Do you live in a post-Christian city?

Where you live makes a difference in your faith. Do you believe that? let's say you lived in Knoxville, TN. Most people you know are likely to believe the Bible is true, helpful, and a positive influence in their lives. But if you live in the northeast, say Burlington, VT, more than half of every adult you knew would be unchurched.

If you lived  in Jackson, MS chances are better than 50/50 that you not only worshiped this weekend, you also attended Sunday School. If you lived in Albany, NY, however,  59% of people who say they are Christians have not made a commitment to Jesus (from the BarnaGroup).

If you live and are a member of church somewhere in the southern portion of the US you probably feel faith is pretty strong, that most people you know are Christians, and that your church is doing pretty well. If you live in the northeast or the west coast you know it's not cool to talk about faith, most of your neighbors are not Christian believers, and you may be worried that your church won't be around many more years.

Where you lives makes a difference in how you experience faith. We could take these numbers and get depressed. Or, we can choose to be proactive. Is your church helping to expand the influence of Christian faith in our country? Do you share your faith with the people God has put around you?

Planting new churches is about influencing our country for God and sharing faith as individuals. If your church is not helping new churches begin, would you champion that cause to your leaders?

Stan Granberg, 360-609-6700