‘A better story’ – 7

This entry is part 8 of 18 in the series: A Better Story (Harrison)
- ‘A better story’ – intro
- ‘A better story’ – 1
- ‘A better story’ – 2
- ‘A better story’ – 3
- ‘A better story’ – 4
- ‘A better story’ – 5
- ‘A better story’ – 6
- ‘A better story’ – 7
- ‘A better story’ – 8
- ‘A better story’ – 9
- ‘A better story’ – 10
- ‘A better story’ – 11
- ‘A better story’ – 12
- ‘A better story’ – 13
- ‘A better story’ – 14
- ‘A better story’ – 15
- ‘A better story’ – 16
- ‘A better story’ – 17
Sociologist Peter Berger has suggested that ‘cognitive minorities’ need to develop strategies if they are to survive. Christians, once in the majority in the Western world, are now a ‘cognitive minority’. Not only that, but they are regarded as an immoral cognitive minority.
Psychologist Solomon Asch demonstrated that human beings can be dangerously conformist:-
Within a social group, ideas are often accepted on trust, and are sustained by the nurture and reinforcement of the group.
Support networks are important for the maintenance of plausibility structures, particularly within minority groups. Such groups need to take active steps to nourish their favoured beliefs and behaviours. ‘They need intellectual leaders, attractive role models and the opportunity for members to rehearse and consolidate their ideas in the conversational fabric of their group.’ Thus, a sense of confidence and pride is nurtured. This was well understood by the leaders of Gay Pride. But it is understood by Christians, in reference to their posture on sex and relationships?
Part of the problem is the Christians often do not know how to talk about sex. And if they do talk about it, they talk about what they are against, but not what they are for.
In moving forward, we need:-
1. A better critique. ‘We need to connect more skilfully and thoughtfully with minds and hearts already won over by the revolution’s ideology and moral vision.’ As we do so, we need to pay attention to tone and relationship. We need to find and explore common ground. We need to critique the sexual revolution not simply on the grounds of belief, but also in terms of whether it has delivered on its promise (of freedom, flourishing and well-being).
2. A better story. We need to tell a different story, a better story. And that will include stories of the transforming power of Jesus in lives today.
3. Better storytellers. We need to tell our story with conviction and integrity. We need to tell that story out the the flesh-and-blood reality of our own experiences. We need to utilise the new media and other forms of expression and communication.
Summarising: Harrison, Glynn. A Better Story: God, Sex And Human Flourishing . IVP. Kindle Edition. Chapter 7.