How to Combat Cynicism in Your Church
How to combat cynicism in your church so that you can thrive as a church staff and in your community.
“When too much cynicism threatens to engulf us, it is buoying to remember how pervasive goodness is,” said Carl Sagan, the American astronomer and scientist.
It can feel difficult to believe that today, especially as we watch the news, observe vitriol on social media networks, and feel increasingly alarmed by the collapse of what we have taken for granted for so long. Judeo-Christian values seem to be crumbling, and people appear to be more confused than ever about who God made them to be.
Still, goodness is pervasive. The authors of the Bible certainly saw this–The Lord has established his throne in heaven, and his kingdom rules over all, said the Psalmist (Psalm 103:19).
Unfortunately, cynicism–defined as “the belief that people are only interested in themselves and are not sincere”–has become the norm. This belief has even crept into the Church.
The Bible also says that the “days are evil”–there’s no sugarcoating the present reality of evil in our world and the fact that human beings are sinful. But when cynicism threatens to prevent Christians from loving others as Jesus did, it presents a very real detriment. Not only that, but cynicism can sow suspicion and discord among believers in Christ, resulting in disunity.
In short, cynicism is not a good thing. And it often takes root right under our noses.
In the following article, we’ll discuss how to combat cynicism in your church so that you can continue to thrive both in your larger community and on your leadership team.
If we don’t have Christ’s heart for the not-yet-saved, then we’re less likely to tell others about the Good News.
The Truth About Cynicism
Before understanding how to address cynicism, it’s important to understand why your congregants may be cynical. While the news plays no small part in encouraging a less-than-positive worldview, there are also psychological reasons that we become cynical.
According to Dr. Jamil Zaki, the author of Hope For Cynics: The Surprising Science of Human Goodness, distrusting others can make people feel safe and smart. But cynicism often isn’t rooted in truth. People are often kinder and more helpful than we believe–but stories of compassion don’t usually make the 8 o’clock news.
Not only that but there is evidence that the world is becoming a better place. Global poverty has plummeted over the last 20 years. The Church is growing in countries like Iran, Afghanistan, and China, despite extreme–even fatal–hostility towards the Gospel from government leadership. And revival is happening even among Gen Z, considered the least religious generation ever.
In short, there is good news.
Why Cynicism Hurts How You Manage Your Church
As mentioned above, cynicism can cause division and prevent believers from loving others–whether brothers and sisters in Christ or not-yet-believers.
What does this look like practically? Here are a few unintended consequences of cynicism on how your church functions.
Reduced Participation
When we don’t trust fellow believers, we’re less likely to be excited about participating in a church community through volunteering, giving, and stepping into leadership roles.
Drama
Cynicism tends to turn our focus inward, making us more likely to feel insulted. A widespread attitude of cynicism in a church will only cause pettiness, offense, and isolation.
Higher Rates of “Church Churn”
“Churn” is a business term typically used to describe the loss of customers or subscribers. “Church churn” happens when people leave the community, sometimes because of disagreement and offense.
Ineffectiveness
Let’s face it: Christ-followers who are united get more done. They spend less time working out personal issues and more time loving others and achieving the mission of Jesus on Earth. Enough said.
Reduced Evangelism
If we don’t have Christ’s heart for the not-yet-saved, then we’re less likely to tell others about the Good News.
5 Ways to Manage a Cynicism-Free Church
It’s easier said than done, but you can combat cynicism in your church, whether you are a leader or a layperson. Here are 5 ways to change attitudes and hearts in the way you lead, and help others walk more fully in the way of Jesus.
- Don’t model it.
The #1 way to encourage cynicism is to demonstrate it yourself–whether that’s from the pulpit, in conversation, or during staff meetings. The converse is also true: When you show Biblical values of humility and kindness towards others, you set a standard for refusing cynicism and challenge your leaders to do the same.
Examples might include: expressing gratitude towards others, admitting mistakes openly, celebrating others’ successes (including the success of other churches!), and encouraging open and honest dialogue.
- Talk about it.
Talk about cynicism. This can help people address blind spots and understand this growing cultural trend before falling too far into the trap of distrust. Defining cynicism, giving some real-life examples, and pointing out how Scripture refutes cynicism can help point your flock in the right direction.
Here are some Biblical verses that discourage cynicism:
“Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:31-32)
“My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.” (James 1:19-20)
“We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.” (2 Corinthians 10:5)
- Refute it.
Remember that the news has never been more vitriolic, polarizing, and pervasive. Refute cynicism that people are seeing on their social media accounts, televisions, and more, with “holy gossip”: stories of God’s goodness via the kindness and care of humans. Whether you are talking about the work of fellow congregants or brothers and sisters in Christ from different communities or nations, you’re sure to encourage people to look at the world with hope and optimism–not suspicion and despair.
- Pray.
Pray against cynicism with prayers for unity, love, and trust. You don’t have to reinvent the wheel to do so; just turn to John 17 for ideas:
“I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one— I in them and you in me—so that they may be brought to complete unity.” (John 17:20b-23a).
- Take communion.
When Jesus gathered with the disciples one last time before He was crucified, they broke bread together. Depending on your background and church tradition, communion can mean different things to you. But regardless of liturgical leaning, taking communion should bring us all to a moment of gratitude, peace, and repentance.
Over to You
When Jesus came incarnate to humanity, the world was a pretty bad place. Roman emperors were notoriously sadistic and yet Jesus came with a message that held reality and hope. He told His followers to love others–even their enemies.
We can all celebrate that we don’t live in ancient Rome, but we face some dark times. Nonetheless, the church is meant to be a beacon of hope and optimism–not naivete, but a realism that’s centered on the truth and grace of Jesus. Ultimately, this will help leaders and congregants alike build stronger and healthier communities that do Kingdom work.
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“When too much cynicism threatens to engulf us, it is buoying to remember how pervasive goodness is,” said Carl Sagan, the American astronomer and scientist.
It can feel difficult to believe that today, especially as we watch the news, observe vitriol on social media networks, and feel increasingly alarmed by the collapse of what we have taken for granted for so long. Judeo-Christian values seem to be crumbling, and people appear to be more confused than ever about who God made them to be.
Still, goodness is pervasive. The authors of the Bible certainly saw this–The Lord has established his throne in heaven, and his kingdom rules over all, said the Psalmist (Psalm 103:19).
Unfortunately, cynicism–defined as “the belief that people are only interested in themselves and are not sincere”–has become the norm. This belief has even crept into the Church.
The Bible also says that the “days are evil”–there’s no sugarcoating the present reality of evil in our world and the fact that human beings are sinful. But when cynicism threatens to prevent Christians from loving others as Jesus did, it presents a very real detriment. Not only that, but cynicism can sow suspicion and discord among believers in Christ, resulting in disunity.
In short, cynicism is not a good thing. And it often takes root right under our noses.
In the following article, we’ll discuss how to combat cynicism in your church so that you can continue to thrive both in your larger community and on your leadership team.
If we don’t have Christ’s heart for the not-yet-saved, then we’re less likely to tell others about the Good News.
The Truth About Cynicism
Before understanding how to address cynicism, it’s important to understand why your congregants may be cynical. While the news plays no small part in encouraging a less-than-positive worldview, there are also psychological reasons that we become cynical.
According to Dr. Jamil Zaki, the author of Hope For Cynics: The Surprising Science of Human Goodness, distrusting others can make people feel safe and smart. But cynicism often isn’t rooted in truth. People are often kinder and more helpful than we believe–but stories of compassion don’t usually make the 8 o’clock news.
Not only that but there is evidence that the world is becoming a better place. Global poverty has plummeted over the last 20 years. The Church is growing in countries like Iran, Afghanistan, and China, despite extreme–even fatal–hostility towards the Gospel from government leadership. And revival is happening even among Gen Z, considered the least religious generation ever.
In short, there is good news.
Why Cynicism Hurts How You Manage Your Church
As mentioned above, cynicism can cause division and prevent believers from loving others–whether brothers and sisters in Christ or not-yet-believers.
What does this look like practically? Here are a few unintended consequences of cynicism on how your church functions.
Reduced Participation
When we don’t trust fellow believers, we’re less likely to be excited about participating in a church community through volunteering, giving, and stepping into leadership roles.
Drama
Cynicism tends to turn our focus inward, making us more likely to feel insulted. A widespread attitude of cynicism in a church will only cause pettiness, offense, and isolation.
Higher Rates of “Church Churn”
“Churn” is a business term typically used to describe the loss of customers or subscribers. “Church churn” happens when people leave the community, sometimes because of disagreement and offense.
Ineffectiveness
Let’s face it: Christ-followers who are united get more done. They spend less time working out personal issues and more time loving others and achieving the mission of Jesus on Earth. Enough said.
Reduced Evangelism
If we don’t have Christ’s heart for the not-yet-saved, then we’re less likely to tell others about the Good News.
5 Ways to Manage a Cynicism-Free Church
It’s easier said than done, but you can combat cynicism in your church, whether you are a leader or a layperson. Here are 5 ways to change attitudes and hearts in the way you lead, and help others walk more fully in the way of Jesus.
- Don’t model it.
The #1 way to encourage cynicism is to demonstrate it yourself–whether that’s from the pulpit, in conversation, or during staff meetings. The converse is also true: When you show Biblical values of humility and kindness towards others, you set a standard for refusing cynicism and challenge your leaders to do the same.
Examples might include: expressing gratitude towards others, admitting mistakes openly, celebrating others’ successes (including the success of other churches!), and encouraging open and honest dialogue.
- Talk about it.
Talk about cynicism. This can help people address blind spots and understand this growing cultural trend before falling too far into the trap of distrust. Defining cynicism, giving some real-life examples, and pointing out how Scripture refutes cynicism can help point your flock in the right direction.
Here are some Biblical verses that discourage cynicism:
“Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:31-32)
“My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.” (James 1:19-20)
“We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.” (2 Corinthians 10:5)
- Refute it.
Remember that the news has never been more vitriolic, polarizing, and pervasive. Refute cynicism that people are seeing on their social media accounts, televisions, and more, with “holy gossip”: stories of God’s goodness via the kindness and care of humans. Whether you are talking about the work of fellow congregants or brothers and sisters in Christ from different communities or nations, you’re sure to encourage people to look at the world with hope and optimism–not suspicion and despair.
- Pray.
Pray against cynicism with prayers for unity, love, and trust. You don’t have to reinvent the wheel to do so; just turn to John 17 for ideas:
“I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one— I in them and you in me—so that they may be brought to complete unity.” (John 17:20b-23a).
- Take communion.
When Jesus gathered with the disciples one last time before He was crucified, they broke bread together. Depending on your background and church tradition, communion can mean different things to you. But regardless of liturgical leaning, taking communion should bring us all to a moment of gratitude, peace, and repentance.
Over to You
When Jesus came incarnate to humanity, the world was a pretty bad place. Roman emperors were notoriously sadistic and yet Jesus came with a message that held reality and hope. He told His followers to love others–even their enemies.
We can all celebrate that we don’t live in ancient Rome, but we face some dark times. Nonetheless, the church is meant to be a beacon of hope and optimism–not naivete, but a realism that’s centered on the truth and grace of Jesus. Ultimately, this will help leaders and congregants alike build stronger and healthier communities that do Kingdom work.
podcast transcript
“When too much cynicism threatens to engulf us, it is buoying to remember how pervasive goodness is,” said Carl Sagan, the American astronomer and scientist.
It can feel difficult to believe that today, especially as we watch the news, observe vitriol on social media networks, and feel increasingly alarmed by the collapse of what we have taken for granted for so long. Judeo-Christian values seem to be crumbling, and people appear to be more confused than ever about who God made them to be.
Still, goodness is pervasive. The authors of the Bible certainly saw this–The Lord has established his throne in heaven, and his kingdom rules over all, said the Psalmist (Psalm 103:19).
Unfortunately, cynicism–defined as “the belief that people are only interested in themselves and are not sincere”–has become the norm. This belief has even crept into the Church.
The Bible also says that the “days are evil”–there’s no sugarcoating the present reality of evil in our world and the fact that human beings are sinful. But when cynicism threatens to prevent Christians from loving others as Jesus did, it presents a very real detriment. Not only that, but cynicism can sow suspicion and discord among believers in Christ, resulting in disunity.
In short, cynicism is not a good thing. And it often takes root right under our noses.
In the following article, we’ll discuss how to combat cynicism in your church so that you can continue to thrive both in your larger community and on your leadership team.
If we don’t have Christ’s heart for the not-yet-saved, then we’re less likely to tell others about the Good News.
The Truth About Cynicism
Before understanding how to address cynicism, it’s important to understand why your congregants may be cynical. While the news plays no small part in encouraging a less-than-positive worldview, there are also psychological reasons that we become cynical.
According to Dr. Jamil Zaki, the author of Hope For Cynics: The Surprising Science of Human Goodness, distrusting others can make people feel safe and smart. But cynicism often isn’t rooted in truth. People are often kinder and more helpful than we believe–but stories of compassion don’t usually make the 8 o’clock news.
Not only that but there is evidence that the world is becoming a better place. Global poverty has plummeted over the last 20 years. The Church is growing in countries like Iran, Afghanistan, and China, despite extreme–even fatal–hostility towards the Gospel from government leadership. And revival is happening even among Gen Z, considered the least religious generation ever.
In short, there is good news.
Why Cynicism Hurts How You Manage Your Church
As mentioned above, cynicism can cause division and prevent believers from loving others–whether brothers and sisters in Christ or not-yet-believers.
What does this look like practically? Here are a few unintended consequences of cynicism on how your church functions.
Reduced Participation
When we don’t trust fellow believers, we’re less likely to be excited about participating in a church community through volunteering, giving, and stepping into leadership roles.
Drama
Cynicism tends to turn our focus inward, making us more likely to feel insulted. A widespread attitude of cynicism in a church will only cause pettiness, offense, and isolation.
Higher Rates of “Church Churn”
“Churn” is a business term typically used to describe the loss of customers or subscribers. “Church churn” happens when people leave the community, sometimes because of disagreement and offense.
Ineffectiveness
Let’s face it: Christ-followers who are united get more done. They spend less time working out personal issues and more time loving others and achieving the mission of Jesus on Earth. Enough said.
Reduced Evangelism
If we don’t have Christ’s heart for the not-yet-saved, then we’re less likely to tell others about the Good News.
5 Ways to Manage a Cynicism-Free Church
It’s easier said than done, but you can combat cynicism in your church, whether you are a leader or a layperson. Here are 5 ways to change attitudes and hearts in the way you lead, and help others walk more fully in the way of Jesus.
- Don’t model it.
The #1 way to encourage cynicism is to demonstrate it yourself–whether that’s from the pulpit, in conversation, or during staff meetings. The converse is also true: When you show Biblical values of humility and kindness towards others, you set a standard for refusing cynicism and challenge your leaders to do the same.
Examples might include: expressing gratitude towards others, admitting mistakes openly, celebrating others’ successes (including the success of other churches!), and encouraging open and honest dialogue.
- Talk about it.
Talk about cynicism. This can help people address blind spots and understand this growing cultural trend before falling too far into the trap of distrust. Defining cynicism, giving some real-life examples, and pointing out how Scripture refutes cynicism can help point your flock in the right direction.
Here are some Biblical verses that discourage cynicism:
“Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:31-32)
“My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.” (James 1:19-20)
“We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.” (2 Corinthians 10:5)
- Refute it.
Remember that the news has never been more vitriolic, polarizing, and pervasive. Refute cynicism that people are seeing on their social media accounts, televisions, and more, with “holy gossip”: stories of God’s goodness via the kindness and care of humans. Whether you are talking about the work of fellow congregants or brothers and sisters in Christ from different communities or nations, you’re sure to encourage people to look at the world with hope and optimism–not suspicion and despair.
- Pray.
Pray against cynicism with prayers for unity, love, and trust. You don’t have to reinvent the wheel to do so; just turn to John 17 for ideas:
“I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one— I in them and you in me—so that they may be brought to complete unity.” (John 17:20b-23a).
- Take communion.
When Jesus gathered with the disciples one last time before He was crucified, they broke bread together. Depending on your background and church tradition, communion can mean different things to you. But regardless of liturgical leaning, taking communion should bring us all to a moment of gratitude, peace, and repentance.
Over to You
When Jesus came incarnate to humanity, the world was a pretty bad place. Roman emperors were notoriously sadistic and yet Jesus came with a message that held reality and hope. He told His followers to love others–even their enemies.
We can all celebrate that we don’t live in ancient Rome, but we face some dark times. Nonetheless, the church is meant to be a beacon of hope and optimism–not naivete, but a realism that’s centered on the truth and grace of Jesus. Ultimately, this will help leaders and congregants alike build stronger and healthier communities that do Kingdom work.
VIDEO transcript
“When too much cynicism threatens to engulf us, it is buoying to remember how pervasive goodness is,” said Carl Sagan, the American astronomer and scientist.
It can feel difficult to believe that today, especially as we watch the news, observe vitriol on social media networks, and feel increasingly alarmed by the collapse of what we have taken for granted for so long. Judeo-Christian values seem to be crumbling, and people appear to be more confused than ever about who God made them to be.
Still, goodness is pervasive. The authors of the Bible certainly saw this–The Lord has established his throne in heaven, and his kingdom rules over all, said the Psalmist (Psalm 103:19).
Unfortunately, cynicism–defined as “the belief that people are only interested in themselves and are not sincere”–has become the norm. This belief has even crept into the Church.
The Bible also says that the “days are evil”–there’s no sugarcoating the present reality of evil in our world and the fact that human beings are sinful. But when cynicism threatens to prevent Christians from loving others as Jesus did, it presents a very real detriment. Not only that, but cynicism can sow suspicion and discord among believers in Christ, resulting in disunity.
In short, cynicism is not a good thing. And it often takes root right under our noses.
In the following article, we’ll discuss how to combat cynicism in your church so that you can continue to thrive both in your larger community and on your leadership team.
If we don’t have Christ’s heart for the not-yet-saved, then we’re less likely to tell others about the Good News.
The Truth About Cynicism
Before understanding how to address cynicism, it’s important to understand why your congregants may be cynical. While the news plays no small part in encouraging a less-than-positive worldview, there are also psychological reasons that we become cynical.
According to Dr. Jamil Zaki, the author of Hope For Cynics: The Surprising Science of Human Goodness, distrusting others can make people feel safe and smart. But cynicism often isn’t rooted in truth. People are often kinder and more helpful than we believe–but stories of compassion don’t usually make the 8 o’clock news.
Not only that but there is evidence that the world is becoming a better place. Global poverty has plummeted over the last 20 years. The Church is growing in countries like Iran, Afghanistan, and China, despite extreme–even fatal–hostility towards the Gospel from government leadership. And revival is happening even among Gen Z, considered the least religious generation ever.
In short, there is good news.
Why Cynicism Hurts How You Manage Your Church
As mentioned above, cynicism can cause division and prevent believers from loving others–whether brothers and sisters in Christ or not-yet-believers.
What does this look like practically? Here are a few unintended consequences of cynicism on how your church functions.
Reduced Participation
When we don’t trust fellow believers, we’re less likely to be excited about participating in a church community through volunteering, giving, and stepping into leadership roles.
Drama
Cynicism tends to turn our focus inward, making us more likely to feel insulted. A widespread attitude of cynicism in a church will only cause pettiness, offense, and isolation.
Higher Rates of “Church Churn”
“Churn” is a business term typically used to describe the loss of customers or subscribers. “Church churn” happens when people leave the community, sometimes because of disagreement and offense.
Ineffectiveness
Let’s face it: Christ-followers who are united get more done. They spend less time working out personal issues and more time loving others and achieving the mission of Jesus on Earth. Enough said.
Reduced Evangelism
If we don’t have Christ’s heart for the not-yet-saved, then we’re less likely to tell others about the Good News.
5 Ways to Manage a Cynicism-Free Church
It’s easier said than done, but you can combat cynicism in your church, whether you are a leader or a layperson. Here are 5 ways to change attitudes and hearts in the way you lead, and help others walk more fully in the way of Jesus.
- Don’t model it.
The #1 way to encourage cynicism is to demonstrate it yourself–whether that’s from the pulpit, in conversation, or during staff meetings. The converse is also true: When you show Biblical values of humility and kindness towards others, you set a standard for refusing cynicism and challenge your leaders to do the same.
Examples might include: expressing gratitude towards others, admitting mistakes openly, celebrating others’ successes (including the success of other churches!), and encouraging open and honest dialogue.
- Talk about it.
Talk about cynicism. This can help people address blind spots and understand this growing cultural trend before falling too far into the trap of distrust. Defining cynicism, giving some real-life examples, and pointing out how Scripture refutes cynicism can help point your flock in the right direction.
Here are some Biblical verses that discourage cynicism:
“Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:31-32)
“My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.” (James 1:19-20)
“We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.” (2 Corinthians 10:5)
- Refute it.
Remember that the news has never been more vitriolic, polarizing, and pervasive. Refute cynicism that people are seeing on their social media accounts, televisions, and more, with “holy gossip”: stories of God’s goodness via the kindness and care of humans. Whether you are talking about the work of fellow congregants or brothers and sisters in Christ from different communities or nations, you’re sure to encourage people to look at the world with hope and optimism–not suspicion and despair.
- Pray.
Pray against cynicism with prayers for unity, love, and trust. You don’t have to reinvent the wheel to do so; just turn to John 17 for ideas:
“I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one— I in them and you in me—so that they may be brought to complete unity.” (John 17:20b-23a).
- Take communion.
When Jesus gathered with the disciples one last time before He was crucified, they broke bread together. Depending on your background and church tradition, communion can mean different things to you. But regardless of liturgical leaning, taking communion should bring us all to a moment of gratitude, peace, and repentance.
Over to You
When Jesus came incarnate to humanity, the world was a pretty bad place. Roman emperors were notoriously sadistic and yet Jesus came with a message that held reality and hope. He told His followers to love others–even their enemies.
We can all celebrate that we don’t live in ancient Rome, but we face some dark times. Nonetheless, the church is meant to be a beacon of hope and optimism–not naivete, but a realism that’s centered on the truth and grace of Jesus. Ultimately, this will help leaders and congregants alike build stronger and healthier communities that do Kingdom work.
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