Ed Stetzer, President of LifeWay Research, recently blogged about findings of research his organization conducted on how pastors use statistics in their ministries. The findings are based on a phone survey of over 1,000 pastors in late 2009.
When these clergy were asked if Christians frequently misuse statistics to fit their own agenda, the vast majority (66%) responded affirmatively. Stop and think about this statistic about the use of statistics. According to 2 out of every 3 pastors surveyed, Christians frequently misuse statistics in order to advance their own agendas.
So What?
The irresponsible use of statistics is not only inconsistent with the Christian faith, but a contributing factor to the religion’s image problem in early 21st century America.
- Have you ever intentionally misused a statistic in order to make a case for something?
- What would you do if your pastor or the leader of a ministry in your congregation misused statistics to argue for her/his own agenda in a sermon, lesson or presentation?
- How does your congregation equip people to be informed and responsible consumers of the research they read on a daily basis?