What is nominal Christianity?

Answer

Outside of obscure discussions in medieval philosophy, nominalism refers to the attribution of a baseless name, title, or description. A nominal presidency, for instance, is one where the president is merely a figurehead. A nominal vacation is when vacationers still have to work. Nominalism pertains to empty formalities, things labeled as such, and meaningless tags.

Nominalism is present in religious circles. Nominal Christians are individuals who attend church or are religious but their “faith” does not go beyond mere identification with a church, Christian group, or denomination. They are Christians in name only; Christ does not influence their lives. Nominal Christians may participate in church activities and events, self-identifying as “Christians,” but it is merely a superficial label. They primarily see religion as a social construct and do not feel compelled to adhere to high moral standards or responsibilities. Nominalists approach their faith with minimalism.

Nominalism is a concern for many pastors, preachers, and Christian theologians as it seems to be increasing today. Many claim to be Christians, yet the overall impact of Christianity in the West is not as significant as before. What leads to nominalism? Why do people prefer a superficial or in-name-only form of Christianity? One possible explanation is that nominal religion is convenient. It does not demand a transformed life. A nominal Christian may use church membership as proof of salvation. Attendance at church and involvement in rituals, activities, and programs become the criteria instead of a changed life, a renewed heart, a love for God, and obedience to the Word (see 2 Corinthians 5:17;John 14:23).

Another factor contributing to nominal Christianity is the practice of identifying as a Christian out of tradition or cultural influence.e. Several countries, such as Costa Rica, Norway, Denmark, and England, have Christianity as the official state religion. In Norway, for instance, individuals can culturally identify as Christian since they are automatically considered members of the Church of Norway from birth when they receive baptism. Even in nations without an official religion like the United States, cultural Christianity may result in nominalism. Individuals raised in Christian households, who have always attended church, been baptized, reside in the Bible Belt, etc., often profess allegiance to the Christian faith despite evidence to the contrary in their lives.

Another factor contributing to nominalism within the church is legalism, which involves trying to change oneself (or others) internally by focusing on external behavior. Many individuals, particularly those brought up in the church, adhere to standards imposed by parents, fellow Christians, or the church hierarchy without experiencing the inner transformation that can only occur through the Spirit and the Word: “For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision, but a new creature.” (Galatians 6:15). Legalists replace genuine faith with good deeds and conversion with compliance. This often results in nominal Christianity, where church attendees and rule followers identify as “Christian” without having a genuine relationship with Christ.

Jesus addressed nominal Christianity in one of His letters to the churches. The church in Sardis carried the Christian label, but Jesus saw beyond the facade: “To the angel of the church in Sardis write: These are the words of him who holds the seven spirits of God and the seven stars. I know your deeds; you have a reputation of being alive, but you are dead.”

“You have a reputation for being alive, but you are dead.” , (Revelation 3:1). Alternatively, according to the KJV, “Thou hast a name that thou livest, and art dead.” God is not concerned with the titles we assign to ourselves. Simply identifying as belonging to Christ is insufficient. Superficial faith is not genuine.