I hope I live long enough to learn how to write as well as 21-year old Kevin Roose.
He's the author of the recent book, "The Unlikely Disciple
, A Sinner's Semester at America's Holiest University."In the book, Kevin, a Brown University student, spends a semester at Liberty University in an attempt to understand evangelical Christianity.
To be honest with you, my first thought when a friend recommended the book to me was, "Fantastic. A non-Christian wrote another 'I went undercover in Christianity mockumentary.' How original."
But I was wrong (and pretty judgmental too). Right from the get go, Roose establishes his intent. "I did want to see what Christian college was like, with as little prejudgment as possible. I knew that wouldn't be easy—you can't neutralize a lifetime of bias overnight—but I wanted to try my best. So my second decision was: no cheap shots. If I went to Liberty, it would be to learn with an open mind, not to mock Liberty students or the evangelical world in toto."
This book is beautifully written. It is an interesting reflection of a segment of Christianity. And even though I disagreed with some of Kevin's arguments (which I would hope would happen if Kevin, a non Christian, and me, a Christian, are both being honest about what we believe) I think you'll find it to be a really fascinating book. Best of all, I've got 5 copies to give away. (Hardcover even!)
So here's the contest. Post a comment with your favorite stereotype about Christianity. Best 5 win. Enter until Tuesday, June 9th and then I'll announce the winners.
What's your favorite stereotype about Christians and Christianity?
Christians are all homophobic!
ReplyDeleteReally? Because I thought that a phobia was something that you were unreasonably scared of... Ok, maybe some of us are scared of gay people.
Christians think they're better than everyone else...oh wait, a lot of Christians do.
ReplyDeleteNevermind.
the book was fantastic. i'd give you a link to my blog review about it, but Christians are always giving links to their blogs. so stereotypical.
ReplyDeleteheard great things about the book. dropped by the LU bookstore the day and they have copies there too. it does have a disclaimer page shoved into it...goes to show we are not overly defensive, just want to make sure everyone knows we are not the ones getting struck by lightning.
ReplyDeletelook forward to reading.
"Dang, I never have a witty enough comment on contest days! Let's see what everyone else is coming up with though."
ReplyDeleteTurns out I do have a stereotype that annoys me.
"All 'Real' Christians are heterosexuals."
Gay Christian is not an oxymoron.
My vote goes to Bryan Allain.
Subtly awesome.
Can I post more than one?
ReplyDelete1.Christians are all heterosexual
and/or self-hating and in the closet if they aren't
2. Christians are all sexist/ non-feminist
3. Christians are all anti-choice and bomb abortion clinics for fun
4.Christians think their religion is the only "right" one and everyone else is going to hell. Oh, and if they find out you're not "one of them" they will try to convert you because they don't believe in interfaith relationships/dialouge, etc.
5.Christians get married young just so they can have sex, and only go to college so they can get married
6. Christians are ignorant about science and go to the "creation museum" for fun/think the earth is flat/6,000 years old, and global warming is not only not influenced by man, but just plain doesn't exist etc. etc.
7.Christians all have/want to have a dozen kids each
8. Christians all believe in a secret rapture and think the world will end tommorrow
9.Christians love war
etc.
And finally, to sum it up, Christians are all like the stereotypical, right wing evangelical/fundementalists who get the most media exposure and seem to be the most vocal (rolls eyes)
In reality there are MANY Christians out there working passionately to end racism, sexism, and homophobia, striving tirelessly and effortlessly for equal rights for all. There are Christian Scientists who don't deny science, Christian environmentalists and pacifists,
Christians who are child free and those who adopt children from foster care (not to "convert" them, but simply to love them. There are Christians who go to college to learn, to grow, and to establish a career, Christians with friends of many religions where everyone learns from eachother and no one tries to convert anyone. Christians on ALL sides of the political spectrum who are pro-life, pro-choice, and/or varying shades of each.
I do believe that the majority of Christians in this country are civil, rational, open-minded and don't think they're right and everybody else is wrong.
Afterall, it was Christians that were/are instrumental in the abolition movement, the women's rights and childrens rights movements, opposition to pretty much every war, but yet, now it seems like it's the James Dobsons Jerry Falwell (Jr.)s, Fred Phelps, and the like that have "calimed" Christianity.
Jake - apparently great minds think alike!
ReplyDeleteSome people still seem to think that all Christians are like Jim and Tammy Faye Bakker, circa 1988: big hair, tons of makeup, loads of bling, flashy cars, and copious tears. They are always surprised that most Christian church services these days aren't like an old episode of the 700 Club.
ReplyDeleteIs it really accurate to call Kevin a "non-Christian"?
ReplyDelete(unless he would identify as such, I don't know).
He's certainly not an evangelical or fundementalist, but he was raised (and as far as I know still is?) a Quaker.
That would hardly give him a "bias" against Christians, though maybe against evangelical estremists like Falwell (since Equality is a central tenent of Quakerism).
I'm so sick of people acting like "evangelical"=Christain.
Geez, Kitty, yo can't take all of them (even though I've never heard some of those stereotypes before).
ReplyDeleteThis may be the most obvious, but the stereotype I hear most about Christians is that we're supposed to be good, perfect people who don't screw up, make mistakes, or even follow traditional Christians rules/regulations (ie: alcohol, cussing, etc.)
The only standard the Christian has of how to live is Jesus, who wasn't even a Christian. He exemplified how we are to live, love, and look after others. How we do that in today's culture is our own interpretation. I believe that as long as we are exemplifying Christ's life to the fullest without offended, hurting, or degrading anyone else, we are on the right track.
scary thing about stereo types--some are true. Biggest stereotypes i've encountered ? that we are ignorant, and judgemental,and we are all republicans.hmmmm
ReplyDeleteCant wait to read the book--my son went to liberty and loved it...jerry was awesome-the media didnt do that guy justice
--he had a great sense of humor and i'll bet he would have loved scl :)
Christians don't know how to have a good time.
ReplyDeleteBecause everyone knows it's not possible to have a good time without copious amounts of alcohol, loud devil music and scantily-clad young people. Is it...?
Christians live in cults and are brainwashed. On the contrary, we have a free will and we don't force folks to drink Koolaid. However, I figure if the brain needs washing, wash it. :) Goodness knows there's a lot of filthy minds out there and it's not limited to Christians who are aware they're minds need cleaning.
ReplyDeleteEven if I don't win the book, it was fun to vent! :)
I wouldn't say its my "favourite" stereotype, but I've taken my share of "Christians are all sheeple" hits.
ReplyDeletesheeple: noun 1) sheep-people 2) those who check their brains at the door, and blindly follow some leader (esp. a pastor)
If you are a Christian, if you are evangelical, heterosexual, if you got married young, if you are anti-abortion, if you don't believe in evolution in the Dawkins sense, if you do think that men and women are different; if you believe that Jesus rose from the dead and that what was recorded in the New Testament was literally true and that no matter how hard you try, you're never going to stop being a "sinner" and that works just aren't enough - YOU ARE A FUNDAMENTALIST. YOU ARE AN EVANGELICAL. THEREFORE, YOU MUST BE IRRATIONAL, NARROW-MINDED, AND STUPID.
ReplyDeleteThe thing that bugs me the most about this stereotype - it's Christians who bring it up the most, judging other Christians and being so quick to label each other. Who cares about rational argument? Who wants to actually converse with the "other side"? Must! Not! Appear! At all! Unfashionable! Instead, just call them names. Buzz-words, that immediately throw negative connotations on somebody, without the need for skill or rationality.
Am I bitter? Perhaps. I've just had enough of being told - "if you're smart, you will think these things"; "if you're progressive, you will do this"; "if you're RELEVANT, you will lose these uncomfortable, controversial beliefs of yours".
Sandals with socks are a must for Christian Men!
ReplyDeleteSadly most of the stereotypes of Christians come from either real Christians sinning or people who say they are Christians but don't live for Jesus as they ought. That being said. My stereotype is that Christians always spiritualize everything, as in:
ReplyDelete"My dog just died."
"Oh really, I'm so sorry!"
"Yeah it was just unexpected"
"Well, remember God works all things to the good."
"But my dog is dead"
"You are more than a conqueror, Greater is he that is in you, and in your weakness he is strong."
All the things that were said were true. But at that moment he just needed a hug, not a pithy bible quote to put a band-aid on it.
That Christians are closed minded.
ReplyDeleteChristians only make lousy, wussy, cheesy music.
ReplyDeleteThis is very specific, but stereotypical nonetheless.
ReplyDeleteIf you are the only Christian in your circle of friends or family, everyone assumes you will burst into flames if you do not pray before you eat, and that your hearts desire (and evangelical good-deed-for-the-day) is to pray aloud for the group. It never fails. The 30 people at our family functions fall silent at the presenting of the food and all eyes are on my husband and I. Then we get the understood..."Well?"
All Christians settle for crappy music.
ReplyDeleteI was once told that once I got saved I HAD to begin liking Steven Curtis Chapman and Michael W. Smith.
Sadly, I never fully converted.
I usually don't play on contest days but I really want this book, so...
ReplyDeleteReal christians don't have any fun whatsoever, and spend their days watching other Christians to make sure they're not having fun either. If they so much as crack a smile in church, they'll go corner them "in Christian love" and tell them to repent. All for God's glory and to get into heaven.
(reading the comments I do have to say that most of these stereotypes do come true, either often or occasionally. That's why they work so well. But the attitudes described here are the attitudes that keep me out of church on some Sundays. Not away from God, but away from other believers)
Favorite stereotype: the archetype of the homeschool family.
ReplyDeleteYou can spot this particular family a mile off. On the surface, everything is good: the children are well behaved, well groomed, and well polished as they emerge from their full-sized van with velvet tension-rod curtains. However, things begin to look ominous when the drained homemaker-turned-schoolteacher-turned-zookeeper mother steps out of the front passenger seat. Because after all, she can't drive. That's a man's job.
From her steel-grey, tightly tied bun hairdo to her denim jumpsuit to her Birkenstock sandals, this woman means business. Narry a vanity has blemished her firm Protestant sensibility: no makeup, and no putting on of gold (except her wedding ring, of course... you wouldn't want those lusty bachelors thinking she was available). Her mouth is puckered in a way that hints that persimmons are too sweet for her.
Upon closer examination, the children, too, seem estranged from the world they stumble into. Their 4-H tee-shirts are tucked into their jeans that fit all too tightly. When they speak, their grammar is nearly robotic in its perfection. Their family humor is limited to wordplay with last week's memory verses. Hair is parted at the center, shoes are spit-shined, and every collar is starched. And there are not only two or three children.
This family is a small army, reminiscent of the Irish family in Monty Python's "Meaning of Life."
As they march into the all-you-can-eat buffet, you can't help but feel like a pagan sinner when the children each offer a private, silent prayer before eating, given that not everyone has been able to serve himself yet, and then all pray again once everyone arrives.
Then, in the line for desserts, the eldest notes to you that there are four kinds of jello available-- reminiscent of the Four Spiritual Laws.
Ha - love this. Thanks Jon.
ReplyDeleteMy favorite stereotype is that christians don't like sex. Sex is only for reproduction, not enjoyment. And don't dare talk about it outside the bedroom.
Christians are just plaster saints. (Merton wrote a ditty on it, and I still think people have it as a stereotype today.)
ReplyDeleteChristians are all hypocrites. "I don't want to go to church with all those hypocrites!"
ReplyDeleteOkay, so this stereotype is true. But since it's true for everyone, I propose that this counts as a legit answer. Who hasn't pretended to be something they are not?..or pretended to feel something they do not? Hypocrite? Yep, that's me! But it's you, too. How is it that we can make the accusation, "You hypocrite!" without seeing the reality of it in our own lives? 'We all judge others by their actions while judging ourselves by our intentions.' (Facing the Giants quote) That movie line definitely challenged the way I think about people.
Christians are all conservative Republicans who listen to every word Rush Limbaugh and James Dobson says.
ReplyDeleteLife is boring as a Christian. We get married, settle down and follow all the rules written down in the little book we read.
ReplyDeleteIn reality, the life as a disciple of Christ is the most exciting life that one could live. I never know from day to day where God is taking me or what He has planned for my life next. He could very well decide: "Hey Krista, I want you to take all the money you have saved, fly to Ethiopia, and stay there till I tell you where to go next".
Or He could say: "Hey Krista, get married, settle down, and be an example of my love to everyone you meet". Either way, God is guiding me and there's no way that can't be exciting.
Okay, this is terrible, but when I became a Christian I literally thought, "oh, well, I guess I have to give up my sense of humor." As a non-christian, I had always believed Christians weren't funny. I was very pleasantly surprised to find that is NOT TRUE, as this blog so wonderfully helps illustrate.
ReplyDeleteAll "real" Christians read SCL.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteThat we all fell out of the Biblebelt, grew up with a pastor that reminds you too much of Colonel Sanders, and believe that dress and political stance are both gender specifics not gender neutrals.
ReplyDeleteWait, maybe that's just Baptists!
Oh yeah, and if you don't read the King James Version of the Bible..you are going to Hell!
love it!...sounds like an interesting read Jon!
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteReally, deeply mature Christians read SFL.
ReplyDelete1) Christian = Republican (to borrow the line from Derek Webb's song "A King and A Kingdom" - "The are two great lies that I've heard. . . and that Jesus Christ was a white, middle-class Republican")
ReplyDelete2) That when it comes to politics, the only issues (American) Christians care about are abortion and homosexuality.
Loved the book!! I know you said Roose was 21 but he was only 19 when he wrote the book...which I thought was amazing!!
ReplyDeleteMy favorite Christian Stereotype: Stuck in the 50s
ReplyDeleteChristians are still following the fashions of the 1950s just before Rock & Roll broke out and started destroying society. All the men use Brylcreem and part their short hair, flipping their bangs up and back to keep hair off the forehead, dress in short-sleeve plaid prints with tan slacks and brown oxford shoes (for casual wear, suits are the norm). The women wear pearls to vacuum, and are always in a smart dress and heels, with hair that is done before breakfast. No TV--did the Cleavers have one?
And in this life, it's all about looking down noses about people who don't live like that.
They shall know we are Christians by our Brylcreem.
I used to think that Christians were the type of people that couldn't make friends so they had to go to youth group to be accepted b/c there you had to accept the outliers so to speak.
ReplyDeleteAll Christians revere the pope
ReplyDeleteDefinitely the "sheltered" stereotype. Did you know Christians aren't allowed to see "Man on Fire?" I didn't until my Christian friends showed me in the Bible in 2 Jesus 4:7.
ReplyDeleteAlso, could I throw in a comment about side hugs or worship eagles here? I'm just trying to score as many SCL points as possible.
All Christians hate Harry Potter. Voldemort would be proud.
ReplyDeleteAll christians buy copies of The Shack to give to their friends as evangelistic tools even though they feel deeply suspicious of the portrayal of God as a large African American woman.
ReplyDelete"At the end of the day it's made by a Christian so we must buy it and support it."
Christians can't have a fabulous sense of humor (with high levels of snarkiness), sing "Blame it on the Alcohol" in their car or have an undying love for celebrity gossip magazines and massive amounts of caffeinated beverages. No, verily, we must only be interested in calling non-Christians out on their wrongdoings and eating at Luby's after church.
ReplyDeleteSome of us are fun, yo!
I've already read (and re-read) The Unlikely Disciple and think it's enlightening, well-written and essential reading for anyone who believes we should all strive to understand "The Other." After being homeschooled most of my life, I decided to attend a very secular liberal arts college in New York City. In many ways, I experienced a culture shock which was very much the inverse of Kevin's. Reading this book helped me examine my "culture" through the eyes of someone with a mindset very similar to most of my classmates. Okay, I'll stop gushing now. Not looking to win another copy but . . .
ReplyDeleteMy favorite Christian stereotype is that Christians aren't interested in learning about other religions. I'm a Religious Studies major and love trying to understand the facets of other religions (although I largely don't agree with them). Everyone from my Professors to childhood church friends is astonished that a "real Christian" would want to learn about Islam, Hinduism or Buddhism.
... I wrote and performed this song as a piece of irony about Jesus being happy all the time, thus Christians are happy all the time, thus we sing poorly composed songs about being happy all the time. (for you musical people, notice the three-chord structure, terribly played bongos, and series of key changes)
ReplyDeletehttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SorL2rQclKA
Actually... for your viewing pleasure, I made this video the year before... same basic stereotype. Though I can't take credit for the song - that's all Michael W Smith.
ReplyDeletehttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Am2Wzv929Fk
Christians judge everything they are unfamiliar with. A real Christian doesn't need Facebook or Twitter.
ReplyDeleteversti: what Christians face when they are forward thinking regarding technology
This isn't a "Christian" stereo-type, per say, but the one that hurts my heart the most is the stereotype that the bible is just a list of rules set out to prove to us all what big failures we are.
ReplyDeleteI am so thankful for the preachers and teachers that dedicate their lives to showing us the incredible love story that God wrote to His children (yes, I intentionally capitalized the "H" in His, I am one of "those" Christians...) :)
I don't care what the world thinks of me or even Christians in general, I just want His people to know how loved every single one of us are.
On a less serious note, however, I also enjoy the stereotype that because we desire to save ourselves for marriage, and some of us also do NOT get married just out of college but also believe and trust in the Holy Spirit to bring us our spouse... that we are somehow asexual beings with no real desires and thus abstinence is as easy slipping that purity ring onto our left hand.
Oh if that were only true... (well, not the asexual part, but the purity being easy part...)
1. all Jesus Freaks genuinely believe they are perfect and without sin, and if you ever dare talk with one, they will certainly take you up as their personal cause in order to 'love on you' and make you feel really guilty about everything in your life that you think is fun.
ReplyDelete2. the only sexual position Christians use is missionary, and that's with their eyes closed tightly, hands to themselves, and at a distance, like an arm's length dance at a youth group sock hop.
3. all Christians are republicans
4. the only information Christians have about the history of the world (ie creation vs. evolution)was passed down to us in sunday school, and no Christian knows anything about the theory of evolution or science in general
*cheers for Kevin's book* Liberty U is my school..or was..and trust me, his even handed approach was MUCH needed & appreciated. :) And it truly is quite a good read. Glad you enjoyed it!
ReplyDeleteAs to "favourite" stereotype re: Christians -- that any Christian who is being friendly to a non-Christian MUST have an ulterior motive -- usually a soul-winning quota.
That being said, sometimes it rings true. I've been on the receiving end up such "friendship" when folks didn't realize I was saved. If they do have an ulterior motive, it fades as soon as they realize you know Jesus. Sometimes it's easier to be a pagan. :P
Christians are all the same.
ReplyDeleteThey all think they are better than anyone else.. and think they have all the answers.
They blame all non christians for the problems in the world, and yet don't really seem to be doing anything about it, other than standing on street corners and telling people they are going straight to hell...
I hate these stereotypes because they create an "us and them" mind set. i don't think this is healthy.. and i don't think that non christians are the cause of this problem.
Many Christians have a mindset that non christians are selfish, uncaring and mostly unloving... and yet i have met many nonchristians who give, care and seek justice more than a lot of Christians i know....
I think the issue is on both sides... and we should be the ones to change.. I think we all have lots to learn from each other.
oops, didn't mean to post twice! sorry!
ReplyDeleteOh & I think Andrew LONGHOFER should win something. His stereotype description of the Christian (& probably homeschooled) family was absolutely EPIC.
ReplyDeleteCREEPY CHRISTIANS
ReplyDeleteThese are the people who try to unnaturally work a scripture reference or mention about church or Jesus into every communication, especially online.
--
Question: Relationship status?
single, but I'm engaged to be married to Jesus...
Question: Do you like satin sheets?
doesn't matter, but as long as they're not Satan's sheets; I know Jesus so I don't have to worry about that.
--
Satan's sheets? Engaged to Jesus?? Sometimes Christians need to just get a grip and act like normal people. (Don't get me wrong, I am a Christian, but if this kind of stuff turns ME off, what would a non-Christian think?)
Christians, who preach that "those without sin may cast the first stone," are the most judgmental people.
ReplyDeleteI am less likely to label that a stereotype with the article I just did research for:
http://www.examiner.com/x-12667-Milwaukee-Books-Examiner~y2009m6d6-Decide-for-yourself-on-this-magazinestyle-Bible
I'd love to hear a Christian viewpoint firsthand.
Christians hate science.
ReplyDeleteAs a Christian I am fascinated by science, especially astronomy. I believe healthy and open debate is what's missing.
what's really a crack-up is how many who are Christians who've posted today apparently believe the negative stereotypes about Christians, but not about themselves of course, no, no, I'm not [insert intolerant, ignorant, bigoted, homophobic, etc. as needed], they are. Rolleyes. Christian stereotypes against other Christians are the worst. Thinking that you have inside knowledge and therefore know what they are thinking so you are right about them.
ReplyDeleteYep, I totally just threw some of you right under the front wheels of the bus and if you keep it up, I'll leg drop you too.
Christians have never really thought through what they claim to believe. If they did then would not be Christians.
ReplyDeleteChristian families would never be able to understand or accept someone who "strays from the path."
ReplyDeleteIn just the past few months, I've heard a popular morning radio show have a listener call in worried about how their "strict Christian" family (or future in-laws) will react to some "outrageous" secret - we're gay, I'm pregnant (out of wedlock), etc. It made me smile when the follow-up call the next week included the caller (and the hosts!) being shocked at how accepting or loving the family was about the situation.
Number One Stereotype (especially growing up living in the Bible Belt): Chrisitans only want to convert non-Christians so they will be "saved".
ReplyDeleteI know Christians who think that the sole purpose of sharing their faith is to redeem the souls of the lost and save them from hell-fire and damnation. I know non-Christians who think that the only reason they should place thier faith in Christ is so they don't have to worry about dying.
Maybe the reason we should want share our faith is not because we're afraid of what will happen to someone when they die, but rather because we are excited about what Jesus means to us in the present.
I'm not a Christian because I'm scared of where I will go if I'm not. I'm a Christian because Christ provides me with the best lense to understand my existence. When I share my faith it's not to scare someone into salvation, its because I know that having Jesus in their life will dramatically transform the way they live right now(in the most amazing way possible). Sure, spending eternity with God is pretty awesome too...but that's not the only reason I like being a Christian. It would be nice if others could see that too.
Most Christians listening to hymns and do not listen to rock and roll or even heavy metal. When my students find out that I do, it throws my students for a loop.
ReplyDeleteI don't want to read all the comments first, because if I see my thought over and over again, I'll feel compelled to try to come up with something different. My favorite stereotype is that if I'm Christian, I'm rock solid in my conviction that the world is 6,000 years old and that I have to ignore science in order to maintain my convictions.
ReplyDeleteGuess I better give back my biology degree.
My Father-in-law thinks that all christians really like pie. Whenever we go to a social function, he always brings the beer and I always bring the dessert. I do love pie....
ReplyDeleteAlso, I totally relate to what Chella said. When it's time to eat all eyes go to my husband for the dutiful prayer now that he's a CHRISTIAN. Although I must say, no matter what they're thinking...it's an honor.
Apparently Christians will think you are a terrible person if you drop a profanity in conversation. People often apologize almost immediately after swearing when talking with me.
ReplyDeleteHaven't read the others, but one of the ones I can't stand is that all Christians just watch Fox News and listen to Rush Limbaugh on the radio.
ReplyDeleteAlso, that if you don't wear your "Sunday best" you're not accepted in church. It's sad that some DO see it that way, but (hopefully) the majority of us are just glad you came as you are.
Oh, and that we listen to Chris Tomlin 24/7. ;)
Christians think first base is sitting next to each other in the back of the bus on the way to a mission trip.
ReplyDeleteThat once you join a church you are a member of a group called "Captin Condemnation and Judgy Bunch". That somehow the building changes you from a "spiritual person" to a mindless church-bot.
ReplyDeleteAlso, I hate the term "organized religion", I'm on staff at my church, and we are seldom very organized. Oh, and we are as put off by religion as anyone else.
I'm loving these comments!
ReplyDeleteMy favorite stereotype is: single Christians don't know anything about sex. Also saying the f-bomb is more offensive than human trafficking if used in the same sentence.
Can't begin to compete with some of these, so I'll just go buy a copy of the book myself.
ReplyDeleteJust remember... Most of the time the stereotype is true. That's why it's a stereotype.
One stereotype that I have always found ironic is that Christians think they are perfect. If I were perfect I wouldn't need the grace of God. I will freely admit that I am sinner deserving of hell. Why bother trying to be good enough to get into heaven? If you aren't going to accept Christ, do anything you want. Bust the gates of hell wide open.
ReplyDeleteAs for the humor everyone else has talked about, I have to say that Christian comedians are 900 times more talented than people like Chris Rock. Christian comedians have to be funny without relying on the f-bomb (do people still say f-bomb?) and raunchy stories. Love it.
Well after every good one was taken... i will say probably my favorite (or the one i get most annoyed at) stereotype for Christians... I am not sarcastic or pithy like you all so it may not be funny...
ReplyDeletebut
when people think Christians aren't educated. They think we believe blindly and don't THINK. Or that we are illogical. Because religion/beliefs only deal with our emotions.
I remember debating with an atheist once and he was just glad he found a Christian that actually thought for once. Has anyone every heard of apologetics? the entire field of education that thinks LOGICALLY to defend the Christian faith? It's amazing... and its logical!
How can you follow a dead guy?
ReplyDeleteMakes me lol..
Jon,
ReplyDeleteI'm not entering...I have a copy and have read it, but I enthusiastically agree with your take. I went to a Christian college (Taylor U.) and I noticed parallels immediately. It's a great "outsider" look at Christianity and how conversely genuine and hypocritical we can be. Great book!
I'm not sure if this is more of a misconception than a stereotype, but here goes nothing.
ReplyDeleteI think a huge stereotype is that the God Christians worship a is just a made up set of ideas that we force ourselves to obey rather than a being with the power to radically change a person from within with whom we live intimately and serve with joy.
That they relentlessly quote "The Princess Bride" because it was the only live-action movie they were allowed to watch until they turned sixteen.
ReplyDelete(McGee and Me doesn't count.)
I was raised by a mother who told us, "Christianity is a crutch for people who can't figure out life for themselves. No one with any intelligence would believe in God!"
ReplyDeleteI accepted Christ as my Savior 33 years ago and my 88 year old mother still thinks it's a phase I'll grow out of. LOL!
"Well, so, um, like, I love Jesus, and when I gave Him my heart and my life, I also gave Him my brain. I am now completely incapable of rational thought. I don't need it anyway - I have faith!"
ReplyDeleteFor many of my non-Christian friends, intellect and faith are mutually exclusive. Ironically, I studied philosophy in college and found my faith honed and shown true by the same questions that "prove" the nonexistence of God.
It's against a Christian's religion to work on Sunday and they apparently have kissed dating goodbye, and sometimes wait until marriage for their first kiss.
ReplyDeleteChristians didn't vote for Adam Lambert ;-)
ReplyDeleteMy current favorite stereotype comes from my friend's husband. I'm staying with this couple between now and when my husband's new job begins in California, and at least twice a week the husband has asked if I'm Mormon, which in his mind, is the only kind of Christian there is. :-)
ReplyDeleteMy favorite stereotype is that Christians can't enjoy mainstream media. I shocked the heck out of some girls in our junior high Sunday school class when one of them brought in a picture of her and Edward Cullen from Twilight. I asked her where she got it so I could go get one. (I'm 30 btw.) I happen to love the Twilight books and the movie. Just because I'm an adult, and a Christian, doesn't mean I can't enjoy a good vampire series.
ReplyDeleteMy mom on the other hand, thinks I'm a total heathen...
Christians are only happy when there's troops overseas, the ozone is being destroyed, and gay people are pushed back in their closets due to our fierce "love" for them.
ReplyDeleteChristians are supposed to be perfect, and if they mess up then they really were not christians.
ReplyDeleteWithout reading the rest of the comments:
ReplyDeleteChristians believe that America is the new promised land, and Americans are God's new chosen people.
The only reason Christian girls go to Bible college is to get an MRS. Not because we want to study the Bible, of course not. I went to a small Bible college in Ecuador my freshman year, and a week before I left one of my friends said "Oh, you're going to Covenant Bridal College?
ReplyDeleteHandbell Hero
ReplyDeleteExperience the awesomeness of Guitar Hero without swimming in the cesspool of Lou's world.
If you have more than the standard 2 kids, the assumption at church is that you aspire to be the Duggars.
ReplyDeleteHm. I think a stereotype is that Christians are "good" people who have it all together.
ReplyDeleteBut have you seen The Bride? She's actually full of busted up, broken souls (although some would deny their depravity), which is the beauty of it all... you know, grace.
My favorte Christian stereotypes deal specifically with Pentecostals.
ReplyDelete"Swinging from the chandelier holy rollers!"
"They're just faking that speaking in tongues thing, it's not real."
"All that slain in the spirt stuff is fake! The guy's just pushing them down!"
I've been Assemblies of God my whole life, so I've been hearing these for years. The stories I've heard from my A/G profs about Pentecostal stereotypes are hilarious!
"True Christians have it all figured out, at least concerning salvation."
ReplyDeleteMy favorite Christian stereotype is the jean-jacketed, homeschooling mother of 8: Hezekiah, Charity, Obadiah, Ruth, Hannah, Samuel, Barnabas and Tabitha.
ReplyDeleteI've got it!!
ReplyDeleteWorst stereotype about Christians is that we see a contest about stereotypes, and feel compelled to post a comment about ourselves, making sure everyone knows that we're not "really like this" it's just a "stereotype!"
My favorite stereotype has got to be that Christians are homeschooled and wear gingham dresses.
ReplyDeleteI'm totally going to make my kids wear gingham dresses and when hipster snobs sneer at them, they're going to whip out an electric guitar and play them Godspeed! You Black Emperor.
@ Annamarie, the converse is also true-if you only have two, you can't be hearing from or right with God.
ReplyDeleteChristian are white, American, heterosexual Republicans
ReplyDelete5 myths/stereotypes is easy. There are so many! And while some may be true for some or even a majority, they're certainly not the rule in Christian life.
ReplyDelete1. Christians all lead perfect lives.
2. Christians hate all non-Christians.
3. Christians are all Republican.
4. All Christian women are doormats who get abused verbally and/or physically.
5. Christians are weak, which is why they must depend on a higher being.
Here's a couple that get my goat:
ReplyDeleteChristianity is just a crunch for the weak-minded.
Christians blindly follow the Bible just because we were told to do so. (Actually was told that one this week.)
My top three favorite stereotypes of Christians (and not just any old Christians; I’m talking about the Lutherans) are:
ReplyDelete1.Jell-O salads (a redundant term) are always served in the proper liturgical color for the season
2.The first order of business before any fellowship, or pot luck begins, is “Who’s going save the coffee pot if the church catches fire”
3.As a kid you thought the first Old Testament books were Genesis, Exodus, Lutefisk…
Oh, by the way, I’ll be vacationing in Lake Wobegon, MN next week, so you can send me my book when I get back.
Here's another: That the point of Christianity is just to make our lives better.
ReplyDeleteHmmm let's see if I can remember some of the ones the people at work have come up with.
ReplyDelete1.) Christians may not drink any alcohol and frown on anyone who does
2.) Christians may only be friends with other christians and must spend at least 20+ hours a week at church
3.) Christians must not listen to non christian music
4.) All christians must pray before any meal...it's a rule right you have to
5.) All christians believe birth control is wrong and want massive numbers (over five) of children.
Oh and my personal favourite:
All christians believe everything that televangelists say: what you mean you don't believe that the guy with the green hankies heals people but he's a christian and you're a christian you must believe him
Definitely that if you have tattoos you're going to hell... (as spoken to me by my youth leader in high school, I now have 5.. oops!)
ReplyDelete"I love Jesus, but I drink a little." If you haven't seen this clip from the Ellen show, you have to look it up on youtube. Oh wait, Christians aren't allowed to watch a show hosted by a lesbian, are they? Oops.
ReplyDeleteChristians are the only good and moral people in the world.
ReplyDeleteOh wait, did you want stereotypes held by non-Christians?
"Playing the Pastor Card". 'The senior pastor said I could use the sanctuary for dodgeball practice'. That kid threw down the trump card. Convo over.
ReplyDeleteThings my non-Christian friend says to me as I look at him confused like "Where did you hear that??" LOL:
ReplyDeleteChristians aren't allowed to question what they believe in. God forbid you be dubbed a "Doubting Thomas."
Christians don't take care of themselves because they are too busy servng other people... "You need to start eating more veggies!"
Christians don't know anything about Jewish faith even though their savior is a Jew (This is so true though! And sad!)
That's all I can think of for now... :)
Ned Flanders is my favorite stereo type of a Christians. i could write a generic description of the stereotype but all i really need to say is his name and I've already said it. Even his name is great.
ReplyDeleteOH I thought of another one that I have dealt with my whole life:
ReplyDeleteNEVER cuss in front of a Christian. They will be ultra offended and may not be your friend anymore. Apologize at least five times and say a hail mary in their presence should such an offense occur... only then will those forgiven, grace-given people be able to find it in their hearts to forgive you back.
Definition of Religion: the body of persons adhering to a particular set of beliefs and practices
ReplyDeletePaul even wrote saying: "Join with others in following my example, brothers, and take note of those who live according to the pattern we gave you." -Phillippians 3:17
HOWEVER, don't you dare call Christianity a religion. It is a relationship.
Stereotype: christians are uneducated and superstitious... they aren't good scientists or academics.
ReplyDeleteGod Bless,
so as an international, buddhist inclined, militant feminist hippy type, i was firmly of the impression that evangelical christianty was the home of
ReplyDeletewomen hating
abortion hating
homosexual hating folks.
all i could see was the hate.
about 5 years ago i stumbled upon a evan. bible believing homeschooling mothers board. i stumbled as directed from a feminist blog, and arrived to OMGOMGOMG some of the things that were said. I stuck around to OMG some more, I just couldn't believe what was said; it was so utterly alien to me.
anyway. for some reason or another i stuck about; lurking. And i'm still there. Because as time went by i got to see, instead of a group of haters, a group of incredible women, who are living a life they believe, loving their families, and truly loving God and being blessed by Him.
I might not agree with how they're raising their children, the discipline, what the kids are learning at school, submission, abortion etc etc BUT... the way they walk the path they have chosen for themselves and the faith they have inspired me to go find a path for myself. And I still read their board everyday...
Stereotype: All Christians are hypocrits.
ReplyDeleteOkay, let's be honest. All PEOPLE are hypocrits. We all do what we say we won't, eat what we say we shouldn't, go where we say we don't want to.
It depends on which side of the emergence you're on. Either you're old-school, rallying to Chuck Swindoll's battle cry to defend classical American, err, Christian family values from the wiles of homosexuality and the snares of the Internet, or you've emerged, you find almost everything too pre-packaged, and you decide its your quest to make Christianity, err, Christian spirituality more organic and authentic.
ReplyDeleteOr you're like that terrifying lady in Jesus Camp.
Christians are just out to convert the non-believers:
ReplyDelete"Oh, you don't believe in God? Well, let me just pull my Bible out of my backpack/purse/briefcase and turn to a few verses to show you why you should..."
This stereotype portrays someone who is slightly socially inept; the unbeliever is particularly prone to "being evangelized" if they have met the Christian within the last 5 minutes.
That we Christians all homeschool our kids, making them:
ReplyDelete(1) socially awkward, and
(2) having to wear a dicky (like Cousin Eddie wears in Christmas Vacation).
Christians cannot love in a caring way people they think live in a way that's sinful.
ReplyDeleteOh yes?!
I'm beginning to wonder how, with 115 (now 116) comments on your blog...this one blog...how you have time to do anything else? Assuming, of course, you read them all.
ReplyDeleteTwitter, Facebook, Blog...does anyone ever call someone up on the phone any more.
By-the-way, I beat your dad at disc golf the other day. I doubt he'll read this comment...but you can bring it up in a subtle way to him and see how he reacts.
From most of the interactions I have had with atheists, they almost always assume that they are the well thought out ones and if religious people could just see the stupidity of their beliefs, they too would become atheistic as well.
ReplyDeleteIt would seem though that an equal amount of atheists accept someone else's beliefs just as many Christians accept without thought.
This is my favourite stereotype of Christians, that they are not well thought out, when in reality, it is an equal representation of people on both theist and atheist point of views do not think about what they believe.
Don't you love it when Christians stereotype other Christians? Recently while having a conversation with a Christian from another denomination, the woman said, "those Baptists, they're always trying to convert the rest of us."
ReplyDeleteShe didn't know that I am Baptist.
I responded nicely with, "what would be the point, aren't we all Christians?" I won't share her colorful theory on that.
What my sarcastic side WANTED to say was, "yes, we must convert you all, because you aren't really a Christian unless you're a SUPER CHRISTIAN, just like us Baptists." :) But that wouldn't have been very Baptist Christian-like. :)
NO God-fearing Christian could be a democrat :)
ReplyDeleteMara
"It's good enough for gospel" is a comment you often hear about Christian musicians. The thinking is, great musicians can't be Christians...and that couldn't be further from the truth. I suppose it's a pet peeve of mine that people automatically assume a Christian musician can't have as much talent as the world. But hey, where did these musicians come from?
ReplyDelete1. Christians are all alike.
ReplyDelete2. Christianity is fear- and shame-based.
2. Christians are representing Jesus, so the best way to decide about him is to look at his followers.
my least favorite Christian stereotypes:
ReplyDeleteChristian women have big hair and over-accessorize
(and often still wear shoulder pads)
Christians don't know how to mix a decent cocktail
Hey guys! Kevin Roose here.
ReplyDeleteI'm psyched about the awesome stereotypes you all have come up with so far, even though I'm surprised nobody has mentioned Kirk Cameron yet.
Regardless, I'm glad to be commenting among 122 or so SCL devotees. When you're not wearing your hair in up-dos and TiVo-ing the 700 Club, you guys write some pretty funny stuff.
Kevin
Hey, I thought these were supposed to be steroetypes...
ReplyDeleteJK
Here is mine, TOTALLY MADE UP by the way...
Christian guitar players can't play more than 3 chords and are not allowed to play anything other than worship choruses and youth group songs...
HAHAHA!
Christians are judgmental.
ReplyDeleteSimply put, Christians are stuck up. This is the most prevalent stereotype because it ties into all of the other stereotypes. Christians are hypocritical, Christians are homophobic, Christians are straight-edge,
ReplyDeleteChristians are perfect, Christians don't know how to have fun, and Christians are intolerant.
Each of those ties into the idea that we are stuck up in one way or another.
Stereotype (as espoused by Matt Damon while talking about Sarah Palin): Christians believe the earth is just 6,000 years old. I certainly believe in the veracity of the scriptures, including Genesis. I also know that there are a lot of things in the geologic record that are not described in the Bible. I am betting God chose to speak in parables/generalities when describing creation (he DID chose to speak in parables when teaching on earth as a human), although he certainly could have chosen to create a world with a history.
ReplyDeleteThis stereotype is more based on religious affiliation - not just Christianity, and one I heard often in the Southern Catholic community I grew up in.
ReplyDelete* When looking for a fishing partner, you must remember to take at least two Baptists...if you only take one, he will drink all your beer. :)
My favorite stereotype is that all Christians wear Jesus sandals. I mean, if I had a nickel for every time someone found out I was a Christian then looked down out my high heels and just shook their head in judgement I'd be able to afford those Tivas and I'd fit right in.
ReplyDeleteChristians all like to sing Kum Ba Yah...
ReplyDeleteMy favorite Christian stereotype - "Being a Christian means losing your individuality." This trumps other misconceptions as my favorite because it doesn't make me outraged...it makes me laugh in amazement. So many people believe that Christians (also referred to as "church people") are a flock of people following the same behavioral rules whose goal is to attain the same homogenized perfect identity. (Because perfection would look the same in everyone, right?)
ReplyDeleteAnother stereotype, although not my favorite - thinking that Christianity is a form of superstition. An elaborate dance of rituals and rules to avoid angering a Higher Power...instead of a relationship.
My favorite is the stereotype that some Christians have about Christians and doubt themselves and whether they are really Christians because of it. This stereotype is that true Christians have their lives together. This means they always pray, they depend on God for everything and always hear from him, they spend the right amount of time with them, and they have no problems. When this is not true. Every Christian sins and every Christian struggles with that temptation to control their own life and sometimes loses. The final note: Christians have problems. Look at Paul. He had a "thorn" in his side that God would not take away (I think this is in 2 Corinthians) and it plagued him. He ended up in jail several times. These are problems. Praise Jesus that he had the Lord to be with Him though! Praise God that we all do!
ReplyDeleteChristians would NEVER spend more than $10 on jeans, because having a designer outfit is WAY outside the rules of stewardship. Every spare penny MUST be given to the poor.
ReplyDeleteDid Jesus wear True Religions? I don't think so!
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteThat Christians look forward to a heaven where they will float around on a cloud for all eternity singing hymns in a giant choir while others spend eternity in a flaming furnace.
ReplyDeleteRandy Alcorns book "Heaven" is a must read for anyone with questions about eternity.
Christians are automatically proud, supportive, and determined to boost box-office sales of all Christian actors and movies (no matter how ridiculous the acting), including but not limited to: Stephen Baldwin, Mel Gibson, Mike Seaver/Kirk Cameron, The Left Behind Series, Facing the Giants, and Fireproof.
ReplyDeleteMy favorite Christian stereotype is that we're all ignorant of science and knowledge. That it's something we try to avoid discussing because it's big and complicated.
ReplyDeleteStereotypes:
ReplyDeleteIt is okay to be a Christian and agree with:
1. Abortion
2. Homosexuality
3. Immoral media
4. Worldly things
FALSE! We as Christians are meant to change our culture not conform to it. We should be loudly against homosexuality and abortion. These are issues clearly defined in the Bible. We should not be gay or pro-choice. These are issues that go directly against God and His word. That is a stereotype I think we need to clear up. Christians are DIFFERENT than the world.
P.S. Great blog. I have been very encouraged by it. You truly do hear from God.
In order for an adult to "find Jesus", they have to be brainwashed by the Christians during a season of particularly extreme vulnerability. Such as a divorce, or loss, or unemployment, or criminal conviction of some sort.
ReplyDeleteGod, as it were, never seems to seek out the healthy, happy, successful types.
Except me.
peace|dewde
Hands down, the worst Christian stereotype is that we all like Kirk Cameron.
ReplyDeleteA close second to this one is that Christians don't believe in science or dinosaurs.
Well, my favorite Christian stereotype is not likely very original, but I think it's a very important one. I'm reading "Unchristian" right now, in which Kinnaman says that the majority of "outsiders" think Christians are hypocritical. A belief perpetuated, in part, by our misconception that "being good" is our first priority, or what God wants us to be most.
ReplyDeleteAside from that, I think it's funny that all Christians are "supposed" to be Republicans, and that's a stereotype I think we Christians put out ourselves.
Favorite Christian stereotypes:
ReplyDelete1. Intellectually backwards. Christians have nothing to bring to the public sphere--no intelligence, no interest in philosophy, etc.
2. The two extremes of evangelism: Christians are total hypocrites and condemn everyone in their path to hell, or they ignore talking about Jesus in general.
Christians are Republicans.
ReplyDeleteBeing a Christian means always being joyful and happy. Christians are never allowed to be sad, angry, depressed, or have any other 'Debbie Downer' emotions. Furthermore, these bad emotions cannot be validated by Christian music stations, whose duty it is to only play "uplifting and encouraging" music.
ReplyDeleteAll Christians are ridiculously good looking like John Acuff, Britney Spears and Katy Perry.
ReplyDeleteTo make Christian music, all you have to do is take a pop song and replace the word "baby" with the word Jesus. Works (almost) every time.
ReplyDeleteall Christians use their blogs and social media outlets to brow beat everybody else about how Christian they are...
ReplyDeleteAll Christians hate the environment and their idea of subduing it is to mine it relentlessly. Christians don't believe in climate change and can't wait to chop down the Amazon and turn it into photocopied service outlines. They eat meat at every meal because unequal distribution of food doesn't bother them. They are all overweight planet-destroyers.
ReplyDeletewe love judging others for the very sins that we commit...true story
ReplyDeleteChristians are nothing more than belt buckle wearing, NRA Card toting, Bible thumping, Sin hating (unless it applies to them), antiabortion, backwoods, ignorant, republic voting, traditional, Josh Hamilton loving, Chuck Norris fans who voted for McCain fanatics and we all have about 4857832298 kids
ReplyDeleteChristians can't have any fun and are bound by an impossible-to-obey set of rules. Also, Christians can't come up with any of their own original ideas - everything they do is just a "holy" rip-off of culture (although, unfortunately, this one is often all too true).
ReplyDeleteThe stereotypical Christian is no longer an extreme Bible-thumping evangelical... but a bar-hopping hypocrite (hey, we'll even keep the Bible-thumping). When people think "Christian," they think liar, fraud, cheater, adulterer, greed, etc. And still, with this aura, would like to spread the Good News.
ReplyDeleteOver and over again, people say, "I don't want to go to church with a bunch of hypocrites." The church is not a building, but a community. The community of Christ is viewed as hypocrites.
There is a documentary now out, "Lord, Save Us From Your Followers" and it mentions several stereotypes of Christians. In it, Dan Merchant quotes St. Augustine, "The church is a whore, but she is my mother."
People see the whore-ish ways of the church, of Christians, but never the motherly (well, fatherly) love.
Coming out of lurking mode as one of these stereotypes just came up and bit me in the butt today ...
ReplyDeleteAll of you "christians" turn to God as a crutch - because you are too weak to take control of your own lives.
Funny thing ... it's actually true, just not the negative thing the person who said it to me meant it to be!
Simply that all Christians are the same and believe exactly the same things.
ReplyDeleteJust like any other human group on the planet, some of us are nice, some are mean, some are judgmental, some are openminded, some are socialists, some are conservative...etc.
Christians will take anything non-Christians do and Christianize it. YouTube becomes GodTube. Stuff White People Like becomes Stuff Christians Like.
ReplyDeleteThe biggest stereotype in Christianity today has to be that all Christians can be spotted from a mile away. Maybe it's the side hugging, tankinis, and "1 Cross + 3 Nails = 4 Given" bumper stickers that give us away? All kidding aside, I do think that Christians should stand out amongst their peers, but not for the reasons that some believe. Being a follower of Jesus doesn't automatically change your outward appearance as much as some assume. Rather, the joy and love of Christ should shine through those who have accepted Jesus as their one and only Savior. I don't believe that Christians are anywhere near perfect, and everyone has their bad days. However, we do know that there's Someone who is perfect and unconditionally loves us, which should make us a bit more optimistic overall.
ReplyDeleteChristians want to save babies, but put adults to death.
ReplyDeletePeople who think that being a Christian and a tree hugger don't go together. Actually, we should be the biggest tree huggers of them all. It's all God's creation.
ReplyDeleteThat we have ultra-judgemental x-ray vision...
ReplyDelete"I see that Kiss CD inside your briefcase!
What? You say you're holding it for a friend?
You want know what I say? REVELATION 21:8 BABY! That'll tell you EXACTLY where liars like you go!..."
The fact that I'm a Christian means I can't have non-Christian friends.
ReplyDeleteI went to Liberty in the late 80's/early 90's. I'm not the little fundy girl I used to be (and shockingly, I still love Jesus and serve Him daily). I don't think I want my kids going to Liberty for a myriad of reasons. And none of them are "because I don't love Jesus anymore."
If I don't win the book, I'm buying it - I can't WAIT to read it!
My "fave" christian stereotype is the new wine goer who is white, middle class, wellie and cagoul-wearing, surrounded by children (theirs and other peoples) hands in the air.
ReplyDeleteThe other stereotype from our church is the stern african believer who carries a huge king James bible and takes swipes at any child who doesn't sit up straight in church.
All Christians are Ned Flanders.
ReplyDeleteyou can't be gay & Christian.
ReplyDeleteThe Ned Flanders Complex...
ReplyDeleteChristians are always so "gee-golly, hippity-hoppy" happy. Can't we just be or get pissed (Christian cursing...sorry) once in a while? I guess this could be confused with the "Andy Griffith Dilemma"?
We should make a running list of "Christian swear words", pissed is my first contribution.
One more...
ReplyDeleteChristians are better known (and probably more comfortable with) being known for what we don't do and not what we do do (ha, funny do-do!). We are known because we don't drink, smoke, dance (probably thankfully!), vote for democrats, cuss, or wear two piece bathing suits. But unfortunately to many we're not known for loving those different than us, extending grace to those who hurt us, caring for the weak and marginalized, not condemning.
Let's break this stereotype, and become people known for what we do do (one more poo joke!).
Favorite stereotype: Christians are boring, lifeless, overworked individuals who can't balance their lives because they spend too much time in church.
ReplyDeleteChristians are dogmatic, uni-dimensional thinkers, unencumbered by existential doubt & despair.
ReplyDeleteChristians don't watch regular TV - certainly not any shows that get high ratings. (People used to apologize to me for watching shows like Seinfeld or Frasier.)
ReplyDeleteThis is a real quote from someone I talked to the other day "Can you imagine the times with Noah being the only righteous person in his time. Thank God there are are a lot more of us righteous people today"
ReplyDeleteTeetotalism
ReplyDeleteIf you become a Christian God will send you to a mud hut in Africa as a missionary and you will get to suffer for the Lord! Because really why would God want you to be happy in ministry? Unless of course you have read good old Joel's book "Your Best Life Now". Then God will give you a sports car and a nice house...
ReplyDeleteAs a missionary on the field I must confess that I do not live in a mud hut in Africa. I live in Vienna Austria and its right where I want to be! God is good! Only problem is there is only one christian book store and it's small...and there is limited English books in the regular book store *hint hint*
that being a christian has anything to do with being American. Or that America is, has been, r ever will be a christian nation.
ReplyDeleteseems if you're the average polltaker in America, then all real Christians go to church. and the more times you "regularly attend service," the more hard-core Christian you must be.
ReplyDeleteThat Christianity is dull.
ReplyDeleteThat joy in Christ through trying times can't be real.
ReplyDeleteI am sure this has been said. But I don't have time to read through all the responses. (need to read my Disciple lesson for tomorrow!)
ReplyDeleteAll Christians are hypocrites. I hear that all the time!
WV prool--what you do when you hear a really good sermon. I prool down my chin when that preacher gets going!
almost finished with this book. what an eye opener into stereotypes and such a charge to Christians to continue to shatter them:)
ReplyDeletei love this book.
Christians can only be REAL friends with Christians.
ReplyDelete"Hey Carly, I saw you eating lunch with Reid on campus the other day... How'd that go?"
"It was fine? Why didn't you say hey?"
"Well, he's not a Christian... I just assumed you were witnessing and I didn't want to interrupt."
The one I think of is Elaine's boyfriend on Seinfeld. He didn't care about her salvation, he just new he wasn't going to burn in hell.
ReplyDeleteChristians are only *real* Christians if they've been born again according to MY definition of it, and baptized according to MY practice, and receive communion according to MY way of doing it. Instead of our Father's house having many mansions, it's a small little hut filled a few crabby people who think exactly alike.
ReplyDeleteMy favorite stereotype is that we have no sense of humor! I invited a non-christian friend over to a house where a bunch of my "jesus-friends" (that's what she calls them) were.
ReplyDeleteAfter leaving, she explained that she had a really great time, and was surprised they were all so funny. She explained, "I thought y'all just made Jesus-jokes about the bible!"
A friend once asked me (I'm guessing with respect to Jesus and creationism/evolution):
ReplyDelete"How can you believe in someone [Jesus] who doesn't even believe in dinosaurs?"
We're just like Mormons but with fewer wives.
ReplyDeleteFake smiles look like they were plastered on with makeup... Tammy Fey style.
ReplyDeleteSTEREOTYPE #1: The No-Sense-of-Humor Christian (also known as the Always-Offended Christian)
ReplyDeleteNCF (Non-Christian Friend): My grandfather was a Communist...*gasp* Oh I'm so sorry, didn't mean to offend you.
Me: No, it's okay...?
NCF: I have a gay friend....OH sorry, didn't see you there.
Me:...he's my friend too!
NCF: THAT'S WHAT SHE SAID!! HAHAHAHA...oh. uhhh sorry.
Me: um, I have a better joke...
STEREOTYPE #2: The Socially Stunted Christian
NCF: Do you want to come to this party with me? Oh...I forgot...you don't believe in dancing. Am I going to hell for drinking this beer?
STEREOTYPE #3: The Fruitful Christian (aka The Practically-Mormon Christian)
NCF: You have 4 siblings?? You must be Mormon.
Me: No, Christian actually.
NCF: So you don't believe in birth-control?
Me: NO, we just like big families.
NCF: Oh. So you support global warming?
Me: WHAT?
NCF: I mean, over-population is a huge problem right now...
I recently made a deal with a NC friend: If she comes to church with me ONE time, I will go with her to ONE sorority party. She loves the idea but hasn't taken me up on it.
I don't know if this is actually a stereotype or more of a comment I hate. In one sentence it is this ( with negative connotation), "Oh you know they are a born again". And then I reply I am a Born Again Christian. Insert persons blank stare because in reality they still have no clue what a born again christian is because they believe in "Christian" Stereotypes!
ReplyDeletemy favorite Christian stereotype of all time:
ReplyDeleteChristians will immediately suffer a long, horrible death if they hear an off-color joke or sexually explicit story.
I appreciate this stereotype, however, since it saves me from having to hear things I'd rather not hear, e.g. "You won't BELIEVE what he did to me last night!...oh, Bethany, you might want to leave, you wouldn't like this story" (usually said with an air of superiority, as if I don't know what I'm missing).
I am always glad when I'm warned first so I can escape, but still, it's hilarious when people treat me as if I'll burst into flame if they tell the story in my presence.
The stereotype that all Christians are blind followers who have never considered the problem of evil in the world or examined the validity of their faith.
ReplyDeleteEven though it's already been mentioned, my "favorite" stereotype is that we're all Republicans and fans of Rush Limbaugh...and to quote Gilmore Girls (awesome TV show):
ReplyDelete"We keep Rush Limbaugh on the radio at all times so [intruders] know we have guns."
Oh, and that we all believe in the "Left Behind" series (some of us actually have different views from Tim LaHaye).
one word:
ReplyDeleteHALLELUJAH!
"Christians are brain washed zombies! So don't bring up religion around them as they'll try to indoctrinate you and steal your mind and your individuality. Before you know it you will be the most boring and timid zombie imaginable."
ReplyDeleteOk I am not reading all 191 comments to see if Zombies were mentioned yet. How the heck do you get time to read all this Jon? Admit it... you don't read them all do you? Hahaha my word verification word was 'glumermo'.
That we have nothing better to do with our time than hate on Athiests and deny sexual urges because both are directly from Satan.
ReplyDeleteBethany at 5:59pm June 7th:
ReplyDeleteSOOO glad you brought up the "burst in flames/horrible death" stereotype.
I can think of 2 instances where this stereotype reared it's head in pop culture...
1. Music Video by David Lee Roth. Not sure what song, but he was dancing on a table in a rather sensual fasion and there were several "uppity" looking people observing him, and the one that was dressed like a priest (stereotypically depicted as an older white man in catholic priest garb I might add) was depicted as holding his hand to his throat like he was choking or dying as DLR danced in front of him.
2. "Seinfeld" episode where Elaine's boyfriend Puddy doned his New Jersey Devil's fan garb and face paint. As he was walking through the street he came upon a car, leaned towards the window, and started screaming something like "we're the Devils!!! THE DEVILLLLLLLLLSSSS!" - and of course there was a stereotypical older white gentleman in catholic priest garb. And he was....guess what...reacting with horrow and nearly looked like he was gonna die!!!!!
this one drives me crazy about stereotypes of christians from other christians:
ReplyDeleteif you don't drink, you're holier than thou.
if you do drink, you're going straight to hell.
well i dont have a good one after reading most of these! so i'm putting in a vote for my fav: lindsey with creepy christians!! too funny. i also like Jen Unander with the apologizing for cussing...
ReplyDeleteI served at a church where the opening line for their witness program (after introductions of course) was something like "if you were to die tonight, do you kno whether you would go to heaven or hell". The stereotype? Not sure, I just always thought it was way over the "how-do-I-start-a-conversation-so-I-might-share-Christ" line.
ReplyDeleteChristians don't have any fun.
ReplyDeleteWait a minute; I'm a Christian and my life is a ball! -- Maybe a ball is better the "fun"!?!
My favorite stereotype about Christians is the "How could you fire me? I thought you were a Christian." card.
ReplyDeleteThis is my favorite quote after I have to fire someone. Dear former employee - You getting fired has only to do with your poor performance and work ethic, not my committment to God.
Ok, I never leave comments on these posts to try to win the books. Just to say I've read the book, and to recommend it.
ReplyDeleteThat being said, this book is FANTASTIC. I read it a few months back, and absolutely loved it. It surprised me in so many ways, and would be a beautiful read for anyone. I hope whoever the five new owners of this book are will show it love and care -- not rip its book jacket or set a cup of coffee on it. It deserves your love and protection.
Anyway -- read away! And I will read all your more creative and original comments and giggle.
@Bobby-piss is an old skool OT word. Look it up in the King Jimmy. It's not a cussword at all. ;o)
ReplyDeleteWV: girrup: God stirrups, what you have to climb into before you can preach from your soapbox
Ya'll better lookout, Martha, the preacher's done got up intuh the girrups, this is gonna be a doozy!