As Dr. R.C. Sproul observed, many Christians live with what he called “happy inconsistencies;” they affirm certain biblical truths while unknowingly holding contradictory beliefs. Everyone is a theologian, R.C. said, but the question is whether they are a good one or a poor one. And poor theology—no matter how sincerely held—can lead to confusion, compromise, and even spiritual harm.
This nationwide study from Ligonier Ministries reveals what Americans believe about key doctrines of the Christian faith. And the findings show that confusion still reigns among professing Christians:
- 53% of American evangelicals agree that “Everyone sins a little, but most people are good by nature.”
- 53% think that “The Holy Spirit is a force but is not a personal being.”
- 47% believe “God accepts the worship of all religions, including Christianity, Judaism, and Islam.”
These are not statistics from skeptics or secularists. These are the beliefs of evangelicals—people who claim a high view of the Bible. What we see is not merely a knowledge gap but a discipleship gap.
Yet there is hope. The survey also reveals that those who engage regularly with Ligonier’s teaching resources show stronger theological clarity and conviction. By God’s grace—and with your help—Ligonier Ministries is a theological lifeline to Christians around the world.
Ligonier’s generous supporters help sustain this global Bible-teaching outreach. When you stand with us through a financial gift this month, you can help accelerate the production and distribution of new books, teaching series, and discipleship resources for a church in need.
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