As I considered spiritual formation, becoming more and more like Christ, I began to consider the difference between average and normal. Average speaks of what is typical. Normal is conformity to a standard. If you were to visit a hospital wing, the average temp in that wing may be 102. However, the normal temperature for humans is 98.6. I ask you, “Do you want the average or normal temp?”
When considering spiritual formation, I ask, “Do you want average or normal Christianity?” One poll I recently came across noted that while 63% of Americans describe themselves as Christians, only 11% of U.S. adults read their Bible daily. This is problematic. R.C. Sproul recognized, “There is an inseparable relationship between affection for Christ and our affection for the Word of God.”
Prayer is a dynamic dialogue with the Lord. Through prayer, we are offered the opportunity to partner with Christ in His mission. It releases the resources of heaven in and through our lives. Keep in mind that 63% of Americans describe themselves as Christians, but one poll found that only 30% of U.S. adults pray for over 5 minutes daily. Prayer does not seem to be a high priority for the average believer.
We have been created to live in community. In fact, we are hardwired to do life with God and other believers. Yet, the Pew Research Center found in a recent poll that 30% of U.S. adults attend a worship service once a month or more. If all 30% were Christians, it would seem that nearly half aren’t. If this poll is remotely accurate, the average Christian does not attend church even monthly.
I am not a big fan of stats and polls, but they paint a picture. I find myself questioning the accuracy of some stats. Still, if the above polls present even a general picture of those who claim to be Christian in America, the average Christian is not studying and applying God’s Word to their life. They are not engaging in prayer in any significant way. They do not fellowship with other believers regularly. In short, average Christianity is a recipe for disaster.
Here’s the good news. We believers don’t have to settle for average. We can experience normal Christianity. As we conform, with the Spirit’s help, in an ever-increasing manner, to the standard of the believer found in Scripture, we experience what God desires for us. Jesus describes this life when He says, “I came that they may have life and have it abundantly” (John 10:10). Jesus’ promise of fullness of life begins for the believer in the here and now. Jesus calls us His followers, not to a dour, lifeless, miserable existence that squashes human potential but to a rich, full, joyful life that overflows with meaning. This is normal Christianity and made available to all who are saved by Jesus, following Jesus, being changed by Jesus, and are on mission with Jesus. Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone)!