not teach what would general be considered a belief in the existence of God, are Buddhism, Taoism, Ethical Culture, Secular humanism and others.”Secular humanism becomes more prominent with the modernization and people looking to humanity as the answer to everything and God is pushed further out of consideration.

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Developing Split of Spiritual and SecularModernization to secularizationModernity is often associated with what Jurgen Habermas ascribes as the “Enlightenment project” or “project of modernity”. This project finds its genesis in the eighteenth century Enlightenment. It is composed of the ongoing “development of the objectivating sciences, the universalistic bases of morality and law, and autonomous art in accordance with their internal logic but at the same time a release of the cognitive potentials thus accumulated from their esoteric high forms and their utilisation in praxis: that is, in the rational organisation of living conditions and social relations” (1992).

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Developing Split of Spiritual and SecularModernization to secularizationNetland states that modernity is…characterized by an emphasis upon the capacity of reason to uncover universal truths; the rejection of superstition and religious authoritarianism; and understanding of science as producing ever more accurate pictures of the universe and the human person; and expectation that science, technology and education working together will eradicate problems and progressively improve human life; and a general toleration for various creeds and ways of life, so long as they do not conflict with what reason sanctions (2001, 67).

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Developing Split of Spiritual and SecularModernization to secularizationOriginating with the eighteenth-century Enlightenment we see an increasingly globalized culture that is rooted in the processes of modernization associated with the economic, industrial and social transformations progressively moving worldwideThe Enlightenment is the intellectual heritage of the West during the past three hundred years

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Developing Split of Spiritual and SecularSecularizing factors in modernizationScience is objectiveScience can give humanity a true understanding of the worldReason can be the basis of morality and lawUniversal truths can be discovered through reason onlyScience , technology, and education can solve humanities problemsViews contrary to reason not respected or even tolerated

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Christian Thought and American Culture

Founding of the U.S.

Political Thought

Political PraxisScienceEducationSocietal IssuesCultural PracticesOpen Worldview

U.S. CULTURE

CHRISTIAN PERSPECTIVE

Christian Worldview Foundational

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Christian Thought and American Culture

Secular Influence in the U.S.

Political Thought

Political Praxis Education ScienceSocietal IssuesCultural Practices Open Worldview

U.S. CULTURE

CHRISTIAN PERSPECTIVE

Christian Worldview Foundational

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Developing Split of Spiritual and SecularThree primary carriers of modernity (Hunter)The first is “industrial capitalism” with its “applied rationality” and “rational control.” (also communism, et. al)The second carrier of modernity is the “modern state” as the primary purveyor of a “rationalistic or bureaucratic form of social organization” with its compartmentalization rather than the integration of knowledge. The third is the “knowledge sector” with its “institutions of culture formation and reality definition” comprises the third carrier of modernity. Prominent within this latter group are universities, the mass media, and the arts (1994, 18-20).

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Developing Split of Spiritual and SecularModernization to secularizationModernization and modernity challenge Christianity as it interprets God’s timeless message in the midst of cultural and sociological changes. Whether the progression of modernity constitutes what Max Weber calls the “iron cage” or Peter Berger imagines as a “gigantic steel hammer,” there is little doubt that the Christian message has lived within, confronted, moderated, wrestled with, and even compromised with cultural and social issues as historical situations and societies have changed with the onward march of modernity or forms of modernity, i.e. modernities.

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Developing Split of Spiritual and SecularInfluence of Modernization on CultureDependence on reason & science from a closed worldviewWealth accumulation and self-sufficient perspectivePopular media and technological influences Knowledge sector’s pursuit of truth from a closed worldview perspective

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Developing Split of Spiritual and SecularModernization’s Influence on ChristianityEmphasis on self as the center of human lifeKnowledge and education through science and reason is enough for ethical and moral decisionsMaterial well-being given priorityReligion relegated to sub-conscious experiences, needs, desires and feeling.

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Influence of Secular ThinkingBiblical CriticismLiberal scholarship denies inspiration Modernization & belief in “science” as answerReligion redefined (see section on religion)Subjective or psychologicalEvolutionarySecularismReligion seen as a personal matterReligion pushed to the fringe of academic pursuitReligion seen as not importantSpiritual aspects of humanity down-played or ignored

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Influence of Secular ThinkingHumanist Manifesto II (1973)“Promises of immortal salvation or fear of eternal damnation are both illusory and harmful. They distract humans from present concerns, from self-actualization, and from rectifying social injustices. Modern science discredits such historic concepts as the "ghost in the machine" and the "separable soul." Rather, science affirms that the human species is an emergence from natural evolutionary forces. As far as we know, the total personality is a function of the biological organism transacting in a social and cultural context. There is no credible evidence that life survives the death of the body. We continue to exist in our progeny and in the way that our lives have influenced others in our culture.”http://www.americanhumanist.org/who_we_are/about_humanism/Humanist_Manifesto_II

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Influence of Secular ThinkingModernization to modernityPeter Berger notes that modernization consists of the “transformation of the world brought about by the technological innovations of the last few centuries, first in Europe and then with increasing rapidity all over the world.” This transformation especially centers itself within political, social, and economic patterns and structures that substantially influence beliefs, values, and cultures (1977, 70).Humanism see modern abilities of humans as able to provide answers to all of humanity’s needs. (See Fifth in Humanist Manifesto II)

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Influence of Secular ThinkingHumanist Manifesto II (1973)“FIFTH: The preciousness and dignity of the individual person is a central humanist value. Individuals should be encouraged to realize their own creative talents and desires. We reject all religious, ideological, or moral codes that denigrate the individual, suppress freedom, dull intellect, dehumanize personality. We believe in maximum individual autonomy consonant with social responsibility.SIXTH: In the area of sexuality, we believe that intolerant attitudes, often cultivated by orthodox religions and puritanical cultures, unduly repress sexual conduct. The right to birth control, abortion, and divorce should be recognized. . . Short of harming others or compelling them to do likewise, individuals should be permitted to express their sexual proclivities and pursue their lifestyles as they desire.

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Influence of Secular ThinkingHumanist Manifesto III (2003)Mostly contained in Manifesto IIPuts forward the “self-existence of nature”Denial of the supernaturalFinality of deathIdea of religion comes from an interaction with the natural environment

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Division of Spiritual and Secular

Revelation

Reason

God

Self

Spiritual Box

Secular Box

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Division of Sacred and Secular

Excluded Middle

FaithMiraclesOther-worldly problemsSacred – God centered

Sight and experienceNatural orderThis-worldly problemsSecular – self centered

Western Two-Tiered View of RealityAdaptation of Paul Hiebert, Missiology: An International Review 10.1 (January 1982: 35-47)

God

Religion

Self

Science

Not Real

Real

Christian-Secular Engagement

Separating Christian worldview from being an important dimension of humanity, culture and society,

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Division of Sacred and SecularHow did this two-tiered worldview emerge?Platonic dualismEnlightenment thinking – humanity as centerRationalism – human reason as the answer to humanities problemsScience based on materialistic naturalismNaturalism – physical world is all that existsReligion relegated to a persons feelings or sub-conscience experiences, needs, desires, or neurosis.Religion reactive rather than engaging secular thought

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Christian Worldview

Secular Worldview

Bridging

The Gap

Ideological & Sociological Influences of Secularism

Christian-Secular Engagement

Science/Reason

Wealth Accumulation

Popular Media

Knowledge Sector

Christian

Perspective

Secular Humanism

Philosophy

E

volutionary Theory

Materialism

Modernization

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Division of Sacred and SecularTwo-tiered divisionResult: This has given rise to secularization of science and the mystification of religion.Science – deals with the empirical world using mechanistic processes based on the certitudes of sense experience, experimentation and proof from observation of natural law.Religion – religion was relegated to faith in dreams, visions, inner feelings, subjective thinking, and exceptions to natural law, e.g. miracles and spiritual realm.

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Division of Sacred and SecularChristian worldview should dissolve the excluded middle by:Not confining God to the supernatural realm only or removing the spiritual dimension of our world completely from our understandingNot viewing the world as simply a system of autonomous scientific lawsRecognizing both the spiritual and physical nature of our world and of peopleRecognizing God is involved in human history, affairs of nations, peoples, and individuals.

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Spiritual and Physical Nature of the World

S C I E N C E

C

HRSTIAN

Integrated and Holistic View of Reality

Christian-Secular Engagement

ClosedWorldview

Open

Worldview

Physical Realm

Spiritual

Realm

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Secular Humanism Pushes to Remove the Spiritual

Reason

Revelation

God

Self

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Christian Perspective Humanity is both Spiritual and Physical(Body, Soul, Spirit)

Revelation/Reason

Self

God

Spiritual/Physical Worldview

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Church in an Engaging Mode

Spiritual/Church/Physical Worldview

Church

God

World

Incarnational

Church

Missional

Engagement

Communitas

Missional-Incarnational

Communitas Approach

Alan Hirsch, The Forgotten Ways, p. 239

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Church in a Dualistic Mode

Church as a Fortress to the Worldview

Church

God

World

God’s interaction with his people (worship, etc.)

The Dualistic Christendom Mode

Individual and church’s interaction with the world (work, play mission, evangelism)

sacred realm

secular realm

Alan Hirsch,

The Forgotten Ways

, p. 237

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Division of Sacred and SecularSecularismSecular – from the Latin saeculum meaning “generation” or “age” signifying belonging to this age or to the world rather than to a transcendent religious direction.Secularism is a worldview that find little if any place for the supernatural and transcendent.It represents a philosophical viewpoint that had its genesis with the Renaissance and developed more fully during the Enlightenment.

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Division of Sacred and SecularThe term “secularism” was coined by the British writer George Jacob Holyoake in 1851 (Origin and Nature of Secularism by Holyoake, 1896, p. 51) Holyoake viewed secularism as a social order separate from religion as “light and guidance in secular truth” but this did not mean there is not light or guidance elsewhere.Barry Kosmin, Institute for the Study of Secularism in Society and Culture, points to two types of secularism: hard and soft. “The hard secularist considers religious propositions to be epistemologically illegitimate, warranted by neither reason nor experience." The view of soft secularism is that, "the attainment of absolute truth was impossible and therefore skepticism and tolerance should be the principle and overriding values in the discussion of science and religion."

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Division of Sacred and SecularSecularism – Max Weber perceived secularization occurring because of a consequence of modernity’s rationalization because rationality no longer gave space to religion thus creating a “disenchantment of the World.”

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Division of Sacred and SecularSecularism – “the process by which sectors of society and culture are removed from the domination of religious institutions and symbols.”Religious institutions have less influence in societyReligious symbols have less meaning in society“As there is a secularization of society and culture, so is there a secularization of consciousness.” (Peter Berger, The Sacred Canopy)

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Division of Sacred and SecularSecularism – Religion for the first time in history has lost its validity for the individuals in the society. (Peter Berger, The Sacred Canopy, 124)An increasing number of individuals have a philosophy and worldview that does not involve a religious dimension.

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Division of Sacred and SecularYves Lambert (Sociology of Religion, Religion in Modernity as a New Axial Age: Secularization or New Religious Forms (1999):60:3)Social secularization – Less influence is societyOrganizational secularization – Less spiritual emphasis in churches and other institutions)Individual secularization – Less of a Christian worldviewSecularization produces emphasis on:This-worldly orientation rather than other –worldly orientationIndividual choiceLess religious involvement

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Division of Sacred and SecularSecularism – is “the process through which the decisive influence of religious ideas and institutions has been neutralized in successive sectors of society and culture, making religious ideas less meaningful and religious institutions more marginal . In particular, it refers to how our modern consciousness and ways of thinking are restricted to the world of the five senses.“ (Os Guinness, The Call, 148)

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Division of Sacred and SecularSecularizationThe process through which successive sectors of society and culture are freed from the influence of religious ideas and influence.It is a historical process in which religious beliefs, values, and institutions are increasingly marginalized and lose their value and importance.Secularization is associated with modernization where technology and human achievement are emphasized and thought to provide ultimate answers.

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Division of Sacred and SecularSecularizationSocial scientist is the 1960s and 70s were predicting the demise of religion in the Western world because of the growth of secularism.Although secularism is still growing and having an impact in the West, the U.S. has particularly not followed the trend at the pace most thought would happen.It is argued by some that as secularism progresses, people will cause people to look for the transcendent.

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Division of Sacred and SecularSecularizationSecularize religion means transforming the nature, meaning and place of religion in society where its emphasis is “this world” oriented rather than “other world” oriented.The book The Christian Mind gives examples of the secularization of religion.

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Division of Sacred and SecularSecularism ultimately is the denial of the reality of the spiritual realm in the events of human life.Elements of SecularismAutonomy of the individualPower of human reasonOnly real world is from sensory experienceReduces reality of this world to simple materialistic explanations – modern scientismUniverse is a closed systemNothing outside the physical system

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Division of Sacred and SecularRamifications of SecularismWith evolutionary theory it provided grounds for an epistemological shift from creator/creation, design and purpose to understanding the universe as a product of chance and random relations that trigger chains of cause and effects.Gave rise to the denial of moral absolutes.God became remote as in DeismGod’s existence denied as in Atheism Science becomes the authority

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Division of Sacred and SecularRamifications of SecularismSecularism worldview became a rival to a religious worldview which became marginalized as a product of particular historical cultural and socio-economic contexts.Reduce the influence of religion in societyRely on reason and scienceReligion is marginalized as a way to answer ultimate questions and provide ethical and moral norms or sanctions relative to a culture.

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Division of Sacred and SecularRamifications of SecularismSecularism works against Christian principles by putting self and reason above revelation and beliefSecularism’s increases the marginalization of Christianity to be simply a self-help crutch for the weak mindedPublic morals become increasingly personalized and privatizedMorals become relativeReliance on instrumental reason to find “truth”Scientific method to find “truth”

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Division of Sacred and SecularSecular Humanist Declaration (1982)Free enquirySeparation of Church and StateFreedomCritical intelligenceMoral educationReligious skepticismKnowledge through reasonScience & technologyEvolutionEducation

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Atheism in the U.S.1990 , 10% of U.S. population was non-religiousIn 2000 - 15% (40,000,000) claimed to be non-religiousIn 2010 – 16.5% (52,411,00) claimed to be non-religious2010 Europe – Eurobarometer Poll of EU27 - 20% no God, 26% life spirit/force, 51% GodNo personal God - Czech Republic 84%, Sweden – 82%, France 73% -- Italy 26%, Ireland 30%, Germany 56%, UK 63%In the non-western world Christianity is growing

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Atheism in the U.S.Books by AtheistsThe God Delusion by Richard DawkinsThe End of Faith by Sam HarrisGod: The Failed Hypothesis by Victor StengerGod Is Not Great by Christopher HitchensAtheist Manifesto by Michel Onfray

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Atheism in the U.S.Dawkins and Dennett want to be called “brights” like in I am bright.Dawkins defines a bright as one who espouses “a worldview that is free of supernatural and mysticism.”Dennet states, “We brights don’t believe in ghosts, elves, or the Easter Bunny – or God.”The point is they are too smart to believe in supernatural aspects of the world.

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Secular Spiritual

Closed WorldviewOpen WorldviewMaterial universe onlyMaterial and spiritual in universeHumanity evolved and is solely a product of material forces Humanity created in the image of GodTruth is relative on moral issuesTruth is revealed by GodExistence by accidentCreation by intelligent designHumanity the authorityGod the authority

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Living Spiritual to Engage a Secular World

The context of the early Christians The Roman Empire was very diverse ethnically and religiouslyChristianity came into a world where moral standards were very low and relativeChristianity showed its value in the midst of diversity, moral, ethical, economic, and political challengesChristianity started in A.D. 30 at Jesus death and by A.D. 350 it is estimated that approximately 60% of the Empire were Christians

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Living Spiritual to Engage a Secular World

Early Christians examples to the worldCentered on Christ – how much he valued humanityLived its beliefsRecognized Christ’s attitudes and emulate themShared its beliefsAdhered to living in peace even at their own expenseEngaged in overcoming infanticideHeld to a higher standard of moralsServed the sick in times of plaguesOffered a belief system of love and hopeStarted schools for common people

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Living Spiritual to Engage a Secular World

Foundation of Christian living & engagementEveryone created in the image of GodValue of all peopleGod’s love for all peopleTwo greatest commandmentsLove God with all your heart, soul, mind & StrengthLove your neighbor as yourself

Os GuinnessHow the church engages in a post-Christian culture

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Living Spiritual to Engage a Secular World

Four keys to engaging a secular worldLive for Christ – represent Christ’s attitudeLove for people – practice sacrificial loveServe people – treat them as people created in God’s imageShare Christ – through spiritual and physical service

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Living Spiritual to Engage a Secular World

Christian keys to engaging a secular worldLive for Christ – represent Christ’s attitudeMt. 7 – Lives build on Christ, the rockRom. 12:18 – Live in peace with all people2 Cor. 5:15 - He died for all, so that they who live might no longer live for themselves, but for Him who died and rose again on their behalf. Gal. 2:20 - I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me. Gal. 5:25 – live by the Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit. 1 Pet. 2:24 - He Himself bore our sins in His body on the cross, so that we might die to sin and live to righteousness; for by His wounds you were healed.

Christian-Secular Engagement

Slide77

Living Spiritual to Engage a Secular World

Christian keys to engaging a secular worldLove for people – practice sacrificial loveJn. 3:16-17 – Same love Jesus had for peopleMt. 5:43-44 – love your enemyJn. 13:35 – they will know you are my disciples by your love for each otherJn. 14:15, 21 – if you love you keep commandmentsJn. 15:13 – greater love has no man than this than to lay down his life for anotherJn. 15:17 – commanded to love one another1 Thess. 3:12 – abound in love for all people1 Cor. 13 – Love in practice1 Cor. 16:14 – Let all you do be done in loveEph. 4:2, 15 – love with humility and speak truth in love

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Living Spiritual to Engage a Secular World

Christian keys to engaging a secular worldServe people – treat them as people created in God’s image Mt. 20:28 - just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.” Jn. 13 – Jesus’ example of serviceMk. 10:44 – a slave to allGal. 5:13 – serve one anotherGal. 6:10 – do good to all peoplePhil. 2:17 – poured out as a drink offering in service1 Pet. 2:16-17 – use freedom to honor all people1 Pet. 4:10-11- serving to glorify God

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Living Spiritual to Engage a Secular World

Servanthood Model

Christian-Secular Engagement

SERVING

Elmer, Duane. 2006

. Cross-Cultural

Servanthood

, p. 152

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Living Spiritual to Engage a Secular World

Servanthood ModelServing – to serve a person you need to understand that personOpenness – willing to step out of your comfort zoneBased on God’s openness who welcomes sinners and people created in his image and valuable in His sightAcceptance – a person must be welcomed by you to feel valued and esteemed They feel safe with youTrust – having felt valued over time builds trust in who you are and in your concern for themCan only happen after acceptance

Christian-Secular Engagement

Elmer, Duane. 2006

. Cross-Cultural

Servanthood

, p. 150-152

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Living Spiritual to Engage a Secular World

Servanthood ModelLearning – a person learns better from those they trustA person shares important information and parts of their lives with those they trustUnderstanding – understanding comes through learning from another person and then with that person“A learning attitude signals humility and a willingness to identify with the people.”

Christian-Secular Engagement

Elmer, Duane. 2006

. Cross-Cultural

Servanthood

, p. 150-152

Slide82

Living Spiritual to Engage a Secular World

Christian keys to engaging a secular worldShare Christ – through spiritual and physical serviceMt. 10:5f – limited commissionJn. 17 – Sent as Christ was sentMt. 28:18-20 – Sent to all ethnic groupsMk. 16:15-16 – Go into all the worldLk. 24:46-49 – Proclaim Christ and be witnesses

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Living Spiritual to Engage a Secular World

Biblical Christian perspective of non-Christians:Created in the image of GodLove our neighbors as ourselvesRemember God ultimate concern for them shown on the crossLive at peace with all people so much as it depends on youLive by the Golden RuleBe salt and light in the worldBe a positive influence on people’s lives

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Living Spiritual to Engage a Secular World

How should we live as Christians in the midst of a secular worldMove from “self-centered” to “Christ-centered”Move from “self-centered” to “other-centered”Value others as much as Christ doesLive authentically in our relationship with ChristPractice Christ’s attitudes toward othersShare our beliefs in the midst of practicing the fruit of the Spirit

Christian-Secular Engagement

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Living Spiritual to Engage a Secular World

Fruit of the Spirit (Gal. 5:13-25)Through love serve one another and fulfill “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”Living by the SpiritLove, Joy, PeacePatience, Kindness, GoodnessFaithfulness, gentleness, self-control

Christian-Secular Engagement

Slide86

Christian Perspective or WorldviewHumanity is both Spiritual and Physical(Body, Soul, Spirit)Eph. 6:5-7; Col. 3:17-23

Kingdom – God’s Rule

Self

God

Spiritual/Physical Worldview

Christian-Secular Engagement

Slide87

Christian-Secular Engagement

Science/Reason

Wealth Accumulation

Popular Media

Knowledge Sector

Christian

Perspective

Secular Humanism

Philosophy

E

volutionary Theory

Materialism

Modernization

Science/Reason

Wealth Accumulation

Popular Media

Knowledge Sector

Christian

Perspective

Science/Reason

Wealth Accumulation

Popular Media

Knowledge Sector

Christian

Perspective

Faith - Hope

Love - Service

Transforming

Conforming

Of the World

In the World

Self - World

Reason-Science

Slide88

Christian-Secular Engagement

Science

Reason

Wealth

Accumulation

Popular

Media

KnowledgeSector

Christian

Perspective

Take the Christian worldview, teachings, actions and attitudes into your chosen profession to serve and make a difference.

In the World but no of the world

John 17:14-15

“Go into all the world and make disciples…”

Matthew 28:19

“You are the light of the world…”

Matthew 5:14