Graphical showing the moral decline in America due to lack of Christian content produced.
Graphical showing the moral decline in America due to lack of Christian content produced.

The Moral Landscape and the Role of Christian Writers: A Reflection on George Barna’s Eye-Opening Report in 2023

How Christian Authors Can Impact Society’s Shifting Moral Compass in 2023

In a rapidly shifting cultural landscape, a recent 2023 report by George Barna from the Cultural Research Center highlights the decline of traditional moral values, indicating that a growing majority believe moral judgments are solely a human prerogative. At the same time, there’s been a noticeable decrease in Christian-authored content that could offer a different perspective. This confluence suggests an urgent call to action for Christian writers: to produce thoughtful, relevant, and engaging content that not only reiterates the importance of traditional moral values but also reaches a broad audience, thereby influencing the ongoing discourse about the moral compass of society.

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Graphical showing the moral decline in America due to lack of Christian content produced.

Hello, cherished readers! I hope this post finds you in great spirits and health. Today, I have something serious yet incredibly vital to discuss: the state of our moral compass as a society and what role Christian writers can play in it. 

The Societal Mirror: George Barna’s Eye-Opening Report 

I recently stumbled upon a compelling report from the Cultural Research Center at Arizona Christian University, “America’s Values Study: Report #04 Current View of ‘Traditional Moral Values’ Excludes ‘Biblical Morality,’” penned by none other than George Barna. The report delves into the current landscape of America’s traditional moral values and provides some startling insights. Before we dive deeper into the intricacies, let’s talk about something many of us have noticed: the decrease in Christian-authored content—books, articles, blogs, you name it—at a time when traditional moral values seem to be on the decline. 

Graphic Identifying the Appropriate Basis of American Morality by America’s Values Study: Report #04 Current View of ‘Traditional Moral Values’ Excludes ‘Biblical Morality,’" penned by none other than George Barna.

Correlation Does Not Equal Causation, but Let’s Dig Deeper 

Now, it’s tempting to jump to conclusions and say one is the result of the other. However, while these trends may appear connected, correlation does not necessarily imply causation. But make no mistake; this isn’t something we should ignore or brush aside. These trends can serve as a foundation for meaningful discussion and further examination. 

You can find more information, in my article, “The Urgent Need for Christian Voices in Books, TV, and Movies: Addressing America’s Moral Decline in 2023.” 

Why Stats Matter 

George Barna’s report acts like a mirror for society, highlighting the beliefs and values that shape our collective consciousness. These statistics serve as the backbone for informed debates and discussions, and they provide a concrete basis for advocating change or preserving elements of culture that we hold dear. 

Graphic of a flag showing the Moral Decline of America, created by Bing.

The Changing Source of Moral Compasses 

According to the report, a staggering 71% of adults believe it’s up to humans—not a higher power—to decide what is morally right or wrong. This sentiment is not confined to non-religious groups; a significant portion of self-identified LGBTQ adults and those who prioritize values like happiness and equality also share this view. 

Interestingly, while most Americans can agree on core values such as integrity, kindness, and justice, these are increasingly not the factors guiding our moral decisions. Government bodies are becoming the new North Star for many when it comes to moral guidance—a shift that, Barna warns, could have profound implications for the future. 

The Call to Action for Christian Writers 

If we believe that Christian values have a role to play in society, we must advocate for them effectively. And that’s where you come in. As a Christian writer, you have the tools to engage, inspire, and stimulate meaningful conversations. 

Graphic of a typewriter with the text, "In the end, we only regret the chances we didn't take."

Why We Need Better Christian Content Now More Than Ever 

If there is a decline in morally enriching content authored by Christians, it’s our collective responsibility to reverse this trend. As writers, we need to create content that doesn’t just preach to the choir but reaches out to everyone, offering a fresh perspective on why traditional moral values still matter. 

Final Thoughts 

Although the decline in Christian-authored content and the shift in moral values may not be directly related, it should be a wake-up call. Let’s use this moment to spur conversations we should be having and questions we should be asking. 

Ready to make a difference? 

1️⃣ Follow Me: Stay connected for more insights and in-depth discussions.  2️⃣ Comment Below: What are your thoughts? Are you noticing these shifts in your life?  3️⃣ Share: Help spread the word; let’s amplify this conversation.  4️⃣ Write, Write, Write: If you have a voice, use it. Your unique perspective might be the catalyst for another’s moral or spiritual journey. 

Let us stand firm in our beliefs, enrich our understanding, and articulate our values better. Together, we can make a meaningful impact. Until next time, stay inspired and be the light! 

P.S. Now is the time for us to write, engage, and bring about a change. Your voice is more potent than you think. Let it be heard.

You may enjoy this article, “Content We All Need: Inspire Others to Write.” 

I’m looking forward to sharing more insights and hearing your thoughts in the comments section. Thank you for being part of this crucial exploration. Until next time! 

Timothy R Carter

Hailing from the serene landscapes of North Georgia, Timothy Roy Carter wears multiple hats with equal finesse. Timothy's spiritual journey was chiseled from a young age, the middle child of a pastor, an inheritance he imbibed and eventually embraced as he, too, chose the path of a lead pastor. Academically, Timothy is no slouch. He boasts a BA in Pastoral Ministries from the esteemed Lee University and further sharpened his theological insights with a Master of Divinities from the Pentecostal Theological Seminary. His credentials, however, don't just reside in parchments and certificates but are echoed in the community he serves and leads with devotion. Timothy's love for the written word manifests in his column for the local newspaper—a testament to his eloquence and deep insights. Before this, he had the privilege of reaching audiences through columns in two other newspapers, disseminating wisdom and observations that were both profound and accessible. While many know him as a pastor and columnist, fewer know his prowess as an author. With a flair for both fiction and nonfiction, Timothy's bibliography is diverse. He crafts nonfictional guides aimed at nurturing budding writers while also penning works focused on demystifying the intricacies of the Bible for the lay reader. For those with a penchant for the imaginative, Timothy's science fiction works offer a delightful escape, marrying profound spiritual insights with the limitless boundaries of speculative fiction. Beyond the pulpit and the pen, Timothy is an artist at heart. He finds solace in the strokes of paintbrushes and the sketches of pencils, creating visual art that speaks as eloquently as his writings. He is also a staunch advocate for holistic well-being, recognizing the symbiotic relationship between the mind, body, and spirit. This has led him to delve deep into nutrition and exercise, not just as a personal pursuit but as a mission to educate and elevate others. In Timothy Roy Carter, one finds a harmonious blend of a spiritual guide, a wordsmith, an artist, and a wellness advocate. But above all, at his core, he is an educator fervently dedicated to the noble cause of enlightening minds and enriching souls. He is the author of several books, blogs, newspapers, and international journal articles. Carter holds degrees of Bachelor of Science in Pastoral Ministries, with a concentration in Counseling from Lee University (2005); Master of Divinities with a concentration in Counseling from Pentecostal Theological Seminary (2008). Carter is a Bishop with Church of God, Cleveland, TN.; License Community Service Chaplain; Licensed Level 4 Church Consultant; Christian Counselor. Bishop Carter is available for speaking engagements and or training sessions. You can contact him here.

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