George Barna’s research group recently did a study on “Spiritually Open Non-Christians.” Why is this important? Because people come to a religious discussion currently with lots of preconceived ideas about Christianity and Christians. With non-Christians, one mustn’t be naive and fail to realize that being a Christian today comes with a good deal of social, political, religious, racial, even economic baggage. So studies that help us understand what non-Christians are thinking helps us know where and how to begin the conversation. It’s like listening first to determine where someone is coming from. Of course these are broad generalizations we’re listening to, but they give us an idea what people are thinking.
It’s interesting that this study has identified their target audience as “spiritually open non-Christians.” By this they mean those who are somewhat curious and would entertain some discussion about Christ, Christians or Christianity. These are people you may be able to talk to about Jesus at some point.
So let’s look at some of their attitudes. The study was determined by statements they chose that best represented their feelings. 24% completely agree with the statement, “I feel like I have heard everything church leaders have to teach.” 34% chose, “The Church does not answer my questions.” 36% say, “I feel like my beliefs aren’t aligned with most of the Christians I know.” And the most popular response by far wasn’t directly focused on Christianity at all: 51% of U.S. teens and adults completely agree with the statement, “I prefer to distance myself from the politics of the Church.”
What does this tell us about non-Christians who are nonetheless curious. It tells us primarily that though they may be open, they don’t feel they have anywhere that they can connect with us. We don’t have anything new to tell them (from a spiritual standpoint), we can’t answer their questions, and we don’t line up with any of their beliefs. Now of course we know none of this needs to be true, but we will have to show that to them lovingly over time.
You can’t just walk in and start talking about what you want to talk about. We have to listen first, ask questions, and find out where we can connect with what someone already knows. Barna says at the conclusion of his study, “People of no faith are clear that they are looking for understanding, empathy and belonging.”
Bottom line is that we must start with a relationship. You can’t start with Jesus. You can’t start with the gospel. You can’t start with information. That was 50 years ago. That’s why they called it the Jesus Movement. People wanted to know about Jesus. They would walk up to you cold and ask you to tell them about Jesus. Not today. We have to start somewhere else. We have to start with understanding, empathy and belonging. We have to start with a relationship.
John Fischer The Catch 
John, excellent post. We have to meet people where they are. And that,as you point, is a moving target. Tim
Time. Relationship.
Stop and think…How long did it take for Jesus to search for and restore me…his lost sheep?
I have had a friendship with a young lady, a Jehovah’s Witness, since she was in her teens. She is now in her 50’s. I have never shoved Jesus down her throat, but instead focused on God in the Psalms and other scripture we both believe,
In the past months, she has invited me into a JW study, asking for my thoughts. This has been a great comfort to me, keeping me in The Word, as I deal with the loss of my husband. I would even say, she has ministered more to me than she realizes. It is born out of a love for me that defies the strictures of her belief system. And I know she is hearing truth from me, truth she otherwise never would expose herself to…because she loves me and trusts in my love for her.
Time. Relationship.
Wow. It’s amazing that you have gotten this far. Keep us posted on this story. You are bucking the tide. Let’s pray the Holy Spirit is calling her.
?? it sounds like you are saying that the Jehovah’s Witness denomination is not Christian?? Am I reading that right?
Tomorrow is my birthday and I will be sixty-three. I remember long ago before following Jesus how lost I felt and wanted to belong. So true about someone who has very little or no faith you can always talk about what led you to follow Jesus if and when they might ask. I have moments of depression but, during these moments I am glad that God has my back and I need to always hang on tight. Well, many folks out there are depressed and need something to hang onto like God thru his Son Jesus and each of us can show we care and empathize which is a good beginning to a relationship. Take care, God Bless, and have a great day.
Bless you, Toni. God is good: life is tough.
Happy early Birthday, Toni and remember you’re getting better -not jus older!
God’s speed & blessings to you!
As you wrote Pastor John: ” We have to start with understanding, empathy and belonging. We have to start with a relationship.”
Agree and I like to begin as I learned in Amway to start a conversation with FORM – F: ask about their Family. O: Occupation. R: what do they like to do 4 recreation. M: hopefully by then it leads to sharing a message of God’s Love.
Thanks you John and Mark for the great comments. I will look at my birthday cards today later. Always count my blessings and remember God thru Jesus Christ made all this possible then, now, and forever.
Toni, I wish you a day full of grace and beauty. Thank you for sharing so much of yourself.
Psalm 139:5
Try Again
Third Time
Thank You Sandie
Thanks Sandie
Try again. I want to thank Sandie for the comment and the computer has a mind of its own, Ha!