A new study by the Evangelical Alliance has found that the majority of British adults who become Christians say an “experience with God” was central to their conversion.
The survey titled Finding Jesus examined the journeys of nearly 300 adults who have come to faith later in life
Most respondents said a spiritual encounter was pivotal in turning to God, followed by reading the Bible, which many found formative in shaping their beliefs.
Witnessing the faith of family and friends, outside of church leadership, was the third most influential factor, with a significant number of participants highlighting its impact.
SEEKING REASONS FOR RECENT RESURGENCE IN CHRISTIAN FAITH
The research aimed to explore the recent resurgence in Christian faith across the UK.
Rachael Heffer, Head of Mission at the Evangelical Alliance and project leader, told Premier Christian News: “For a number of our participants, life kind of felt and looked okay.”
“They had the family, the job and so on – and yet, what comes out is that actually they had this spiritual stirring, or a sense that something was missing.”
Many participants described coming to faith after experiencing a low point in their lives.
“Sometimes people reported thinking: What is it all about? Is it really worth carrying on? and yet, Isn’t God good?”
TOP RESPONSE: “I NEEDED HELP WITH LIFE”
“Story after story told us that God had encountered people at that point of need, and that started a faith journey,” revealed Ms. Heffer.
Of the 280 surveyed, 55% were female and 45% male, from a wide range of socio-economic backgrounds.
Forty-five per cent had an annual household income under A$70,000 while 12% earned more than A$150,000.
When asked what prompted them to explore Christianity, the top response was: I needed help with life (37%).
This followed by: I was looking for meaning (34%) and difficult/painful experience (32%).
Social media ranked lowest, with only 4% accrediting their faith journey to online prompting.
“CHRISTIAN COMMUNITIES ARE DOING A GREAT JOB”
Ms. Heffer said the findings should encourage churches:
“Christian communities are doing a great job.”
“We need to be bold and brave to speak of Jesus, because when we do, the impact is huge.”
