unchristian: how non-christians perceive christians

Do perceptions matter? You better believe it! Perception is everything! (Or at least, it can be.) Today I found a book called, unchristian: what a new generation really thinks about Christianity. . . and why it matters.

The book is mainly about how younger generations view Christianity and church folk. It identifies six perceptions that they have of us.

Warning: You may not want to agree with these six perceptions. . . and you don’t have to! However, I must say that I trust the research and think it stands on its own. Besides, you’ve probably heard the old saying, “Perception is reality.” Those of us who love the Church and love the Lord, and who want to see peoples’ lives be changed by the gospel for generations to come should give this information some serious thought.

Perception #1: Hypocritical
Christians say one thing but live something entirely different.

Perception #2: Get Saved!
Christians are insincere and concerned only with converting others.

Perception #3: Anti-homosexual
Christians show contempt for gays and lesbians.

Perception #4: Sheltered
Christians are boring, unintelligent, old-fashioned, and out of touch with reality.

Perception #5: Too Political
Christians are primarily motivated by a political agenda and promote right-wing politics.

Perception #6: Judgmental
Christians are prideful and quick to find faults in others.

So what do you think about these six perceptions? Does the shoe fit?

The book offers suggestions for how Christians can change our perceptions, but instead of offering them, I’d like to hear from you. So, does the shoe fit? How accurate do you think these perceptions are?