Issues@Hand
AFA initiatives, Christian activism, news briefs
March 2017 – According to a five-year study published in Review of Religious Research, an internationally respected journal, the fastest growing churches are those that hold to a literal interpretation of the Bible, including teachings on heaven and hell.
“If we are talking solely about what belief system is more likely to lead to numerical growth among Protestant churches,” said David Haskell, lead researcher of the Canadian study, “the evidence suggests conservative Protestant theology is the clear winner.”
Clergy and worshippers in growing churches experienced greater participation in regular Bible reading and prayer.
Additionally, with respect to outsiders, an unwavering message with clear boundaries is a drawing factor.
theguardian.com, 11/17/16