A recently-released survey by Presbyterian Church (USA)’s Research Services shows that more than half of Presbyterians surveyed reject Jesus Christ as the only way to salvation.

According to the report entitled “Religious and Demographic Profile of Presbyterians,” nearly half of PCUSA pastors (45 percent) and a majority of “specialized clergy” (60 percent) surveyed disagree that “only followers of Jesus Christ can be saved.”

Approximately 1 in 5 in both categories answered “neutral” or “not sure,” making the totals that do not “agree” with the statement as 65 percent for pastors and 78 percent for specialized clergy.

More than half of “members” and “elders” surveyed answered similarly. Approximately 1 in 3 members (36 percent) and elders (31 percent) either disagree or strongly disagree that “only followers of Jesus can be saved.” In both categories, approximately 1 in 5 is “neutral” or “not sure.”

Those who “strongly agree” or “agree” with the statement, according to the survey, are: 39 percent of members; 45 percent of elders; 35 percent of pastors and 22 percent of specialized clergy.

The report defines “specialized clergy” as ministers serving full-time in a school or seminary, as a hospital or military chaplain, as PCUSA middle governing body staff, in an ecumenical agency or any other job or position. The category also includes part-time and temporary ministries.

One of several questions posed in the “piety and belief” section, the report also features data on topics such as church activities/involvement, calls/careers and social/demographic characteristics.

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