unChristian: What a New Generation Really Thinks about Christianity... and Why It Matters
Book Description
What if everything you thought you knew about Christianity was challenged by the very generation it seeks to reach? In "unChristian," David Kinnaman unveils the startling perceptions and deep-seated opinions of young adults towards faith, illuminating the chasm that separates them from the church. With gripping research and compelling narratives, Kinnaman exposes the disconnect, revealing the struggle of a new generation grappling with authenticity, judgment, and the essence of belief. As societal norms shift and hearts wander, the question lingers: can the church adapt, or will it remain a relic in a world yearning for something real?
Quick Summary
"unChristian" by David Kinnaman explores how a new generation of young non-Christians and ex-Christians perceive contemporary Christianity, revealing that the dominant cultural view sees Christians as hypocritical, judgmental, and out of touch. Drawing on extensive research conducted by the Barna Group, Kinnaman identifies a significant disconnect between Christian self-perception and the impressions held by outsiders, particularly Millennials and Gen Z. The book unpacks six core criticisms these groups hold, from hypocrisy to an overemphasis on conversion, highlighting the urgent need for greater authenticity and compassion. Through reflections, stories, and data, Kinnaman challenges churches to reexamine their behavior and messages for a changing world, urging a move from defensiveness to empathy and genuine faith that can connect with those disillusioned by traditional church culture.
Summary of Key Ideas
Table of Contents
Modern Perceptions of Christianity and the Church
Kinnaman begins by sharing extensive research into how young non-Christians and ex-Christians view the church. These findings paint a stark picture, with most outsiders perceiving Christians as antihomosexual, hypocritical, and judgmental. For many, Christianity is associated with negativity rather than hope or love. The book’s research, involving thousands of interviews, underlines that these impressions are not fringe but widespread and persistent among both the unchurched and those who have left the church.
The Disconnect Between Belief and Practice
A central insight is the disconnect between what Christians intend and how they are perceived. Many believers see themselves as loving and well-intentioned, but their actions and attitudes often fail to convey this. The behaviors observed by outsiders—such as moral inconsistency, exclusion, and political activism—reinforce negative stereotypes. The gap is widened further when Christians focus more on culture wars and conversion than on building meaningful relationships or demonstrating compassion.
The Impact of Judgment and Hypocrisy
The criticisms highlighted by Kinnaman include hypocrisy, a judgmental spirit, and an obsession with conversion. These issues not only alienate outsiders but also push former insiders away. Many who leave the church do so not because they reject the core of Christian faith but because they see a lack of authenticity. The author contends that the church must confront these failings honestly. This involves open self-examination and a willingness to acknowledge where the church’s behavior contradicts its teachings.
Responding with Authenticity and Grace
To move forward, Kinnaman proposes that Christians reclaim a countercultural identity grounded in Christ-like love. Authenticity, humility, and grace are essential to restoring credibility and trust. Practical steps include listening deeply, embracing messiness, and prioritizing relationships over rigid agendas. By breaking with cultures of condemnation and control, Christians can better reflect Jesus’ heart for people, especially those on the margins.
Reimagining Christian Engagement with Culture
Ultimately, "unChristian" calls the church to reimagine its role in society—less as enforcers of morality and more as ambassadors of reconciliation. As generational and cultural shifts challenge old paradigms, the church's witness depends on its ability to embody the gospel it proclaims. By embracing humility, engagement, and genuine care, Kinnaman argues, Christians can become known for their love rather than what they oppose, opening pathways for meaningful connection with a skeptical generation.