"Part of me wonders if uproar over Scalia, same-sex marriage, Planned Parenthood, and the 2016 Presidential election is really all about keeping Evangelicals in the fold. People such as Franklin Graham, Tim Wildmon, Tony Perkins, and James Dobson know that Evangelicalism is losing young adults at an alarming rate. Even when young adults remain in the church, they are more likely to support same-sex marriage and abortion rights and are more likely to vote Democrat. These liberal-minded Evangelicals helped put Barack Obama in office in 2008 and 2012. Knowing they cannot retreat from the culture war, Evangelical parachurch groups increasingly resort to using methods meant to keep their supporters in a constant state of spiritual and political agitation. Anything that is perceived as an “attack” on Evangelical Christianity is quickly reported and added to daily email missives sent to supporters. From the war on Christmas to cries of religious persecution, Evangelical leaders paint a dire picture of the future for American Christians. Some even go so far as to suggest that Evangelicals will soon be rounded up and jailed for their beliefs."Read the full commentary piece.
Wednesday, February 17, 2016
Bruce Gerenscer on the Religious Right's Waning Power
Bruce Gerenscer posted an insightful commentary piece on the Religious Right's waning influence and disconnection from millennials. In one segment, he argues that the Religious Right uses persecution rhetoric to induce a siege mentality in their remaining followers and ensure their loyalty.
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How long do you think they can maintain that level of agitation? Eventually, they have to burn out I would think.
ReplyDeleteJono -- I've often wondered that myself. Group activities that rekindle energy and agitation, such as right-wing conferences and rallies, might help them sustain those emotions for long periods.
DeleteSorry to disappoint you. The legalization of gay marriage was a tipping point what has created the most massive outpouring of evangelism and political activity among Christians that I have seen during my 36 years as a believer. It may not be through organizations the writer recognizes, but it is massive and grass roots. The Supreme Court decision really woke up a lot of people and those people are becoming engaged in many ways.
ReplyDeleteThat's interesting. I've actually seen the opposite. Many devout believers who have watched gay family members who they love struggle against religious oppression and discrimination and who are, therefore, forced to choose between their religions and their loved ones, have made the right choices and left their religions behind. It's a beautiful thing to see.
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