Times are changing.

Let me share some Canadian statistics. Even though there are people who subscribe to this devotional from other countries, I’m sure most can see this trend playing out in their own context in varying degrees.

In the past 60 years, the percentage of people identifying as Christian has gone from 96% to 53%. As of 2021, it was estimated that 23% participated in at least one church-related activity once a month, and only about 5% attended church services weekly.

People aren’t just becoming increasingly neutral toward Christianity either. Many are becoming increasingly hostile and antagonistic. Tim Keller wrote these words in a prayer: “My grandparents lived in a time in which your Word was respected but ignored. I live in a time in which it is attacked and dismembered.”*

Perhaps you can relate to that sentiment.

In tomorrow’s devotional I’m going to share a few thoughts about responding to this new reality. But for today our focus is simply acknowledging that things have radically changed, and that your faith now puts you at odds with the dominant culture.

But that’s okay. The point isn’t to fit in. It’s to follow Jesus.

Historians and theologians note that ever since the time of Constantine, many Christians have been a part of the cultural majority. Only recently has this started to change (at least in Europe and North America—less so in America, but still true). 30 years ago you wouldn’t hesitate to put your church volunteer experience on your resume. Today some people wonder, ‘Is that a good idea?’

But it’s time to fall out of love with fitting in.

Step 1, remember Mark 12:30: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.”

Step 2, acknowledge that loving God needs to take precedence over blending in with the crowd.

The point isn’t to fit in. It’s to follow Jesus.

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Notes and extra content:

–“Defend your faith by knowing your faith.” Sermon. September 29, 2024. Click here.

–*Timothy Keller with Kathy Keller, The Songs of Jesus (New York: Viking, 2015), 285.

–Bible quotes are from the NIV.