Barna research shows that 56 percent of U.S. Christian adults view their spiritual lives as entirely private. The remainder of Christians (44%) tend to be more open when thinking about sharing their spiritual life and walk with others.
Christians who view their lives as entirely private are less likely to say that it is very important to see progress in their spiritual life, that their faith is very important in their life today and that they have weekly time with God.
Christians who seek to grow in their faith and walk with Christ are more likely to do so when they’re open to journeying alongside others—that includes sharing about their spiritual life so that fellow believers and friends can challenge them to grow in healthy ways.
What is the role of friendship in discipleship community?
Both historically (see 1 Thessalonians 2:8) and currently, Christians see friendships as foundational to healthy discipleship. Disciplemaking involves actively helping someone else grow closer to Christ, requiring those involved to look outside themselves.
For pastors looking to address this trend from the pulpit, download the sermon slides, then keep reading for potential angles to help your congregation understand the value of sharing their faith journey.
