Spiritual Christianity Is Growing
~ Donald L. O’Dell, How the Bible became the Bible (2nd Ed), p. 94
According to a recent Gallup Poll, “A record-low 20% of Americans now say the Bible is the literal word of God, down from 24% the last time the question was asked in 2017, and half of what it was at its high points in 1980 and 1984.
Meanwhile, a new high of 29% say the Bible is a collection of "fables, legends, history and moral precepts recorded by man."
This marks the first time significantly more Americans have viewed the Bible as not divinely inspired than as the literal word of God. The largest percentage, 49%, choose the middle alternative, roughly in line with where it has been in previous years.”
While I believe the numbers, I don’t agree with Gallop’s interpretation of them. Gallup explains that the numbers show a lack of religious understanding, while I say that is a skewed perspective. It occurs to me that more people now are interpreting their relationship with God as a personal spiritual journey.
I know for myself that as a spiritual Christian, I have a deliberate intention to allow the spirit of Jesus in all of my lifestyle, which I know contributes to being more in touch with my inner wisdom. None of us are perfect, including me, so 100% of the time we are not exhibiting the lifestyle of Jesus, but more importantly it’s our intentional effort that feeds our spiritual maturation.
Perhaps, more Christians are coming to view their journey with God as being led from their inner wisdom? If so, that would help to explain why only 24% of Bible readers understand the content literally. I take this as positive news, more people today are thinking for themselves and exploring different ideas and paths to understanding their spiritual journey as a personal and spiritual jpurney versus depending on organized religion to “teach” them.
It’s worth mentioning that the five core values I wrote about last month (link is here) will enrich your experiences with inner wisdom as you choose one or more of them to practice regularly.
Blessings, Don
February 2, 2024
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