In this commentary, I reflect on my recent trip to Copenhagen, Denmark, and the broader implications of living in the post-Christendom West. Walking the ancient streets and talking to seasoned church leaders, I pondered two major factors that contribute to secularism and how Protestantism has become a victim of its own success. And I explored three emerging factors that could break the hold of secularism on the West.
A few European countries and U.S. regions buck the secular trend. Why? Considering the story of secularism—and resilient Christianity—helps us pass down a robust, durable faith to the next generation.
In This Episode
04:00 – Faith and decadence on Copenhagen’s streets
08:00 – From opt-out to opt-in belief
12:00 – America’s exception and slow convergence
18:00 – Faith thrives under tension
23:00 – The problem with establishment
30:00 – Reform, burnout, and secular substitutes
36:00 – Postwar humanism and its cracks
45:00 – Reality intrudes on secular optimism
49:00 – Three pressures on secularism and gospel hope
Resources Mentioned
Graph of religious importance and corresponding GDP
Graph of religious attendance in the United States and Europe
A Secular Age by Charles Taylor
Destroyer of the Gods by Larry W. Hurtado
Dominion by Tom Holland
The Age of Hitler and How We Will Survive It by Alec Ryrie
The Abolition of Man by C. S. Lewis
SIGN UP for my newsletter, Unseen Things.
Help The Gospel Coalition renew and unify the contemporary church in the ancient gospel: Donate today.
Don’t miss an episode of Gospelbound with Collin Hansen:
Apple Podcasts
Spotify
YouTube
TGC Updates
The Gospel Coalition