Conversations That Matter The Neo-Evangelical Mirage
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Nov 19, 2025 Jon Harris explores the perils of neo-evangelicalism and its quest for cultural influence, warning that it may compromise the church's health. He critiques the formulaic tactics of major church models and links social-justice trends to shifts in evangelical priorities. The discussion touches on the generational divide, viewing younger audiences through varied lenses. He cautions against targeting Gen Z men by reinforcing victimhood and states that churches should prioritize sound doctrine over trendy demographics. An insightful and thought-provoking take on modern faith!
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Relevance Over Doctrine Undermines Church
- Neo-evangelicalism seeks cultural influence by targeting modern fields and demographics rather than prioritizing doctrinal purity.
- This pursuit of relevance often produces gimmicks and contextualization that reshuffles believers without deep conversion.
Saddleback Example: Music Over Message
- Jon Harris recalls attending a Rick Warren event where musical style dictated service choice and aesthetics trumped substance.
- He suggests such strategies reshuffled church membership more than producing genuine conversions.
Social Activism Shifts Evangelical Direction
- Attempts to blend evangelical faith with progressive social agendas led to a leftward drift in parts of neo-evangelicalism.
- Figures like Ron Sider, Tim Keller, and others influenced this merger of social activism with church strategy.
