The Impact of Secular Influence on the Church

Introduction

Secular influence on the church has been profound and multifaceted, affecting various aspects of Christian life and practice. This lesson will explore five key areas where secular influence has impacted the church: theological shifts, worship and practice, moral and ethical standards, community and social engagement, and faith and belief. Each section will include relevant scripture references and real-world examples to illustrate these influences.

1. Theological Shifts

Relativism and Pluralism:

Relativism:

Relativism

Relativism is a philosophical concept that suggests that points of view have no absolute truth or validity, having only relative, subjective value according to differences in perception and consideration. In the context of morality and ethics, relativism posits that what is considered morally right or wrong can vary from person to person or from culture to culture. There are no universal moral standards that apply to all individuals at all times.

Moral Relativism: The belief that what is right or wrong depends on individual or cultural perspectives, rather than being universally applicable.

Cultural Relativism: The view that moral systems and practices are determined by the culture in which they exist and should be understood and evaluated based on that cultural context.

Key Characteristics:

Rejects absolute truths or universal standards.Emphasizes the context-dependence of beliefs and practices.Can lead to the acceptance of differing and even conflicting moral views without deeming any particular view superior.

Implications for the Church:

Challenges the church’s teaching of absolute moral truths as revealed in Scripture.May lead to doctrinal shifts to align with contemporary cultural values.Can result in theological confusion and dilution of biblical standards.

Scripture References:

John 14:6: “Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’”2 Timothy 4:3-4: “For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths.”

Real-World Example:

Some churches have shifted their teachings on moral issues like sexual ethics, marriage, and the sanctity of life to align more with contemporary cultural values. For instance, several mainline Protestant denominations have changed their stance on same-sex marriage and the ordination of LGBTQ+ clergy to be more inclusive, reflecting a more relativistic approach to biblical interpretation.

Pluralism:

Pluralism

Pluralism is the acknowledgment and acceptance of diversity within a particular political or social context. It denotes the existence of multiple perspectives, beliefs, and values within a society and promotes coexistence and dialogue among these diverse elements. In religious contexts, pluralism involves recognizing the presence and validity of multiple religions and spiritual practices within a community or society.

Religious Pluralism: The belief that multiple religions or spiritual paths are valid and can coexist peacefully, with no single religion holding a monopoly on truth or salvation.

Cultural Pluralism: The acceptance and celebration of a variety of cultural traditions, languages, and customs within a society.

Key Characteristics:

Embraces diversity and fosters dialogue and mutual respect.

Recognizes the legitimacy of different belief systems and ways of life.

Promotes inclusivity and peaceful coexistence.

Implications for the Church:

Encourages interfaith dialogue and understanding.

Can lead to tensions with traditional Christian doctrines that emphasize the exclusivity of Christ for salvation.

May challenge the church to find a balance between being inclusive and maintaining doctrinal integrity.

Conclusion

Understanding relativism and pluralism is crucial for the church as it navigates the complexities of a rapidly changing and diverse world. By recognizing these concepts and their implications, the church can better address the challenges they present while remaining faithful to biblical teachings.

Scripture References

Relativism:

John 14:6: “Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’”

2 Timothy 4:3-4: “For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths.”

Pluralism:

Acts 4:12: “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.”

1 Timothy 2:5: “For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus.”

Scripture References:

Acts 4:12: “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.”1 Timothy 2:5: “For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus.”

Real-World Example:

The Episcopal Church has adopted more inclusive language and practices to accommodate interfaith perspectives. This includes promoting interfaith dialogues and recognizing the validity of various religious experiences, which sometimes leads to tension with traditional Christian doctrines that emphasize the exclusivity of Christ for salvation.

2. Worship and Practice

Consumerism and Technology:

Consumerism:

Scripture References:

John 4:23-24: “Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in the Spirit and in truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth.”Romans 12:1-2: “Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”

Real-World Example:

Mega-churches like Hillsong and Elevation Church have embraced a consumer-driven model, featuring high-production worship services with professional-quality music, lighting, and multimedia presentations. This approach has drawn large crowds but sometimes at the expense of deeper discipleship and theological depth.

Technology and Media:

Scripture References:

Psalm 95:1-2: “Come, let us sing for joy to the Lord; let us shout aloud to the Rock of our salvation. Let us come before him with thanksgiving and extol him with music and song.”Hebrews 10:24-25: “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.”Real-World Example:

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many churches adopted online services and digital platforms to continue their ministries. While this technological adaptation allowed for continued worship and outreach, it also led to concerns about fostering genuine community and spiritual growth in a virtual environment.

3. Moral and Ethical Standards

Sexual Ethics and Life Issues:

Sexual Ethics:

Scripture References:

Genesis 2:24: “That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh.”1 Corinthians 6:18-20: “Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a person commits are outside the body, but whoever sins sexually, sins against their own body. Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.”Real-World Example:

The United Methodist Church has experienced significant internal conflict and division over its stance on same-sex marriage and the ordination of LGBTQ+ clergy. This debate has led to the formation of the Global Methodist Church, a more conservative offshoot, highlighting the impact of secular views on sexual ethics within the denomination.

Life Issues:

Scripture References:

Psalm 139:13-16: “For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place, when I was woven together in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.”Jeremiah 1:5: “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.”Real-World Example:

The Roman Catholic Church continues to oppose abortion and euthanasia, facing significant societal and political pressure in countries where these practices are legal and culturally accepted. Pope Francis has consistently spoken out against these practices, reaffirming the church's commitment to the sanctity of life from conception to natural death.

4. Community and Social Engagement

Social Justice and Political Polarization:

Social Justice:

Scripture References:

Micah 6:8: “He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”James 1:27: “Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.”Real-World Example:

Many churches have become actively involved in social justice movements, such as Black Lives Matter and environmental stewardship initiatives. For instance, churches like Riverside Church in New York City have made social justice a core part of their mission, advocating for racial equality, economic justice, and environmental sustainability.

Political Polarization:

Scripture References:

Romans 12:18: “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”1 Corinthians 1:10: “I appeal to you, brothers and sisters, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another in what you say and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly united in mind and thought.”Real-World Example:

The 2020 U.S. presidential election highlighted political divisions within the church. Evangelical support for Donald Trump contrasted sharply with mainline Protestant and Catholic support for Joe Biden, reflecting broader societal polarization. This division often plays out in congregational conflicts and differing views on how the church should engage with political issues.

5. Faith and Belief

Secularization and Intellectual Challenges:

Secularization:

Scripture References:

2 Timothy 3:1-5: “But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God—having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with such people.”Real-World Example:

In Europe, traditional churches are experiencing a steep decline in attendance and membership, particularly among younger generations. Countries like Sweden and the UK have seen a rise in secularism, with many people identifying as non-religious or atheist. This trend challenges churches to find new ways to engage and remain relevant in increasingly secular societies.

Intellectual Challenges:

Scripture References:

1 Peter 3:15: “But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.”2 Corinthians 10:5: “We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.”Real-World Example:

Prominent atheists like Richard Dawkins and Sam Harris continue to challenge Christian beliefs through books, debates, and public speaking. Their critiques of religion, particularly Christianity, influence public perception and encourage skepticism, leading some to question or abandon their faith. In response, Christian apologists like Ravi Zacharias and William Lane Craig have worked to address these intellectual challenges by defending the rationality of the Christian faith through public discourse and written works.

Conclusion

Secular influences have deeply impacted the church in various ways, presenting both challenges and opportunities. By understanding these influences and grounding our responses in Scripture, we can navigate the complexities of modern society while maintaining the integrity of our faith. Let us commit to upholding biblical truths and values in every aspect of our lives, trusting in God's guidance and strength.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your Word, which provides us with wisdom and guidance in all areas of life. Help us to stand firm in our faith amidst the secular influences around us. Strengthen us to uphold Your truth, live out Your commands, and be a light in this world. May we glorify You in all we do. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.