Rise
Of The 'Nones'
There has been a dramatic shift in the past decade that stands to impact religion and politics, and those who do not affiliate with any specific religious tradition. According to a newly released social survey by Ryan Burge of Eastern Illinois University, Americans claming "no religion" sometimes referred to as "nones" now represent 23.1% of the population, up from 21.6% in 2016.
Evangelicals Christians make up 22.8% of the population, Mainline Protestants 10.8% of the population, up from 10.2% in the last decade after a short decline in the 1990s. Catholics at 22.8% have went down 3% in the last four years. (Probably due to sexual abuse scandals among the clergy).
The Pew Religious Landscape survey reported that 22% of the U.S. population is religiously unaffiliated. The survey reported that 3% being atheist and 5% being agnostic. However this number is on the rise with a new study that concludes that roughly one-quarter (26%), of Americans likely do not believe in God. (The largest of these groups on the rise are the nones, who many believe in God, but do not believe in religion, or denominationalism). This is a sign of the great Apostasy, a falling away from the church, or defection from the truth.
Why the 'nones' don't identify with religion
More than 1,300 "nones" were asked in a survey by Pew Research Center why they choose not to identify with a religion. Out of several options included in the survey, the most common reason they gave for not identifying is that they question a lot of religious teachings. Six in ten unaffiliated Americans who identify as atheist, agnostic or "nothing in particular," say that the teachings of religion is their biggest turn-off for lack of affiliation.
The disciples asked Jesus for a sign. The disciples came to Jesus and asked him, what the sign of his coming and the end of the world would be. And Jesus answered and said unto them, take heed that no man deceive you. For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many. (Matthew 24:5). Many Priests and Pastors will say they are Christians, but they will be right from the synagogue of Satan. Not teaching the truth and freedom of Christianity, but rather teach you their rules and regulations, deception and lies, that will keep you in bondage.
The second most common reason given for not identifying with religion is opposition to the position taken by the churches on social and political issues. Again, many churches will try to sway you in political matters and try to control your social activities as well. The third reason the "nones" will not identify is that they dislike religious organizations or their leaders. (Denominational religion). Jesus did not like denominational religion, and He did not lean to the left or right; Jesus taught what was right and wrong.
Hopefully the "nones" will take a better look at the truth in God's Word from their own research and studies and not depend on religious organizations. The Word is there for the taking if you put in a little effort in your faith and less time on social media. There are still some non-denominational Christian ministries who stay away from false teachings and denominational control if you search for them. Here at the Good News Ministry we teach truth without tradition.
Where does your faith really come from? Our Heavenly Father says: Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. (Romans 10:17). All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: (2 Timothy 3:16). The Bible was given to us to teach us and help us in our everyday lives. True Christianity will keep you free from the bondage of denominationalism. "God's truth will always set you free." (John 8:32).
Keep The Faith,Barton