In recent years, a growing divide has emerged within Christianity, giving rise to two distinct types of Christians: the Woke Christian and the Awakened, Revived, Spirit-filled Christian. This article explores the key signs of a woke Christian and how their beliefs differ from those who adhere to a more traditional interpretation of scripture.
The Rise of Progressive Christianity
The term “woke” has become increasingly prevalent in discussions about social justice and cultural awareness. When applied to Christianity, it often refers to a more liberal or progressive approach to faith that seeks to align with contemporary social values. However, this approach leads to a departure from core biblical teachings.
Matthew 25:7-8 serves as our biblical anchor, highlighting the contrast between foolish and wise virgins. The foolish, lacking oil (symbolizing the Holy Spirit and truth), are juxtaposed with the wise, who are prepared. This parable foreshadows the dichotomy between Woke Christianity and authentic, Spirit-led Christianity.
8 Key Signs of a Woke Christian
Let’s examine the eight primary signs of a woke Christian as outlined in the discussion:
1. Embracing a Naturalistic Worldview
One of the most significant signs of a woke Christian is the adoption of a naturalistic worldview. This perspective:
- Downplays or rejects the supernatural elements of Christianity
- May question the existence of a creator God
- Interprets biblical events through a purely natural lens
In contrast, traditional Christians maintain a belief in a supernatural God who actively intervenes in the world and view biblical miracles as historical events.
2. Viewing the Bible as a Human Book
Another key indicator among the signs of a woke Christian is their approach to scripture. Progressive Christians often:
- See the Bible as a collection of human writings rather than divine revelation
- Identify perceived errors, contradictions, or cultural biases in the text
- Interpret miraculous events as myths or allegories
Traditional Christians, on the other hand, view the Bible as divinely inspired and inerrant, believing it to be God’s authoritative word.
2 Timothy 3:16-17 - "All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness."
3. Downplaying Doctrine in Favor of Experience
Woke Christianity tends to place less emphasis on doctrinal beliefs, focusing instead on personal experiences and feelings. This approach:
- Prioritizes subjective experiences over objective truths
- May blend elements from various religious traditions
- Downplays the exclusivity of Christian salvation
In contrast, orthodox Christianity maintains that sound doctrine is essential to faith, as outlined in passages like Titus 1:9.
Titus 1:9 - "Holding fast to the faithful word as he has been taught, that he may be able, by sound doctrine, both to exhort and convict those who contradict."
4. Universalistic View of God’s Love
Among the signs of a woke Christian is a tendency to emphasize God’s love to the exclusion of other divine attributes. This often manifests as:
- Belief that God unconditionally accepts all people regardless of their actions
- Rejection of the concept of divine judgment
- Universalistic ideas about salvation
Traditional Christianity, while affirming God’s love, also recognizes His holiness and justice, maintaining that repentance is necessary for reconciliation with God.
Acts 17:30 - "Truly, these times of ignorance God overlooked, but now commands all men everywhere to repent."
5. Reducing Jesus to a Great Moral Teacher
Woke Christianity often reinterprets Jesus’ nature and mission. This may include:
- Viewing Jesus primarily as a moral teacher or social reformer
- Questioning or rejecting the virgin birth and other miracles
- Downplaying Jesus’ divine nature
True Christianity affirms both the full humanity and full divinity of Jesus, as well as the historical reality of His miraculous birth, life, death, and resurrection.
Colossians 2:9 - "For in Him dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily."
6. Positive View of Human Nature
Another of the signs of a woke Christian is an optimistic view of human nature that contrasts with traditional Christian teachings about sin. This perspective:
- Sees humans as inherently good rather than fallen
- Minimizes the need for divine forgiveness and redemption
- Focuses on human potential for self-improvement
Biblical Christianity, however, teaches that all humans are born sinful and in need of God’s grace for salvation.
Romans 3:23 - "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God."
7. Salvation Through Self-Improvement
Woke Christianity often shifts the focus of salvation from divine intervention to human effort. This approach:
- Emphasizes personal growth and societal progress
- May reject concepts like substitutionary atonement
- Sees the church primarily as a vehicle for social change
Traditional Christianity maintains that salvation comes through faith in Christ’s sacrificial death and resurrection, not through human works or social reform.
Romans 10:9 - "That if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved."
8. Viewing the Church as a Self-Improvement Association
The final of our signs of a woke Christian involves a reimagining of the church’s role and structure. This may include:
- Prioritizing social activism over evangelism
- Rejecting doctrinal boundaries for church leadership
- Emphasizing inclusivity over adherence to biblical standards
Orthodox Christianity sees the church’s primary purposes as worshiping God, edifying believers, and proclaiming the gospel to unbelievers.
Matthew 16:18 - "And I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock, I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it."
The Implications of Woke Christianity
The rise of progressive or woke Christianity presents significant challenges to the unity and doctrinal integrity of the faith. While proponents argue that this approach makes Christianity more relevant and inclusive, it compromises essential truths and leads to a fundamentally different religion.
As believers navigate these complex issues, it’s crucial to carefully examine the signs of a woke Christian in light of scripture and historical Christian teaching. Ultimately, the goal should be to maintain fidelity to biblical truth while engaging compassionately with a changing world.
Conclusion
The signs of a woke Christian represent a significant departure from traditional, biblically-centered Christianity. While the desire to make faith relevant to contemporary culture is understandable, it’s essential to consider whether these changes align with the core teachings of scripture.
As the divide between progressive and traditional Christianity continues to widen, believers must prayerfully discern how to remain faithful to biblical truth while effectively engaging with the challenges of modern society.
