How do I tactfully say this?

Christians are perceived as condescending. And often, it’s for good reason.

Humble Pie from Ginger Ciminello on Vimeo.

I realize now that I quoted 1 Peter 3:15 in the video, but it wasn’t written by Paul… it was written by Peter. My bad! (Apparently I’m doing my best to stay humble.) Regardless, the truth of that verse is powerful.

“But dedicate your lives to Christ as Lord. Always be ready to defend your confidence in God when anyone asks you to explain it. However, make your defense with gentleness and respect.” 1 Peter 3:15, GWT

I mentioned the book unChristian by David Kinnaman and Gabe Lyons during the video.  I found it to be an eye-opening read and I wholeheartedly recommend it.  I walked away with a new perspective and a desire to change the statistics throughout the book.

From the unChristian website:

Christians are supposed to represent Christ to the world. But according to the latest report card, something has gone terribly wrong. Using descriptions like “hypocritical,” “insensitive,” and “judgmental,” young Americans share an impression of Christians that’s nothing short of . . . unChristian.

Groundbreaking research into the perceptions of sixteen- to twenty-nine-year-olds reveals that Christians have taken several giant steps backward in one of their most important assignments. The surprising details of the study, commissioned by Fermi Project and conducted by The Barna Group, are presented with uncompromising honesty in unChristian.

The negative perceptions exist for a reason.  My hope is that we can change for the better… giving a humble reason for the hope that we have.

Following,
Ginger