The assumption that the larger culture agrees with…
“The assumption that the larger culture agrees with Christians on values issues led to evangelicals' minimizing the theologically distinctive aspects of Christian witness. It also set up evangelicals to be disappointed when the culture did not turn out the way many expected it to turn out. So our response ought to be that we are always, in every culture, strangers in exile.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Evangelicals often assume cultural alignment on moral values, leading to disappointment when reality diverges; they should view themselves as perpetual outsiders.
In simple terms: Cultural assumptions cause disillusionment.
Key Takeaway
Expect cultural differences.
Themes
faith
culture
expectation
Mood
thoughtful
serious
Type
theological
philosophical
When to use this quote
- church leadership
- public policy
- interfaith dialogue
- personal faith journey
Key Concepts
theology
social identity
Questions to Reflect On
- How can believers engage without expecting agreement?
- What does being “stranger in exile” mean today?
A Different Perspective
Assuming alignment can ignore genuine cultural diversity.