Christianity has an image problem (Kinnaman & Lyons, 2007, p. 11). Unfortunately, this phrase is loaded with truth, and the idea that Christianity has an image problem is a thorn in the side for many true Christians whose faith is centered on Jesus Christ. Contributing to the image problem is hypocrisy. According to Kinnaman & Lyons (2007), hypocrisy occurs when Christians fail to practice what is preached (p. 43). Thus, it is also this author’s previously held belief that Christians can be hypocrites by leading un-Christian lifestyles and being Christian only on paper. For many Christians, Christianity is a one day a week, two-hour concern while the rest of the week is spent being caught up in the ways of the world. God’s Word (1 Peter 2:9) commands that Christians be “set apart” from the world. Regrettably, the actions …show more content…
Also contributing to the image problems is the lack of maturity exhibited by both Christians and the much larger Christian Church. According to Scripture, the marketplace is the Christian’s mission field, and thereby belongs in the marketplace. Professionals who are Christian, and who lead the Christian life, are living examples of the Christian Faith to non-believers in the marketplace (Kinnaman & Lyons, 2007). However, culture dictates otherwise as many Christians now face disciplinary action for sharing one’s faith in the workplace (Gibbs, 2005). Roadblocks to sharing one’s faith with non-believers are many. The most prominent roadblocks include opposing beliefs and perspectives, fear mongering approaches to conversion, and generational differences (Kinnaman & Lyons, 2007). Overcoming these roadblocks is not an easy task especially when Christians continue to deviate from the truth and fail to mature