Stephen Mattson recently shared a list of invalid stereotypes held by Christians about Christianity. His list includes:
- all your questions will be answered;
- you’ll be “blessed” with wealth, prosperity, comfort, and security; and
- you’re always happy.
So What?
Christianity is thankfully far too rich a tradition to answer all the questions thinking people ask. It is far too deep a religion to suggest material prosperity is associated with living out one’s faith; it acknowledges that the abundant life can be lived well regardless of one’s socioeconomic status. It is far too relevant a way of life to allow what our culture calls “happiness” to substitute for genuine contentment.
- What is one way you have heard people describe Christianity that you think is unhelpful and incorrect?
- How do you respond when people wrongly attribute some “stereotype” to you when they know you are a Christian?