Uncovering the Troubling Truth Behind "American Theology" | FEAT. The Stingray

For most of recorded history, humanity has been fascinated with the unknown. Our curiosity has led us to marvel at our surroundings, wonder at possibilities, and question our existence. For some, these questions led them to formulate various forms of theology; bringing purpose to life, structure to chaos, and control where there seemingly was none. For others, these questions pushed them into alternative areas of thought - areas that still required levels of belief in order to operate. 

Despite modern popular opinion, we believe that the sciences and the various theological positions available in America are equally legitimate in that they both play an important role in a healthy society. Much like with any system, it takes functional parts, functional purpose, and an ethical operator to ensure operational success. Over the last few decades, theology specifically, has suffered heavily from dysfunction and bad faith actors. 

Over the last few years, it seems as if the modern American church is failing. The number of people who affiliate with their local churches has declined steadily over the last few years, with the number of individuals who are considered "unaffiliated with any religion" consistently growing. According to a Pew Research study from 2020, about 36% of Christians attend religious services once a week. 

Now, you may be asking, "why does this matter?" A sense of community and belonging is key to not only personal well-being but general healthiness. A 2021 American perspectives survey shows Americans reporting fewer closer friendships than ever. According to Psychology Today, the newest issue is loneliness, with it affecting "up to 47% of adults—double the number affected a few decades ago." Whether we agree with it or not, a healthy sense of community is something sorely needed in our lives, and for much of American history, and world history, we've shared that in many ways, with one of the most important being: theology - belief - faith. 

In episode 86 of the Wolf and Bull, we invite a friend of the show Shawn a.k.a "The Stingray" to discuss his experience with the American church, the current state of Christianity in America, and what could be the root cause when it comes to the rising numbers of those who are "unaffiliated with any religion." It's an interesting episode, and we hope you enjoy it! 

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