From the Editors June 16, 2014 Issue

Spiritual nudging

The Editors

The Pew Research Center has revealed that “the percentage of Americans who say they ‘seldom’ or ‘never’ attend religious services (aside from weddings and funerals) has risen modestly in the past decade.” On survey forms they are usually identified as the “Nones,” from “None of the above,” while those who retain some affiliation tend to be labeled “nominal Christians.” Drew Dyck, managing editor of Leadership Journal, has suggested that when it comes to reaching nominals with gospel teaching, it’s tempting to think they may just need a nudge. Then, he adds, “actually, they might need a jolt” (Christianity Today, March 2014).

Think for a moment of some of the ways in which active followers of Jesus could nudge or jolt nominal Christians of any faith persuasion, including those who freely admit they have drifted toward the “Nones.” Nominals might include adherents who have not committed themselves to church membership or to reliance on God for inspiration and healing.

How those who call themselves disciples of Jesus love and heal is what will nudge others toward commitment.