Stereotypes Overview

The following is an overview of the most prominent negative Christian stereotypes we face. What’s important to realize is that WE created these stereotypes through what we say and how we behave. Most non-believers who are aware of Jesus Christ have no problem with Him. They believe Jesus sets a great standard for living, even if they don’t believe in his deity or the faith created to fulfill His mission and purpose in the world.

These negative Christian stereotypes dilute the purpose and positive message Jesus came to share with the world. We tarnish His image by not pursuing a life worthy of His name.

So, review the negative stereotypes and also contemplate the antidote to each stereotype. You’ll quickly see that we are not about a “Christian makeover”. We are not trying to put a “pretty” mask on an ugly face. Our vision and mission is to see true heart, mind, and soul change….TRANSFORMATION…within Christians. This is about living the way our faith, our beliefs, and our savior Jesus Christ calls us to live. It’s the true face of Christianity we must show the world, if God is to use us to accomplish His good and perfect will.

Challenge	Opportunity
Anti-homosexual & intolerant	Loving and accepting of the person. Not viewing this sin as more sinful than any other sin. Addressing our own sin before looking at others. Treating others who are different as still worthy of God’s love.
Hypocritical	Behaviors consistent with beliefs
More interested in “Saving” someone, than loving them	Genuine love and care for the person first
Too political, using politics to force our beliefs and morals on other people; limiting other people’s freedom and rights.	Respectful listening and dialog. Promote what we are for, not what we are against. Protect our rights politically and legislatively, without focusing on reducing or limiting the rights of others with different beliefs and morals. Supporting legislation that is consistent with our beliefs, without trying to silence or overwhelm opposing views within our church/ranks.
Out of touch with reality-blind faith, old fashioned, and isolated	Back up our beliefs with evidence. Show how science and Christianity can coexist. Promote not just “family values” but the value and benefit of holding such values. Being like Jesus: engaging with non-believers instead of living within our secure circle of believer friends.
Judgmental, prideful, self-righteous, better than others	Humility, transparency, “real”. Treat others not as “sinners” to be condemned, but as lovable people the Father loves. Showing grace to others. Supporting the divorced/single mother, instead of criticizing her choices, status, or situation. Genuinely loving unconditionally.